It was a hot, sunny afternoon in the middle of summer. Chad was unloading his gear when Kathryn pulled in to the dusty parking lot in her usual “fashionably late” style. They were about to embark on their first date - kayaking the waters of Lake Pepin. Chad, the planner, had arranged the whole thing. They would kayak, explore the nearby town of Lake City and grab a bite to eat afterwards. They met earlier that week on a dating app (thank you, Hinge!) and had been corresponding every day leading up to their first date. Although they were both a little nervous mixed with excited anticipation and, admittedly, a pinch of awkwardness, it did not take very long to feel comfortable in each other’s presence. They put each other at ease within the first 10 minutes, not to mention the immediate attraction. Six short hours later, it became apparent that this would not be the last time they would see each other. While standing by their cars in the parking lot outside of Papa Tronnio’s Pizza restaurant, Chad informally introduced Kathryn to the concept of a “Minnesota goodbye.” He gave her a hug, then proceeded to talk about other possible adventures and future dating endeavors. The possibilities seemed endless. Thirty minutes later, they hugged again and parted ways after planning the next weekend adventure.

Fast forward about 9 months and many adventures later, Chad made his move. It was the weekend of the spring equinox, the time of year when spring’s daylight overtakes winter’s darkness. This last day of winter was the last day Chad wanted to call Kathryn his girlfriend. Luckily spring came “a day early,” and March 19th was to be the first beautiful day of 2022. The warm sun shone brightly that cloudless day. The scene was set - it was the perfect day for Chad to ask Kathryn to be his forever. The majority of their first dates and activities were planned on or near rivers, so Chad thought a playful day on the river prior to the proposal would be fitting. All winter, they wanted to explore the Zumbro river, which flanks the western border of their future home. They donned waders and broke off huge chunks of ice in the hopes of riding them down the shallow river like a gondola. After multiple attempts, they eventually succeeded. They felt playful, care-free. Hours flew by in what only seemed like minutes. At one point, they realized how much time had elapsed and swiftly curtailed their icy endeavors as they had planned to go rock climbing with a friend later that day. While heading back, Chad mentioned that he wanted to stop by “our favorite spot.” They stood in a window in the loft of the barn, which is situated in the back corner of what is to be their future homestead. From that vantage point, they can overlook most of the property. They discussed dreams and visions of their future together. Chad took that opportunity to ask the question Kathryn would later say was “the best question ever.” She happily and tearfully accepted his proposal, and the rest is history.