We met in middle school in 1997. We shared several of the same classes and since both of our last names are towards the end of the alphabet, many times we were seated next to each other. We just remember it being an easy friendship where conversation was effortless and full of humor and laughter. We even remember our 8th grade Civics teacher predicting that we would end up together (little did we know). We remained friends despite going to different high schools. We kept in touch throughout the years and lost touch for a few years and waited patiently until the timing was right for us to reconnect.

The day before, at dinner, I suggested that we get up early to see the sunrise on the beach, something we'd never done together before. I also wanted to take my dog one more time to the beach before it got too cold. So we were sitting on the beach with Kodi sitting in the sand in front of us. A lady was walking by, and she was so smitten with Kodi and asked to pet her. Of course Kodi was more than thrilled to make a new friend and then out of the blue she looked at Tommy and I and asked, " Would you like me to take a picture of the two of you with the sunrise in the background?" We couldn't refuse, and it was in this moment that Tommy took advantage of the opportunity and pulled out the ring. Meanwhile, I'm not paying any attention as Tommy is asking me to turn around, dead set on getting a great picture of us with the sunset. When I finally turned to see him holding the ring, I was in complete shock. All the while, Judith, the random passer-by, was taking photos and videos. She was so pleasant and ecstatic for us. Still confused and in shock, I asked Tommy and Judith if they knew each other and was this his plan all along? But no, neither one knew each other, and it was all pure luck it happening the way it did. So, for Judith, we always be grateful! We are so thankful she captured our very special moment.