We met in May of 2004 at Best Man, Frank Shipman's 19th birthday. Coral was trying to set up Bridesmaid, Leslie Shipman with Frank (if you can tell by their matching last names, IT WORKED). We saw each other often and became close friends in the last 14 years. On April 21,2018, we attended a wedding of a mutual friend. Neither of us had a date, so naturally, we decided we would be each other's dates. For the first time in 14 years, we were both single and it didn't take long before Matt leaned in for our first kiss while we were in the photo booth at the wedding reception. Neither of us expected that it would feel so right, but it did, and the kisses haven't stopped! Matt went on to propose on September 29, 2018, and we couldn't be more excited to take this next step in our futures together and as a family.

On the morning of 9/29/2018, Matt asked if we should go to the beach. Being from San Diego, the answer is never no. We packed up the car and headed out. On the way, Matt asked what beach we should go to. "Marine St. Beach in La Jolla," my favorite beach in San Diego. When we got to the beach, it was practically empty. We thought it odd as this particular day was perfect! Clear blue sky, warm with a little breeze and calm, aqua blue water. The beach was ours. We picked a spot, selected a playlist, made some Bloody Mary's and just relaxed. After soaking up the sun for a bit, Matt said " Hey, I have a little gift for you up in the car." "A gift? For me? Fun!" When he came back, he laid out a towel and asked me to come open the gift with him. We opened the gift bag together to find a book, "Our Love Story" by Matt Moore. The book was filled with stick figure cartoons of us and the kids, with words detailing our story. It was the most thoughtful gift, but the true meaning had yet to be discovered. On what was presumed the last page, was a love note from Matt, explaining his love for all of us and the joy we brought to his life. The end of this note read, "So I just have one question for you.." and I turned the page to find "Will You Marry Me?", with Matt's little stick figure on one knee and holding a ring. There was no time to be shocked before he was holding an actual ring. The book fell to the sand and we held each other so tight. After what likely seemed like an eternity for Matt and needing to remember to breathe, the word "YES," was shouted. With the biggest smiles and happiest of emotions, the most gorgeous ring was placed on my finger. We were engaged!