Isn't it wild how life's twists and turns can lead us to the most unexpected places? Take, for instance, the moment I received that super like from a guy named Aaron on November 6, 2021. Little did I know that a single swipe would completely flip the script of my life in the blink of an eye. So there I was, lounging at home, minding my own business, when suddenly Aaron pops up on my radar. And let me tell you, our initial conversation was like hitting all the right notes: shared love for travel, check! Aaron's an ex-chef and a builder? Double check! Now, despite nursing a broken rib from a wild adventure park mishap, Aaron was still game to meet up. Talk about dedication! Now, here's where the plot thickens: we decided to rendezvous at the Bridge of Remembrance in good ol' Christchurch. Aaron had this sweet coffee and garden walk plan in mind, but leave it to me to throw a curveball. I caught wind of the annual Canterbury Rubber Ducky race and just had to add some quirky chaos to the mix. Fast forward to our meeting spot: me, beside the red car, sporting a bright yellow jacket. Little did I know, Aaron's a bit colourblind. But hey, that didn't stop him from spotting me in the crowd! Cue the awkward hug and off we went, sipping coffee by the Avon and soaking in the duck race pandemonium. As our time together wound down, there came another awkward hug and my infamous line, "Let me know if you want me to cook for you?" Oh, the irony! Anyone who knows me knows cooking is my least favourite thing to do! I could practically hear myself face-palming in the car afterward. But as fate would have it, that seemingly ordinary encounter with Aaron turned out to be the start of something extraordinary. Little did I know, he'd become not just my husband and best friend, but the most incredible father to our daughter, Frankie. Who knew a broken rib and a bunch of plastic ducks could lead to happily ever after?

I'm going about my day, not expecting anything out of the ordinary on September 17, 2022, when Aaron drops the bombshell – we're embarking on a spontaneous weekend getaway. No packing lists, no itineraries, just the thrill of the unknown. And so, there I am, hopping into the car with Aaron, clueless about our destination. Is it a day trip? A night away? Who knows? All I'm instructed to wear comfortable clothing and buckle up for the ride. After what feels like forever (or maybe just a scenic hour's drive), we arrive at Te Wepu Pods near Akaroa. After a rugged four-wheeled motorbike arrives, ready to whisk us away to our secluded accommodation we arrive to Pods perched on the cliffs, overlooking the tranquil Akaroa harbour, with a spa and breathtaking views. And just like that, we're left to our own devices, with the promise of being fetched in two days' time. Two blissful days ahead, just us and the stunning surroundings. Now, this is where Aaron's brilliance shines through. He's thought of everything – and I mean everything. From my contact lens solution to a cozy hot water bottle, he's got us covered. Oh, and let's not forget the champagne and gourmet feasts he's prepared. Move aside, Gordon Ramsay! Despite the romance of the setting, the bubbly hot tub, and the endless bottles of champagne, and the hikes to the top of the mountain, there's no proposal in sight. Not a whisper. So what's a girl to do? Drink champagne and appreciate such memories being made with your person. Having given up hope of any proposal, I was now in my track pants, braless in Aarons sweater with my hair tied messily and savouring the bubbly, Aaron decides to up the ante. He sets the table with flowers, lays out a mouthwatering spread, and steals a kiss. And just when I think it couldn't get any sweeter, he drops to one knee and proposed to me. Amidst the scent of beef and BBQ veggies, and my comfortable state, Aaron still asked me to be his partner in crime and was the happiest day of my life (Pre Frankie). Even more poignant was when my father was hospitalized during his final days with us. Aaron recorded a heartfelt voice message, seeking my father's blessing to marry me. As my father listened, he gently squeezed my mother's hand, signifying his approval. It was one of the last heartfelt moments we shared with my father before he passed away. The green sapphire ring that Aaron proposed with holds profound significance for us. Crafted in Christchurch, we first laid eyes on it at the Art Centre, a cherished childhood haunt of mine. Green sapphires, native to Australia, hold deep meaning for us as they represent both of our birthstones.

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