Many people know that we both work at the same company. The first time I met Nicole, I offered her a job on a new team that I was going to be running (she was highly recommended). She initially missed the voice mail about the request to meet. When we did finally meet, it was a pretty quick "thanks, but no thanks". The meeting was of no consequence and we did not run into each other again for many years.

Time passed, and thanks to several career twists and life turns, we unknowingly would cross paths. Over time a new friendship was born. Eventually, we went on a date and had a great time. I'm not sure either of us expected to be where we are now after that night.

Over time, we shared with each other all of life's stories, likes and dislikes, and goofy details...for example, hypothetically, if either of us had to have a tattoo, what it would be (Nicole-turtle, Eli-lightning bolt) because hypothetically, we could both be pretty rebellious (ok, very hypothetically).

Last year, we became engaged. And we also bought a new home (why take on just one major life change, when you can take on two?). We have happily brought our children, Parker, Gabi, and Grace, along for the ride. We are working hard at forming our new family, and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to do so.

Lightning Heart Turtle

Photos