A personal post, the one where I return engaged!

As some of you know, my long-time boyfriend and I visited northern California last fall. We were so excited to take a break and to take some time for ourselves, but after eleven years of dating, Dave had a big surprise planned for me...

DAY ONE:
We started out the trip by exploring Carmel and Monterrey and quickly proceeded to Point Lobos for a hike, photo adventures and a sunset. Carmel was great, but we needed peace and quiet. Point Lobos delivered!

DAY TWO:
We hit the road for Big Sur on Highway 101 and let's just say, it was a dream come true for me. I have been all over this world, but Big Sur was a place I had dreamt about since I was a kid. After waking up fairly early to the sound of seals barking outside of our window, we hit the road early in the morning, loaded up with coffee and treats and were sure to stop at every single vista along the way.

Pfeiffer Beach, October 2014.

This is Dave just before we decided to take the next step together. He was 100% at ease and I couldn't have asked for anything more.

And, this is where we got engaged. Sitting on a rock in Big Sur while watching the tide come in.

Then it was time for a celebratory whisky at Nepenthes, in Big Sur. We had the best seat in the house.

DAY THREE:
We headed north and traded views of the Ocean for views of vineyards, giant trees and... the ocean. 

DAY FOUR:
It was time to explore the Russian River Valley. 

DAY FIVE:
Time to go home, but first... we stopped at the amazing Scribe! We can't wait to go back, what a find.

And after eleven years of dating, that was that. We were engaged and I was returning to Chicago with a ring on my finger that I LOVE! Now we are planning our wedding this coming September which will be just outside of St. Joseph, Michigan. It will be intimate, eclectic and we will be surrounded by our closest loved ones. 

Cheers to love!