It's early 2016 in Colorado Springs and we meet for the first time. Rico approached me while I was in the middle of playing a game. In his typical fashion, he gave me a few "pointers" on how I could win. We instantly hit it off, even though I lost the game. Our paths crossed as the years went on but our lives were too busy for either of us to commit to a relationship. We chose to be friends but somehow seemed to make our way back to each other.

In January 2019, we realized how strongly we felt for one another and decided to make it official. Rico graduated college that following May and moved to Denver. We managed to stay together through the hardships of both long distance and COVID. Shortly after, Rico asked me to move in with him in June 2021.

During this time we realized how exciting it is to spend every day with your favorite person. Neither of us really talked about marriage with one another, it was this unspoken idea we both knew we wanted. Later in 2023, Rico broke his leg, resulting in surgery and that put things into perspective for the both of us. The amount of care and patience we had for each other revealed our love was at a much deeper level. During his recovery, to show me a milestone in his rehab, I was frequently asked, "Do you want to see something cool?" I knew how he would push himself beyond what he should during this time, so I hesitantly said yes.

Christmas came and we made plans for both our families to visit Santa’s Workshop in Cascade, Colorado. I thought it would be a great outing for our families, my niece and nephew especially. Unfortunately, I got the stomach flu the day before Rico was to travel to my parents' home; the week prior to visiting the park. He refused to come in fear he would get sick, and just told me he would meet me on our scheduled date at the park. Although I understood, I was very disappointed. Rico said, "I promise I will make it up to you!"

December 22nd we met as planned and enjoyed our time with both families. Near the end of our Santa filled day, we were at the top of the ferris wheel, Rico asked, "Do you want to see something cool?" He pulled a ring out of his pocket and proposed. I was completely shocked, but this time I immediately said yes! I truly felt on top of the world. Later that night, I realized why Rico didn't travel to my parents', he had bigger plans in mind. He asked me if this made up for it and of course it did!

We are so excited to start this next chapter of our lives with all our family and friends to witness. Now, who wants to see something cool?