Our story began nearly seven years ago in a Biology class at the University of Cincinnati. Michael was the teaching assistant, Rachel was the student, and while the mitochondria might be the powerhouse of the cell, it turns out a college classroom can be the start of something even more powerful.

Not long after meeting, we went on our first date—which, fittingly, turned into a lively debate over which sushi spot near campus was better. (Michael insists he won, and Rachel graciously lets him believe that.) Shortly after we started dating, we added a new member to our little team—Ringo, our sweet (and sometimes spoiled) pup, who’s been by our side through every move, road trip, and late-night takeout run since.

As life took us all over Ohio during Michael’s medical school journey, we grew stronger with each new city. Along the way, we traveled often—especially to ski destinations across the U.S.—and bonded over our love of sports (especially volleyball), breweries, and trying new restaurants.

During medical school, Michael planned a special trip back to Cincinnati. In Mt. Storm Park, in front of a structure fittingly called the “Temple of Love,” he proposed—right in the city where it all began. It was a perfect, full-circle moment in the city that brought us together.

Last year, we returned to Cincinnati for Michael’s neurology residency and bought our first home together. We immediately rolled up our sleeves, working side-by-side (with lots of help from our families) to put in a fence for Ringo, tame the wild backyard, and make the house our own.

It’s been a journey full of love, laughter, and a few power tools—and we can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter with all of you.