Our story started at a toddler’s birthday party three and a half years ago (because where else do parents meet?). We were two single parents with kids running around, just trying to make sure they all got fed. We talked, it was sweet, but no one made the first move. Life had other plans, though, and eventually it brought us back together.

When we finally reconnected, the timing was right, and so were we. Our first date at Rosati's is one we’ll never forget, and neither of us wanted the night to end. Saying goodbye felt impossible, so we stayed on the porch talking for hours.

Since then, our journey together has been filled with love, growth, and the beautiful chaos of raising our four amazing kids. Our days are busy with sports and dance classes, playing outside, game nights, bedtime stories, and movie nights. We wouldn’t have it any other way. These everyday moments have become the foundation of our life together.

Looking around today, it all feels pretty close to perfect. We’ve moved into a beautiful home, surrounded by the best neighbors and an amazing view. Most importantly, we get to share it all with our four incredible kids, who fill each day with laughter, chaos, and more love than we could ever imagine. We truly couldn’t ask for anything more. Life has a way of surprising you when you least expect it, and we count our blessings each and every day.

Johnathan had big plans for an elaborate proposal! He planned to fly in a private plane over Rosati’s, the spot that holds so much meaning for us. (It’s where we had our first date, first kiss, and later said “I love you” for the first time.) But the weather had other ideas, and flight after flight was delayed.

So when we set off on a kid-free trip to the Bahamas, Johnathan secretly brought the ring along, determined to find the perfect moment. He carried it everywhere - tucked in his pockets, around his necklace, just waiting for just the right time.

That moment came on a tiny, secluded beach surrounded by perfect crystal-clear water. It was the most beautiful, picture perfect moment.

To make the story even more unbelievable, we later found out my principal was on that same little beach, watching from the water as it all happened! It couldn’t have been more us.