12 . 7 . 2019

We met online, we may have even signed up for the dating app on the very same day. I was actively participating in a calendar month of self help I found in a waiting room magazine, January a time for "renewal", I would go on 10 dates through the dating app, Mike was 10/10. He had very few pictures of himself on his profile but what caught my attention was his reference to being an "old soul", our online conversations were sweet, Mike was not like any of the other 9 men, there was much integrity and wisdom. He was steadfast and was there just for me. After a cancellation and a reschedule Mike & I met at Cloud 9, a restaurant here in Erie, PA, on March 4th 2017. I had blocked off the usual 2 to 3 hours these dates took in my schedule, our date lasted a very conversation-filled and perfect 4 hours and ended in a side hug from Mike and what felt like the little sister send off. I was not disappointed. I drove home from the date relieved the "10 date project" was over and the online dating part of the renewal program was complete. I had not found love, but # 10 was different. Over the next few days, texts and more texts, weeks, more dates, months.....We were taking a morning hike like we had done so many times before, it hit me, Like a cupid's arrow to my heart. I fell in love with this handsome man, my best friend, and my rock. I fell in love with my adventure partner, my funny, interesting, and strong protector of my heart. Mike will say he loved me before I loved him and maybe that is true. I read and reread our text conversations and I think of what he has done for me and my children and how he has loved me with a love I have not known. I can't wait to marry him! I can't wait to have a wedding with our friends and family who have joined us either while we were single or together on this life journey. We are so grateful for second chances and so very lucky. I saw a cutesie sign once, it read "it was always you", I think of my life leading to "Us" and how true.....