Who knew a few playful “this or that” food prompts on an online dating site would be the beginning of something so extraordinary? After weeks of heartfelt conversations, we planned our first date on November 14, 2021—a casual afternoon of Christmas shopping in downtown Frederick. But a few days before, Sean called and said, “I can’t wait. Want to meet for lunch tomorrow?” We met at Xenia Greek Kouzina in Columbia, MD, and before I could even turn off the car, he was already there—opening my door, lifting me into the warmest hug, and carrying me across the parking lot like something out of a dream. From that very first moment, and every single day since, he has found a way to sweep me off my feet—sometimes literally, always completely. Ronald Reagan used to say about Nancy Reagan, "I love Nancy and I know I love Nancy." Neither one of us take this love for granted and we pray to stay awake to what we have for the rest of our lives! In each other, we've found a true partner in every sense of the word. An otherworldly love. A coach that calls us to our highest selves, a collaborator, and a co-dreamer. A playful, irreverent sparring partner. A refuge when the chaos of the world is all around, a muse, the greatest cheerleader, and the most trusted confidante. Here’s to the road ahead, hand in hand. The best is yet to come—and together, we can’t wait to live every moment of it. Here's the first of many poems that have been inspired by this man and his big love... Clearing Sometimes an angel comes along When you least expect him, When you’re weary, bruised, And feel that you are surely beyond love. In one fell swoop He sweeps you off your feet, Turns you upside down, And shakes up your teacup notions of love. They all come clanging and tumbling out Making a ruckus loud enough To startle and drive Any sane person out of town… (But not him…he actually draws closer) Sometimes, If you sit together in this new clearing of your life for long enough, Amidst the complexity of your present and your past, You will feel the tug of potential like the dawn, Beckoning your heart to open once again.