In September 2023, I invited Bethany on a trip to Italy, a dream destination we had both longed to explore together. Our adventure began in Rome, where we immersed ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of the ancient city. We marveled at the Colosseum, wandered through Palatine Hill, threw coins into the Trevi Fountain, and climbed the Spanish Steps, all while savoring the delightful flavors of Americano coffee, pasta, red wine, and Bethany’s favorite indulgence, gelato. From Rome, we hopped on a train to Venice, a city of winding canals and picturesque bridges that captured our hearts instantly. On the evening of Thursday, September 21, 2023, as we strolled over one of Venice's iconic bridges, I knelt down on one knee and asked Bethany to marry me. Without a moment's hesitation, she said yes, her eyes shimmering with joy and love. To celebrate this unforgettable moment, we wandered through the enchanting labyrinth of Venice's streets until we stumbled upon the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the city. Despite our lack of reservation, the gracious maître d’ found us a secluded private room. Nestled next to a window overlooking a bustling Venetian patio, I looked into Bethany's eyes and said, “Everything that awaits us in the world is outside that window.” It was a moment of pure magic and anticipation, a perfect reflection of our journey together—filled with spontaneity, love, and the promise of a future brimming with adventures yet to unfold.

Bethany and I were introduced by our mutual close friend, Dr. David Husted. As soon as he told me more about her family, upbringing, values and personality, I didn't hesitate for a second and immediately Said, “Yes, absolutely, I want to meet her!” The next evening, on August 27, 2022, I met Bethany at The Breakers hotel. We enjoyed an exquisite dinner, our conversation flowing as easily as the wine in our glasses. Afterwards, we strolled hand in hand, gazing at the beautiful ocean and its crashing waves under a clear, dark blue sky sprinkled with stars. The air was filled with the soothing sounds of the sea and the promise of something extraordinary. In that magical moment, we embraced, and my lips found their way to hers, sharing our first kiss beneath the celestial canopy. It was a kiss that seemed to seal our fates together, a moment suspended in time. Despite the 50 miles that separated us, Bethany and I made it work. We bonded over our shared experiences of coming from large families, our commitment to a healthy lifestyle, and our love for cooking, music, and creativity. Each mile she traveled only deepened our bond, turning every reunion into a cherished celebration of our love.