If you want to get technical, we met each other at LAX on our way to study abroad in Melbourne in July 2012. The truth is, we didn't really talk until a few nights later, when we met up at a friend's apartment before going out to the Hawthorn Hotel (our usual Tuesday night spot when we were in Aus). On the walk to the bar, Rebecca asked Mac to pretend to be her boyfriend to help get her in, since she was still 17. Mac took that very seriously, because from that night on, the two of us were inseparable.

When we went back to Melbourne after graduation in May 2017, a proposal felt inevitable. It's where our relationship started, and always felt like a second home to us long after we left. On the morning of May 15, we took a train outside of the city, and rented a car to drive along the Great Ocean Road. This was a trip we had made together before, and we were very excited to see it again, years later. The forecast was for clouds and rain, but as we kept driving towards the ocean, the sun finally came out. After a couple of stops along the way to take in the sights, we stopped at Loch Ard Gorge. We walked down to the small beach hidden within the cove and were stunned to have it all to ourselves. Mac had been taking pictures of Rebecca as she was looking out at the ocean. As she turned, Mac was waiting behind her with a box in-hand, taking one knee. At that moment, we found ourselves living the dream we had dreamt countless times before, and waited years to finally happen. That moment was made possible by not love, trust, and friendship alone. It was made possible by the love and support we have been surrounded by for the five years leading up to that day. For that, we are endlessly thankful for you, and all our friends and family. On January 6th, we celebrate our love, yours, and the joining of our two families.