We met at a local restaurant before going to Rupp Arena to watch the University of Kentucky Wildcats play the Eastern Kentucky Colonels. We talked nonstop, so much so that we never ordered food. We left for the game, having only ordered a beer and a shot of tequila. We had a great time: even though my Colonels lost to his Wildcats. That night started the most important relationship of our lives.

It was a total surprise!! Hughes proposed on the beach in Santa Barbara. We were on a trip with his family for his 30th birthday. We explored the city and had a lovely dinner. After dinner, Hughes asked me to go on a walk on the beach. When we reached the water, Hughes held my hands, and he got down on one knee. I couldn't stop smiling and laughing and said, "YES," and we were engaged. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in Lexington!