Smile #113 - I Have A Secret

Shhh, I have a secret to tell!  :)

Two months ago, I returned from Italy (Take me back already?!) :)  Aside from the constant hunger and memorable souvenirs, I also carried home a little secret --- a piece of Italy that I will always treasure.  A story that I will remember for the rest of my life.  A major rite of passage.  :)

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I AM ENGAGED!!!!  

Here is our story:

Leading up to the trip, friends and family members all suggested the potential of Bubble popping the big question.  A co-worker even had the whole proposal plan drafted, but I kept brushing off the thought.  This is Bubble's first out-of-country experience so he is already a nervous wreck.  Adding a ring to the mix might just push him overboard.

Reading Smile #93 to grasp my excitement for visiting Cinque Terre. :)

As mentioned before, we went on a hike between Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, the absolutely most beautiful hike I've ever been on.  A detail I failed to include is during this hike, something quite dramatic happened...

After 30 minutes into the hike, we stopped to catch our breath (for probably the 6th time :) ).  This treacherous expedition plainly pointed out just how out of shape we were/still are!  We were sweating up a river from trekking through these muddy uphill steps.'

Our stopping point revealed a stunning view of Monterosso and the coast.

I was busy taking in the beautiful scenery, when ...

He took my hands and began his prepared speech.  "So, we have been together for almost 5 years..."  My heart started racing...WHAT?!  next thing I know he is knelling on his knee with a photo of a diamond ring pulled up on his iPhone asking the one question every girl has been anticipating since they were little.

"Will you marry me?"

I stood in shock!  I was in disbelief.  I literally kept repeating 'Are you serious?!' and 'Really?!' After taking a moment to process, I finally muttered a 'yes'!  :)

This is our first photo as newly engaged.  Meet my fiancé, Bubble!

His proposal totally took me by surprise.  I had not expected him to pull such a romantic (minus the gallons of sweat) proposal.  :)

This moment certainly forever took its place as my favorite travel experience thus far.  :)