We're finally doing it!

Jeff was one of the first people Kathryn met from her grad program at UW - 5 months before the first day of school, we both attended an open house for admitted students and were assigned to the same lunch outing group. Jeff casually mentioned that he was a returned Peace Corps volunteer, and we got to chatting about our respective Peace Corps experiences. Kathryn was new to Seattle and Jeff was a born and bred local, she was excited to learn about Seattle from her new friend. At the wine reception that afternoon, we exchanged phone numbers and agreed to meet up the next morning to watch the Sounders game at a local soccer bar.

We didn't start dating right away. We saw each other a few times over the summer, as friends. Kathryn didn't think much of it, besides having a new local friend. But then, slowly, Jeff started making subtle moves. He brought a bottle of wine to a picnic lunch. He helped her hang bike hooks in her ceiling. He brought her to a Sounders game. It wasn't until October, at a halloween party, dressed as an 8-ball, that Jeff kissed Kathryn for the first time.

Most of our "dates" early on were study dates - literally. We'd hang out at Jeff's house and do homework. Jeff told Kathryn that he'd like to take her on a real date, like to the Great Wheel overlooking Seattle. He never did. Until 3 years later, he bought VIP tickets and took her on a surprise date for her first ever ferris wheel ride. At the top, in our private ferris wheel booth, Jeff asked Kathryn to marry him. She was stunned. She said "Yes! But let's buy a house first." The VIP tickets came with awkward photos, taken before the ride, and a glass of champagne at the divey tavern next door. It was surreal and wonderful.

Nearly 4 fantastic years of low-key engagement later, here we are. We have bought and decorated a home, built a bathroom, traveled internationally, and grown our family by one cat. We've learned each others' quirks, gotten to know each other's friends and families, and built a strong foundation for our future. We can't wait to celebrate this next big milestone!