Ian and I met at Otterbein University. We’re not entirely sure how we actually met, as we were in marching band together and had many mutual friends. We think we met when our mutual friend, Isaac, was leading the way to Sphinx’s off campus house, 58. The front of the house is made entirely out of stained glass. I had never been there, which Ian couldn’t believe, and then he went on for about ten minutes about how beautiful it was, as well as the history of the house. I remember thinking, “Wow, this guy really likes stained glass.” We were acquaintances throughout our time at Otterbein but never super close. After we both left the college, we stayed in touch somewhat, although we usually only saw each other at Homecoming and Greek life events. Ian moved out of Ohio for awhile, but when he got back, we got closer and talked more frequently. We decided to meet up for a drink at the local college bar, Jimmy V’s. Although neon tropical print shirts are probably not typical first-date attire, I was thrilled to see him wearing it (it’s still my favorite shirt of his). We talked nonstop the whole time. We had such a great time on our date that we decided to spend the next day together at the Columbus Zoo. At some point, Ian asked if he could hold my hand while we walked. I don’t remember exactly what I said, but it was something like, “It would be pretty weird if you didn’t.” I was so happy with how our day at the zoo had gone, and the sunny summer weather only made it better. Even though I was incredibly happy, I felt a pang of nervousness and sadness. At first I couldn’t figure out why, but I realized it was because I was driving away from Ian (my apologies for making you vomit). We continued talking for the next few weeks, sometimes spending hours on the phone. We made plans for me to come up to Cleveland to visit him over Labor Day weekend. We were so excited to see each other, and he wasn’t even alarmed that I had dyed my hair purple since I had last seen him. He asked me to be his girlfriend that weekend, and we’ve been together ever since.