Chloe and I first met in acting class, I remember wondering how we had never crossed paths before, and wishing it had happened sooner. I was blown away by how genuine and kind she was, and I spent the first few months of our friendship thinking someone as great and pretty as her wouldn't want to be with someone like me. I never would have thought I would be sitting here 10 years later writing this blurb, but sometimes dreams do come true.

Garrett and I's first dance was a Sadie Hawkins-style (girls-ask-guys) dance. We had just started dating, and I remember being so nervous to ask him, but also so excited to go to our first dance together. I ended up asking him at the park with a balloon-themed poster ("I would burst with joy if you would go to snowball with me!") and a bouquet of balloons. We took our pictures and had our first dance to Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran (as did every couple in 2016). He's been my go-to dance partner ever since!

Our first anniversary (of many) was such a special night for us. A year together of going to Luigis, watching whatever horror movie we decided would be worth our time (some were real bad not gonna lie), and getting to grow closer to each other. Leading up to this, I was shocked it had been that long. Einstein was right when he said "sit with a beautiful woman for an hour, it feels like a minute; sit on the hot stove for a minute, it feels like hours." All the time in the world we spend together is never enough with the love of your life, but I have been so thankful for every second I have had with her.

I think graduating high school was a bittersweet time for both Garrett and I. We were getting ready to start a long distance relationship, and at that age, whether or not that relationship will survive is really up in the air. However, we both had dreams we wanted to pursue, and that required some time apart. I can't say it was easy, but I think it made us both stronger as individuals. I have been able to pursue my dreams of becoming a doctor, and Garrett has transformed into such a kindhearted, intelligent, and handsome man. Garrett is the kind of man I wish all men were, and I'm so happy he's mine (even after all these years of pushing each others' buttons!).

The long distance years. I had heard people say that when you are apart for so long, every time you see your partner means so much more, but I could never have prepared for saying goodbye to Chloe after every time I would visit. I can't count how many times I would cry most of the way back home. Going months without seeing each other was a huge challenge for our relationship, and at times it felt like our lives just wanted us to go in opposite directions. We fought for each other and made sure we could always make time for moments like the one in the photo. I look like a goofball, but that expression comes from finally getting to see the one person I want to be with more than anything. These years were tough, but we are so strong together because of it.

In 2021, I graduated college and started medical school. These years of classroom and clinical work have been long and challenging, but I am forever grateful for Garrett and his role as my #1 hype man. He is always there to comfort me, listen to my rants, and help me find my calm in the storm. He believes in me when I don't believe in myself. His undying support has played a huge role in my success, and I have no doubt that it will for the rest of time. Garrett is never afraid to remind me how truly smart and amazing he thinks I am, and sometimes, I even choose to believe him... sometimes.

I had initially planned to propose at the end of 2021, but life decided that wasn't in the cards for us at that time. Due to this, I had the ring ready for Chloe for over 2 years before the right time came. I would point blank tell her "I have the ring, its here in the apartment" and she would laugh and roll her eyes. Her mom and I were cackling behind her back at how clueless she was. At the end of 2023, nothing was going to stop me. We spent the day together and on our way home I took her to the spot we had our first anniversary date (shout out to Jo Allen Lake). We have grown so much as individuals, and as a couple. Chloe and I have fundamentally shaped the other in ways that I can't fully express, and I genuinely can't fathom who I would be if not for her. She is the best Fiance anyone could hope for, and some day real soon, she will be the best Wife anyone could ever hope for.

The most beautiful day in the world! No more long distance! Garrett and I moved into our first (rented) house together in April of 2024, and we have been attached at the hip since. We used to go months without seeing each other, but now, I start to miss him after a long shift. This has been quite the change, but a very welcome one. I can't wait to be stuck together like glue for the rest of our lives! This point in our relationship is what I have been praying for since we first had to part ways. I think our story is a testament that love truly overcomes all. You just have to show up for each other.