Every great love story deserves its own unique beginning, and ours is no exception. While we may never entirely agree on the precise details, one thing is clear: it all began in the summer of 2020. According to Cole’s version of events, we first met at a mutual friend’s house along the Chattahoochee River. He vividly remembers me almost spilling his drink. As for me? Let’s just say that day did not leave much of an impression—except for one crucial detail: Joey. Yes, Joey, the white golden retriever with a knack for stealing hearts (mine included). While Cole might argue I was too distracted by the dog to notice him, I’d prefer to think Joey had a hand in setting the stage for what came next. Fast forward a few weeks. My friend Melissa convinced me to join her at The Park Tavern in Piedmont Park where she had plans to meet up with someone new named Eric. Little did I know, Eric was friends with Cole, and fate was about to orchestrate our second chance meeting. As we arrived, I noticed a familiar face—though I couldn’t quite place it. Cole wasted no time striking up a conversation, confidently declaring, “I met you the other week.” My response? A very on-brand, “I’ve never seen you in my life.” Undeterred, Cole began listing details from our supposed first meeting. It wasn’t until he said, “I have the white golden retriever,” that everything clicked. My eyes lit up. “OH, you’re Joey’s dad!” From that moment on, the rest of the day felt like a dream. We talked, laughed, and shared stories as if we’d known each other forever. Later that evening, Cole slid into my DMs with a simple request for my number. Moments later, he texted me with an invitation to dinner—for the very next day. Our first date took place on Monday, September 14th, 2020, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. From spontaneous adventures to quiet nights with Joey curled up on the couch, our story has been one of serendipity, connection, and undeniable love. So here we are, years later, ready to embark on the next chapter of our journey. And to think, it all began with a spilled drink, a golden retriever, and a line that still makes us laugh: “OH, you’re Joey’s dad!”