6 Years, 11 Dates

I was infatuated from the moment I laid eyes on her. In completely clichéd words, there was just something about her. Though our first meeting was brief, I couldn't get her out of my head. When we finally went out on our first date, it was the best date of my life. Everything was perfect because everything I did was with her - sweets, cute animals, blessings, and fireworks, we had it all. Fast-forward a few blissful months and I had some growing up to do. I needed to improve myself, which is a process that took time and discomfort. Us reconnecting felt like picking up on all the good and leaving out all my immaturity. With strong feelings, much enthusiasm, and a stubborn head, I took a leap of faith and moved up to Massachusetts to be with Lauren. Both of us recognized that a move like that meant this was serious and deserved our whole effort. Despite, or maybe because of mountains of unfolded laundry, unchanged toilet paper holders, a shared love of cooking and reproach for doing dishes, and a whole lot of animal fur, it worked. We grew to embrace the occasional discomfort, and to treasure the companionship and joy we brought to each other's lives. Within the year I knew this was something I could see myself doing for the rest of my life. The custom ring was already ready to be ordered, and all that was left was the proposal. As with all things worth doing, this process had its challenges - namely, Lauren saying she needed her nails done, but refusing to do her nails because she didn't realize the importance of the date. On December 22nd of 2019, I proposed at Longwood Gardens to what I remember as slowed and muted applause around us. I think I remember it that way because the only thing that mattered at that moment was Lauren and knowing we'd have the rest of our lives together.