The story of how we met

Lindsay Di Tolla
Oct 23, 2018
3 min read

October is a special time in our household because it marks the anniversary of when Diego and I met. So this year we decided to take a trip down memory lane and show Draper where it all started for her mom and dad. Our 'how we met' story is one of my favourite stories of all time so I'm going to share it with all of you.

October 14th 2012

It was a cold brisk Sunday morning and I was H.U.N.G.O.V.E.R. to shit. My mom was running her first half marathon (Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon) and I couldn't miss watching her cross that finish line. So, I dragged myself out of bed and walked to the finish line with my dad to cheer her on. Now pay attention because here is where it gets a little confusing... My mom was running with her best friend, Kathryn Davis. Kathryn's son Scott is dating Patty. Patty was also running the marathon with her Dad (Gerry) and brother, Diego.

Are you still with me? Quick recap:

My mom, Kathryn Davis, Patty Di Tolla, Gerry Di Tolla and Diego Di Tolla were all running the race.
Me, my dad, Kathryn's husband (Glen Davis) and son (Scott Davis) and Patty's mom (Carmen Di Tolla) were the cheering squad.

The race finished and all three families (Carruthers, Davis and Di Tolla's) were together at the finish line. I remember meeting Diego vividly. He was sweaty and exhausted. I was greasy and tired from the night before. So yeah, we were not at the top of our games but that obviously didn't matter. Then all three families decided to go out for breakfast to celebrate.

Left Picture: Gerry, Carmen, Diego, Patty and Scott

Right Picture: Gerry, Patty and Diego

Picture: My mom smiling after completing her first half marathon.

Our first breakfast

While walking to Marche, Diego and I introduced ourselves to each other and got to talking. We had a lot in common - both lived in the city, enjoyed running and good food etc. I will admit I was intrigued by him. He was super cute and had a great personality.

Once we got to the restaurant there was magically only two seats left and they were next to each other. I think it's safe to say that was planned by our mothers ;)

After breakfast we said our goodbyes and I went home to sleep. I wasn't sure if I'd ever see Diego again but later that week I found out through the windmill that Diego had asked Scott for my number. We started texting and well I guess the rest is history. (I'll save our first date story for another time because it's also a good one!)

Life is too short not to celebrate special moments

Over the years we have always made an effort to celebrate that special day we met. Whether it be a simple brunch, running the Scotiabank half marathon together or being their to cheer on a family member as they cross that finish line. Running has been a big part of Diego and my story and I can only hope that we continue running together. We have slacked a little since having our baby but I'm confident we will get back there.

Left Picture: Patty, Scott, me and Diego at the finish line after Patty ran the half marathon.

Right Picture: Diego and I running the half marathon. This was my 3rd half marathon.

6 years and still going strong

Six years later Diego and I travelled together, moved into our first condo, got married, bought a house, changed careers and had our baby girl Draper (our biggest accomplishment).

This year, my father in law ran the half marathon and achieved his personal best time of 2.01hrs. Pretty amazing for a 61 year old! We then celebrated as a family over brunch and then showed Draper where it all began. While she's too young to understand, it was an extra special day for us. To be honest it was a bit surreal being back there with OUR daughter. I still get butterflies when thinking about it. I wonder where we will be next year?