After years of managing a long distance relationship and knowing Kayla’s education would keep them apart for now, it was finally time. Jake planned it out for a few days after Christmas. He asked that morning if she wanted to go look at the Christmas lights in downtown Rockford. After multiple attempts to convince Jake to do it another night because of the weather, she finally agreed. The drive into town was spent reminiscing of childhood Christmas memories. The walk downtown was spent enjoying the lights while Kayla frequently said she felt like they were being watched. Finally, under the gazebo by the river, he asked her and she said yes! The rest of the night was spent enjoying the moment with friends, who were watching it all unfold from a distance.