Our relationship dates back to 2009 when Facebook was new and exciting. You may be wondering why I decided to bring Facebook into this. Robert's favorite story to tell is that our relationship started when I messaged him on Facebook at age 12. Yes, you read that right! I (Katie) messaged Robert on Facebook. Embarrassing, right? Though I hate to admit it, I have to give major props to 12-year-old Katie, and the good Lord. He certainly proved His plan is much bigger than ours on that night over 10 years ago.

On New Years Day 2019 I told Robert, "this is the year we'll get engaged." Robert's response was disappointing to me as he pointed out that he'd like to graduate from college before we took the next step. I spent a lot of 2019 curious when the day would come but convinced I'd be waiting well into 2020 before Robert decided to pop the question. On Dec. 19, 2019 Robert graduated from Clemson. As you can imagine, I was very excited (for more than one reason 😉) but was prepared to wait a while before I'd wear an engagement ring on my finger. Robert, of course, had much bigger plans. The day after his college graduation we took a road trip to Lake Lure, NC to celebrate. Robert and I love to take short trips together, so I figured this was nothing out of the ordinary. What I didn't know was Robert's mom and sister were hiding in the bushes near a gazebo on the lake, prepared to capture Robert's big move. Before I knew it, I was wearing a beautiful engagement ring and wine tasting at a local winery with my new fiancé. What a dream come true!