We're Getting Married!

After a month or so talking to each other through our phones and social media, we finally decided to meet in person. No pressure, right? I let Patrick plan the entire day since I would be coming down to San Diego and was not familiar with the area in the slightest. He picked me up at my parents house and all I can remember was feeling so nervous - there must have been 1 million (maybe 2) butterflies in my stomach. I climbed up into his truck and it only took one minute to know there was nothing to be nervous about. It was like we had already met and known each other for years. After an hour car ride, we arrived at the San Diego Zoo where our date officially began. It was so much fun, I can't remember the last time I laughed so much and genuinely had a good time - so much so my cheeks hurt the next day. He followed up the trip to the zoo with a nice dinner at Harney's Sushi in Old Town San Diego. Maybe it was the Sake talking, but I think it was mutually decided this might actually be something.

It was a normal Christmas morning. We made plans to go to Patrick's parents house to open presents so I got up early to feed the dogs and start a pot of coffee. When I went out to the living room I noticed Patrick had set up a cute little Christmas tree on top of a large present. I definitely knew what it was - the Adidas shoes I have been wanting! - right? I assumed we were going to take it to his parents house to unwrap, so I temporarily disregarded the box to continue getting ready. Patrick came up to me as I was finishing my makeup and asked why I haven't opened my present yet - he seemed to be suggesting that he wanted me to open it soon. I just thought, "Sure, I would love to wear my new shoes to your parents house". So I made my way over to the living room once more. I picked up the box and instantly felt how light it was, therefore it couldn't possibly be shoes. When I opened the box, there was a card stating "The Story of Us" on the cover. At that moment, I knew what was actually in the box. I continued to open the card and read a heartfelt letter from Patrick. Reminiscing on the past 5 years together. At the end of the letter, he wrote "All I want is for you to say I DO!" At this point I could barely make out any words because my eyes were flooded with tears. I looked up at him and that's when he asked "Will you marry me?". I said "Yes". We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in Lake Arrowhead!