It was a beautiful summer day at TCNJ freshman orientation, spent learning about the Joys of Being a Commuter (TM). After being left out of the school volleyball game because staff forgot commuters exist, we were set free for the day. He noticed me among the thin crowd of commuters and saw that I was wearing a Pokewalker. He asked if we could walk to the parking lot together. Though initially concerned as to why this strange man had enthusiastically accosted me, I accepted his offer. We spent a good half hour chatting on the bench by the lot (yes, about Pokemon) before reluctantly parting ways. We exchanged names to look up on Facebook. Too bad we never explained how our first names were spelled.

He spied me in the library. Despite having spoken only once, he recognized me instantly. He knew he had to talk to me. This opportunity could not be passed up! He paced back and forth a few times, but his nerves were too great. He walked out the other doors of the library.

He saw me in the library again. A first meeting? Coincidence. A second? Lucky chance. But a third? This was fate. He handed me a note with his phone number. He said nervously, "My name is Stephen Fowler. I like video games and Philadelphia sports. You seem like a cool person to know. Text me if you want." His mission accomplished, he speed-walked back through the library doors. I watched his retreat from the building from the window.

This is the girl you gave your number to. My name's Julie Dallas. I like video games and Philly sports teams too, but the Flyers are my favorite. I'm also really shy so that's why I didn't talk much. Hi, nice to meet you!

I'm pretty shy too, hence the nervousness and awkward getaway lol. Phillies are probably my favorite, but I watch every Flyers game too. I had class during the game last night so I kept trying to pull my phone out to check the score. I was able to catch the last couple of minutes of craziness though. They play again tonight right?

On the fifth anniversary of our third meeting, we went out for a (completely inconspicuous) romantic dinner, followed by a (definitely coincidental and unplanned) trip to the TCNJ library. This was where approximately half of campus had decided to gather at 9:30 at night. We sat down in the only available chairs on the first floor. After glancing at his pocket, which was interestingly square-shaped today, I suggested we move downstairs. On the steps leading down to the library basement, he handed me a note. "My name is Stephen Fowler. I like video games and Philadelphia sports teams. You are the love of my life. Will you marry me?"