This is where it all started. I came into the office as a horribly anxious over thinker really unsure if I was going to make any connections at college other than Caden and Allison (rip). I remember the pit in my stomach, when Allison was telling me that I was going to need an ID and that I had to go to the NSO office to get one.

All of that fear and anxiety was washed away the moment that I laid my eyes on you. I can’t for the life of me remember exactly what was said during our first interaction, but I’ll never forget the feeling that I got. I fell for you so instantly, it’s not even fair, Gina. No one else stood a chance. I just remembered thinking oh my goodness, what do I have to say so that I can keep talking to you. I felt like every sentence that came out of your mouth was tailored to make me fall in love. Your sense of humor, your stunning looks, your love for puns and Childish Gambino. I mean could I ever ask for a more perfect partner?

I remember being so happy that I had a garbage school schedule because that meant that I had a 3-hour break to go into the NSO office and see you. I’ll never forget being ecstatic the day the new Gambino single dropping because I was able to convince you to sit next to me share an earbud and experience it for the first time with you. Sitting next to you as I heard the lyrics “So this isn’t just puppy love girl, you really got a hold on me” I just knew we were meant to be.

So, time to explain this picture, it means a lot more to me than I’ve ever communicated to anyone. I had to take a picture of you because I mean how cool is it to make your own shirt especially such a funny one, given the political climate at the time. More importantly, I really just wanted an excuse to photograph you, I’ve looked at this photo and smiled a thousand times. I felt very deeply for you but was in my own head a lot and was unsure if you’d want to date me for a few months. So, I’d look at this beautiful photo of you smiling and try to tell myself that you felt the same way. I’m so truly happy that you did. Here’s to six years of still getting butterflies in my stomach when I look into your eyes.