Nothing Could Have Prepared Me

For many years, I have cried and prayed for the blessing I have been given. It all started with conversations that flowed seamlessly. Someone who made me feel safe to be myself. Someone who made me feel seen and understood. Someone who made me laugh...a lot. I am talking about a friendship that turned into the biggest blessing I could have asked for. Here's the start of our story. 

After working late one evening, I found myself lingering in the office to talk to a co-worker. We walked to our cars and he asked if I wanted to grab dinner. We talked for hours that night. Few days later, we were on the road driving to the beach in St. Joe, Michigan. We stopped for lunch, got coffee, and walked around the shops. We explored one beach and then headed to the lighthouse. I had no idea as we were walking to the lighthouse, that when we would turn back to head to the car, my life was about to change. 

Joking as we always do, I asked him if he wanted to hold my hand. I told him I always ask my friend Hali to hold my hand and when she does, it makes me feel better. He said, "No. We have to be careful. We're co-workers."

As we left the lighthouse and drove to the third beach, we were discussing what it would look like for us to date as co-workers. Honestly, I had not thought about it. It was just so easy with him. I had no concerns. For the first time in my life, I was not overthinking it. We stayed at the beach until after sunset and then drove home. He invited me inside where we continued to discuss the idea of us. He said he needed time to figure it out. I left that night thinking there was a 99.99% chance he would say no, he couldn't date a co-worker. The next day he came over and told me he was all in. 

Every morning, I wake up and I can't wait to talk to him and to see his smile. I am so grateful for his patience and kindness. 💜

Lighthouse where it all started.

Thanksgiving at my dad's.

Work Christmas party.