Like many modern love stories, ours began online—two people swiping during COVID, hoping for connection… or at least someone who could hold a conversation outside of their house. After a few promising messages, we decided to meet in person for a socially distanced first date: a hike with the D’Alessandro’s dog, Krista, who would ultimately become our tiny, furry matchmaker (and funny enough – now refuses to go on walks!). When Leighann first saw Mike, her immediate thought was, “Oh… he’s short but cute!” (She stands by this.) Mike, on the other hand, took one look at her and thought, “What a cutie.” (He also stands by this.) Somewhere between the trail, the awkward elbow-bump greeting, and Krista deciding Mike was acceptable enough to keep around, something clicked. But it was on our third date—at the hot dog restaurant Leighann enthusiastically chose—that Mike officially knew: this was the woman he was going to marry. Nothing says destiny like gourmet hot dogs and good company. Four years later, we returned to the very spot where we first met. With our own dog-ter (dog + daughter), Ellie supervising now, Mike proposed—and Leighann said yes to a lifetime of adventure, laughter, and avoiding Reeses' Peanut Butter Cups!