Ben and I 'met' on JDate in June of 2003. I glanced at his photo. And then he emiled me...pretty much immediately. After some witty banter over email and the phone we had our first date. We physically met in Union Square park and went for milkshakes at Java and Jazz. Conversation was going so well and Ben looked so good in his trademark Tilley hat that we went out for dinner, a walk around Soho and eventually another date.
Wading for the right moment
After a few weeks of getting to know each other we felt that our relationship was really intense, maybe, too intense. We went our separate ways, but always found ways to see each other and stay friends. We went to the opera. We met up for an occasional dinner. I also went over his place for a fabulous SocialEats dinner. When the meal was over and everyone was leaving, I 'accidentally' left my hat behind. I wanted to see Ben alone for just a few minutes, and get my hat, of course. I did, and being with him, and enjoying his home cooking, made me remember his warmth, caring, and genuine kindness. I wanted to see him as often as I could.
Off the deep end
In my third year of law school, I went to Florida for spring break. I've never really been a wild and crazy spring break kind of person, but I wanted this spring break to be truly memorable. I was staying in Ft. Lauderdale with my college roommate (also named Ilana) and her boyfriend (now husband, Shmulek). Ben happened to be in Florida, but in Sarasota for business. He says he drove the 4 hour drive to the East coast to look for business opportunities, but I think he had other motivations. He joined us for dinner at a place where people eat great food, dance on the tables and throw napkins like confetti. Afterwards, we went back to Ilana and Shmulek's place. Ben and I thought it would be a good idea to go for a swim- at night, in our clothes, in 60 degree weather. So, we did. We swam together until we were shaking from the chill. It was exhilarating! We have been together since and shared many more adventures. <
Taking the plunge
We are so happy and excited about our upcoming wedding and sharing our this joyous time with friends and family. We are truly looking forward to making more wonderful memories with you all!