We were something like a Hallmark movie, as numerous friends noted... Last Fall, Hailey subbed on Creighton's hall. For her, it was instantaneous interest! Even texting a friend, "I've never wanted a stranger to ask me out so badly!!!" Though they hadn't had much conversation beyond 2 lunches together and hallway waves, Hailey was determined to make some kind of move. She sent Creighton a wordy thank-you email for checking in on her while she was subbing. The next afternoon, Creighton sent a similarly wordy reply. Skirting around mutual feelings, it was clear a small push was needed. Enter our match maker, Ms. Teri! She's a church momma to Hailey and funnily enough, Creighton's former 5th grade teacher! With Hailey's permission, Teri reached out and Creighton was excited! Thinking to himself, "There's no way this is working out exactly how I wanted it to!" He received Hailey's phone number and with relief, got to ask Hailey out with a guaranteed YES!

The day before Hailey's 28th birthday, Creighton joined her with her mom, siblings, and nephew for a hike at Knob Noster State Park— her birthday activity request! Hailey was "nearly certain" nothing would be happening, though she'd pestered C with questions all weekend. A while into hiking, Creighton said, "Let's move a little ahead!" Hailey followed for approximately 15 seconds before pausing, "Wait, why are we going off by ourselves??! Why does Hannah have a nice camera?!!!" *And click* With realization of what was about to happen, she hysterically laughed with excitement! Creighton pulled out a handwritten letter that Hailey read aloud before he got down on one knee and asked, "Will you marry me?"