Our story all started after being matched by Match in September 2015. Lucas took a more chivalry approach and made the efforts to get to know Michelle through phone calls, rather than the typical text message exchanges. For Michelle, being the introvert that she is, found this both refreshing, but also a challenge, taking her out of her comfort level. It worked out in their favor because by early October, they were having their first date. While there were still those first date jitters for the both of them, there was also a sense of comfort and ease. This helped because what could have been a disastrous first date, was instead a date that kicked off a three-year plus relationship. See, Lucas was trying to make a good first impression and made a reservation at a fancy Balkan Tapas Restaurant in downtown DC, without knowing what Balkan or Tapas really was. As they sat down, exploring the menu, both realizing there was a lack of understanding in what they were looking at, they settled on a couple of plates and then looking at each other with an expression of "let's find another place". This other place, ended up being Metro 29 Diner in Arlington. There, they were both able to relax, get comfortable, and truly begin their first date.

It was September 6, 2018 and change of plans was the name of the game. As parents, we were once again, dividing and conquering. Michelle was taking Emory to baseball and Lucas was going to back-to-school night. Except, baseball ended up being canceled and Michelle decided to check on the progress of the house they were building, before picking up Emory. While on the phone with Lucas, they discussed Michelle also coming to back-to-school night, but more importantly, Lucas insisting Michelle go with him afterward to their future home. Michelle indicated, "we'll see, because why would I go back to the house, when I'm already here". Back-to-school night ended and Michelle was annoyed and didn't feel the need to go back to the house. Ultimately, Lucas convinced her and she met Lucas and Emory over at the house. Walking from room to room, they came to what became their master bedroom. Michelle looking out the windows, busy voicing her opinion about being able to see all the neighbors, turned around in mid-sentence to find Lucas on one knee. Without waiting to hear what Lucas had to say or for him to officially pop the question, Michelle excitedly said "yes, yes, yes"! Emory hurried into the room, eyes lighting up, showing just how proud and excited he was to begin our journey to becoming an official family.