We became friends over six years ago playing volleyball, when we bonded over a love of pumpkin beer. Injuries and life kept us from playing the same seasons for three years, but we stayed in touch via Facebook. We re-connected on the court in Fall 2018 and have been together ever since. John still pulls out a special bottle of pumpkin beer from his cellar collection each year for Laurie's birthday.

John proposed on the cliffs at Annapolis Rock, a hike near Frederick, MD that is part of the Appalachian Trail. It is one of the most popular hikes in Maryland, famous for the spectacular views from the peak. (Just look behind us in the picture above!) Since we love being outdoors and hiking together so much, John thought it was the perfect spot to ask her hand. After hiking back down the mountain, we checked out a Frederick brewery to celebrate.