It was our first Thanksgiving together, and the first after lockdown. We both had had way too much good food and even better times with our families. We were lying in bed about to fall asleep, both in almost food comas. Sam said, “Goodnight Benny. Love you” before realizing the words had slipped out. Ben smiled and said, “love you.” And with that they drifted off happily to sleep.

Sam had been joking since the beginning about proposing to Ben. So in one of her favorite months, on a day that was also her lucky number, she decided today was the day. Except she had been planning it for months and everyone knew except Ben. Elise had driven all the way up from Cincinnati. Sam’s sister and best friend got out of work early to help her prepare. And both our families were decorating the house with flowers and champagne for when Ben and Sam walked through the door. Ben likes to take strolls by the water near his office, and Sam knew it was the perfect place to ask. She told him to meet her there after work that day. Then, dressed in her best, with a pokeball ring box, she took to the stairs. When Ben walked up he started smiling. He said “oh no she’s proposing.” Sam smiled right back and said “well I have the high ground Benjamin.” He hugged her tight, still smiling ear-to-ear. Sam asked “will you marry me?” And Ben said “of course.” And then her friends who were recording the whole thing came out of hiding and everyone started happy crying. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in BG!