It’s pretty funny now, but for years Maria and I had a “cover story” about how we actually met.
It REALLY started with two little mice, no kidding!!

A couple click clicks, wink, winks at each other, a few instant messages and our relationship began. THANKS MATCH.com. The moment I saw her picture and read about Maria, I knew I had to meet this charming, old-fashioned, funny, beautiful woman. I was determined! Daily chats lead to many phone calls and finally after 4 months Maria agreed to meet. We both claimed we were not looking for anything serious. Our first date was at “Red Robin” in broad daylight, just in case either of us needed to make a quick get-a-way….

Seriously though, Maria insisted it be during the day. Maria had arrived early to check me out. I’m lucky, I guess I peeked her interest just enough walking into the restaurant, she didn’t go hide. We had such a great time, we even talked for a few more hours in the parking lot. Maria had finally come out of her shell, don’t let her shyness fool you, I’ll get to that later…and our journey began.

As time went by I realized there was much more to her than I realized. She had high expectations, wouldn’t put up with any nonsense and made sure I knew it. Eventually, I started calling her PITA and the nickname stuck. I couldn’t resist wanting to spend time with her, she never hesitated to speak her mind, which I love about her, but she sure could be a “Pain-In-The-Ass” at times.

I eventually met her son Joshua and her daughter Jacque, her Mom and the rest of the family. Grew to know many of their closest friends at special occasions and now consider them family as well.

I met Sky’s parents in 2014 when he retired from the Air Force. I instantly connected with them. We spent a whole week together, took a road trip up to New Jersey where his parents grew up. Sky’s mom Jean shared a lot about what he was like growing up, we shared time in the kitchen and she even showed me how to make hollandaise sauce, which has become a favorite recipe in my cookbook. His dad Robert, shared many stories as well and we all enjoyed our time together.

In 2016 Sky was offered a job in Washington D.C., and asked me to go with him. No ring, just a promise he’d take care of me. Love is powerful and makes us do crazy things, so I didn’t even hesitate to say yes and quit my job. Through the years we enjoyed times with family, friends who have become our family, farewells, welcome homes, traveled abroad and explored new places creating memories together often with our pups Milo & Kenzie. We were both all in, had built a life together!! We’re not the traditional couple by any means, but knew in our hearts, we would get married one day.

On our last night on vacation in Hawaii 17 Oct 2021, after enjoying a beautiful sunset, I asked Maria to take our things to the room so we could take a walk. She got irritated, after insisting several times, but my PITA finally agreed. While walking along Waikiki beach, I proposed and she tearfully said “YES”.

Know that your invitation is special, because each and every one of you, have affected our lives.

We look forward to celebrating with you all.