Surprise, we Eloped!

Chris and Michaela went to grade school together and were friends, but it wasn't until after graduation in 2015 that they got closer. Michaela moved to Texas in the summer of 2016, and joined the Navy spring of 2017. During bootcamp Michaela unfortunately got medically discharged and afterwards visited home. It was during that home visit over the summer that things really sparked between the two of them. Michaela returned to Texas, but it wasn't long before Chris fought through his fear of flying and flew down to pick Michaela up and bring her home. The rest is history.

Like every relationship, Chris and Michaela went through some tough times. One of those times being the extremely premature birth of Aubrey Faith. Not only should she have not been conceived (according to what the doctors told Michaela), but she shouldn't have lived through the medical complications that occurred. Yes, Aubrey was born at 24 weeks, that's crazy enough, but she had to overcome so much to even get to that point. Aubrey is the definition of a true miracle. ~ C & M were in their early twenties and were not expecting to become parents so soon. They still had a lot of growing and maturing to do. It may have been a rough road through all of the trauma and figuring out parenthood, but they persevered, and the roll of "parent" is something they hold in high regards now. It was during those difficult times that their bond grew even more, and inevitably a stepping stone in their relationship.

There they were.. 5 years into their relationship and still no ring. Michaela made it clear nearly everyday that she was ready to take the relationship to the next level. It was Friday May 26th, 2023, Chris had planned a date night. First, dinner at the best sushi place in town, then off to the theater to watch Bert Kreischer's new movie. Next, a relaxing dip in the hot tub. It was later at home, right before bed..Michaela had changed into her old lady night shirt and had taken all her makeup off. As she was coming out of the bathroom, looking a little rough, that's when Chris got down on one knee, eyes glistening, and asked her if she would marry him. Michaela couldn't sleep all night she was so enthused.