In January of 2018, our story began with a simple online conversation. Little did we know, it would unfold into a beautiful story of love.
Our first date remains so vivid in our memory. As I opened the door, he smiled and greeted me with six white roses. Inviting him in, we started a conversation that went so long we accidently missed our dinner reservations. Eventually, we made it to Olive Garden where our conversation flowed as freely as the breadsticks.
As our relationship grew, we discovered how close we were to each other before we met. His great Aunt and Uncle on his dads side once babysat me when I was sick, and my parents had to work. They were the same people who were our school crossing guards for years when my brother and I were kids. Another fun one, discovering that our grandparents on our mom's side are buried in the same cemetery, mere headstones apart. Small world.
Fast forward to April of 2023, we found ourselves taking a 5-year anniversary cruise. With excitement for the adventures that awaited us, the sea had other plans in mind. Unforeseen weather conditions led us to miss two of our three ports. I was sad to be missing adventures, but Colby seemed to be taking it worse. It wasn't until later that I discovered the reason for his agitation. He had a secret ring nestled in his pocket, waiting for the perfect moment to make its appearance, and fate had something amazing in store for us. The third port made special arrangements for our day early arrival, keeping everything open all night.
As we explored the island, we were offered to rent a moped. Despite my nerves, I smile I agreed, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience under the moonlit sky. It was on a beach that he took me by surprise, dropping to one knee with a ring in hand. With tears welling up, I of course said YES! A night we'll never forget.
As we look to the future, we are filled with gratitude for the journey that brought us together and excitement for the endless possibilities that await us in our next chapters of life together.