It all began in July 2019, when we met and started spending time together. After a few months of dates, laughter, and late-night conversations, we officially became boyfriend and girlfriend on November 22, 2019. From the start, we cherished every chance to be together. Then came March 2020. Just before spring break, we said a casual “love you, see you in a week,” never imagining that the world would shut down right upon Justin's return. That “week” turned into months apart as the COVID-19 pandemic turned life upside down. But even in those uncertain times, our relationship only grew stronger. We spent countless hours on FaceTime, planned virtual dates like Netflix watch parties and online escape rooms, and found ways to stay connected until we could finally reunite. That summer, Ella left for college an hour and a half away. Despite the distance, we never let miles get in the way. Weekends were filled with drives back and forth between Michigan State and Saginaw Valley, making the most of every moment together. Having already survived five months apart, we knew we could handle anything. In 2021, Justin graduated from MSU and moved to Washington, D.C. to begin his master’s degree at George Washington University. Once again, our relationship became long-distance, but this time we were basically professionals. Ella made trips to visit him in D.C., and Justin returned home to Michigan whenever he could. After two years of navigating flights, phone calls, and FaceTime dates, Justin moved back to Michigan full-time, and we couldn’t have been happier. When Ella graduated in December 2023, we took the next step and moved in together in Bath. Roughly one year and a career change later, we moved to Howell, where we have found the perfect balance for both of our commutes and creating a home filled with love, laughter, and everyday adventures. Now, as we begin this next chapter together, we look back with gratitude for every twist and turn that brought us here. From virtual dates to road trips, long-distance love to building a life under the same roof, our journey has been anything but ordinary, and we wouldn’t change a thing. We can't wait to not only share our lives, but also a last name!