The best is yet to come!

I met Dalton during my first year at the University of South Alabama. He was in the JMB drumline while I was in color guard. Our paths didn't cross much then, but I have to admit that I always noticed him. He was that cute, goofy drummer who knew everyone, had a contagious smile, and was always making people laugh. Two years later, Dalton came up to me while I was studying at my favorite coffee shop. He handed me a flyer for one of his band gigs and said, "hey, you should come to this." and ran out the door. I didn't know at the time that he was too nervous to start a conversation. A few weeks later, I went to study at the same coffee shop and spotted him sitting off to the side. I recognized him of course, but figured he had no reason to notice me so I took up my usual table and went to studying. Not long after, I looked up from my textbooks to find that contagious smile saying hi. "Hey, weren't we in band together?" he asked. I laughed and said, "yes, but I don't think you ever really talked to me." "Well I'm talking now, aren't I?" He joked back, laughing. And in perfect Dalton-fashion, I could never get him to stop talking again! Now, I joke about how long it took for Dalton to really notice me, when I noticed him all those years ago. Honestly, though, if I had known how important that goofy drummer would be to me, that he would become my favorite person and very best friend, I would have marked that day on my calendar. I would have thanked every person that crossed our paths in those two years. I would have hugged everyone I saw leading up to that moment. It was the best day of my life.

On August 24th, 2019 I knocked on Natalie's door with both the ring and my nerves hidden in my pocket. After what seemed like forever, she opened the door in her pajamas holding a half full cup of coffee. I tried to convince her to hurry and get ready for a picnic at the Fairhope Pier, but this was not enough to get her moving. I mentioned going to look at puppies afterwards and, FINALLY, we were in the car and on our way. The ride to Fairhope went well, but I was growing extremely anxious. Natalie looked absolutely beautiful! Not only was I about to ask the most important question I would ever ask, but I was asking it to the prettiest lady in the world! I started to wonder if I could even do it without passing out. Once we got to the pier, I had her go down to the park and pick out a spot. I quickly added that she could not, for any reason, turn around. I still think Natalie knew a surprise was coming, but she didn't know what. As I was setting up, she Facetimed a friend. With her distracted, I got to work laying out a quilt, putting out roses, pouring champagne, setting out our lunch, and putting on our song. I slighly placed a bag from the jeweler's next to the roses, but with no engagement ring inside. At first glance, Natalie thought the set up was just a nice gesture (I'm good like that). Sitting down, she picked up the jewelry bag suspiciously. She reached into the bag, grabbed the ring box, and opened it. It was empty. At this, she threw her hands up and said "Dalton what the heck is going on" and as she turned towards me, I was on one knee, with the engagement ring in one hand and the other hand reaching for hers. She exploded with tears, her face went as red as a strawberry, and she shook her head vigorously with disbelieve. With a trembling voice, I said "Natalie Rose Williams, will you marry me?" And to my surprise this beautiful, incredible woman turned her shaking head into a yes. It was the best day of my life.