A few people wanted some more details of the big night.
Jane and I have been talking for a while that this would be the big night, and I knew she was going to say yes (since we we already planning our Vegas wedding), so I figured I had to make some kind of surprise for the evening.
Before our big date, I took the ring up to Dave & Busters and talked to the manager, and we got John, the shift leader at the game counter to help us. He held on to the ring for me until the appointed time. Jane and I had a lovely dinner at On the Border (cheese enchiladas FTW!), and went to D&B, and proceeded to play lots of lame games. We won a bunch of tickets and finally went up to see John. I think I bungled it a bit, because it was clear Jane suspected something. I gave the tickets and said something lame like “What can I get for these tickets???”, and John said, “I think we have something really nice”, and BAM he pulls out the ring. In the plans in my head, I had planned on taking the ring, and going to the traditional one-kneed pose, but in reality, I took the ring, looked into Jane’s eyes and stammered something lame, followed by “will you marry me?”. She said yes, and put the ring on. Yay! First part of the “surprise” was now complete. On to phase two…
Rachel had helped me get some folks together for a surprise engagement party. So, Jane and I were getting a drink at the bar, and in walks this big group of our friends, and all she can see is Dave. And she was all “Did you tell Dave and Rachel to come??”, not yet realizing the full extent of the surprise. When everyone finally gathered around, she turned a bit red and was a little overwhelmed (momentarily). Then, the hugs started (well, no one hugged Nik, but I think he was okay with that). Drinks were consumed, games were played, Pumpkin Bread was gifted, a good time was had by all. Except Rachel, who in spite of being on her deathbed, still came out for the joyous occasion. Thank you so much Rachel with your help in pulling this off, and coming even though you felt like crap. And thanks to everyone else!!!
And they lived happily every after.