Popping the Question

Our engagement was no surprise. Steve and I had talked about getting married soon after we started dating (this time) and we both agreed it was a possibility, and something we wanted to work towards. You know, if I was really sure this time. :) I asked Steve if he wanted to surprise me with a ring of his choosing, but he demurred, saying that he'd rather have a few to choose from that he was sure I'd like. Given a choice of three rings I liked, he then picked one, though I wasn't to know which one until the day of the proposal.

So much of our engagement was heavily anticipated, and of course living together, choosing rings together I had a pretty good idea of when it came in and when it was going to happen. I know, sucks all the magic out of the whole thing, no? Actually, no, it doesn't. You'll be happy to know that I was just as giddy as could be when the moment finally came. Besides, most people who know me, know that I'm not a big one on the patience. It being a "virtue" and all. ;)

On Monday, October 11, 2004 we planned on spending the day together instead of working. I had to work till 10 a.m. but the rest of the day was mine. Steve showed up a few minutes early to pick me up. He was making small talk with my boss Connie and I, when he asked me to step back a second. He pulled the ring out of his pocket and said:

For eight years now we've been trying to put square pegs into round holes, so let me try a different tack. Since you're such a crafty woman, would you like to tie the knot with me?

I burst into shrieks and nearly knocked him over! I proceeded to run in 4" heels around the office showing my friends and coworkers before I rushed back and grabbed my bag of street clothes. "Wow, that was quick" he remarked, to which I replied "I can't run in heels I gotta go change!" I've never changed clothes so fast in my life. Once safely ensconced in sneakers and jeans I once again ran like mad through the 90-person office to squeal in glee while showing off the ring.