Date: December 2oth, 2025

Location: Mission Inn, Riverside, California

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We all have baggage. It’s a matter of fact. No one is perfect. One way I knew early on that she was my person was her response to something very painful that I told her.

Let me set the scene. It was around Christmas time. 5 days before Christmas to be exact. I wanted to take her to Mission Inn to walk around to see the Christmas lights together. Before picking her up, I had decided that I wanted to tell her something personal, that till this day, is very painful to talk about. I don’t know what came over me, other than I felt at peace with wanting to tell her. She was the only person I ever told and so while I was nervous, I felt a sense of peace while I mentioned it. Her response was so kind and loving. I reminisce on that paint night and find it to be similar in style. With her, I just felt a sense of peace. Yes, I was nervous but at the same time I was calm.

Anyway, after I picked her up, we went to Mission Inn together. It was a wonderful night. The Christmas light paired with this beautiful girl made it a night to remember. The day was extra special because she also made me a beautiful crocheted Coptic cross.

Till this day, I can’t escape that feeling of peace and comfort she gave me that night.