Tyler says it was Bumble...

Taylor says Tinder.

Regardless, we met on an app, much like other millennials our age. After talking to each for what felt like long enough, we had our first date at Old Chicago in Sioux City and stayed there till closing, just talking.

We talked about everything. Conversation had never flowed so easy.

The subsequent months we grew closer, until Tyler left to Iceland. Why anyone would take an international trip after beginning a new relationship is beyond me.

Once he returned, we picked up right where we left off. We took plenty of walks through Stone Park and Sergeant Bluff with Tyler's beloved Australian shepherd, Mozy. That first year went by in a flash.

In our second year, Taylor started grad courses. To celebrate the end of the semester, the two took a trip up north to the Black Hills.

Tyler had planned to propose on the vacation. He planned to pop the question at the apex of a hike, one that was meant to be beautiful.

Said hike was a real test to their relationship. Reviews said "four year olds loved it!" However, after a week of rain, the river was higher and faster. Taylor cried the whole time.

Tyler's better judgement said to hold off on that proposal. Until October of 2023.

A weekend trip up to Sioux Falls to see Beetlejuice after a Ren Faire and nerdy con. Things Tyler loved.

We went on a sunrise walk at Falls Park in downtown Sioux Falls. Trying to find a secluded area of the park, Tyler and Taylor walked around for the better part of an hour.

A tour bus of geriatrics pulled up. Are you kidding me? Tyler thought. It was now or never.