ENGAGE
from Sarah
Our love story began in December 2020 when we met on Bumble , an online dating website . We messaged back and forth there for almost a week before I asked him if he wanted my number . I realized months later that he had actually asked for my number on the second day but I didn ’ t see his message . I ’ m so glad he didn ’ t give up and quit talking to me !
Our first dates were not traditional dates at all . I had been diagnosed with breast cancer a few years earlier and at that time was undergoing Chemotherapy for a second time after a reoccurrence . Due to the risk of Covid and my compromised immune system , we couldn ’ t go out for dinner , the movies , or concerts . I cooked for us at home or we ordered carry out from our favorite places . We spent our time together with our dogs , going for walks around the neighborhood and talking about everything . He was so sweet , kind and his actions left a great impression . He would go out into the cold and snow to start my car . He ’ d carry my things and open the door . I knew he really cared when he stopped going out , wore a mask and did everything to protect and keep me healthy . We talked often about our future together .
On November 16 , 2022 he told me he wanted to take our dog for a walk . Our walks together are one of the favorite parts of my day . We leave our phones and give one another our full attention . It ’ s a great chance to catch up on our day and discuss the important things when neither of us is distracted . I didn ’ t think much of his request to walk somewhere new that day . We went by the river in Hamilton , Illinois and he asked me to help put the dog ’ s collar on . When I went to help , he got on one knee and pulled out the most beautiful round solitaire diamond ring from his pocket . I was so surprised ! The dog was too ! He sat next to him and put his paw up on Jarrod ’ s leg . It felt like they were both asking me to be a part of their family . I said Yes through all the happy tears . Jarrod is smart , ambitious , and so committed to his friends , family and loved ones . I am so lucky to have this man by my side . We plan to marry in the early fall 2023 .
Photos by : Carmen Foxall What I See Photography
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