On September 8, 2019 at 8:48 am we set off on an amazing hike to Colchuck Lake in Leavenworth, Washington. Now Google advised us that this would be a 8 mile hike (4 miles each way) and if you are moving at a fairly good pace it should take you between 3-4 hours to complete with a backpack. Our wonderful hiking guide, an old army buddy of mine, Jason Shield smiled knowing death was upon us but kept Haley in good spirts until Haley reached in her pack to puff on her inhaler and wouldn't you guess she brought one that was completely empty, guess we weren't off to a good start. Around 2 hours in the hike Jason got some birds to eat out of Haley's hands, if you knew Haley this made her day. This quickly changed on the last leg of the hike that got steeper and steeper, our legs were on fire and our faces screamed help! At 12:07 pm (3 hrs. & 19 minutes later) we finally made it to the top. Pictures didn't do this magical place justice. The water was a bright tortoise color, it was so peaceful, and the mountain pass in the distant was very powerful to look at. We found ourselves a nice spot to rest while Haley had small chipmunks climbing all over her. After moving to several different locations to find the perfect location, we ended up in a little cove. While Haley was down by the water I gave Jason the head nod, I found the spot. After retrieving the ring from my backpack, I asked Haley to take a picture of Jason and myself. I placed Haley in the exact spot that I wanted Jason to stand. She took the picture and Jason quickly swapped spots. Jason activated the GoPro's video and then proceeded to act as if he was taking picture. I dropped down on one knee and held the ring towards her. Once Haley turned around, she witnessed me down on one knee, she replied "are you serious"? I could barely ask her to marry me as she reached for the ring, placing it on her finger and sealed the deal with a yes and a kiss! The hike down was now all worth the pain!!