Forever Can Never Be Long Enough for Me
By Britt Anderson
Life is full of uncertainties—no guarantees and many unknowns. But isn’t that what makes the journey all the more magical and mysterious? We are the authors; the choices and decisions we make are illustrations of our past, present, and future—captured and illuminated by remarkable moments in time. Pages are turned and new chapters are written. We are so fortunate to share a chapter with our family and friends. Let’s call it…
Saturday, March 5, 2011—Marry Me
Surprises and Brandon mix about as well as oil and vinegar. It doesn’t matter how hard I try, the inevitable outcome is the same: failure. I know this after spending many years of holidays, birthdays and anniversaries together. He snoops, sneaks and uncovers. This surprise, however, was monumental. I figured if Brandon found out, it would give him an opportunity to practice saying “yes” or maybe a quick trip to Target to buy some Crest Whitestrips. He loves smiling and showing off those pearly whites. On this night, I wanted nothing more than to see him smile. This surprise, unlike others in the past, was surely going to end well.
There was just one problem. I needed Brandon out of the house so I could pack a bag and prepare for a night that would change our lives forever. The night I would propose. Harder said than done. Brandon had no plans on leaving until dinner later that evening. What was I to do? I did what any self-respecting man would do: I paid Brandon to leave. “Go buy something pretty,” I said. Brandon graciously left!
As quickly as Brandon pulled away, I feverishly started packing, showered and spoke with my sister, Tricia, who shared in my joy. We laughed, cried and, of course, she gave me her blessing, and I was good to go!
| Forever can never be long enough for me Feel like I’ve had long enough with you Forget the world now we won’t let them see But there’s one thing left to do Now that the weight has lifted Say you will |
Brandon came home with his new purchase in hand and I secretly packed the bag in the car. I told him we were going to have drinks before dinner at the Allegria Hotel in Long Beach. The hotel is beautiful with spectacular ocean views. Over cocktails, we talked about our journey and what brought us to this very moment in time. I excused myself and came back shortly with the bag in hand. Brandon, perplexed, thought I was surprising him with a romantic overnight stay. Instead, we left and walked down the boardwalk.
I stopped him midway down the boardwalk and pulled out a pair of sneakers for us both to change into. After changing, we walked down onto the sand to where the waves broke. I then unpacked the remaining contents of the bag, a beach mat, Champagne flutes and a bottle of bubbly. We sat and listened to the ocean while drinking our Champagne. And then it happened: I proposed. I then played Marry Me by Train and there under the moonlight, he accepted my proposal.
Brandon and will be celebrating eight years together in July. We are still the couple that laughs hysterically at the small things, finds solace and comfort in each other, and enjoys spending time traveling—exploring new destinations. We challenge each other to become better people, better friends and better partners. Our competitiveness thrives in our relationship. We truly are soul mates.
Brandon and I will marry October 13, 2012 at The Metropolitan in Glen Cove, NY. We are busily planning a unique and intimate celebration for approximately 100 guests. We are excited to have our friends and family share in our special day.
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