It was Halloween 2009, when an unsuspecting Eve and a disoriented race car driver, would meet for the first time at a Halloween party in Riverside, California. We had mutual friends that introduced us to each other, but were only able to make small conversation, in between, Dustin being the Beer Pong champion of the World! We knew there was something special about the interaction we had with each other that night, but we pursued a strong friendship for a little over a year before our first date would finally happen. During that time, we were able to build a strong foundation, discover each other's love for adventure, love for family, and notice the beautiful intricacies of one's faults to get a better understanding of who that person is. And finally, after much pursuit and determination on Dustin's behalf, Crystal finally came to her senses and allowed him to take her on her first and last, first date on Valentines Day 2011.
We take turns on deciding what to do for our anniversary from year to year, and this so happened to be Dustin's year to plan. He had begun planning early, as there were several working parts that needed to come together to make this event special and memorable. Dustin had planned a hike with Rob, Lauren, Garret and an unsuspecting Crystal up Tahquitz Canyon several weeks in advance as to get a game plan as to how he wanted the proposal to happen. Day of, Dustin had planned more distraction for Crystal by inviting Jon, who was visiting from Texas, and Rob to go on the hike with us. We got an early morning start, as Dustin was adamant to get up early before the sun started heating up the mountain side. We trekked our way up, stopping along the way to take pictures and taking breaks to manage the time to the top. As we peaked the top of the canyon, Jon and Rob led the way down, Crystal and myself lagging behind just a bit to set the surprise for Crystal. As we came down the last hill, Crystal lead the way and saw a large group of people come out with signs, unknowing it was for her and not realizing they were all friends and family. It took her a moment to realize, and finally took the time to read the sign that read, "Crystal, will you marry me?" She finally recognized familiar faces of our friends and family that had all made the hike to make this special moment happen. It was at this time, she turned to Dustin who was kneeling on one knee, with ring in hand to ask her to marry him.