Connor and I first crossed paths at Freeman High School, where we grew close while he was a wrestler and I served as a team manager. After navigating some initial miscommunication, we finally went on our first date in January 2020.

Our first three months as a couple were filled with joy, but then the pandemic struck. From March to May, we stayed connected through texts, calls, and FaceTime. As restrictions eased, we cherished our outdoor meetings, especially before Connor departed for Plebe Summer at the Naval Academy in July, when he would not be able to contact anyone. During those six weeks apart, we exchanged letters while I settled into my dorm at James Madison University.

College life became a whirlwind of constant communication. I visited Annapolis frequently, enjoying rugby games, exploring the "yard," and experiencing the unique charm of the Naval Academy. We attended numerous balls and dances together, and during the brief summer breaks when Connor was home, we cherished every moment together. In between those times, we stayed connected as much as possible.

Connor graduated in May 2024 and moved to Quantico to begin his training as a Marine officer. Thankfully, his current training schedule has allowed us to spend more time together, and we’ve enjoyed weekend getaways that have strengthened our bond.

The weekend we got engaged was particularly special. While hiking in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, Connor proposed in an intimate setting that perfectly suited us. It was a beautiful opportunity to celebrate our engagement together, just the two of us.

Now, we find ourselves in a transitional phase. Both of us will graduate in December, and Connor is awaiting his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), leaving us in a state of uncertainty about the future. However, we’re filled with excitement about the path ahead and the adventures that await us!