I spent 17 years with the wrong person, ignoring red flags and losing touch with my own worth. After the relationship ended, I took time—about five years—to be on my own. I learned how to love myself, to grow stronger, and to become truly independent. I wasn’t searching for someone to complete me, but then I met Dave… and everything changed. With Dave, I felt safe. Cherished. Seen. For the first time, I could truly relax and let my walls down. He felt like a reward for everything I had been through—a gentle reminder that love could be kind and nurturing. I love him with all my heart and soul. Believe it or not, we met on Facebook Dating. I’d been turning my profile on and off, feeling frustrated and uninspired. One day, on a whim, I turned it back on—just to see what was out there. Dave was the first person to message me. His humor, intelligence, and the fact that he had actually read my profile (and referenced it!) immediately stood out. When I saw that he was from Germany, I innocently asked if he spoke German. He responded, “I’d better speak German—I’m from Germany!” He still teases me about that to this day! Since then, Dave has shown me unwavering love and support. We’ve faced tough moments, but every challenge brought us closer. We lift each other up, celebrate one another, and love deeply and intentionally. And then—he proposed. Dave got down on one knee at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival, right in front of a giant metal dragon. Its name? Karma. It felt poetic. Perfect. Fitting. He was nervous and completely froze—but I knew exactly what was happening. Rather than let him stumble through his words, I smiled and quickly said, “YES!” Sometimes I wish we’d met sooner—but I know we had to go through what we did to become the people we are now. If we had crossed paths earlier, we might not have recognized what we have. Now, we do—and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with him.

Of all the places two people could meet, it just so happened to be Facebook Dating where we both swiped on each other. While the fact that Carissa had fostered over 17 cats was a bit intimidating at first—especially with my allergies—I quickly bonded with the ones she had at the time (just five), and even more so with Carissa. From our very first date, I knew I could truly be myself with her. She made it possible for me to leave behind past hardships and not just start living again, but to feel alive. Over the past three years, I’ve experienced things I never thought I could, and I’ve found more joy in life—even through the challenges we’ve faced together. In the moments I needed her most, she never hesitated to say yes—to support me, stand by me, and love me unconditionally. Our bond has only grown stronger with each passing day. Proposing to her in front of Karma the Dragon at the Kansas City Renaissance Festival felt like the perfect choice, given her love for the whimsical, the magical, and all things fantasy. I couldn’t be more certain: I’m ready to continue this adventure with her, no matter what comes our way.