Life has a mysterious way of bringing people together, and in the early months of 2022, I had the extraordinary privilege of meeting Laurence—the love of my life. Our love story unfolded in a way that felt like destiny, beginning with a first date that was nothing short of magical. From the moment we clinked our glasses filled with Guinness and baby Guinness shots, I knew that something extraordinary was in the making. Laurence, a kind-hearted, empathetic soul hailing from a loving and hardworking family, had been in my periphery for years. Our parents lived on the same street, and Laurence was friends with my brother, yet our paths had never crossed. Little did I know that the universe had a beautiful plan in store for us.
Our first date was a revelation, marked by shared laughter and an undeniable connection that made it feel like love at first sight. As we reminisce about that memorable evening, where we even attempted a tipsy walk home, the warmth of our bond envelops us. Since that fateful first date, we’ve been inseparable. There have been only two days when we didn’t see each other, and we’ve talked every single day. In Laurence, I found not only a partner but also two precious souls—his children from a previous marriage—whom I have come to adore as my own.
Our days together are a tapestry of adventures and activities, from bowling and ice-skating to cozy movie nights and hot tub parties at Laurence’s parents’ house. Our weekends away to a tranquil cabin in Torr-head, near Ballycastle, are filled with shared laughter and unforgettable moments. And then came that unforgettable Father’s Day in 2022 when Laurence proposed to me at one of my favorite beaches—a proposal that holds the grains of sand within the ring box as a testament to our love.
My engagement ring, a dazzling testament to Laurence’s love, left me in awe. But it wasn’t just the ring that took my breath away—it was the genuine love, care, and respect that Laurence showers upon me every single day. He has an innate ability to make me feel special, and in his company, I’ve discovered an unwavering source of strength and support.
Shortly after our engagement, we embarked on a new journey: finding our first home together. It was August of the same year, and it felt like a precious gift, especially after the loss of my beloved mother just the month before. Laurence’s remarkable skills and unwavering dedication allowed us to transform our house into a home, often pulling all-nighters, like the time we laid the herringbone floor. In the midst of grief, our home became a sanctuary, a place where we could heal and build our dreams together.
As we lovingly decorated our home, the universe had another surprise in store for us—we were expecting our first child. It was a cherished desire, one that had been nurtured in conversations with my mother on her deathbed, and I knew I had her blessing. The moment I took the pregnancy test, I felt a surge of overwhelming joy and sadness. I knew I was pregnant before the test confirmed it. As I lay on my mother’s side of the bed, staring at the positive result through tears, the conflicting emotions of boundless happiness and the weight of grief washed over me.
Before we embarked on this journey, we sought the approval of Laurence’s children, and their excitement at the prospect of a new sibling filled our hearts with joy. As a family that believes in magic and imagination, we talked about fairies often, and I shared with the kids that I would speak to the baby fairy to make our dream come true. To surprise Laurence with the news, I took a day off and spent hours inflating balloons and creating a surprise setup. When he returned home from work that day, we shared tears of joy, and our smiles felt permanent fixtures on our faces.
Throughout my pregnancy, Laurence continued to be the caring and nurturing partner he had always been. He pampered me with love, ensuring I had delicious meals and comforting foot massages. Our relationship had its share of challenges, most notably the profound loss of my mother, but we faced them together. We cried together, laughed together, and planned for our future together. Our love was unshaken by life’s adversities, and I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that Laurence was the man I wanted to spend the rest of my life with.
Our arguments, as all couples have, revolve around trivial matters like taking out the trash or maintaining the cleanliness of our home. But these minor disagreements are a testament to our deep connection—they don’t shake the strong foundation of our love. Laurence’s relationship with my father is another source of joy and comfort for me, and I am grateful for the bond they share.
Our journey together has moved at super-sonic speed, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. We followed our own pace, and it speaks volumes that there is no doubt in either of our minds that we are meant to be together. Laurence came into my life during a crucial period, and his unwavering support during my grief is something I will forever cherish. As we embark on the exciting journey of wedding planning and look forward to the next chapters of our life together, one thing remains clear: Laurence is the love of my life, my rock, and my forever partner. I love you – my best mate. Love, NG. xx
