What really brought us closer together were our adventures outside the classroom. We truly connected while exploring the Adirondacks and upstate New York; from backpacking trips and hiking the Ithaca Gorges to winter retreats at Raquette Lake. There's something about getting lost in the woods (intentionally) that builds a solid foundation. We didn't know it at the time, but all of that quality time was the beginning of something real.

Then, on November 29, 2015, after over a year of "definitely-just-friends" energy and countless not-dates, we finally kissed. (Meaghan immediately threw up and then told Jackie she was going to marry her).

A week later, on December 7, we officially moved ourselves out of the friend zone.

Long-Distance

In May 2016, Jackie headed to Colorado for her internship and Meag was still finishing up classes at Cortland and went to visit Jackie a few times. We explored the Maroon Bells, paddled around Horsetooth Reservoir, and hiked trails in the Rocky Mountains.

By October 2016, we were back in Cortland, living together. Meag finishing school, Jack working full time, and both of us figuring out how to eat something a little more nutritious than Chizzitos and share a very small apartment with 1 ceiling window.

Then in 2018, life pulled us in different directions again: Meag moved to Auburn for nursing school, and Jackie moved back home, working at a nonprofit. We quickly became very familiar with Route 17 and true crime podcasts to keep us company as we drove to see each other on the weekends.

Back together again

May 2020, Meag graduated nursing school and we moved in together (again), this time to Long Beach. It was our first real shot at living together- buying outdoor furniture and getting in an argument while trying to drill it together type stuff.

(The real love story here is Meag experiencing a turkey sandwich, while seated in a Tommy Bahama chair at the beach on a sunny, 80 degree day in July. Boars head of course).

Lido Girl!

Then in November 2020, we made our favorite addition and adopted lanky legged Lido. Our sweet Texas girl who cannot resist a nap on a fuzzy blanket.

In 2022, we hopped across the water and dropped our bags in New Jersey. The bagels don’t compare but being closer to family turned out to be a pretty solid trade-off.

In October 2024, we took a trip to Provincetown and before most people had even had their first cup of coffee, Meag popped the question- before 8am. (Skinny jeans don’t hide a ring box well)

Jackie said yes and we celebrated the best way we know how: with coffee by the water, taking in the view, the moment, and the fact that we were officially engaged. No frills, just us, caffeine, and the start of forever.

From classmates to trail buddies, roommates, long-distance partners, and now almost newlyweds, it’s been a winding, meaningful journey.

We’re so excited to celebrate this next chapter with all of you!

Let’s get married.