In March 2020, as the world was navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Heylee was finding solace in the familiar rhythms of her ~new~ daily life. A planned day of babysitting had unexpectedly opened up when the child she was supposed to care for fell ill. With the day now wide open, Heylee received a spontaneous text from her roommate, inviting her to join a group of friends for a boating outing on Weatherford Lake. Heylee wasn't sure what to expect. The group consisted mostly of people she didn’t know, but she was up for an adventure, especially on a sunny day when isolation had become the norm. Little did she know that this casual boating trip was about to alter the course of her life. On the other side of the lake, Cole was juggling his own set of challenges. He had his two boys that day so when a friend called Cole for a favor, asking for help with the boat to impress some girls, Cole found himself in a bind. He needed a last-minute babysitter for his kids to make the plan work. Desperation drove him to search for someone to step in on short notice. S/O to Allie & Dusty! As luck would have it, Heylee agreed to join the outing. Arriving at the lake, she found herself amidst a lively group that included Cole. Despite the initial awkwardness of meeting strangers, Heylee’s easygoing nature made her blend seamlessly with the group. What is a stranger??? Cole, grateful for her presence, introduced himself and struck up a conversation via sarcasm. The day on the lake turned out to be more delightful than either had anticipated. The group laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of being on the water. For Cole and Heylee, it was the beginning of a connection that neither had expected. As the weeks and months went by, Heylee and Cole’s initial friendship deepened. They found comfort and companionship in each other, their bond growing stronger despite the challenging times. They navigated the uncertainties of the pandemic together, finding joy in shared experiences and mutual support. Cole's kids adored Heylee, and she quickly became an integral part of their lives. Her warmth and kindness resonated deeply with Cole, who appreciated her ability to blend seamlessly into his world. The casual outings that had started on Weatherford Lake evolved into meaningful moments spent together, exploring new hobbies and creating cherished memories. By the time the world began to find its new normal, Heylee and Cole realized that their friendship had blossomed into something more profound. What had begun as a spontaneous encounter on a lake had transformed into a loving, healthy, committed relationship. Their shared journey through an uncertain period had forged a deep and enduring connection. After several years of navigating a new relationship with kids, exes, opening a business, and much more they agreed marriage was the next step. On December 25th, 2024 - Cole surprised Heylee by dropping down on one knee and PROPOSING! A day both of them never thought would happen due to previous life experiences. The rest is history! *peep one of our first pictures together below*