The Proposal

It was summer solstice and a beautiful day for a trip into Ontario's wine country.  We had it all planned out and I was really excited.  Juan was acting a bit strange, but really I had no idea of the events to come, I just thought he wanted to be on time for our first wine tour.  After a wonderful breakfast prepared by Juan we packed a lunch and headed out the door to hit up the first winery on our list, Tawse, an organic and biodynamic winery with award winning wines.  I can't take any credit into the wineries we went to, it was Juan who did all the research.

And the research I did payed off!  Though this wasn't part of the plan, at Tawse we were treated to 8 samples each of wine!  Though small tastings it certainly did loosen me up for the next event!  Following the tasting we headed to Balls Falls along the Niagara Escarpment.  Owned by the Ball family in the 1800's, now it is a conservation area and cultural centre full of history and natural beauty.  Also, the perfect place to pop the question.

He popped the question alright, at the top of the falls with no one else around.  The only sound was the rushing water and Juan's heart pounding in his chest.  It was the sweetest proposal.  I felt like I was in the movies.  Juan had eased me in, asking questions and talking casually about when we first met.  But as I listened to him talk about how much he loved me and my family, it suddenly dawned on me what was happening and then before I knew it he was on one knee, holding out a pretty little ring, asking if I would marry him.  Tears sprung to my eyes and I, of course, said "Yes!".

And now that Kelly had said "Yes", it was time to celebrate!  We had a fabulous gourmet lunch and our first champagne as "newly engaged" at Vineland Estates, overlooking their vineyards and Lake Ontario in the background.  We were both elated and giddy with joy.

Actually, I think I might have been more in a state of shock!  But I was very happy and after another wine tour and some more tastings at Vineland and Megalomaniac, I was ready to go home, relax, celebrate, and soak in this life changing event.  However, the surprises were not over and as I walked into our apartment I was completely swept off my feet (if I wasn't already).  I was greeted by roses, candles, and rose petals delicately scattered down the hallway.  So beautiful!  There was champagne and sushi in the fridge and all I could think of was, "Wow!" and "I'm so lucky!" and "Who did this?"

I won't give away my secrets, but let's just say I'm very thankful to two wonderful friends back in Guelph.  The whole day couldn't have been more perfect.  It was a great beginning to our "happily ever after".

Love,

Juan and Kelly