We’re doing it!

Charles and Shayna first connected on a dating app- he liked her smile, and she liked his dark eyes. Two weeks of texting led to their first date at a Thai place with weird Halloween music, but the food and conversation were great. They both left the restaurant feeling excited but doubtful that the other was interested. Later that night after each returned home, Shayna texted a quick “thank you for dinner, I’m home safe” message and Charles promptly asked if she’d like to see him again the very next day. He didn’t know it at the time, but Shayna was quite literally squealing at the prospect. Charles was busy texting his sister about how well things went and how she was “freaking gorgeous.” Shayna said yes to the second date, of course, and they went off-roading through a canyon and ended up getting lost (unintentionally) for a few hours. They had a blast. After that they began seeing each other a couple of times a week as their schedules allowed. Because they met right at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic they learned to come up with really creative date ideas. Charles cooked a lot, they went on drives a lot. There were many TV marathons, dog walks, puzzles, and late-night talks. They even finished Charles’ basement together! Quarantine gave them an opportunity to spend one-on-one time together- but it also meant that they didn’t start meeting each other’s families until about a year into their relationship! Luckily when they did meet each other's families they all got along great. They have so much fun together! They enjoy spending time doing activities and hobbies that they enjoy separately and together. Shayna learned all about soccer and is now a big fan, and Charles has (believe it or not) stepped foot in many art museums, and theatre shows! They like to see each other happy and enjoying whatever life brings and thrive on making memories together. They’re great at the “give and take” dance and always meet each other in the middle. She loves his jokes and how incredibly thoughtful he is, and he loves her compassion for others and her bookish habits. But mostly they love each other, wholly and completely. That realization led Charles to ask Shayna to be his! He proposed on Christmas morning 2022 and she said yes (finally!) They are thrilled to be continuing their future together as they take this next step in their commitment to each other. Thank you for being a part of their story with your encouragement, support, and love.