Oddly enough, David and I had our first date at a beer house. For those of you who know me, I'm not much of a drinker so meeting someone at a bar was ironic. I wanted to make sure David thought I was a "cool person" which is also quite funny in hindsight because it was almost as though I set up a bait and switch. However, within 15 minutes of conversation (as most of you know David is quite the conversationalist) I was hooked. After just a few dates, I showed David my true colors; my love for coffee, singing (out of key), running, and musicals. We have experienced all of these together and in fact running has become a very important part of our relationship. He even proposed to me on top of a mountain during a 7 mile race! David met my daughter, Aurora, when she was two years old. To see them play together warms my heart. His patience and gentle guidance has helped shape who she is. He truly is my rock and soul mate. I am so fortunate to have met him and am so excited for our future. Before meeting David, I thought fairytales were only for the movies but he really has made my dreams come true.

Kerin and I begin most days sitting side-by-side on the couch, coffee in hand, sometimes chatting, other times just enjoying time together. On weekends and rare weekdays, Aurora joins us. I couldn't be happier having the two of them in my life. When Kerin and I started chatting, conversation flowed naturally as we shared interests, travel plans, and daily details. Our conversations led to a date over beers (she didn’t want me to think she was “lame” for wanting to meet over coffee). Everything felt natural, like I was meeting with friend I had known for years. Shared love of nature, travel, and similar values have made our time together fly by. I feel that I have known Kerin forever yet is seems like our first date was yesterday. From my first meeting with Aurora, sharing dessert (which she spilled on my lap) to playing “sick babies” I could not ask for a more loving, smart, and thoughtful girl in my life. Kerin and Aurora fill my heart every day.