We met in the 6th grade through a mutual friend. We spent a lot of our time together at the Auburn Skating Station. We had an on and off friendship throughout most of school, until about when we were 17. We tried dating during senior year, but felt it was best to stay friends awhile longer as we both had a lot going on transitioning into “adulthood”. Just before New Year’s of 2023 Matth had reached out to me out of the blue asking how i felt about giving us another shot. My feelings had always been so strong and loving towards him, a part of me always knew he’d be who I carry out life and grow old with! So I said yes and let him take me out on a date! I could tell almost instantly that this time is was going to be different and for good! We both had our time to grow up and settle in to being apart of the real world. We were finally ready and able to put in the necessary effort it takes to make someone your home. We made our relationship official on January 15, 2023. Funny enough, he didn’t even ask me. One night after he dropped me back off to my grandmas, i overheard my brother ask my mom if we’re were back together. I found it so cute and funny that i just had to tell him what i heard. Matt’s response was “yes”, that i was officially his girlfriend while i had no rhyme or reason to beg differently. This past year has been so full of joy and love and getting to know each other and our families each day. We’ve became each other’s best friend and other half! On January 14th, 2024 i had arranged to have photos done of us for our 1 year of being together, and Matt surprised me with proposing at the end of our photo shoot! I too had a special gift to give him. I had a handmade oil painting of him and his grandpa made so that he could finally say he has something of them together to add to his wall that’s dedicated to the man he calls his first best friend! With lots and love and growth we both look forward to this long life with all our friends and family! Thank you for celebrating our special day with us!