Vivian and I met freshman year of high school in biology class. We were loose friends throughout but we didn't start dating until Junior year. That was when she needed a dance partner for a drill team show. Luckily, I had recently jump-started her car so I was fifth on the list of potential dance partners (the first four guys all had something else going on). We hit it off and started dating pretty much immediately after.

Vivian and I had been dating for a long time so I knew the proposal had to be good. The two things I thought were most important were a beautiful view in the background and having all of her friends and family nearby. She was still at school in Austin so there were plenty of views I could use for the proposal site. I chose the Balcones National Wildlife refuge for the spot - a quick hike up a hill led to a fantastic view of the hill country. I scouted it out a few weeks before and typed up some instructions for my sister and brother in law (Kristen and Ben) so they could find it to take pictures during the proposal.

Since getting all of our friends and family on top of this hill 45 minutes away from Austin was not very feasible I opted for a surprise engagement party at Kristen and Ben's house. We would drive over afterwards under the pretext to play with their dogs.

The day of the engagement finally came and I was about as nervous as you can be. All of the logistics had been worked out and the only thing to worry about now was keeping everything a surprise and hoping it didn't rain. Luckily it went off without a hitch.

Vivian and I took that hike up the hill and had one of the best views to ourselves. I popped the question, Vivian said yes and Kristen and Ben did a great job capturing every moment of it. From there we went to go "play with the dogs" at Kristen and Ben's place. Once we arrived and opened the door Vivian was greeted with the cheerful faces of all her friends and family.

Vivian was completely surprised and I think the proposal was a great success.

For Vivian's side of the story, visit: http://howheasked.com/vivian-and-drew/

Vivian and I have been dating from that point in high school to today. We've been on countless adventures over the years and my favorite memories are those with her. I can't wait to see whats to come and am so glad that she'll be by my side.