One random January 2013 weekend in Pennsylvania, we met through a mutual friend for very different reasons: one for some math tutoring help and the other for free "adult beverages." We'll let you figure out who's who in this scenario. After that fateful encounter of studying and partying, we decided to start a journey together that's lasted over 12 years.
Most of our college days and dating was through a phone or a laptop screen. Tom was focused on the gym, classes, and eventually working several jobs in New Jersey. Ashley was busy with softball, studying engineering theories, and hating East Coast weather. On Ashley's college graduation date from the Pennsylvania State University surrounded by friends and family, Tom pulled out a customized engagement ring and officially changed our relationship status from "Dating" to "Engaged."
We decided to officially both move to the Bay Area, California for slightly better/consistent weather and higher cost-of-living prices. We started building our life together and that came with many challenges and surprises. From changing career paths, to being gifted two beautiful huskies "temporarily," to moving to a bigger townhouse (with a roommate that helps pay rent), it's definitely been a crazy few years!
But there are still some things that haven't changed all these years: working out, playing softball, cheering on our terrible sports teams, and watching way too much anime. And most of all, our love for each other is still stronger than ever!