We both agree that we met through our TV Production class at Mississippi State in the fall of 2011. We both agree that apart from a few light passings in the hallway, our first extended interaction took place in a small, dusty editing bay. It is in this bay that the story splits. What really happened in that lab that day? Who saved who from the frustrations of ancient machinery and a pointless project? When a guy emails you asking for your number “in case he has more questions,” is he conceding victory? Seven years later, the mystery remains. What we agree on now? That cramped closet full of abandoned equipment and the smell of formaldehyde from the neighboring veterinary school was the perfect foundation for an ongoing journey of laughter, love, and conflicting stories.

After a relaxing Saturday of coincidentally well-timed hair and nail appointments and spontaneous shopping with mom in Biloxi, I came back to New Orleans for a night on the town to celebrate our 7th anniversary. Hindsight Hint #1: This was our first time actually celebrating an anniversary, and it was Devin’s idea. Devin wouldn’t tell me where we were going - just that we had reservations at 8:00. We hopped into the Uber and landed downtown at a sweet, festive little spot called Bayona. New dress, new shoes, new nails, and new hair calls for documentation, so I asked someone to take a photo of us. Devin quickly shuffled around and said, “Why don’t you stand on the other side?” Hindsight Hint #2: Devin has never cared about a photo in his life. Turns out, he didn’t want me to notice the ring box in his chest pocket when I leaned in. We had a lovely date with incredible food, perfectly paired wine, and distinctly sincere compliments from strangers about what a cute couple we were - It was one of those dates in the movies before someone finds out the other is an undercover journalist. We ended the dinner drawing cartoons of Leo on the table cover - naturally. A little necessary backstory: Two years ago, Devin and I were in separate cities for New Years Eve, so we decided to celebrate five days later at our spot on the river. We looked like complete idiots counting down and toasting champagne in the middle of the day on January 5, but we loved it. Leaving the restaurant, Devin suggested we go to the river to celebrate New Years Eve, since we didn’t get to ring in 2019 together either - The perfect decoy. Hindsight Hint #3: Forced festivities are usually my territory. We battle a frozen wind tunnel to the river, but the weather is magically warm once we get there. It’s late, so our spot is quiet and clear - Just the two of us. Devin listens to me ramble out a toast to the new year before chiming in with his, which went far beyond 2019, and ended on one knee.