In the summer of 2004, before my second year at the University of Colorado and before the start of Bob’s freshman year at Colorado School of Mines, we were both hired to work as lifeguards for the City of Golden. To me, he was “too cool” with his beach-blonde curly locks, which made me think he was much older and probably not looking for a girlfriend. To Bob, I was a friend and co-worker’s little sister, which made him assume I was much younger than him. That didn’t stop either of us from flirting – him chasing me with a toy alligator that squirted water after teaching swim lessons, me overly enthusiastic over being assigned cleaning duty with him. As the summer went on, I couldn’t help it; he was all I could think about. All good things come to an end, as did that summer, but weeks after, when a friend from lifeguarding suggested having her first annual Pirate Party, I knew there could be one last chance for me to see him. Somehow I found the courage to call him, and personally invited him.

Being among the first to arrive that night, I was anxiously awaiting the entrance of Bob, hoping he’d make an appearance. I tried to busy myself by helping to set up, putting on my makeshift pirate outfit, and socializing with all my friends from the summer, but couldn’t stop anxiously hoping that Bob would show up.

Finally, after a few laughs and drinks, I saw out of the corner of my eye that Bob had arrived, Fraternity brothers in tow. The night and dance floor brought us closer, but after making me wait for so long, I was ready to make him wait around for a while too. I refused to let him kiss me that night. Not yet. As the party ended, I could feel that there was something special. There was something about this boy, and I knew we’d see each other again.

He must have felt the same, as I received a phone call from him the following week. He invited me on our first causal date, joining him and his buddies in the viewing of Team America. Being amongst his friends and in the presence of an unromantic movie didn’t stop Bob from reaching for my hand. We continued to see each other between Golden and Boulder parties, a haunted house, and even while saving my little sister from a babysitting nightmare one night.

The third week in October, Bob asked if he could come drive up to take me to dinner. I can still picture the exact table we were seated at by the window in Pasta Jay’s, how delicious my creamy pasta tasted when sitting across from this handsome boy, and how the snow began to fall as we walked back to the car. It was a moment I could never forget, the moment I started calling Bob my boyfriend.

Instead of partaking in our planned family ice skating trip to Evergreen Lake on Christmas Eve in 2011, Bob insisted that I spend the day with just him. After a casual brunch, downtown stroll and early afternoon nap, he took me to an early dinner at Zengo, equally romantic and delicious, before we drove to the Denver Botanic Gardens. This in itself was a nice surprise as it’s been on my wish list to see the gleaming lights and holiday décor.

Looking back on dinner, I could tell he was nervous. His mannerisms were a bit off that day and it wasn’t until post engagement that I understood why. No matter how apprehensive he was, the night was already perfect. We finished our meal, cozied up in our winter gear and headed for the Gardens. While it was a bit more packed and chaotic than we had hoped, it was still painted with elegance and charm. I was captured in this Christmas moment with my wonderful man and best friend.

With my camera in hand, I was lost in the scene and oblivious to any future events that were bound to take place. Then suddenly he led me to a side path where we behind the stunning gazebo. My wondering gaze towards Bob was put to rest when he pulled out a divine box, wrapped, complete with a velvet ribbon, miniature pinecones and a shiny red ornament. My hands immediately met my gaping mouth and tears began streaming down my face.

He got down on one knee and asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. He met me with intimate hugs and kisses of celebration. My smile met both ears as I was admiring the ring, putting it on my finger for the first time. As we made our way towards the exit, I was beside myself. I couldn’t stop looking at Bob, my fiancé, thinking how blessed I am to be his WIFE one day!

Our engagement wouldn’t be complete without a memorable gift to remind us of this time. We stopped off in the gift shop to pick out a polished maple leaf ornament for our tree. The ornament was dipped in gold and decorated with the year “2011.” The only other way to commemorate this occasion was to see our families!

Ending that evening with the ones I love most was the only Christmas present I could have asked for. I’m excited to begin a new chapter with those same people. Life is a journey and I’m honored to be accompanied with the family, friends and fiancé that I have.