Believe it or not, Miranda and Jacob met the old fashioned way - through a dating app! It was the summer of Miranda's final year at UW-Madison and before Jacob headed out for coding boot camp in Virginia. With uncertainty about their futures, neither of them expected much more than a summer fling. They decided to give it a shot, and it was the best last first date they could ask for. Instead of small talk, they discussed common interests in travel, love for their families, and The Lord of the Rings. That summer would be spent going on hikes, camping, and beginning the first of many adventures together - a long distance relationship that neither of them expected.

Every year for the past 49 years, Jacob's parents have been traveling up to Washington Island in Door County to celebrate their wedding anniversary. This turned into an annual family trip once the kids came along, and eventually (43 years later), Miranda started joining once she and Jacob started dating. This year, Jacob got a scheme going and told Miranda that his mom wanted to have family portraits taken, now that the grandkids are getting older. After a session of what felt very much like typical family portraits, the photographer asked to have each family unit have their own photos (Miranda and Jacob were last to go). The photographer had them close their eyes and embrace, and when they pulled apart, Jacob took to his knee and asked Miranda to marry him. As any detail-oriented individual and former tennis player might, Miranda leaned in and asked, "Are you sure?!" before excitedly answering, "Yes!" It was the best surprise he's ever pulled off, and it was even more special to have the opportunity to celebrate with both of our families while we were back in Wisconsin. We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in the beautiful Pacific Northwonderland!