I wanted to propose to Ilona somewhere outside and very "Washington D.C." I decided to take her for a walk around the Tidal Basin during the cherry blossom bloom. The cherry blossoms are a very historic and important part of spring in Washington.

We walked around the tidal basin to a spot where the blossoms were in full bloom. She had no idea what I had up my sleeve, or should I say in my jacket pocket.

I chose a spot on the far side from the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument. We sat on a marble bench for a minute or two before I kneeled. Time just about stood still for a moment as I noticed people stop in their tracks to watch me. She said yes of course, and that is why you all will be gathering with us the first of June, 2003 for our wedding.