Reservations at The Bygone were set for 8:30, and per Mike’s request, I traded my usual hoodie and sweatpants for something a little more dressed up. We arrived at the 29th floor to take in the breathtaking views of our home, Baltimore City. The hostess seated us at the best table in the house—tucked into the corner with sweeping views of the skyline on either side of me. (Side note: Mike and our waiter even had the same name. We had a good laugh about that!) Gratitude has always been a cornerstone of our relationship. So, as our food arrived, I turned to Mike and asked him what he was grateful for. His response was a beautiful list of things about me—a list he’s been building and sharing over the past year, filled with all the affirmations I love to hear. I didn’t even get a chance to share my gratitude before dinner was over because I was so wrapped up in his words. After dinner, I asked for the dessert menu, but Mike told me we’d be having dessert across the hall. Confused but curious, I agreed. When we arrived at the reserved table at the bar, my excitement started to build. The level of care he put into the evening was already so impressive. Then came the moment of truth. They brought out dessert with two glasses of champagne, and my suspicion meter shot through the roof. Mike was definitely up to something—I could feel it. And when the first few notes of our song—‘Outstanding’ by The Gap Band—began to play, I knew exactly what was happening. As Mike started to cry, my heart burst with emotion, and tears filled my own eyes. He shared more of his gratitude with me and asked the question I’d been dreaming of: ‘Will you marry me?’ As he got down on one knee, I pulled him up immediately and said, ‘Of course I will!’ And then I paused. ‘Wait… where’s the ring?’ I asked. Mike laughed and said, ‘Dude, it’s in the champagne glass.’ I couldn’t believe it! After a good laugh, I chugged the glass to retrieve it. The ring was so meaningful—it was my mother’s wedding ring from her 22-year marriage to my father before his passing. Afterward, we celebrated by hanging out at the bar, dancing to the DJ’s amazing music, and telling everyone who would listen about what this wonderful man had just done. I texted my entire family, of course, because I couldn’t wait to share the news. I feel so blessed to have Mike in my life and can’t wait to continue building our life together. Cheers to love, laughter, and the adventures ahead! 🥂✨