so yes...it's been a few months since my last post, but what better reason to return than an engagement?! We have been engaged now for a week and a half, and I still cannot believe it! I wanted to post a few photos here, because it's been difficult to describe the place where Blake proposed!
So, I was told that I was attending a cocktail party for Dr. Maris's program, "Servants by Design." He has built "Altamira" out Ferndale Cut-off and uses it to host seminars and events. When we drove up, I was so confused because there were no cars there! Even then, I thought we must be early...
This is what the house looked like when we drove up! It was so beautiful...
At this point, so many possibilities are running through my mind! Inside was a roaring fire with lanterns and candles all around the walls. A list of my favorite songs played the whole time...
My brother Anthony and my sister-in-law Nicole had come before us and started the fire, lit the candles, plated the food, and started the music! I was so touched that they had been a part of it like that!
I know this picture is blurry, but it gives you an idea of how it looked inside! Those windows look out to this beautiful terrace!
The napkins were my final clue! I can't even begin to describe that moment of realization in my head. Of course the monogram brought me to tears! 
Ms. Chami (“Ms. O”) had those napkins made for us, and I will cherish them forever! Blake then let me read a story he'd written detailing the major moments throughout our relationship. I was trying to be in the moment as much as possible, but at the same time my head was everywhere! I just couldn't believe that this time had come! At the end of the story, Blake got down on one knee and said the sweetest words I've ever heard and presented me with the most beautiful ring I could have ever imagined!
Bliss!
We had dinner, but I don’t think I ate a bite; I was too excited! Blake told me we had to be going, because there were a few people waiting for us back at the house. I could not believe it when I walked into our house! I have never been so overwhelmed by love! I literally felt surrounded by so many blessings. I was so touched by everyone who had come to celebrate- it was an absolutely perfect night!
Mrs. Pate!
I know this is so blurry, but I just love it of sweet Katie Strickland!
My amazing mother of course had wonderful food!!
And such a delicious cake!
MAT survivors!
Precious, precious friends!
Blake and I’s first wedding gift!! I LOVE the frame and picture, Leah!
End of the night...just in Heaven!
The Lord has blessed me beyond comprehension with the most wonderful man, family, and circle of friends. I really cannot say thank you enough to everyone who helped make the night so special! I’m so excited to see what the next few months will bring!
