Kristina and Dexter swiped right on each other on a dating app, creating a “match” and giving Kristina a 24-hour period to start a conversation before the match disappeared. Kristina left Dexter waiting anxiously, and with an hour left sent a message wishing Dexter a Happy Thanksgiving. Dexter didn’t waste any time and got Kristina’s number. The two talked daily for a few weeks while Kristina was finishing up the term in Corvallis, and then Dexter asked Kristina out the first Friday of winter break. The two met at Prost, a German bar in Portland, and had iced cold beers out on the frigid patio. Both would tell you that they felt an instant connection that evening (you might even say love at first site) and left with the feeling that this relationship felt different, in such a good way. They dated long-distance for over a year while Kristina was in Corvallis, and Dexter was in Portland. They have enjoyed travelling and adventuring together in Banff, Cancun, Leavenworth, and the many wonders of Oregon, as well as spending time with their friends, family and golden retriever, Riggins.

Kristina had been dying to go to the Five Pine Lodge in Sisters, Oregon for years. Her parents gifted Kristina, Dexter and Riggins a weekend stay as a Christmas gift. When planning the time to go, Dexter was adamant it had to be at the beginning of March, only heightening Kristina’s suspicions for a proposal. As the three travelled to the lodge, Kristina was too busy studying for finals to notice Dexter’s nerves and his frequent inquiries to assure that she go to the bathroom before arriving. On arrival, the couple checked in and Dexter suggested leaving Riggins while they unloaded and carried in the bags. Dexter handed Kristina the room key; when she opened the door, her heart stopped as she realized this was the moment she had long awaited. The hallway was lined with rose petals and tea lights. Kristina quickly dropped her bags and followed the path, which led to the bed- covered in more rose petals and a poster-sized photo of them with the text, “Will you marry me?” She stood there taking it all in, as Dexter followed behind trying to quickly drop all of his bags. To this day, neither could tell you exactly what Dexter said in those quick fifteen seconds, but they both do remember the most important line, “Will you marry me?” To which Kristina quickly responded, “Yes!”