We met how most do nowadays . . . matching on a dating app. Thus began a roller coaster of conversation from "What do you do for work?" to "How would you survive a zombie apocalypse?" He really got my attention when he promised to somehow find a way to make me churros during the apocalypse. Our first date was filled with smiles and laughter. I am happy to say those smiles and laughter have continued every day.

Christos was rather clever with this one. Under the guise of a Christmas gift to my parents, my sister-in-law, Kristen, suggested we do a family photoshoot. The final gift being a photobook of all the kids and grandbabies. Christos's friend, Omel, kindly offered to be the photographer. I started to become suspicious when his sisters joined us. They, too, under the guise of gifts for their parents. We all gathered at Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens on Saturday morning. It was a beautiful location—very serene and calm—and hot. Regardless of the temperature, the pictures came out beautifully, and the kids were having fun playing with Christos's sisters. Then, the moment came. We walked across this tiny bamboo bridge when Christos said my full name. Now, Christos rarely calls me by my formal name, let alone my full name. So I responded with an eloquent, ladylike "What?" as I turned around. There he was on one knee, looking up at me with a big smile. We both started laughing. Nervs? Excitement? Awkwardness? Who knows. All I know is that it was the easiest answer. Yes. Well, technically, I continuously nodded my head, but you get the idea. The surprises didn't stop there. An engagement party was coordinated at my brother's house, and our remaining family members joined us in the celebration. It was a day filled with joy and love from both families. We are incredibly thankful to those who helped make that special moment possible. We can't wait to see our families become one.