We started out as acquaintances at UConn where we both played on the club volleyball team, but we lost touch after Jim transferred at the end of his sophomore year. Fast forward eight years, and we reconnected at a mutual volleyball friend's house party (thanks Scott!). Later that night, the party moved to a karaoke bar where O-Town's "All Or Nothing" came on, and we yelled in unison, "Making the Band!" As Chelsea was leaving, Jim asked for her number, which Chelsea happily gave him.

First date was July 28th, 2016. Chelsea loved "The Bachelorette" and the night started off with Chelsea accepting Jim's rose. They went on a tour of West Hartford where their eating and drinking habits were on display. Many reservations at restaurants were made; many reservations they didn't attend because they were so engaged in conversation they kept losing track of time. Jim was curious if the date went well. Chelsea accepted a second date on July 29th, alleviating any of Jim's doubts. The next three years were filled with many life adventures: moving in together, getting Cally, meeting each other's family members, numerous breweries, trips to Block Island and the Outer Banks, coping through work stresses, celebrating coaching and career accomplishments, countless dates, and endless happiness. In March of 2019 Chelsea suggested that the entire family take a long weekend vacation in the summer to celebrate the near end of her dissertation. That's when Jim began plotting the proposal. We were able to find a dog friendly house in the Catskills of New York/Pennsylvania. The ring had been purchased well in advance and Jim was struggling to keep it hidden. The morning of August 1st, Chelsea accepted her new position as an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State. Jim suggested she go get her nails done as a celebration for the new job. His out of the blue suggestion to go spend money caused Chelsea to gain a scent, but she was able to convince herself it was nothing. Upon arrival at our AirBnB, Jim went into the house first and explained to Chelsea that there was a surprise waiting, hoping she would think it was related to her new job. Once Chelsea walked in, she was led into the bedroom with rose petals only to see her dog Cally wearing a sign asking, "Mommy, will you marry Daddy?" Jim dropped to one knee, professed his love to her, and asked her to spend the rest of her life with him. Chelsea happily exclaimed "Yes!"

Our amazing photographer took the photo above - we just wanted to give him a shout out!