You are my greatest adventure.

We were leaving that evening to meet up with my family in Hawaii. With a 6+ hour flight and travel ahead, we had casually talked about doing an easy hike or something ”active” outside before we left.

So we drove. To that place we did a year and four days earlier on our first date. Singing along to music. Feeling nostalgic and oh-so-excited for sandy beaches, sunshine, and our first big adventure together. We were both excited— about Hawaii… or so I thought (such a good cover!).

I threw on his hoodie that was in his car because it was way colder than expected and we walked down to the river…

For weeks Dustin had been throwing me off. From leading me off to a secluded spot on those beautifully lit trails at Grouse Mountain in the snow (he even faced me and held our hands in front of him being oh-so-sweet!), to insisting on taking a detour on the way home from dinner dates. We had talked about it. I knew it was coming in the months ahead (I was convinced either in Hawaii or on our official ”one year”) but then? No way. It didn’t even cross my mind.

Dustin had dinner with my parents the month before while I was in Mexico for Ashley+Nathan’s destination wedding. I even called him and we talked that night not knowing he was at my parent’s house trying to not give it away!

He timed it so we could celebrate with my family, and see Cailey too (my sister), since she moved to Hawaii. With my family flying out earlier that morning, it was so special to be able to see our families and enjoy a week of  just ”being engaged”.

We grabbed lunch and spending the day above the clouds enjoying it the two of us. I usually fall asleep within 10 minutes on planes, but that definitely did. not. happen. D had also picked up a wedding magazine for me to read during the flight. Seriously. He’s the cutest.

Whoever came up with the 5 stages of getting engaged was ON POINT. From the complete SHOCK and surreal feeling while it was happening, to crying 10 minutes later, to excitement and later feeling oh-so-exhausted… ON POINT. Seriously. I think I said ”babe, we’re engaged!!” or ”you’re my FIANCÉE” about 100 times on the plane.

Thank you so much for all the sweet messages, phone calls and congratulations since announcing it online Monday!! So overwhelmed by all the love. We are so excited and couldn’t be happier! xx

THANK YOU so much Jamie+Jenn for documenting this day for us. Also, this happened Monday and I spent the ENTIRE three days before on the island with Jamie for a wedding. Girl, I don’t know how you didn’t give it away from messaging Dustin right in front of me and our heart to hearts during those 3 days… but I’m so impressed. Love you ladies.