In the late 2000s, we became "friends" on social media. A mutual acquaintance (that Darin met on a trip to New York City) said, "Hey! I have a friend that I think you would get along with really well!" Over 6 years of following each other virtually on Facebook and Instagram, we finally messaged each other on Instagam and planned to get together to finally meet. Our first weekend was filled will laughter and stories of our journeys, our quest in seeking Jesus first, and ended with a concert to see Dolly Parton perform in Chicago. It was clear after a weekend of sharing so many moments that this friendship could develop into something very special. We spent the next few months traveling from Michigan to Chicago and Chicago to Michigan to see each other until we finally decided to just take a leap and live in the same place - Chicago.

During our trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, we had to go to Dollywood. We decided to go on a Friday because, according to various online sources, this is the highest chance we have of seeing Dolly on the premises. Unfortunately, she didn't show up...and neither did the ring yet! We decided to drive to downtown Gatlinburg and take a stroll on the river walk. Our walk was short lived because after about 30 yards, the sidewalk ended. Under the moon and along the river running steadily along the river rocks, Andrew got down on one knee and proposed.