HOW it happened.

Look at my unsuspecting face.

December 10th. Just like any other Saturday night...or so I thought.

Kyle and I chatted with his mom one night at his kitchen table, and decided that a trip to Winterhaven was in order. Winterhaven is a historic neighborhood in Tucson that was developed to replicate the beauty of the east coast, with wide streets, tall trees, and a classic neighborhood feel. Every winter, the residents of Winterhaven put up jaw dropping Christmas light displays and with a donation to the food bank, you can walk through looking at all of the lovely lights. 

Ever since I was a little girl, I loved strolling through Winterhaven. We'd sip hot chocolate and sing Christmas carols. This year I was delighted when Kyles mom informed me we were taking a trolley ride through the neighborhood. Beforehand, Kyle and I went to target to buy the NECESSARY box of 60 mini candycanes and some marshmallowy hot cocoa.

We gathered at his house and geared up to go. My entire family, his entire family. It's never easy to get us all in the same place at the same time so I was delighted to have them with us! The trolley was so adorable, with open sides so we could see all of the lights. I naturally needed a window seat ;) We rode through Winterhaven singing fun songs and enjoying each others company. 

Some of the fam! (l to r: Kyles little bro Trevor, my brother in law, Kyle, Sister, Me, Trevor's gf)

One of my favorite houses! How cute are the giant toy soldiers on the roof!?

We were nearing the end of our trolley ride when the driver announced that we needed to make a "Kyle stop". Embarrassed and confused, I ducked my head thinking, "UGH this crazy boy is about to sing or do something ridiculous".  He got up quickly from beside me and  ran to the front of the trolley...out of the trolley doors...and stood in front of an ornately decorated house. Still confused and somewhat numb I stared in disbelief as he stood outside the trolley directly in front of where I was sitting.

Standing there all alone, he looked up at me and told me he loved me very much. He said I was his best friend, and the best thing that has ever happened to him. My hand flew to my mouth and I instantly began to cry. I couldn't believe what was happening.

He got down on one knee, pulled a small box from his pocket, and asked me if I would marry him. 

I said, YES!

I can't even begin to explain the happiness I am currently experiencing. 

Kyle, I've known you were the one since our culinary arts class my Junior year of high school. 

I can't wait to plan a wedding with you, make a home with you, and experience life as your wife. 

Winterhaven will always have a very special place in my heart!

Now, it's time to start some planning ;)

 The future Mr. and Mrs. Nottingham. 

WINNING.