It all began with a bowl of soup...

I can remember March 17, 2012 like it was yesterday. I was 33 and single. That was the story of my life, at least until March 17, 2012. I like to think of this day as the beginning of the best for me.

It was St. Patrick's Day. I woke up early with a little pep in my step. See, it was the week prior that set this up as the best day ever. Being a single gal, I tried meeting guys in a variety of ways. It seemed like I just had bad luck. I was always able to tell stories to my fellow teachers of my adventures in online dating. This time was different though. We talked the weeks before and played that new-at-the-time game, Draw Something, with each other as a getting to know you tactic. Friday night, March 16th, he asked me if I'd like to meet for lunch at Panera the next day. Immediately I became more nervous, which always happened, but I agreed to meet at a Panera close by. We didn't set a time, but rather we'd text in the morning and see what was best for both of us. I had a hair appointment that morning so I was up and ready. It seemed like decades had passed until I got his text that he was ready to meet.

I got in my car and headed that way, so nervous all the way. I pulled up and parked next to this cute boy in a  black Honda Pilot, with an adorable dog in the front seat. He waved at me. I waved at him. We both got out of the car and I think he hugged me. He introduced me to B'Elanna, the beautiful border collie, that went with him everywhere. We went inside.

This is where it all began. We both had broccoli cheese soup. I don't remember if it was Pick Two or just soup in a bread bowl. I know I should remember all of these details but I was too excited about meeting him. I immediately felt at ease and comfortable with him. We talked for hours. It was the middle of the afternoon so we had lots of time, except I had to babysit later that night. We used our time wisely and got to know each other a little more. He was so cute and I couldn't stop smiling. We came to a point where it was almost time for me to leave, but he asked me if I wanted to see his apartment. I had never done that before, but I felt the biggest sense of peace with him, so I went with it. We got back into our cars and I followed him to his apartment. It wasn't too far from the place, and it would be quick too. 

We got there and went in and up the stairs. I totally felt comfortable with him and it felt good. He gave me the grand tour. Can you believe it was spotless? Cleaned very well. It was nicely furnished and well taken care of. I was impressed. I told him I had to go to babysit and he understood. He asked me if I'd like to come over and watch a movie after babysitting. Of course, I said yes. We walked down the stairs and he led me outside. He gave me a sweet kiss on the cheek and I was out the door. 

I hadn't even gone two miles when my phone beeped at me. "I like you." 

Needless to say, I went back for a movie night and the rest was history. It all began with soup for Chris and Emily.