Our first date was simple and sweet. We decided to meet in the campus library under the pretense of working on school together. Joshua was a little taken aback when Sarah arrived with eight books and a paper she still needed to finish. After talking for a while, we left the library to grab a quick dinner at the student union before Sarah’s night class. Joshua carried all of her books like a true gentleman. This photo was taken by Sarah’s best friends, who were hiding behind a pillar at a nearby table, making sure the moment was captured.

Even though we were long-distance over Christmas break, we talked every day and found ways to stay connected. We decided to meet halfway in Boonsboro, Maryland, and spend the day together. We wandered through the local parks, challenged each other to find the strangest children’s book in the library, and ended the day with long, meaningful conversations under the soft glow of the lights at the big stone gazebo. We left Boonsboro that day as an official couple, and it quickly became a special place for us. Since then, we have returned each year to celebrate our anniversary and relive the beginning of our story.

We had our annual one-day beach trip planned for the weekend, and Joshua suggested making a stop in Boonsboro, Maryland. Sarah protested at first because it felt too far out of the way, but she eventually agreed, knowing how many sweet memories the town held for them. Once they arrived, Joshua walked Sarah along the long, familiar path and into the big stone gazebo. Surrounded by a place that meant so much to them, he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. It was a moment filled with joy, surprise, and happy tears. Best day ever!