Here's another project with the Scenic Route Kit I got to work on as an AMM DT member.

Journaling Reads:
December 6, 2001 was a special day for me before it began. I had been preparing for an interview that promised to change my life. In the months before, I had decided to walk away from my Wall Street job and do something more purposeful with my life.

I applied to Teach For America and got as far as the interview process and my interview was scheduled for December 6. I still remember every detail of that day clearly. It was exceptionally hot for December in New York City. My interview went smoothly and I was feeling exhausted but hopeful on my walk home.

Large Christmas ornaments decorated Madison Avenue and I was so much in the spirit by the time I came home that I told Jake we should go see the Rockefeller Center tree that night. The tree has always been a favorite of mine but that year was even more special than usual. Due to the terrible events of September 11, just a few months before, the city had decided to decorate the tree with only red, white, and blue lights.

To my surprise, Jake agreed to take the trip. He even said he wanted to see a particular view that we’d seen on TV. He’s not the romantic type, so it did strike me as a bit odd but I was too tired to think. When I woke up from my nap, I asked him if we could go to the bookstore instead but he insisted that we go see the tree. On the way out, he put on his jacket and I reminded him that it was actually quite warm outside, but he wouldn’t leave it at home. Another hint that should have made me realize something was going on, and yet I had no idea.

As we walked around the tree, to the angels, I stepped up on one of the benches and leaned over just to show Jake the view he’d claimed he wanted to see. I turned around to make sure he was following me, and then I saw that he was on one knee with a beautiful blue box in front of him. It took me a few seconds to realize what was happening and I instinctively kneeled to his level.

He asked, "Will you marry me?"

I just leaned over and kissed him as a bunch of strangers cheered and shouted their congratulations.

I’d always told Jake that I wanted his proposal to be extra romantic. It had to be a good story to tell our kids. But after seven years, I had totally given up and figured we’d end up at City Hall.

It turns out I was wrong. He still managed to completely knock me off my feet.

The very next morning I found out that I made Vice President at my job. A few days later I got accepted to Teach For America. It was one of the best weeks of my life. Needless to say, I will forever cherish the memories of December 6, 2001 and never again underestimate Jake.