Our first meet

As the final weekend of Navy Pier’s original Centennial Wheel approached, crowds gathered for one last ride before it was replaced. Among them were Dan, who loved Chicago’s history but had a fear of heights, and Mikhaela, whose love for the city was as bright as the skyline itself. Reaching 150 feet above the ground, the city's lights sparkled like stars and the streets buzzed with energy. That night, something small flickered into existence between them—a spark that, unbeknownst to Dan and Mikhaela, would grow into the beginning of their future.

On April 16, Dan and Mikhaela went on their "first official date" (it's a debate on when their first date was). The couple met at one of Mikhaela's favorite spots: The Boiler Room in Logan Square. Their conversation flowed easily, punctuated by shared laughter and exchanged looks. As the night went on, they lingered over their empty plates, not quite ready to say goodbye.

And Then There Were Four...

Basie and Pepper, as Dan and Mikhaela affectionately named them, quickly became beloved members of their cozy apartment. Basie, with his mischievous streak and endless energy, often found ways to get into trouble, whether it was knocking things off the counter or getting into places he shouldn't be. Pepper, on the other hand, was the complete opposite—calm, gentle, and always ready to curl up in Mikhaela’s lap for a nap or nuzzle up to Dan for attention. From their first moments together, these two furry companions quickly became irreplaceable parts of Dan and Mikhaela’s life.

Dan proposed to Mikhaela at the Botanic Garden during their Lightscapes event. To be honest, Mikhaela knew it was coming— Dan’s not exactly great at keeping surprises. Dan led Mikhaela to Sansho-en (the Garden of Three Islands), his favorite spot. They found a quiet, secluded spot, and Dan, with his heart full of love and excitement, knelt down on one knee. In that moment, everything else faded away.