We went for coffee that same afternoon. He had me laughing until my sides ached. We talked for three hours straight.

A year later, we married in a small church ceremony. My mom shed happy tears. His dad gave a heartfelt toast. It was such a beautiful start.

We built something solid together. We’re blessed with two amazing kids, now grown. Lila lives in Oregon. Rowan moved to Texas last year with his girlfriend.

Our golden retriever, Rusty, still bounds to the door every evening. We have Sunday barbecues on our back porch. Christmas mornings feel enchanted.