We’re getting married!

I was in the process of moving back home. A young lady we both knew recommended him and his neighbors to assist my father and brothers with moving my furniture into storage. She mentioned that Richard would be willing to help us out. She asked if I remembered who he was? I looked at her in confusion, trying to figure out who was this Richard she was speaking of?! She was taken aback when she realized that Richard and I had never met. She sent a picture to each of us to one another, of course without us knowing. I said, well he's a big guy! LOL, not what I'm used to dating. She assured me he would be the perfect guy for me and my girls, given the fact of us loosing their father/ my late common law husband to cancer two years before. I was ready, but not ready to start dating. Richard tried calling me several times, but I would never answer. I finally gave in and sent him a text letting him know it was nothing against him, I just needed to prepare myself with easing into dating again. One night, we were both blindsided by meeting each other at her daughters sleepover. That was our first time meeting face to face and holding a conversation with one another. After speaking on the phone for a few days, we finally went on our first date at Crescent City Steakhouse on September 26, 2014 and the rest is history.

Richard asked me about doing a couples photo shoot for a friend who was starting his own photography business (part of the surprise proposal). Given that I love to take pictures, I agreed and was excited. He told me we would do a staycation that night, and go out to dinner afterwards, which is a usual thing for us to do. He asked if I wouldn't mind wearing all white and informed me that he found the perfect dress for me to wear, and that I would be sure to love. Evening came and we arrived at Melrose Mansion, where we planned to stay. As we proceeded to the room, he opened the door. There were rose petals on the floor and bed which spelled out, " Will You Marry Me" in a heart shape. A ring box was sitting in the center of it, while L.T.D.'s "Love Ballad" played from the speakers, as he proceeded to ask me for my hand in marriage. All the while the photographer was behind us capturing the moment. It was the most memorable surprise that I will never forget.