Woof! Hi there, it’s me, Parker, the real star of this family. Let me tell you a little story about how my dads, Emilio and Nick, met. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t there yet, but I like to think I played a part in bringing them together (manifesting is real, people). Back in the pandemic days, both Emilio and Nick were new to Long Beach. Emilio had moved down from Santa Barbara/Bakersfield in early 2020, and Nick bought his first place and settled into his condo in November 2020. Even though they were just a few blocks apart in Downtown Long Beach, they had no clue the other existed. They kept missing each other at all the best spots—talk about a classic game of hide and seek! Luckily, Nick came across Emilio’s dating profile in February 2021 and thought, “Why not? This guy seems like he might like long walks and good food as much as I do.” They started chatting, but it wasn’t until March 2021 that they finally met in person for a casual date. On that first date, they realized they both went to UC Santa Barbara (Go Gauchos!) and even had some friends in common. It was a little weird but also comforting, like when you find a squeaky toy you thought you lost forever. From that first meet-up, they quickly figured out how much they both value family, how dedicated they are to their careers (whatever those are—I just know it means more treats for me), and how easy it felt to be around each other. No awkward moments, just two guys who seemed to fit together like a leash and a collar. Nick asked Emilio out on a more formal date soon after, and let me tell you, it was the best date Emilio had ever had (or so he says). Nick was pretty persistent about making sure he stayed on Emilio’s radar, and before long, they were spending almost every day together. By April 7, 2021, they made it official—two guys ready to take on life’s adventures together. And look at them now: they’ve got me, the fluffiest and most lovable goldendoodle in the world, and they’re about to start a whole new chapter together. Their story isn’t wild and crazy, but that’s the beauty of it. They found each other when they were ready to let life happen exactly as it was meant to. And now, I get to be part of all the adventures they’re planning next. Here’s to more love, more fun, and plenty of belly rubs (for me, obviously). 🐾