We met at Model Laboratory School over 15 years ago, but our story didn't truly begin until many years later. Merrick was moving back to Richmond from Arkansas and I was about to start a job in Cincinnati. A foot of snow and two hour drive wouldn't stop Merrick from making our first date happen on Valentines day in 2017. As soon as he left I told Margaret (roommate at the time and best friend), "This is going to sound crazy, but I'm going to marry him." It wasn't long after that Merrick dropped the L word, moved up to Cincinnati with me, and that's when the rest of our lives began!

After 8 months of planning and building our dream home, we signed the papers and it was finally ours! Merrick asked if I wanted to take a tour, but had a secret plan all along. We went around every room talking about future plans for our home. At the end of the tour, I turn around to see Merrick on one knee, "Will you marry me?" I couldn't say yes fast enough, pretty sure I even said 'yes, please!' through happy tears. Valentines Day, Anniversary of our first date, Closing Date on our first home, and now our engagement day! February 14th is a good day <3