We had both swiped right... and agreed to meet for coffee at Urban Farmhouse in Downtown RVA. Me, having been on too many first dates to count, told myself "Katie this one will be different"... get all the sensitive information out of the way so there were no surprises.. and Mark proved a worthy opponent. We sat and talked politics, gender roles, family, dating history, and everything in between for hours. After realizing what time it was Mark asked if Id like to have dinner with him, so off to Secret Sandwich Society for dinner and drinks we went. We went down every wormhole imaginable with enthusiasm from both sides and even scheduled a second date before the first one ended. After about the 5th hour we decided to go our separate ways but not without me bluntly asking" so are you gonna text or call me... cuz Im not really into the 3 day rule" Mark laughed, gave me a hug and said " You will definitely be hearing from me" Ever since then its been an amazing adventure that we continue to grow as a couple and as individuals with everything that life throws at us. We've navigated dog parenting, traveling abroad and one of us (me) not having luggage for 5 out of 9 days, trips to see our families and friends, moving in together, celebrating highs and supporting each other in the lows... Doing life together is my favorite thing!

Mark told me that morning to spend the day relaxing and that we were going to dinner that night. Having a feeling something was up I had already gotten my nails and hair done the day before lol. So off to dinner at the Boathouse on Rockett's Landing we went. It was a really beautiful and clear night! Over dinner we talked about our future and goals that we have for ourselves and for our relationship. It was a truly beautiful dinner that felt relaxing, anxious and comfortable all rolled into one. Mark initiated a walk down memory lane of our relationship and all that we had fit into a year and how special the year has been. After dinner we went for a walk along the Bike trail along the James River and just as we came upon the skyline of Downtown Richmond lite up in Christmas lights and Christmas music playing from The Boathouse in the background.. Mark got down on one knee and asked me to Marry him... I was crying, laughing, giddy all wrapped into one.. I said "Yes of course!" and enjoyed the moment looking at the two things we both love very much.. each other and the city of Richmond. Shortly after the phone calls started and we went to Meg and Paul's house where my parents had been anxiously awaiting the phone call! It was absolutely perfect!