It all began in 2019 with an unexpected Facebook friend request from Ydiop. A year later, COVID hit, and that's when we started talking. He would take me on hiking and fishing trips every weekend. Before I met him, I was never really an outdoor girl. Our first hike together was at Old Rag Mountain — the most challenging 9.4-mile trail I’ve ever been on. It took us 8 hours to complete. And let me tell you, I was not exactly thrilled about it. I kept thinking, "Why would he do this to me?" But somehow, we managed to reach the top of the mountain. That hike became a symbol of our relationship: when things get tough, we can conquer anything together. Now, six years later, here we are, ready to start our forever. I know our journey will be filled with love and endless possibilities.

It all started with a friend request on Facebook. We began messaging each other, exchanging “good morning” texts that would brighten my day, even on the toughest workdays. A few months later, we finally met in person and went out on our first date to Mizumi Sushi in Greensboro, followed by a movie. It was a quiet, low-key evening, and I worried that my talking too much might have scared her away. But more dates followed, and our connection only grew stronger. When COVID hit in 2020, our adventures took on a new dimension. I would take her hiking and fishing, exploring hidden trails and quiet waterways. She would follow me into the thick of it, even when I was searching for better fishing spots—often ending up covered in bug bites. One of those adventures, a hike where we got a little lost, was especially memorable. It was then that I finally asked, “Are we official?” Her “yes” sealed our commitment. One of our most unforgettable outings was our first mountain hike up Old Rag Mountain in Virginia. Halfway to the summit, she nearly passed out. I felt terrible and suggested we turn back, but she insisted on pressing on. With some Tylenol and my encouragement, we reached the top. Most people would have given up, especially on their first challenging hike, but her perseverance through that tough moment captivated me and made me fall even more. Six years and countless adventures later— from those early “good morning” messages to conquering mountains—she’s about to become my happily ever after.

For his birthday last year, we planned our first trip to Hawaii. Each day, we’d pick a new spot to explore and activities to enjoy. Thursday was his day to plan, and he told me he’d hired a photographer for a special photoshoot. I had no idea what was coming! We went to the most breathtaking spot overlooking the mountains, and that’s where he got down on one knee and popped the question. Of course, I said yes! It was truly the most memorable trip of our lives.