I wasn't planning to meet anyone special the summer of 2018! In fact, when I came across the Facebook page of KIPP’s new English Composition teacher, I brushed Charlie off as “too cute for my liking”. My interest was immediately piqued when I caught a glimpse of him walking up the school stairwell! He wore Birkenstocks, cuffed khakis, and had a cute butt - what’s not to like?

We had a non-traditional start to our slow-burn courtship. After a couple flirtatious interactions in a Nashville bar, we shared an old-fashioned dance floor smooch. I followed up with ignoring him for three weeks!

Still, he impressed in small moments. He always took an opportunity to ask thoughtful questions; he intrigued me with his taste in music; he charmed me with leaving cute Post-it notes plus my favorite Chex mix pieces on my desk.

A month into knowing him, Charlie boldly asked me to join him on a spontaneous trip to Chattanooga. I threw caution to the wind, and seven years later, I’m still diving headfirst into every adventure he and I boldly take on.

From Nashville to New Jersey to Charleston to Brooklyn to Seattle to (finally) Brooklyn, I cannot imagine doing so many iterations of my life with anyone else by my side. He co-conspires when the possibilities are endless; he grounds me when I get swept up in what could be; he’s a mirror to me that expects reflection and growth. I am the best version of myself because of his love, compassion, expectations, and presence.

When I picture the next stage of our life, we’re blending our families and communities and we’re creating new traditions. We’re taking big bets and growing towards each other.