We met at college, became fast friends, and hung out with the same crowd of people. There was always a sense of romance, but we didn't act on it officially. We were both young and unsure of ourselves and each other. After college, we stayed in touch, went on a couple of informal dates, and hung out when we could. We lost touch for a couple of years due to both of us marrying and subsequently getting divorced. We got back in touch with each other on Dave's 31st birthday and, since then, have been inseparable. Dave met my daughter, Elaina, and from that point on, we all became a family. After 9 months of dating, we told each other we loved each other, and after 18 months, we moved in together officially. In October 2024, Dave proposed, and I accepted, with Elaina's blessing, of course. We have built a life and family together with Elaina, our 2 dogs, Bubs and Cece, and 3 birds, Vicky, Star, and Gizmo. We're so excited to celebrate our love story with our friends and family!