The date has finally been set!

Like most Millennials, we turned to dating apps—and one simple swipe right turned into a match that changed everything. In December 2021, we went on our first date at House Rules in Grand Rapids. Connor absolutely whooped me in Uno (I still blame the dealer), but he casually mentioned that he and his brothers played all the time, so I suppose I never stood a chance. From there, we headed to Founders Brewery for dinner. They seated us in a far corner by the brewery windows, with my back to the huge bar and door. Connor kept looking past me and didn’t seem very interested at first—which I later learned is very much a “cop thing.” Thankfully, once dinner was over, he was still interested in getting to know each other, which surprised me and made me very happy. We ended the night at The Tin Can in Grand Rapids, sharing ciders and playing darts. It wasn’t until March 4, 2022, that things officially changed. After I texted Connor, “I have the sexiest cop ever!” he smoothly replied at 2:00 a.m. (because he worked nights), “I have the sexiest girlfriend ever!” I didn’t see it until 7:00 a.m., when I responded, “Have I just been promoted?! From girl you’re dating to your girlfriend?!” His answer was simple: “Yes.” The only hiccup at that point was that our dogs had to meet. I made it very clear—if they didn’t get along, we couldn’t continue. Thankfully (and very importantly), the dogs loved each other… and still do. On December 11, 2022, I had planned to take photos with Connor, Ella, Ranger, and me at my cousin Erica’s house in Onondaga, Michigan. What I didn’t know was that Connor was secretly working with Erica to plan a surprise proposal. It was absolutely perfect. Now, after many, many rustic camping trips, spur of the moment adventures, blending our lives together, and searching for a house (still to come!), here we are. Three long years later, finally setting a date and celebrating with all of you.