We first crossed paths in November 2020, late at night at Walmart during peak COVID. I was there with friends, lost in my own thoughts and thinking about candy, when one of them spotted someone they knew working a late shift. With a grin, they said, “I got you, watch this.” That someone turned out to be the amazing woman who is now my fiancée. A few weeks later, on December 7th, we hung out with our group of friends at the Riverwalk in downtown Pueblo. We walked, talked, danced, shared music, and playfully teased each other, all while braving 20-degree weather in just hoodies. The night ended at a friend’s house where we listened to music, laughed, and talked late into the night. From there, December became a blur of evenings spent together, making memories and realizing how much we enjoyed each other’s company. By December 21st, we knew it was more than just friendship and made it official. From my side, I was immediately drawn to her laugh, her eyes, her sense of humor, and her genuine, non-judgmental heart. From her side, she says she noticed my energy right away, my smile, my laugh, and how easy it was to be herself around me. Fast forward to August 24th, 2024, on the beach in Bandon, Oregon. The weather was perfect, the moment felt timeless, and surrounded by family, I asked her to marry me. She was caught off guard and kept saying, “What are you doing?” When it clicked, we were engaged. Since then, we have built a life full of road trips, mountain drives, and time with the people and dogs we love most. Through everything, we have found our rhythm together and it just works. We are grateful every day for the love, friendship, and laughter we share. “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” — Song of Solomon 6:3 (KJV)