Kerry was a lifelong bachelor. I had been single for ten years. Both of us led lives full of interests, travel, friends and family.

At some point, I read and copied this quote -- "Better together: when I meet someone I enjoy being and doing things with MORE than I enjoy them alone". I remained uncertain that would ever be the case for me.

In April 2022, Luna Okada (Kerry's high school friend/Lana's college friend) texted each of us separately and asked if we'd be interested in meeting. On Saturday, April 30, we met for lunch at 12 noon -- and eventually said good bye at 9 pm!

We had so much in common -- growing up in the Midwest, leaving for decades to pursue careers and returning in retirement, military experiences, living in both the Tampa and Nashville areas for years, and a huge interest in international travel.

In June, Kerry made it official -- he told me we were dating. And I didn't argue!

We met each other's families and friends. We traveled a lot. Whenever there was something to be decided, we worked it out together. It was an easy, awesome year!

What marriage might be like for us was discussed occasionally but Kerry's proposal on the one year anniverary of our initial meeting caught me by surprise. A wonderful, happy surprise!

Sharing the joy of our engagement with you has been special. We feel loved and supported with so many delighted for us.

We have been, are and look forward to continuing to be BETTER TOGETHER.