It all began thanks to a simple childhood connection when our brothers became friends while attending Polish school. Before long, our families grew close, and Julia quietly developed a little crush on Tomek… a secret everyone seemed to know—except Tomek himself. The very first time we spent time together was while volunteering at our church in 2016. From that day on, a friendship bloomed, and for two years we were inseparable best friends. Then came May 2018. What started as an ordinary plan for a movie, milkshakes, and dinner turned into the beginning of something so much bigger. That summer we spent every possible moment together, and by September, at the peaceful shores of Mongaup Pond Tomek asked Julia to be his girlfriend. From then on, we were the definition of high school sweethearts: swapping corsages and boutonnieres at each other’s proms, cheering each other on at school events, and building a lifetime of memories. Over the next six years we traveled, laughed, and fell more in love with every adventure. Some of our happiest days are the simplest ones: curled up watching The Office and laughing at the same lines no matter how many times we’ve seen them, driving with the music blasting—sometimes country, sometimes disco polo—windows down and voices way off-key. We love hosting friends and family, filling our home with food, laughter, and way too many leftovers. And when we’re not doing that, you can usually find us cheering at Islanders games or planning our next trip together.

Fast forward to the summer of 2025. Julia had planned a cozy weekend getaway to a cabin in Livingston Manor, a little escape for just the two of them. As the trip approached, Tomek suggested they stop at Mongaup Pond for a picnic and take some photos since they'd be nearby. Julia thought it was a sweet idea and, with a quiet suspicion, tucked a few pretty dresses into her bag—just in case. On the day of the picnic, Tomek set up a tripod to capture a few pictures. As Julia looked into his eyes, she instantly knew something special was about to happen. With hugs, giggles, and happy tears, Tomek dropped to one knee and asked Julia to be his wife. Mongaup Pond now holds an even deeper meaning for them—a place where their story began and where the next chapter officially started. And if it’s ever in danger of closing, you can bet they'll be the first in line to buy the park to keep its magic alive.