On February 2nd, 2022 in the middle of a snow storm a first date was planned for a dinner date at the Fire Hall in Fenton, MI. (This restaurant no longer exists, but a new restaurant is in its place called Honcho Fuego. Honestly, it's better than the other restaurant was.)

On January 3rd, 2026, a cherished mother-daughter day unfolded along the shores of Key Colony Beach, Florida — a leisurely afternoon of nail appointments, hair styling, a beautiful new dress, and touches of makeup. All the while, she believed the evening held nothing more than a family dinner reservation. Arriving at the condo complex, her thoughts consumed with the time, she nearly walked past a favorite photograph of the two of them — until something caught her eye. Delicate handwriting beckoned: Follow the lanterns. One by one, candlelit lanterns illuminated the way through a stunning atrium, past a shimmering saltwater pool, and down softly paved stairs toward the sound of the ocean. There, framed between three swaying palm trees, he stood waiting — the words MARRY ME glowing behind him, and a lifetime of love about to begin.