One brisk December weekend, Claire and Neil decided to escape Chicago and head to Claire's family lake house in Long Beach. Their weekend was filled with holiday fun: Christmas tree shopping, photos with Santa, hot cocoa, and a slice at their favorite pizza spot. Little did Claire know, this day was years in the making. Upon arriving in Long Beach, they detoured to Claire's favorite spot on the lakefront. They stood at Stop 38, admiring the water, and before Claire knew it, Neil was down on one knee.