Our Engagement
Andrew: I had been trying to figure out how to propose to Meghan for quite a few months. To throw her off, I would randomly explain to her that I would never get married. I couldn't figure out how or where I wanted to do it and it was on my mind constantly. When she brought up the idea of taking a big vacation to Thailand, I figured there wasn't going to be a more exotic chance to propose. A week after we finalized our flights and hotels, I sat down with a jeweler and began to plan her ring. The only guidance I had to work with was to get a “big rock” (which she said in jest when I asked her what kind of rings she likes). All through our trip to Thailand I carried the ring with me; looking for the perfect time to propose. It went with us see the Great Buddha of Thailand, it saw the inside of ornate temples, navigated crowded streets on motor bikes, and relaxed on tropical beaches.
I was waiting for the most beautiful vista, the most memorable experience, but it never seemed right. Then in the middle of a huge New Year's celebration, we sat watching floating lanterns drift off over a beautiful white sandy beach just after sunset. A man came by to sell us a wishing lantern and I knew right then what Meghan would wish for. So I bought one for her and followed her down to the water to make her wish come true...
Meghan: We visited Patong Beach for New Years Eve. Andrew and I sat down on the beach together, enjoying our spiral spiced potato and buckets (liquor and soda mixed in a plastic bucket). We watched the craziness on the edge of the beach from fireworks to thousands of floating lanterns to fire dancers. Andrew suggested that we go light off our own wishing lantern. At that time, I was oblivious to his plan, but I was excited. We walked down to the edge of the beach. As I held onto the lantern waiting for it to fill up, I noticed out of the corner of my eye Andrew getting down on his knee. I couldn't wait to be able to let go of the lantern so I could say "YES!" Andrew proposed and I couldn't be happier. My wish immediately came true!