We met at the Seattle Convention Center for Sakura-con on March 30th, 2024. Ironically, we were both dressed as characters from the same show, which gave Richard the perfect excuse to strike up a quick conversation. As he walked away, Amanda turned to her friend and said he was “kinda cute.” With some excellent wingwoman skills, that friend helped Amanda get Richard’s phone number. The next day, Amanda asked Richard out on a date despite the long distance between Moses Lake and Tacoma. It might have been an unconventional (pun intended) place to meet your future spouse, but we’re endlessly grateful for that brief moment in a crowded convention hall. Even before the first date a couple of weeks later, we knew something was different about this relationship. We had an easy time talking with each other. We spent countless late nights on phone calls and regularly texting throughout the day. Even though we insisted we had “no expectations,” we were both hoping the first date would go well (and that neither of us would embarrass ourselves). Richard picked Amanda up in SeaTac, took her to Seahurst Beach for a walk, and ended the evening with a Mediterranean dinner. Amanda may have jokingly threatened to shove him into a canal if he tried anything nefarious and definitely drank too much water at dinner, but the date was a success. After that, we spent every weekend we could together, making late Friday-night drives to Moses Lake or Tacoma just to drive back home on Sunday. Leaving each other during the week was always hard, but every mile and every traffic jam was worth it. During that time, we got to know each other, our family, and each other's friends. After 11 months of weekend drives, dates, and determination, Amanda was able to get a new job and move to Tacoma, thanks to help from Richard's parents. By the summer of 2025, we had moved into our own place and filled it with visits from our favorite people. On November 30th, 2025, Richard proposed! But before that could happen, Amanda ensured this would be an unforgettable day by falling down the stairs and twisting her ankle. Even though Richard worried we’d need an urgent care detour, Amanda was determined to continue with the date he planned. With help from Richard’s aunt and sister, he proposed at the spot where our story truly began, Seahurst Beach. We can’t wait to celebrate our journey so far and the lifetime of adventures still ahead.