Nick and I have, for a long time, supported the idea of local shopping, homegrown and healthy cooking, homemade projects and thrifty spending.

We've dedicated a little extra in our budget toward the consistent purchase of cage free eggs and chicken. Beef is next, though it is a bigger expenditure and harder to find. We support local farms when available.

So it makes perfect sense that Nick's proposal to me on Wednesday night was with a ring from Sharbuno Jewelers of Port Washington and a conflict-free diamond from BrilliantEarth.com.

The message between the lines on this one is: I got engaged!!

Nick tricked me through two dates: a Valentine's Day come and gone with no sparkly thing on my finger, and an 11-year dating anniversary date on Tuesday with not even the hint of a ring.

On Wednesday, bundled in as much winter clothes as I could think about going for a run in after Nick convinced me the ice wasn't dangerous and it wasn't that cold — Nick bent down to "tie his shoe" and came back up with a marriage proposal. We will cherish the wooden bridge along the Ozaukee Interurban Trail a little more now.

Thank you, Sharbuno, for the beautiful jewelry I now finally wear. Though we will likely not get married in Port, I look forward to incorporating local flavors into the upcoming ceremony.

What's your engagement or wedding story?

Tell us in the comments.