Fairmount Park Engagement – Kat + Ryan

Ryan and I met 12 years ago back in college. We were both attending Community College of Philadelphia- I was nursing major while he’s studying engineering. I used to work at the school’s office and would always see Ryan pass by on the way to his class. I always thought he was cute but totally didn’t consider the idea of dating him as I thought good-looking guys won’t be attracted to a big nerd like me. Besides, I was involved in a long-distance relationship with someone during that time.

Ryan and I were introduced as we both were members of the Filipino club in CCP. Ryan, always the nice guy that he is, would offer me and my cousins a ride home and would hang out in my house before he leaves for work. He would stay ’till wee hours of the morning playing Dance Dance Revolution and hanging out with me. At that point, I still saw him as a friend and nothing more. Eventually, he courted me (couple of times) but I chose not to entertain him since I was in a relationship during that time. I didn’t know he had a hidden agenda lol! As I get to spend a lot of time with Ryan, I get to know the super sweet, nice guy that hides in that bad-boy image.

Fast forward 12 years later, we’ve been through many ups and downs but I can confidently say that our relationship is stronger than ever! After all these years, he still never fails to make me “kilig”, he still manages to sweep me off my feet everytime. So grateful to have someone as loving, caring, sweet, and thoughtful as Ryan! It’s a blessing when you find that one person that not only is your best friend, but is also someone you can’t get enough of! – Kat

Like what Kat mentioned above, we met in CCP 12 years ago and it’s true that I always pass by her work at the school’s office. Little she knows that it was intentional. I always go out my way just to make sure I can pass by that location just to maybe catch a glimpse of her and try to scout her out. Our first formal conversation was when we had the Filipino Club Christmas party in school. She was an officer for the club so it’s her job to interact with the members. I always knew she was beautiful; it’s just that she doesn’t show it since she tends to under-dress most of the time. I figured since she’s very smart and focused on her studies that the last thing she’s concerned about is fixing herself every day.

As mentioned above, we became friends. I was a working student at that time but I make it a point to drop her and her cousins/friends home before I head out to work. On weekends we’ll hangout and play DDR until the wee hours in the morning. It became so usual that I find myself in her house almost every day. Her dad even said that “Ligaw Intsik” is what I’m doing. I knew she was in a relationship so I tried to take it slow. There were also other guys who are courting her as well. Sometimes it was really hard to talk to her on the phone since she’s talking to her “other” suitors. But, I knew that I should be strong and patient that if she is for me, then it’ll happen eventually. I knew that if it’s the will of God then it’ll be done. So my patience was tested and I was rejected 3 times but every time I just pursued her. I told her I’ll wait until the day she realizes that I’m for real and I’m not playing around. Until one day, I told her that I do love her really and she replied that she feels the same way. Those were the best words I’ve ever heard in my life.  We had our first kiss on October 6, 2002 and we became official February 6, 2003. It was the best birthday gift.

After 12 years, I’m really glad she’s still with me. I’m not perfect but I do my best to be the best boyfriend/fiancé for her. She’s also did the same thing. Every time she just keeps improving and its always amazing all these things she does that just can leave me speechless. I’m very lucky to have her in my life. She’s the complete package. Can’t ask for anybody else! – Ryan