It all started back on August 1, 2021 on the online dating site, eHarmony. Laura sent Joe a simple "like". What particularly drew Laura's attention was Joe's outline of what he was looking for in a woman. Joe broke the ice by writing Laura back with a lame riddle. The online back and forth soon lead to a phone call, which then lead to a four hour zoom date and several more four hour zoom dates over the next few weeks. The connection, similarities and attraction was apparent but could this online acquaintance blossom into something greater? There was only one way to find out. Joe invited Laura down to Tampa for a long weekend. Although a bit hesitant, Laura took a risk and came to visit in September. Between visits to museums, beaches, roof top bars, great restaurants and much more, there was barely time to take a breath. Joe and Laura continued their long distance relationship and visited back and forth between Tampa and Kalamazoo. In February 2024, Joe surprised Laura when he proposed on a private balcony at Azure rooftop restaurant at Edition Hotel in Tampa.