We're Getting Married!

2020 was a tough year for many, but Dan and I found each other amidst the chaos and were able to grow closer because of it! Dan and I met on a dating app, and as cliche as it sounds, we truly did "Swipe Right!" After we matched on the app, we talked for several months before meeting in person. We finally went on our first date in February 2020. When Dan opened the door, his blue eyes and handsome smile stopped me in my tracks. We were instantly comfortable around each other and I felt it all "click in my mind" that this is my person! Dan surprised me with taking me to one of the best restaurants in Ann Arbor, Aventura. Over delicious food, we chatted and got to know more about each other and our common interests and values. After our first date, we knew we wanted to see each other again. We went out a week later and explored local thrift stores and coffee shops, and bonded over our shared interests in history and antique shopping. He asked me to be his girlfriend in March of 2020! We have had an amazing bond ever since, and I am beyond grateful to have my best friend and love of my life as my partner!

Dan knows how much I truly adore Christmastime. With the magic in the air, the lights, and the traditions, this time of year is my favorite! Little did I know, Dan would give me a reason to love Christmastime EVEN more! It was a normal Thursday in December, right before the holidays. I had worked all day substitute teaching. I was wearing an ugly Christmas sweater since it was Christmas-themed Spirit Week at the school I was teaching at. Dan surprised me when I got home from an appointment and said we should order dinner from our favorite Mexican restaurant! Then, he said he had an early Christmas gift for me! "Just something small," he said sheepishly. He brought out a beautifully wrapped box, with a big grin on his face. I opened it up and there were handmade ornaments all individually wrapped. Each ornament had a picture of Dan and I throughout our relationship. There were pictures we had taken on our trips, our travels, and all of our memories. I teared up as I opened each one. We reminisced on the amazing times we have had together! Dan had me hang each ornament on our beautiful Christmas tree. It was so special and I was astounded at this thoughtful gift. Then, he handed me the final ornament. I opened it and instantly was blown away; there was a picture of the most gorgeous engagement ring I had ever seen!! I was shocked. I started shaking and couldn't stop crying. I kept repeating, "Where do I put this?!" as I stood before our Christmas tree in awe. I felt like I was in a fairy tale! I hung the ornament, turned around and saw Dan get down on one knee, and pull out a dark-blue ring box. He hadn't even opened the box yet, before I exclaimed, "YES!!!" When Dan asked me to marry him, he made me the happiest woman in the world. I couldn't have asked for a better proposal! I am still shocked how he managed to surprise me in the most thoughtful way. A special thanks to Dan's Mom for making our beautiful ornaments that I will forever cherish!