It was the first day of 2021, and as we found ourselves in different states, celebrating the New Year with friends, an unexpected connection was about to unfold. Both of us received a notification from Hinge—a little ding that sparked the beginning of a beautiful journey. Casual conversations turned into meaningful exchanges, and before we knew it, a connection blossomed. On a brisk Sunday afternoon, Carter gave up watching the NFL playoffs, Rebecca bundled up to brave the 35-degree weather, and we met up for a casual drink at a beer garden. It wasn't long into the date before we knew something special was beginning. The next three years welcomed so many shared experiences. We welcomed new friends into our lives; happy hours, Nats games, day-trips, new restaurants, and pool days built so many meaningful connections with the best people. We began to take every opportunity to travel, experiencing new places, cuisines, and Carter finally getting TSA PreCheck just so Rebecca wouldn't have to wait for him to get through general security anymore. When we decided to move in together, Rebecca begrudgingly, moved across the city to a new neighborhood which she grew to love. We accelerated our careers, hitting important milestones, and moved into offices only 3 blocks apart from each other (yes, we commute to work together each day on an electric scooter). We brought home our precious and most perfect pooch, Bonnie, who is the queen of our hearts and is VIP at Colby’s Dogcare. We have spent every day over the last 3 years smiling, laughing, and creating the best memories. On December 9, 2023, a day that would forever be magical, unfolded into a beautiful surprise—a day filled with the love of family and friends. The love story that began with a simple notification on a dating app, evolved into shared dreams, laughter, and a love that grows stronger with each day and will last forever.