We met through a dating app, which is the way of the world nowadays. After messaging back and forth, we realized that we had some common interests and decided to go on a date. Foolishly, I agreed to a hike with Josh. I met him at a coffee shop, where I then even more foolishly proceeded to get in his Jeep and let him drive me to the hiking spot a good 40+ minutes away. I did at least think to pack my mace and keep my bag with me in the front seat, ready to hinder his sight if I needed to!! Luckily, the place we went to was quite populated and I breathed a sigh of relief knowing that he couldn't try to kidnap me in a crowded area. We very much enjoyed our hike and each other's company, including having a half-hour long conversation about our mutual love of candy on the drive back. According to Josh, that conversation is what sealed the deal for him! Before we parted ways, we scheduled a second date for bowling two nights later and the rest is history!

On the two year anniversary of our first date, we decided to celebrate with a nice, fancy dinner at a local steakhouse downtown. We got all dolled up, ordered some wine, and appetizers to share over candlelight. While at dinner, we were talking about (ok, more like me giving him grief) how Josh was never going to propose, despite his admissions of wanting to marry me nearly a year prior and the never-ending ribbing from both families of taking his sweet time. He cuts me off to tell me he needs to use the restroom and then immediately bends down to tie his shoe while I playfully ignore him. Josh calls my name and is down on one knee with the most beautiful ring in his hand. I instantly burst into tears and cry uncontrollably for at least 20 minutes. We actually had to take our dinner to-go because I couldn't get myself together. It was quiet, genuine, beautiful and just us in the area of the restaurant, which was entirely perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better memory of that night!