Nine years ago, on a gorgeous fall day, Sasha had plans to hang out with a mutual friend at the Franklin Cider Mill. Matt happened to be hanging out with the same friend and asked if Matt could join in on the plans. Sasha said “of course!!” As Sasha and Matt shared cider and donuts, Matt was charmed by Sasha’s infectious laugh, and Sasha was drawn to Matt’s cheesy jokes. Sasha asked for the digits and the rest is history.

Matt planned an early morning hike through the wooded area along Pictured Rocks. An hour or so went by and all of a sudden the woods open up to a giant landing, overlooking Lake Superior. Matt handed Sasha a retroviewer. Each photo highlighting a different stage in life. The first one showing how they met at the Franklin Cider Mill. Next, going off to college and his weekend adventures visiting Sasha in Chicago, to becoming dog parents, to moving into their first home together and the last photo of them with text in the corner reading “The Future Mr. & Mrs. Firsten 06.17.21.” Photographers ran out of the bushes, capturing Sasha’s awestricken reaction. She said “YES!!!! Of course!!”