In 2009, we both went to Lake Park HS. Joseph was a senior and I was a sophomore. We began talking over the biggest social media app - Myspace! Then we found out we had a few mutual friends in common and continued to talk before finally deciding to hang out for the first time. At the time, my sister was in cheerleading and my family had to go to Glenbard North HS for a football game that Becca was cheering for. I invited Joseph and he took the opportunity to finally meet me. Little did he know he would be calling me his wife 11 years late.

Joseph did an amazing job coordinating with many different people to plan for my proposal. We started our day off with an Itinerary (impressive since I normally do the planning). Our first stop was to enjoy a fancy downtown brunch at Somerset Restaurant. Following, we stopped at Navy Pier to enjoy the scenery, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, and have a few drinks. After we were through being tourists, we headed to Konow's Corn Maze to visit the pumpkin farm. Little did I know, we were actually there so he could "pop the question"! We get to the entrance and had to wait in an extremely long line because someone forgot cash (who forgets cash at a pumpkin farm!). We explore for a bit, then head into the maze. Joe tells me to lead the way, and I got us out of there in 15 minutes. Joe was not too happy since his master plan relied on us being in the maze while family arrived. He convinces me to try the maze again, and my shoe breaks, I had to use the bathroom, and now we're deep in the maze because Joe was stalling while everyone was taking their places. We finally get out but it’s not the correct exit. As we're about to re-enter to find the right exit, I see a red dot in my peripherals. I look back, double-take, and see my dad sticking out in a red shirt. Surprise! My parents both drove in from out of town. Brenda rushed back from being out of town that day as well. Becca and Jr were there when they typically work on Saturdays. Mario, Mia, Maria, Steven, and Mateo made it with their busy schedules. Roziel, Aquiles, Justin, Kris, and Eric made it all the way from the city. My Aunt, Uncle Steve & Maddie were even able to make it. Finally, Joseph drops down on one knee, says a few sweet things, and asks me to marry him with the dorkiest smile. OF COURSE I SAID YES! We took pictures and headed to my aunts where she, Ann, Gram and Aunt-Mari were hard at work to surprise me with an amazing engagement party! I want to thank everyone for your participation and patience!