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5.09.2009

The Ring


The Ring, originally uploaded by jonnyups.

So here's the story, for all you ladies out there.

A while ago, in anticipation of my surgery, I asked Leslie if I could take her on a date May 8th, because it would be our last free night before I go under the knife. She kept telling me "no" because she was planning a date night for us. I will be honest, I was kinda bummed. I had planned on popping the question before surgery, and now I had no chance of doing it.

Moving on to what happened tonight, May 8th, 2009.

The "date night" she was planning was actually a benefit/silent auction in my honor to assist me in medical bills. Thanks to my insurance, I have saved (in the last few months) around $40,000! Unfortunately, insurance companies aren't fond of paying money and they have put a very small portion of that on me. Small to them is big to me, so I was left with some financial woes. She surprises me with this party, so much so that I was actually SPEECHLESS for the first time in my life. It was amazing. So many friends and family. Probably around 80 people. Quite the showing. As I walked in the door, I notice jars of cash, some checks, and even a dime sitting on a table. Extreme, unselfish generosity. There was a silent auction with hand-made jewelry, photography, music lessons, gift baskets, audio books, you name it. ALL DONATED from my amazing friends! The silent auction was a hit (I wanted to bid on these things, but that would have been counterproductive to the cause of the party). All of this even coincided with my birthday coming up this Thursday.

So me, not being able to have a date night, found myself not wanting to be "out-surprised" by my girlfriend. So in true JonnyUps fashion, I planned on taking over her date, and popping the question. Only now it would be in front of all my best friends and family. I get on the microphone and start thanking people and telling them how important it was to me. Surprisingly, the crowd started making proposal jokes, and causing a stir. So I say some nice things about Leslie (obligatory of course! ha!) and then say, "Well, you're all expecting it anyways..." and I pull out the ring. A hush ran through the room, and then the loudest cheering I've heard since I was famous in Japan (I kiddddd). Leslie finally realized I wasn't joking and was soooo surprised! She of course said yes!

Moral of the story: Do not underestimate my sneakiness.

Total Raised: A LOT. ENOUGH. Enough for me to feel blessed beyond belief.

You, my friends, have changed my life. I am so blessed. Thank you! And Leslie, thank you for saying yes.

15 comments:

Corrigan Vaughan said...

AHHHH! Awesome!!! I'm SO FREAKING HAPPY FOR YOU!! :oD :oD :oD

Way to go balls out and propose in front of a crowd.

Anonymous said...

What an incredible story, or should I say, incredible life, yours, so sweet. I'm so happy for you and look forward to following this next very happy and blessed chapter in your life. Congratulations from Down Under!

Love D.
x

Kristine said...

I'M SOOOOOO EXCITED FOR YOU GUYS! What an incredible, incredible story! Praying for you today, Jups and wishing you two the best preparations for a happy life together :)

Jeff & Christy said...

Yeah Jon!! What an amazing story...congrats friend!!! Jeff and I are very happy for you!

Lee said...

I am SO HAPPY for you both. Jon you are like another son to me. I miss seeing you around. Many blessings to you and Leslie. Hope to meet her someday.

miss kerry said...

YAY!!!! Oh Skeeto, I am so THRILLED for you! I'll also be prayin' for ya pal. Big hug, and please keep us posted.

Meggan Lambesis said...

Damn! We left too soon!!! I'm so happy for you---congrats!! I hope someone got it on tape.

ren said...

congratulations jonny :) i'm very happy for you! that sounds like a truly joyful event, wish i could have been there :)

SidebySide Video said...

i'm so glad you told us to stay!!! that was so awesome. we're so happy that this worked out for you and now you'll be able to save money for your new life ahead with your [future] wife!!!

SidebySide Video said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Gary said...

Congrats to you and Leslie, Jon. Sharon and I wish you both our best.

Gary Z.

Mathew (with one T) said...

Congrats sit!

Mathew (with one T) said...

Er... That was supposed to say "sir"...

San Diego wedding and portrait photographer Beki Dawn said...

I'm still pissed at you for not giving me and Scott the heads up on what was going on, but so happy for you!

pandax2006 said...

Jonny!!! How wonderful. I wish you and Leslie the best in your future. Sounds like a really sweet and thoughtful lady.