It was Oklahoma City, fall 2021. The leaves were just beginning to change color on the stubby city trees. On an unassuming Saturday in early October, Blake was scrolling through Hinge profiles and paused on Lisa's. A picture catches his eye and he comments "This is attractive." A few hours later Lisa sees the message and responds. What prompted Lisa to engage in conversation? This stranger happened to comment on her favorite picture (which did not usually get its due attention), it was not a vulgar statement (which did often happen), he appeared to be an SEC fan (and therefore must love football), and he appeared to be close with his family (which speaks for itself). He was also very cute, although a little taller than necessary. So Lisa responded "Haha thanks. What do you do?

At that time, Blake was a machinist at a fabrication shop; he was not super proud of that job title. Meanwhile, Lisa had recently listened to a podcast that suggested looking for men in blue collar lines of work. So Lisa's interest was further piqued at his response, outlining his profession.

The conversation progressed as they discussed a mutual hatred of Alabama, relating to loving teams in long win droughts, the importance of family, enjoyment of the great outdoors, and understanding seasonal depression. Four days after the online meet-cute, Blake asked for Lisa's number.

Lisa tried to shake him off a couple of times, especially after she invited him to go to the OKC Energy soccer game and he agreed, then backed out. Finally, they met up after work in a park on October 25th, the 7th birthday of Lisa's dog, Ronin, who was present at the introduction. The conversation flowed and there was a sense of ease between the two. They undoubtedly liked each other. Blake asked Lisa out on a proper date the next weekend. Lisa suggested Chicken and Pickle, but Blake said that wasn't really his scene. They went anyway. That date led to more, they kept dating and haven't stopped since.

On his 32nd birthday, roused by a purposefully selected soundtrack, Blake drove to the jeweler. With a wave of relief, he picked up the custom ring, which was finished just in the nick of time. The next day he called Lisa's dad to ask for her parent's blessing. Two days later, on the coast in an Alaskan fishing town, he proposed to Lisa, and she said yes!