During their sophomore year of college, two History majors would cross paths in a frat house basement. Mia and Derek connected over WWII and Cold War memes, and she recommended he watch Derry Girls (streaming only on Netflix). Even in those first few moments, Mia felt something instantly familiar and hoped she would talk with thoughtful and mysterious boy again. He messaged her a few days later and they struck up a friendship through the muggy summer months.

Once the first chill of autumn hit, they began to feel a sort of clarity. Mia made a less than subtle effort to sit next to Derek during their Historiography seminar (with the late great Dr. Thomas Noer), and Derek would walk Mia to her classes and wait for the commuter bus with her late into the night. They were both developing feelings, but (being the young awkward people they were) they didn't want to ask how the other person felt. The unknown is terrifying - plus they weren't able to switch seats in class if things went south.

On the 21st night of September, Mia finally learned from a friend that Derek felt the same way she did. With this newfound knowledge and confidence, she set off into the night on a mission - she was going to kiss Derek Spolarich.

It should be know that Mia was not some loose woman, trapsing around kissing just anybody. These were unusual and unprecedented circumstances. Back at the same fraternity house where they'd met months before, Derek asked if she wanted to get away from the noise and take a walk outside. It was there in the misty evening. Under a streetlight. Like a god damn movie. That they shared their first kiss and started their relationship.

While that story is completely romantic (and should probably get the Hollywood treatment) it's only one small part of a much more complex and rich love. A love that can face the ups and downs of frustrating work days and devastating personal losses. A love that can take in a shy stray and help her heal and grow into a happy, confident, and bossy little cat. A love that is always curious, funny, honest, and willing to get sushi from Kyoto (even though they JUST went grocery shopping). A love that has been cultivated with patience, time, and trust. A love that took the greatest leap of all on the shores of Lake Michigan, as two former history classmates agreed to write the rest of their story together.

Registry

We would greatly appreciate contributions toward our Honeymoon and buying our future home!