Tracey had always imagined her dream proposal. She envisioned a romantic getaway for the two of them in the mountains. They would be cuddling by the fire in a small cabin, while snow fell outside the window. However, Zack had his own proposal plan in mind.

With the most historical and exciting campaign for the U.S. presidency in progress, Zack just knew his “first lady” would love to canvas for the first time with him in Asheville, NC. Little did he know, Tracey had planned on a lot more than canvasing to happen while in the mountains. As Tracey prepared for her “canvassing trip,” she hoped this would be the moment Zack proposed.

After a full day of actually canvassing, Tracey knew it was time for them to head to their cozy getaway for the "big event." Unfortunately, her dream began to fade as she realized Zack was on I-85 headed back to Durham. She could not believe they traveled all the way to Asheville and that she’d be returning without a ring on her finger. Although Zack knew exactly what Tracey was thinking and could see the disappointment all over her face, he remained cool and calm because he would not do things as she had planned

They returned to Durham and had a normal Saturday night, followed by their usual Sunday routine. On Sunday afternoons, Tracey and Zack usually study together at Duke Gardens. Since Tracey had given up on the proposal for that weekend, she collected her books and headed to Duke Gardens.

After a  few hours of studying, they began to pack up and Tracey noticed Zack was extremely fidgety. With obvious nervousness, he began to profess  his love for her , how she completed him, and how he needed her to always be in his life. While Tracey finished packing, Zack took a very long deep breath and got down on one knee. He then said, “I have to ask you a question...will you spend the rest of your life with me?” Tracey said yes and shared the good news with all of her family and friends.