It’s been seven years and for at least the last few years, Mike and I have repeatedly gotten the question… “When are you two getting engaged???”
We knew the day would come, but to be honest, there was no rush. It was a quite a different experience for us having been married before and each having two children. The focus was always on having a supremely awesome relationship and happy kids. The rest would fall into place.
This weekend we had a big 40th birthday party for Mike. Friends and family from all over joined us. And while I had a hunch the big proposal was coming soon, I didn’t think it would be at his own birthday party!
“Baby, come with me. I need to talk to you.” He took me by the hand and led me to our room.
Great, I thought. He’s going to tell me that some guest is being inappropriate, the street taco guys are failing or there’s a gas leak.
Instead I walked in and there was a bottle of champagne and two special hand etched glasses. These were the glasses we vowed only to use on super special occasions. (We may or may not have have stolen them from a castle in Italy.)
He told me how he asked my dad for his blessing. He then got down on one knee (#melting) and proposed in the sweetest, most memorable, special way. It was PERFECT! And it was followed by our guests cheering from outside our bedroom viewing through the windows from the backyard.
I couldn’t have asked for anything better. A private moment followed by further celebrations with everyone.
Twenty something years ago we just missed each other as I floated into Pepperdine as a freshmen and he was just transferring out. He went on his journey and I went on mine. Neither of us never knowing of each other. Of course, we always wonder what if… What if he had stayed? Would we have met? Would we have dated? What could have happened? But, it happened exactly as it should because we became the people we are today. Our struggles and victories shaped us into two people meant for each other.
Now, we have this ‘official’ beautiful family. And the welcome and excitement from my step kids was the best ever! I’m proud that all the kids have only known us as a couple. I’m proud to have taken our time and I’m super proud to marry this man.
From Mike, I have witnessed such incredible strength. In these years leading up to now, we have witnessed each other fall and grow. And from him I have learned true appreciation of love and family and life no matter what. It took us our life experience thus far to get to be exactly where we are today and I couldn’t be happier.
Cheers to 40 and cheers to this next chapter!
So super happy for you two!
That made me tear up!!! So true. It is exactly how it should be.
I couldn’t be happier for you both. First of all, Happy 40th to Mike! I met the love of my life at 45. There is much to be said for having been experienced before you meet one’s true love. I honestly believe it makes you savor your love even more. You’ve had your Mr. Maybes, or in my case, your Mr’s. and Ms’s. Thought It Was Perfects or Deep Disappointments, and suddenly you meet the “one” and your level of excitement is peaked because things flow so easily. He or she is fascinated in what fascinates you, sees the humor in the same things, but most importantly, loves the way you love, and you stand amazed because you realize you actually can have it all. It becomes clear that someone is perfect for you because they’re always in your corner giving you the unconditional love that only your parents or children or very close friends have always given you. You are sincerely appreciated, no, adored, and you want to be kindest to this so deserving soul. I’m so thrilled you both have found your life’s mate. Now your anchor liberates you to become your best self. Life certainly is grand. Sending much love and a whole lot of congratulations!!!