This past fall was full of surprises. It all started with a casual breakfast date Lance had planned with Caroline. She was under the impression that Lance was leaving immediately after breakfast to attend a wedding in Ohio for the weekend. Off he went, keeping her “updated” as he made his way to Ohio… or at least that’s what Caroline thought! Margaret, Caroline's sister, kept her busy for the entire day, making sure she had no idea what was happening back at home, where preparations for a special surprise celebration were underway.

Later that same day, Caroline was invited to Pickerel Lake for what she thought was a simple hike with her siblings. As she stepped onto the boardwalk, surrounded by dazzling fall colors, Caroline eyed a handsome man waiting at the end of the dock… Lance, waiting with everything perfectly staged for a moment she’d never forget.  And there in the brisk fall sunshine, Lance posed that emotional question on one knee, and she said “YES!” with great joy.