Liz and Mike; a story about fate, chance, and love.

It was Sunday. April 7th, 2019. Liz was convinced to get out of the house by her best friend Diana. Mike was going through a tough time, it was this day he and his family made the difficult decision to put his father into hospice. Mike, needing some respite, decided to meet a friend who was celebrating their birthday at a local spot in Providence called Hot club.

After spending some time there, Mike was about to leave when a familiar friend, Gary walked in and convinced him to stay. It was not long after that Liz walked through the gate to the deck. As soon as she walked in, she caught Mike's eye. Initially separated by tables and chairs, Liz couldn't help but wonder why this group of guys was staring at her and her best friend. Liz did notice one of the guys was pretty cute. Soon after, it started to rain. The crowd made their way off the deck and indoors. Liz and Diana found themselves by the juke box, standing next to the group of guys that were once on the opposite side of the deck outside.

Mike thought to himself- this is the perfect opportunity to talk to Liz. Given the circumstances of what was happening in his life at that moment he said to himself "hey- life is short! I am going to talk to this girl!" Mike made his way over to Liz and was instantly brushed off by Liz, a giant swing and a miss!

After some exceptional wingman efforts from Mike's friends, Mike swooped in for a second attempt, this time bearing the gift of a tequila shot, Liz accepted his offer. It was after this shot that Mike and Liz got to talking. Mike shared with her what he was going through and how he was losing his Dad. Liz shared the fact she was a nurse at Rhode Island Hospital and that she lost her Mom at a young age. She was astounded at how put together Mike seemed with having gone through such an arduous time in his life. She admired his strength and was drawn to his charismatic being.

Just like that, the hours flew by and it was time to leave. Liz did something completely out of character. She invited Mike and his friend to grab a bite to eat. Mike obliged, and they joined her and Diana at Slow Rhode. Their numbers were exchanged, and they parted ways for the night. The next day they had their first date at Rhode Island Hospital cafeteria. It was here were Mike got to witness Liz's kindness, and genuine personality.

Five years later. Liz and Mike's love has grown leaps and bounds. Their loving friends and family have been integrated. They bought a house and made it their home. They have supported each other through new jobs, finishing school and some difficult times.

They have grown together, flown together. Making memories from Tulum, the Berkshires, and Vermont.

They have endured incredible hardships that some may never get to experience in their lifetime. Through the unprecedented times, their love for each other, never faltered.

They cannot wait to celebrate the union of their love with their closest friends and family on their wedding day.

For this day was not promised. They eagerly await the opportunity to create new memories, travel on new journeys, embark on adventures, and add many more chapters to their story.....