We knew each other back in High School and had gone on a couple of dates but nothing serious. We share the same birthday so I reached out on October 12, 2019 and wished Kelly a happy birthday as it gave me a good reason to spark a conversation with her. We talked for the next week and decided to go out for drinks and catch up. We went to Dusty's Cellar Tap Room and talked for hours. We both decided we should keep seeing each other and the rest is history!

I took Kelly to one of my favorite places, Little Sable Point Lighthouse at Silver Lake State Park. It is a beautiful Lighthouse on the shore of Lake Michigan where I spent many fun summer days as a child. On August 10th, 2023, Kelly and I enjoyed the beach, water, and sunshine as it was a perfect August day. I did not have a complete plan on how to do the proposal besides somewhere at this beach and around the Lighthouse. Later in the afternoon, we noticed a two-piece band start to set up and play music. The Lighthouse Foundation was holding a fundraiser and event that day, completely unknown to me. Kelly and I moved our chairs up to the Lighthouse and listened to the lovely music. The Lighthouse was also being kept open to go inside later in the day so this gave me the perfect idea. I bought two tickets to go in the lighthouse and grabbed the ring from my car, making sure to keep the box concealed in my swim trunks. Kelly and I climbed the stairs and took in the view over the lake. I am openly afraid of heights so as we walked around the outside balcony Kelly asked me if I was afraid. I got down on one knee and pulled out the ring stating "I won't be afraid if you will be my wife!" Kelly exclaimed "NO WAY!" and gave me a big hug and kiss. I took that as a yes.