There is nothing better than a personal growth and development seminar to bring two people together. We were in the same seminar for a whole weekend but didn’t meet until we sat on different sides of our mutual friend, Rianne. Luckily for us she had to leave early and we got to share some things we learned about ourselves and what we wanted out of life moving forward. Pretty good ice breaker if you ask me!
I knew right away I was crushing hard on Mike, and luckily he was too. We led with our hearts and in the span of two short months I love you’s were exchanged, parents were met, and we became officially official. Not too long after, we bought a house and moved in together. We managed to overhaul the house and live in it for 6 months before Mike’s dream career opportunity brought us to Northern California. Nothing like a cross country move to test the bounds of your relationship and bring you closer together.
What better setting than a clear cold day checking in at the Park Hyatt Chicago! The anticipation was killing me and I was so excited to show Riane the view from our room. Let me paint the picture, the room had a massive picture window looking out to the historic water tower and Lake Michigan with snow on the ground. The sun was setting and the city lights began to illuminate the streets. Our view out of the window was a Christmas tree in the historic water tower square. My heart was racing and I needed a diversion to get the ring out of my backpack so, I asked Riane if she needed to use the restroom before we left for dinner? Of course this time she said, “No” I am ready to go. Riane headed towards the door and I quickly got the ring out of my backpack. I thought this was such a smooth move until I asked her to come back by the picture window to look at the amazing views of the city. Riane in her most loving and hangry growl said, "I'm hungry, and I don't want to look out the window"..."I need food.” I said, "but I have another surprise for you" and Riane quickly changed her entire mood and said, "I like surprises.” I got on one knee and asked Riane to Marry Me and she said YES! Then we celebrated with an amazing dinner at the Purple Pig and enjoyed the sights and sounds of the city!