On a cold February evening, we found each other at a local bar on a Green Day music video night; she with her friends and myself alone. We made passing glances at each other from across the bar, until I got the courage to talk to her. Through much conversation, and many drinks, we discussed our passions, aspirations, and dreams, and even shared a kiss over a vodka cranberry. Unfortunately, the the night ended with us going our separate ways into the night, without anything but names to go off of. Through a little internet sleuthing, we connected over Twitter, and matched several times over on dating apps. Unfortunately again, life had other plans, and Samantha moved to Orlando to partake in the Disney College Program. Though we found each other busy with our solo endeavors, we eventually got back together and fully embraced the risks of starting a long-distance relationship, as Samantha was preparing to move to Madison to begin her career. It really seemed like Samantha was doing all she could to get away from me! We spent most every weekend together, determined to make the distance work, alternating travel between Madison and Palatine. Despite many miles and many gallons of gas, we made it through it all. There was even a period of three months during the COVID-19 Pandemic where we couldn't see each other, and relied on video chats to connect. We take pride in our love and devotion to each other, and although at times things seemed too tough to bear, we powered through. After three years of distance, Samantha made her way home, and we moved in together in October 2021. After many Disney Trips, Football Games, and Punk Rock/Emo shows, we found ourselves in San Diego, professing my love to her and proposing marriage. She is my best friend and the love of my life and I am thankful every day for her, and that the pressures on our relationship have only made us stronger.