We’re (finally) getting married!

Our story began under the Florida sun in 2018. I, Kate, a driven 21-year-old on a full golf scholarship at FGCU, met Mike, then 24, who was embarking on a new chapter. He'd traded the dazzling world of professional ballroom dancing for textbooks, determined to pursue his dream of becoming an engineer. The following year, my golf career led me to Utah Valley. Though miles separated us, our connection only deepened. Mike, unwavering in his commitment, relocated from Naples to Boca Raton to be near my family, working tirelessly and attending college full-time, all while waiting for my visits home. That Christmas, amidst the festive cheer, he asked me to be his forever, proposing right before my birthday. 2020 saw me graduating during the height of the pandemic. The lockdown brought me back home, and Mike and I found ourselves working side-by-side at the golf course, a place I'd known for seven years. He thrived in his studies, his passion for learning evident in everything he did. In 2021, we took another step, moving into a house with my sister and her fiancé. Mike continued his engineering journey, adding the discipline of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his life. I explored new passions, working as a nanny and at Lululemon, while still enjoying golf for the sheer love of the game. 2022 brought a continuation of our routines, but the foundation we were building remained strong. Then, in 2023, we took a leap of faith and moved into our first apartment, me continuing with nannying and Mike balancing the golf course with his studies. 2024 tested our bond like never before. The unexpected loss of Mike's mother cast a dark shadow over our lives. The long drives to Anna Maria every weekend, the shared grief, the unwavering support – it was a crucible that forged an unbreakable strength between us. We faced the heartache together, a true team. Finally, in December, a beacon of hope: Mike graduated *Cum Laude* with his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, a testament to his resilience and dedication. With our lease ending, we moved back in with my parents, focusing on planning our dream wedding and strategizing our move to Greensboro, North Carolina. Then, 2025 arrived, bringing with it the sweet taste of success. Within three months, Mike landed his first job in his field – in Greensboro! We packed our bags, moved in March, and bought our first home together. Now, in North Carolina, I envision a future filled with new adventures. While my criminal justice degree might remain unused, my heart is drawn to golf, horses, and the simple joy of cultivating a garden in our backyard. More than anything, I dream of building a family with Mike, my rock, my partner, my love. Life has thrown us curveballs, challenged us, and even broken our hearts, but through it all, we have persevered, hand-in-hand, ready to embrace the future and create a beautiful life together.