We're getting married!

Our first date was on a chilly January evening at Panera Bread on Green St. We bonded over our shared value of family, how close we are to our siblings, and the pets we grew up with. We laughed over embarrassing stories from our youth and found comfort in the unknown of where this would lead us. Which was a strange feeling, one we both knew we had to follow. Even though Jake was about to graduate, the decision to continue to see where this relationship could go, was an important one. It lead us to where we are now.

Leading up to the Fourth of July of 2021 the pandemic lingered on. A few weeks prior, it was announced that there would be no fireworks at Navy Pier. "Shoot!" Jake thought, realizing he needed a backup plan. He reached out to supportive friends who readily brainstormed. Thankfully two dear friends offered to gather everyone at their place and see a nearby show. Thus, come July 4th, 2021, the gang gathered and met at a large pond where the fireworks were held. Jackie noticed Jake acting a little strange, but did not spend too much time wondering. As the show started, Jake eagerly waited. Then the show ended, or so he thought! He took Jackie's water so as to not spill anything and moved it aside. *Boom!* The next firework exploded. Jake and Jackie were stunned, grinned, and continued watching the show. Finally, the show really ended. The couple stood and embraced. Jake asked Jackie the big question and after a near-eternal pause, she replied "YUH!".