In the vast world of online dating, fate played matchmaker for Eric and Nicole. They lived in different cities—she in Tampa, he in Lakeland—but somehow, their phones connected when Nicole went on a spontaneous trip to Bok Tower Gardens with her friend. The details of that initial match remain a playful mystery. Nicole recalls lending her phone to her friend, allowing them to delve into the world of online dating on her behalf. Eric, ever the witty charmer, teases her about not even remembering if she swiped right or if her friend had a hand in it. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, it hardly matters. What truly counts is that Nicole's curiosity and courage prompted her to seize the opportunity and make the first move.

Their first date took place at another botanical garden in St.Petersburg, where nature's beauty mirrored the blossoming love between them. Nicole's selflessness shone through as she offered to drive, considering the distance Eric had traveled just to meet her. As they walked hand in hand, Nicole's heart melted as she listened to Eric talk about his passion for sustainability, finding herself drawn to his thoughtful and caring nature. Eric, in turn, couldn't help but be enchanted by Nicole's genuine laughter, making his dad jokes all the more worthwhile.

Sharing snacks, strolling side by side, and indulging in ice cream created cherished memories they would hold close to their hearts. They talked about music too—initially, Nicole loathed Eric's taste, but now she's practically a walking playlist of his favorite tunes.

Their first goodbye kiss was...well, let's just say it had its own unique charm. But things only got better from there! Weekends were all about new adventures, from sailing to DIY projects, and their favorite hobby—getting street tacos and eating too much candy at the drive-in movie theatre. Every moment they spent together felt like a chapter in their own love story, and they found comfort in the way they could be themselves, sharing dreams and aspirations.

They kept their hearts close to their chests, but after about four months, Nicole was smitten. She had a mental note that said, "If it doesn't work out with Eric, no one else comes close!" She even whispered the three magical words behind his back, like a secret love ninja. But eventually, she couldn't hold it in anymore and blurted it out—lucky for her, Eric was planning to say it that same day. Talk about perfect timing!

After Nicole finished up her Masters's degree, they jetted off to Peru, and let me tell you, traveling together is like a relationship boot camp. But they aced the test! From trips to Eric's family cabin in New Hampshire to visiting Nicole's hometown in Colombia, they were inseparable. They even took a thrilling motorcycle tour of Portugal—cue the windblown hair and wide grins.

As their connection deepened, Eric eventually asked Nicole to move in with him. True to his conscientious nature, he set a one-year timeline, giving them ample time to savor each other's company before transitioning to the next chapter.

Exactly at the one-year mark, while in New Hampshire, Eric planned a romantic canoe trip on the lake. It was amidst the blueberry bushes, that Eric mustered the courage to ask the question he had longed to ask: "Will you marry me?" In that magical moment, they knew they had found their forever in each other, and their hearts overflowed with love and joy.

And so, their love story continues, a testament to fate's guiding hand and the undeniable connection that had sparked in an online realm. With laughter, adventures, and tender moments, Eric and Nicole embarked on a shared path, ready to face life's ups and downs together. Each day became a celebration of the love they had found, knowing that they were truly home in each other's hearts. As they looked ahead to the horizon of their future, their love, like a timeless garden, would only grow deeper and more beautiful with each passing season.

N&E