It was late July 2020 (yes, during the pandemic) and Chris was preparing to leave on a backpacking trip with friends. He arrived at Laura's home at 6 AM to pick up Kelly, a fellow backpacker and Laura’s friend and housemate. Despite the early hour, Laura greeted Chris with a smile and hot, fresh banana bread. To Chris' disappointment, Laura was not going on the trip, but on the way home he asked Kelly if Laura might have some banana bread left in the kitchen. Another bite of that sweet treat led to their first date and a long chatty walk. They have been together ever since. By the way…banana bread continues to hold a special place in Chris' heart!

On their third date, Laura and Chris imagined the fun adventures they might have together visiting great restaurants on their travels. Inspired by the Netflix docuseries “Chef's Table”, Chris compiled a Holiday Season 2020 scrapbook for Laura, highlighting the top 50 restaurants in the world. He then told her their goal should be to visit each and every one, a task that could take a lifetime. The first page in the scrapbook highlighted the restaurant that was to be their first stop...Alinea in Chicago. After months of trying, they finally had a reservation, 8pm on a Sunday! A weekend trip to Chicago was quickly planned. Chris was well aware that everyone knew a proposal was in the works that weekend. On reaching the restaurant, Chris nervously took a knee and proposed. With a big smile on her face and much happiness in her heart, Laura said yes! Staff at the restaurant (who had watched the whole event through the window) insisted on a re-enactment so that photos could be taken. During the “second proposal”, Laura was so overwhelmed that she started crying. It was a wonderful weekend and a most memorable, emotional evening.