Over a decade ago, our journey began on a blank canvas. We were just two people with goals and dreams, committed to navigating life together. Mike and I met at a nursing facility where we were both novice nurses—he on the night shift and I on the day shift. It was nearly impossible for us not to cross paths in the mornings, whether in the hallway or during shift reports. Mike was determined and persistent in pursuing a friendship with me. Although I didn’t make it easy for him, I admired his determination and confidence. Our friendship blossomed into love, and in 2014, we welcomed our first child, Ariah. By September 2015, we celebrated our marriage, and in 2021, we joyfully welcomed our second child, Ariel. Our family grew again in 2023 with the arrival of our third child, Anaiah. Watching Mike evolve into such an amazing and loving father has been truly remarkable. His loyalty, genuine heart, and love mean the world to us . Over the years, my love for Mike has only deepened. Despite the trials and tribulations that tested our relationship, we faced them together with prayer and unwavering support. Each challenge reaffirmed that you were perfectly made for me. Our relationship has evolved into something beautiful that God planned for us. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I would choose you a million times again. I love you, Dr. Michael Deji Sanya, with all my heart. Love, Carla

As I write this piece today, I am reminded of the incredible journey that brought us to this moment. It all began over a decade ago, in the unlikeliest of places—a nursing home where Carla and I were both just starting our careers. I worked the night shift, and she worked the day shift. Our paths crossed each morning in those quiet, early hours, whether in the hallway or during shift reports. From the very beginning, I knew there was something special about Carla. Her dedication to her work, her kindness, and that beautiful smile that could light up any room—she captivated me. I was determined to get to know her better, to break through the walls she had carefully built around her heart. I pursued a friendship with her, not knowing that it would lead to something so much more. One day, after countless mornings of brief encounters, she asked me if I had an Instagram. I saw my chance and, instead of giving her my social media handle, I gave her my number. That was the moment our story truly began. Our first phone conversation was unforgettable. Carla was venting about the job, sharing her frustrations and challenges. But all I could think about was how much I admired her. Her voice, her personality—it was all so real, so genuine. I knew then that she was someone I wanted to share my life with. As our friendship blossomed into love, I knew I had found my soulmate. It wasn’t long before I proposed to her, and to my absolute joy, she said yes. We took a leap of faith together, moving into our first apartment, starting our journey as partners in life. Since then, we've been blessed with three beautiful daughters—Ariah, Ariel, and Anaiah—who have filled our lives with love and laughter. Our journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been ours, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. We've faced challenges, celebrated victories, and through it all, our love has only grown stronger. Carla, you are my heart, my home, and my everything. I look at you today and see the same woman who captured my heart all those years ago, but now I also see the incredible mother of our children and the strongest partner I could ever ask for. We've created something beautiful together, a life that is perfectly imperfect, just as God intended. I love you, Carla, with all my heart, and I would choose you a million times over. Thank you for being my partner in this journey of life. Here's to many more decades of love, laughter, and happiness together. Yours Truly, Michael