Key Takeaways
- The author met her future husband, Jarod, while hiking the Inca trail in 2011
- Despite being in a long-distance relationship for 18 months, they maintained a strong connection through regular messaging and Skype calls
- The couple got married in 2014 in Singapore and have since had many adventures together
- Jarod has been a constant source of support and comfort for the author, especially during difficult times
- The author reflects on the importance of cherishing everyday moments with loved ones, rather than just focusing on grand adventures
Introduction to a Life-Changing Encounter
In 2011, the author found herself with a three-month gap between her return from abroad and the start of a new teaching contract in the Middle East. She decided to use this time to hike the Inca trail, a decision that would change her life forever. It was on this trip that she met Jarod, a tall and handsome Australian with a charming smile. As they spent more time together, the author’s attraction to Jarod grew, and it didn’t take long for them to share their first kiss.
A Whirlwind Romance
As the author and Jarod continued on their journey, they found themselves lost in conversation and laughter. One memorable moment was when they sat together in a cafe in Cusco, the capital of the Incan empire, and the author was so distracted by her feelings that she couldn’t even read the guidebook in front of her. The romance blossomed, and they shared many special moments together, including a magical moment under a lavender-coloured umbrella as someone played "Close to You" on a saxophone in the background. This moment was a turning point for the author, and she knew that she had found something special.
Overcoming Distance and Time
Despite the strong connection between them, Jarod and the author were soon separated by distance and time. Jarod had plans to continue traveling, and the author had to return home for Christmas and then start her new job in the Middle East. They didn’t see each other for seven months, but they maintained their connection through regular messaging and Skype calls. The author was initially unsure if their relationship would last, but as time went on, she realized that their connection was special and worth fighting for.
A Love that Lasts
As the months turned into years, Jarod and the author’s relationship continued to grow. They reunited in Kenya, attended the author’s father’s wedding, and eventually settled in Singapore, where they spent two and a half years together. It was during this time that Jarod proposed, and they got married in a small ceremony in the Singapore Botanic Gardens in 2014. The author reflects on the many adventures they had together, but also on the everyday moments that make their relationship special. She notes that it’s the days without pictures, the laughter, and the support that really count.
A Rock of Support
The author has faced many challenges in recent years, including health problems and a complicated life. However, throughout it all, Jarod has been her rock, providing comfort and support whenever she needs it. The author is grateful for the love and companionship they share and acknowledges that the magical feeling she experienced under the umbrella in Peru has never left her. She realizes that the pain and difficulties they have faced have been balanced out by the joy that Jarod brings to her life.
A Life Built Together
Today, the author and Jarod have a lovely home, a cute dog named Bertie, and a little black-and-white cat named Minnie. They still bicker and love to travel, but most importantly, they have each other. The author’s story is a testament to the power of love and connection, and a reminder to cherish the everyday moments with loved ones. As the author looks back on her journey, she is grateful for the chance encounter that changed her life and brought her and Jarod together.