But am very happy about the graceful, elegant ring that now adorns one of them.

It's pretty strange to think that I started coming here (or rather to wotmania) when I was just twelve years old, and now I'm engaged! In the time between, I have met at least a couple dozen Rafonauts, traveled to Europe because of them, dated one for three and a half years, grown and matured into a just-about adult.

I now live 2100 miles away from my sprouting ground, have two amazing dogs, and yesterday my fiance and I received the keys to our very first house.

It's strange to think how these separate lives and friendships influence each other. Sometimes I'll go on hiatus here for months at a time, and return unsure about how I fit in - but all the while, the things that I'm trying and doing are possible largely because of my RAFO-related experiences. Legolas in particular taught me how to be a better, more understanding and mature person. And if I think way back to 13-year-old Clover, who relied on wotmania for a sense of family, I know she'd want there to be an announcement here.

So, here's to you, RAFOwotmania! I wouldn't be where I am without you.