Our story begins like many millennials these days. Online. Or rather, on an app. More specifically, Bumble. Do you know how hard it is to date when everyone is afraid of being in the same room as you? Or when you can't see their whole face and have to determine if you can emotionally handle dedicating time to someone who might have missing teeth or halitosis? You'd never know! All this to say, online dating is a nightmare, ask anyone and they will tell you the same. Finding someone who ticks some of your boxes might be possible, but MOST of your boxes? That right there is a diamond in the rough. Lucky for me, my birthstone is a diamond, so it was only a matter of time before I found mine. On a cold February day, after almost giving up on dating in general, I got a match. And he messaged me back! The story begins... A man asks a woman to a date at a bar. A couple of young adults fresh out of quarantine and looking for, not only love, but an everlasting bond. Dating is exhausting and we were both over the formalities. We got right to the meat of it. Day one. Many might find it extremely awkward to speak of marriage, kids, and the future on a first date; but for us, it was as natural as the spark that ignited between us. The conversation was endless and we realized we were on the same path. We wanted the same things, had the same goals for the future, and had the same craving to learn more about how to make our dreams a reality. Giddy with the fresh blooms of love, we went on a few more dates and had many a sleepless night... just texting...of course! But neither of us could deny the feeling of destiny that accompanied every touch, every glance, every kiss. As the weeks turned to months, the months turned to years... (ok actually it's only been almost two years but who's counting?) and each day brings new opportunities for better communication and growth of, not only our minds, but our souls as well. We had very clear intentions from the beginning and this became the foundation upon which we continue to grow and build our lives. Now look at us - after 2 years we have endured some distance, renovated a house, survived a trip to IKEA (wild! I know), and continue to raise our beautiful fur baby Yuri in an atmosphere of understanding, truth, and a deeply profound love. Whatever the future may have in store - bring it on. Nothings gonna stop us now!