Friday July 14, 2023
Milbrook Winery, WA
702 days 22 hrs 10 mins ago
Story
April met Nathan on the deck of a Submarine. Neither realized it at the time just how important the other person would be in their lives. This fleeting moment was soon over, and out of their minds.
Some time later Nathan was doing research for a project at work, and stumbled across a picture on Instagram tagged for the Navy. It was Aprils, so Nathan reached out to talk.
Months went by as a friendship developed and before long Nathan worked up the courage to ask April out on a date. Their first date took place on Valentine’s Day. Nathan picked April up, got some McDonald’s, and parked at an ocean side lookout. The two sat in the back seat and put a Laptop in the front - watching a movie and enjoying the ‘drive in’ feel.
9 years later, they both remain devoted and loyal. As with all relationships there have been ups and downs, trials and tribulations. Struggles of both professional and private natures, sickness (and there has been a lot!) and health. But through it all, the good and the bad April has had Nathans back, and Nathan has had Aprils.
They now lovingly share a home and have populated it with 7 birds and a truck load of dorky and nerdy things. But most importantly, it is filled with love.
Thank you all for making our lives that much richer, we cannot wait to share our wedding day with you all, and start this next step together.
Tidbits
How did you first meet?
We first met on the deck of a Submarine, but neither of us realized it at the time. It wasn't until a year later that our paths would cross again through chance.
Who made the first move? How?
We had become friends first for a few months, but as Valentines day got closer, Nathan asked April if she would would to spend the evening with him. What followed was a romantic dinner of drive thru McDonalds.
Who's going to take out the trash?
It's a 50/50. However Nathan maintains that April made a deal and holds the rights to the trash chore exclusively for the past 7 years, this is heavily disputed in the house and has resulted in multiple peace negotiations. The current prevailing outcome is 'too bad so sad, do the trash Nathan'.
What was your most memorable date?
On our second date, we went snorkeling. After returning to Nathans cabin on base to get dressed for dinner out, Nathan lost his car keys. We cancelled our plans for dinner and movies, and April spent the night watching on base Game of Thrones for the first time, falling in love with the show.
Many people lovingly suspect Nathan planned to lose his keys. Nathan has painful memories of paying the Locksmith $658 the next morning for a replacement car key, and vehemently denies this.
What's your favorite activity together?
Painting miniatures! Both April and Nathan have a profound love building, painting and collecting tabletop miniatures (mostly from the Warhammer brand) It was through this shared activity a few years ago, that April discovered her more artistically creative side, and now paints semi-professionally with work.
Where are you going for your honeymoon?
Road tripping around Australia 🇦🇺 You can expect copious 'Bird-on-shoulder' pictures at famous national monuments.
What's the best meal you have eaten together?
The first meal we ever had at Jaspers whiskey Bar in Pemberton. It was the first time either of us had eaten certain flavors and foods. Cementing this venue as the highlight of our little getaway down south. We both highly recommend it to anyone one in the area.
What's the most memorable trip you have taken together?
We have traveled around the country a few times in the past. The most memorable one included our two Weiros (Cockatiels) Alfie and Arty, we have fond memories of specific music, long roads and unusual road side attractions. April chasing possums in the middle of the night in Bundaberg. Nathan assuring Aunty Caroline and Uncle Shane there is enough space to get his car in, then immediately hitting the brick mailbox. Pulling up to the Parkes Dish to see the stars... only to find the international Elvis festival was in town... and we saw a number of unexpected Stars.
That trip is forever immortalized, as every single picture includes that big disgusting beard Nathan grew, and refused to cut.
We’re on the same page about
We both love to hate the same things. Its magical.
A life goal of ours
We both have the shared intention of eventually building our large dream-house in the country and moving out to live with our family in a relaxed and more self sustaining way.
The most spontaneous thing we’ve done
For absolutely no reason at all, we got in the car and just drove one day. We found a small country town and stopped for lunch. We both maintain to this day several years later it was the best steak and chips either of us have ever eaten, and all steak and chips are forever compared to that meal.
The dorkiest thing about us is
Nathan diligently keeps and maintains a number of spreadsheets that serve very little practical value in life. One tracks every DVD he owns, including total run time of all movies and shows (14 months, 12 days, 11 hours and 8 minutes - no breaks, no toilet, no sleep.. no life)
April grumbles and swears like a cartoon character on a kids show, lots of 'Fricka-frack' and 'Cheese-and-crackers'. She does this shamelessly in all social settings, despite the confused looks from those around her.
A social cause we care about
Both April and Nathan are quite passionate about the preservation and rehabilitation of native animal species. We have both regularly donated money and time to causes like; Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Centre and the Raptor Rehabilitation Association of WA.
April has been battling Crohns Disease for most of her adult life. The nature of the condition makes it hard to both diagnose and treat, with each case having unique and challenging symptoms and circumstances. We both feel very strongly about any organization or charity that works to help diagnose, treat or work towards finding a cure.
And finally, we live in a very blessed country, most of us grew up with food, shelter and every opportunity to live a comfortable modern life. Many children around the world do not have that luxury. We strongly believe that children should all grow up with the basic necessities to live, and the resources to seek a better life. We ask that you would all consider taking the time to look into sponsoring a child. A small amount of money on your end will go a long way to helping them live a better life.
Schedule
Registry
Your presence is enough of a present to us! But for those of you wish to gift. We've put together a wish-list to help you out.
Travel
Blue Wren Estate
13 mims away from Milbrook Winery
Yarrabah Holiday Retreat
14 mins away from Milbrook
Ballakup House
5 mins away from Milbrook Winery
The Esplanade Hotel- Freo
About 45 mins from Milbrook Winery
Our Favorite Restaurants
Things to do in Perth
Q & A
For all our friends and family who have lots of questions, please check out our Q & A first!
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