Adam asked Katie on a date after they met while she was home from UNI over Christmas break her junior year of college, the two met for dinner at Applebee's. Conversation flowed easily that night as we got to know each other over some wonton chicken tacos. As we left the restaurant we shared a laugh as Adam enlightened me he had ripped a hole in his pants while getting out of his truck on his way to dinner. The rest is history. We have been inseparable ever since that first date and Applebee's has become a cherished spot for us to visit ever since.

Throughout their relationship Adam and Katie have enjoyed spending time with their two beloved cats, Teddie and Cleo, exploring the frisbee golf courses of the Des Moines area, soaking up the sun by the pool and grilling out with friends. Their shared passion for adventure has led them on unforgettable road trips across the country, travels to San Diego, North Carolina and many states in-between, creating memories together that will last a lifetime.

Adam decided that November 28, 2023 would be the day that he proposed. We had planned to go to Simon's, our favorite restaurant, and look at Christmas lights afterwards to celebrate Katie’s 25th birthday. Adam was nervous that at any moment Katie would notice the massive ring box in his jacket pocket. While she didn't notice the ring box, she did notice how Adam spent majority of the dinner texting his sister. It turns out he was trying to lock down a plan for how/where he would end up proposing that night and had Reagan (his sister) out scouting locations as his original plan was not going to pan out. Katie ended up asking Adam if we should invite Reagan out for drinks after dinner since the two wouldn't quit texting. So, they took a short drive to the Sculpture Park where they planned to meet up and walk together to a nearby bar. To Katie’s surprise, Adam dropped to one knee and his sister was ready with her camera to capture their special moment.

To cap off the night we decided to take a quick trip back to the place where it all began and celebrate with some wonton chicken tacos at Applebees.