Hey, Michael here. Let's start with my version first. Although we technically met in our toddler years (pictures provided), it all started when we both attended the same house party in our hometown of Redding, CA. Upon leaving the party, I found Malissa by the front door surrounded by a group of young men. I proceeded to heroically push myself past the wishful young suitors and introduced myself. Two freckled lemonades and way too many bottomless fries later, I realized that I may be in trouble. Okay my turn. Malissa here. I would agree with most of the above statement on how our love story began. Yes, it's true that we did indeed first meet when we were in diapers, but it wasn't until we were young adults that we truly connected. I would call it a "small gathering of friends" versus a house party and I would say that I strategically placed myself by the front door as Michael was getting ready to leave. Now that the exit was blocked, I used this moment to so bravely suggest that we get together while he was in town for a bite to eat. Oh, and yes after a VERY full tummy of fries, the rest was history.

The alarm went off. Michael drug me out of bed, and I stumbled into the car half awake. I didn't brush my hair, put any makeup on, and I'm pretty sure I didn't even get the chance to brush my teeth. Regardless of how I was feeling, Michael was very adamant about going on this hike on Whidbey Island on a rainy Saturday morning. So we hit the road and about two hours later we were at our destination. Michael was very calm, cool, and collected the entire way despite me adding a couple roadblocks along the way (like taking his phone to play music while text messages were pouring in coordinating the popping of the big question). We started our hike and Michael eventually made a plea to stop to catch his breath while I took in the ocean view. When I turned around, there he is on one knee and honestly, everything else is a blur!

WE GOT MARRIED!! What more is there to say! Even COVID couldn't stop our love. We cant wait to celebrate with everyone this time around as you all mean so much to us! Let's get ready for round 2!