Welcome to JD's first and Amy's second (hopefully last) marriage!

In the midst of COVID-19, we had the brilliant idea to try and find ourselves someone to date. Turns out there was someone else dumb enough to do so. We agreed to meet for ice cream after work on September 1 (because ice cream is better than coffee). Later we discovered that while each of us was heading to the ice cream shop, both of us had half a mind to turn around and forget the whole thing. It was drizzling, sometimes raining, and just generally nasty. Amy ordered a Nerds blizzard and JD ordered a cherry slushy. After some time chatting in front of the shop, we opted to go sit in JD's vehicle. More chatting ensued. Then JD took it upon himself to plant a big one on Amy. And the rest, as they say, is history......

Having just celebrated our 1 year anniversary, JD planned our first family vacation to the Renaissance Festival in Holly. We enjoyed Pictus (a Celtic-style band), shopping, and generally wandering and taking in the sights and sounds. Wesley and Amaura each got a few new things: Wesley a shield, a cross bow, and some goodies from Flek, an entertainer, for helping him out; Amaura got a jingly skirt and a pretty garland hairpiece. After enjoying the bustling activity, we headed to Frankenmuth for the night. Being tired and hungry, JD checked into the hotel while the kids and I went to the Bavarian Inn for dinner. The kids (and JD) wanted to see the covered bridge. Initially I wasn't keen on the idea but I agreed to go. At 9pm, the weather was still stunningly perfect and it was quiet. We strolled a bit before walking across the bridge. About halfway down the bridge we all stopped. I felt JD bend down, presumably to tie his boot. The kids and I began to walk away. JD said, "What. You're just going to walk away now?" Something in his voice made me freeze. The kids turned around. Then I turned around and there was JD on his knee, kilt and all, with the ring in his hand. He asked, "Will you marry me?" I stood there for a minute trying to find something snarky to say.... I mean, it's me after all. Finally I just said, "Yes. Of course." We hugged and kissed. Wesley was super excited. Amaura was too, in her own way. A couple just happened to be walking down and I asked if they could take photos of us. We told them we had just gotten engaged; they were so kind and excited! After the photos we joyfully went to the hotel to savor the rest of the evening. (Check out the Photos section!) Why the bridge? JD competed in a strongman contest there. It has special meaning for him.

Thank you. How else is there to say it? It's been a whirlwind year but we've arrived here. There is no greater comfort than knowing those who surround you exude so much warmth, love, and loyalty. Thank you for being the family and friends we needed to make it here. We love you all beyond words.

Not to be forgotten and with many thanks: Hair by Stephanie Hofstra - Amy's longtime stylist Makeup by Kaili Johnson - Amy's longtime friend Photography by Anna Delph (Delphoto) - Amy's longtime friend