We were in Hawaii for the 2024 Ironman competition for my dad and brother, and arriving a week early gave Jarod and I the perfect chance to explore the Big Island of Kona on our own. We wandered nearly the entire island together, stopping at local diners, hiking the trails of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and discovering hidden coves tucked away along the coastline. Our mornings were spent grabbing a cup of coffee and heading out onto the lava rocks to watch the waves crash, admire the tiny ecosystems, and spot hermit crabs and sea turtles, a simple routine that quickly became one of our favorite parts of each day.

On the funny side, Jarod originally tried to propose while we were hiking to a waterfall, but I had mentioned I felt gross and sweaty and unknowingly suggested we keep going and not stop, which just goes to show how lovingly patient he is. The next day, during our usual morning routine on the lava rocks, I was admiring the sunrise and ocean air - of course back facing away from Jarod - and in that magical moment, Jarod asked me to spend forever with him. It ended up the perfect proposal being around everyone that meant the world to me. I had no idea that morning would mark the beginning of the most incredible new chapter of our lives together!!