We're Getting married!

After months of hearing about each other (from his Aunt Tracy / from her best friend's mom Hazel) Vallory finally said, "OK, I will at least call him if that will stop me from hearing about this guy all the time." Vallory took the number and asked his name... to which Hazel replied, "well, we call him Nephew." So after waiting for her to send his REAL name, the text was sent. A text here, a phone call there, lots of laughs and they were friends. More great conversations and laughs led to Robert saying, "let's go out next time you're in St. Louis." A month or so later, the trip to St. Louis came... The first date was Charlie Gitto's (Italian) and Ted Drew's (ice cream). The second date, a Cardinal's game (baseball). The third date, Drunken Fish (Asian) and a comedy club. The rest, as they say, was history!

A last-minute work trip brought Val to Chicago the week before Memorial Day. The trip brought an unexpected but welcomed chance for her to see Juan. They made a plan to play tourists together for the weekend and take in all that Chicago had to offer. From seeing their reflection in the Bean, to eating along the Chicago River, to a speed boat tour starting on the lake and sight-seeing at the Navy Pier... the day was full of sun, fun, and adventure! And then... Juan suggested they make a last stop for a drink before heading back to the hotel. Val said okay and off they went to find a great spot for bloody marys. They ended up at Riva's 2nd-floor bar overlooking Lake Michigan. While looking at the beautiful views and sipping great drinks, Juan asked, "what's your favorite memory of "us" so far?" Val's response, "Everything." Then as the waiter passed, he said, let's get a picture. He took what felt like forever to show the waiter how to use the phone, and then came over to Val's side of the table. A quick turn away to get the ring (which was hiding in tissue in his pocket the entire day), then a huge smile from her, then down on one knee, then he said, "will you marry me?".