Matt and I have had lots of mutual friends and places in common almost our entire lives. We existed in parallel to each other without really crossing paths until we finally connected one night when we were both with our friends at the 49er in Livingston. Later, as the indoor boat party (long story) wound down, he insisted on walking me home when I ventured out into the January night alone, we talked for hours, he asked for my number, and he insisted that he was going to call and ask for a date. To my (honest) surprise, he called the next day and we scheduled our first date. It went well (clearly) and we have been together ever since.

On Christmas day, Matt and I sat down to a beautiful meal with my parents and Godparents. We traditionally always work our way around the table and tell everyone what we are thankful for at these family gatherings. Matt had prepared to use this as a sweet segue into his proposal... As we were seated, he asked, "Where are we starting the thankful circle at you guys?" To which my father, who clearly must have been hangry, replied, "I'll save everyone some time so we can eat... You're all thankful for the same shit you were last month!" With that being said, we all bowed our heads and then proceeded to our meal. At the end, as my mother tried to start clearing the plates, he finally spoke up. "I am thankful for the same stuff I was last month, but I still have something to say!" and then he got down on one knee. I was overjoyed and managed to get a yes out as we were embraced by my family. My mom cried, Auntie Mary cried, it was truly beautiful. Now we are just enjoying life with each other and looking forward to our special day. We hope to see you there!