The Proposal

December 2006. As usual, Edward and Ineke spend Christmas in Germany, among Ineke's family in Geesthacht. It is Christmas Eve, sometime in the afternoon. Edward, Ineke, and Ineke's parents are busy preparing the dinner. Ineke and her mom keep "the guys" busy in the kitchen. Edward takes Ineke's dad aside and tells him about certain intentions of his, which at first surprise Ineke's dad a bit. He recovers relatively quickly though.

Later in the evening. After dinner, while exchanging presents, Edward hands Ineke an oval wooden box, decorated with a big red bow. Ineke will state lateron how she found it weird that her dad started to take pictures like crazy at this moment.

As Ineke lifts the box's lid, she sees: sand, sea shells, and a selfmade card on top. The card shows a beach, palms, sunset, and reads as follows:

Aloha...
(& Mele Kalikimaka!) *

One, All Expenses Paid Round TripVacation For Two, To The Hawaiian Island Of Your Choice!

With NO Strings Attached!

(...well, ONE string attached...)

[*hawaiian for "Merry Christmas"]

A thin red ribbon is attached to the card, and disappears in the sand. As Ineke gives the string a careful tug, a box appears, approximately 1.5' x 1.5' x 1.5'. Ineke recognizes the typical shape of the box, and tears of joy start to run down her cheeks.

Edward clears his throat, and declaims:

"We went through a lot in the last five years, and I want more. I am very, very happy with you. Do you want to marry me?"

Ineke, not the only one crying at this moment, sobs "Ye-hes!"

In February 2006, Edward and Ineke celebrate their engagement on Oahu, Hawaii.

Edward and Ineke are looking forward to their wedding among family and friends on October 28, 2006.

All pictures of "The Proposal" in my Flickr photo album.