First the back story- we both had started dancing and picked up dancing at the same time. We both returned to the Latin dance scene the same summer in 2016. 10+ years ago, we even had the same dance instructors but at different campuses and a mix CD was made from Chris, who was a TA, and played in Kristin's class without any knowledge until 10 years later. Throughout these 10 years, we've been in the same relative location but didn't cross paths until this moment... Spotted from a distance and thinking nothing of it to only meeting again the next week and the week after during lessons. Light meaningless conversations that broke the ice that eventually developed into asking to practice after the lessons into the social dance portion. Singing along dancing and laughing to making sure to say goodbyes, eventually grew to rescuing the other from bad dance partners. One day numbers were exchanged and thereafter, post dance meals were shared. In our first week outside of the dance scene we hiked with Kingston (who didn't like him at first but were best friends at the end of the day!), ate AYCE KBBQ, went to the beach, had coffee dates, and had more dances. Of course Kristin wanted to calm things down and pushed things off, but it felt too weird to not be together. After time apart and talking, we spent most everyday together there after to learning the other.

I initially thought Chris was going to propose during my birthday week while out of town, but that didn't happen and he wanted to throw me in for a surprise. I had a hunch it was coming because he had been more paranoid than usual. During the trip he was more at ease, but didn't bring the ring which I didn't know until later. Instead a week after the trip we went for ramen in Arcadia, which was local to the Moonlight Festival at the Arcadia Arboretum. I knew this was the event that Chris was going to pop the question because he was always tapping and checking his pockets, but I wasn't going to tell him that I knew :) We enjoyed our meal and headed to the Arboretum. Took several pictures and Chris was so calculating in where would be perfect. Looking out for less crowded spaces, well lit, and cute photo opportunities. Finally found a spot, but a couple wouldn't move for the longest time- so we relocated. There was this perfect place, secluded and away from crowds. The pathway was lined with giant dandelion lights and a bench under a street light. Chris was quiet and looked very stoic, to which I called him out on haha. Nevertheless, he did share his thoughts and gave me a card that he took from my card pile :p . But inside said everything he couldn't or missed, when I put it down he was down on one knee with a box opened to present a beautiful engagement ring. He asked me to marry him, I said "Yes", he put it on and onlookers were congratulating us. He did manage to chase down a couple to capture the moment for us :)

Chris: There were 2 different instances of confirmation. About 2 months in I knew that I loved her and that she was different because she challenged my perspective and encouraged me to reach my fullest potential. I always set myself short, but she saw what I could become so easily. I knew she was the one probably 6 months in. When the relationship was challenged and there was a possibility of being without her, I wasn't ready to let go and couldn't. That was when I knew that this relationship was different, unique, and special. Kristin: About 1 year in I knew he was different. Not only were there all these parallels in our life that we were discovering, but I learned that he was one that was able to grow with me as well as individually. He has shown up for me in both good and bad days, especially since I was in grad school. He had been incredibly patient and understanding, being supportive and loving in any way he could. As time went on, this was validated and I felt more sure that he was the one for me. Reaffirmation for both: 2020 to this year has been incredibly challenging. Faced with many changes to health and circumstance, but remaining steadfast in the relationship has been the greatest reminder of our strength and commitment. Through quarantine, happiness and disappointment, graduate school, COVID, cancer, hospitalizations, and loss of loved ones, as partners we have been stronger than ever. These situations have shown us how we work together and balance one another. That even through rainstorms, together we share rainbows.