Oh Happy Day!!!!!!

Does that give it away?

Woohooo!!!!! Jon asked me to marry him yesterday and I said yes!!!!

Here's how it went down - Yesterday, Jon and I (and, of course, Ole and Lucky) went on a hike to one of our favorite spots in the foothills of the Sandias - on top of the first hills at the top of Menaul. We climbed a steep hill and got to the top of the hill. When we were up there, Jon asked me, "What time is it in Kenya?" and I said, "3:45 am - it's probably not a good time to call. Maybe you could call on the weekend." So we talked a little bit about calling them and what they might ask him etc. Then we climbed on top of some boulders that gave us an excellent view of the setting sun over the city. I was helping Ole get down a large step, and when I turned around, Jon was on one knee with a ring in his hand.

He said, "Just kidding, I already called them. Shaila, I love you. Will you marry me?" And I didn't say much of anything for a minute! I was so excited that I just hugged him and kissed him and shook and cried, and then I finally said yes, and he put this beautiful ring on my left ring finger. I hope I remember that moment FOREVER!

How handy that Jon's watch was facing up! 6:55pm on September 23! I was totally not expecting it, since it seemed like he hadn't even called them yet. In fact, he had called them the day before, and had received their blessings to ask me. I was really glad I had my camera!

The warm glow from the setting sun, and the dogs, and the big granite boulders, and the surprise, and the most amazing man in the world. It was perfect!

I am still this happy now!

Here are the puppy dogs, who look equally excited :)

The sun setting over Albuquerque, as I called Jon's dad.
We called my parents too as soon as it wasn't 3:45 in the morning!

For those of you who like rings as much as I do (now!), here are some additional pictures. I love it - it is so beautiful, and so ME. Way to go, Jon, for picking out such a great ring!

I am so excited to be marrying my "favorite parts guy", my best friend, my Jon, in less than a year. All I can say is Praise God! (And I hope I can sleep tonight!)