With the start of a new year, a friend that lived in Southern California at the time, was coming up North to visit. We decided to meet up at a favorite hangout place downtown. Last minute, he asked if he could bring his friend along with him that was moving from SoCal to the Bay Area. I always enjoy a new face! From the moment I met Israel, I felt an instant connection to him. I wasn't sure what that connection was or where it would take us, but I just knew I had to find out more. From that moment on, we were inseparable!

You have come to my life as a gentle rain in a dry desert. Springing to life something that was not there before. What has blossomed between us is a love so pure, Something I never thought I could deserve. I Love You

We took this Friday off from work for a long, well needed weekend and what better way to do this than to head to wine country! Israel wanted the actual location to be kept a secret though, I played along. Although he knows I'm not one for surprises. As we are getting deeper into Calistoga, I'm really starting to wonder where we are going as there wasn't much around us. We drive up a long, uphill driveway to a sign, Castello di Amorosa. As we get closer, I'm taken to this gorgeous castle winery. It would leave anyone speechless! We check in and we start on a guided tour of the castle and shown where and how the wine is made. All very fascinating, but I was ready to drink wine. Our group was taken to a small cellar where we would be able to taste wine and cheese. However, before we got started the tour guide announced there was a raffle winner in our group. I assumed Israel entered us in before we started the tour. Well and behold we won! We are taken on a small exclusive behind the scenes tour and taken to the tallest tower of the castle. I'm the first one to head up the stairs, as I'm stepping out to see the scenery from the tower I see a table set up for us. It has wine, champagne, flowers and chocolate, very romantic! However, I noticed some other people up there with cameras, by this time I knew something else was going on. As I turn back around towards Israel, he's getting on one knee. The water works start and I say YES! After exchanging beautiful words and taking many pictures, we were taken to enjoy a food and wine pairing. We spent the rest of the day talking about our forever life together! A special thank you to my parents, Rebekah and Rachel for helping in making this day extra special for us. We love you so much!