An Introduction

It all happened in a whirlwind; a chance encounter at a bar in New Orleans during a business trip developed into an international correspondence and friendship via email and text messages. A big step was taken and it was decided to meet in person on neutral ground in New York City in a similar fashion as An Affair to Remember. This particular update involving Trump Tower and a New York Yankees game instead of the Empire State Building.

The trip went well.

They hit it off and soon thereafter, the friendship matured into an honest to God relationship. It worked well. Two independent people had found each other. Unique work schedules ensured that visits would be limited in duration to preserve this notion of independence while not feeling the pressures of close proximity that often times plagues the traditional relationship. They felt comfortable enough to take the next step and visit each other on their "own turfs." Their respective friends and families were gradually introduced via a system of alternating here/there visits. They fit in well to each other's respective social networks and each family approved of the new stranger who had somehow become a part of each other's family functions.

So what next? How does one define this relationship? It was clear that these two independent people had become rather accustomed to each other and had developed a deep affection for one another. Perhaps it might be a good thing to be a little less independent after all? Your place or mine became the talk. The USA seemed like the best bet since the cost of living in the UK was expensive. His job was flexible in that regard. His work was offshore in the oil industry. When not on duty, he could reside where he chose. However, the United States Government happened to disagree with this particular ideology. Uncle Sam would welcome this individual as a full-time resident if and only if he was legitimately married to a citizen. In a twist of irony, a confirmed bachelor, not necessarily the religious type was faced with a decision. Marriage appeared to be the only way to be together on a permanent basis. He went "all in" by laying his cards on the table and he decided to propose.

And just like that, my sister in-law was getting married...