Courtesy of: The Morning News
By: Rosalie Klein
Life’s memorable moments have no better backdrop than Aruba’s scenic beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters, and Peter Panagakis, originally of New Hampshire, was well aware it was the prefect place to propose to the love of his life, Misia (pronounced Misha) Snyder.
The couple enjoyed a vacation with family here a couple of years ago; while planning this second sojourn, Peter began laying his plans for popping the question to Misia. The couple have been together for five years, after meeting at Boston University, where he was going his Masters Degree, and she was an undergraduate.
“The story of how we met is right out of a movie…” recalls Peter. “It was an unusual night for me, I was out at a club, something I didn’t usually do. I was just leaning against a wall when Misia’s BFF Neha approached me asking me to rescue her friend, who was dancing with someone she really didn’t want to, but was too nice to say no. I guess she figured I was more her type.”
Peter than broke up couple, pretending he was Misia’s boyfriend and thanking the unfortunate dance partner for “keeping his place warm.” Misia admits she was a bit torn between being grateful and “who is this nut?” The rest is history.
The couple now live in Misia’s home town of Los Angeles, considering the long journey to Aruba for this special moment shared with family and friends was “well worth it. Though I do admit it was pretty hard sleeping on the plane knowing the ring was in the overhead compartment,” adds Peter.
“I was going to propose during this lovely dinner at Simply Fish; the location couldn’t be more prefect, but I just couldn’t wait,” he confessed. He surprised Misia by asking her to look down the beach of Casa Del Mar, where their family has own timesharing for years, so he could take an artful photo. When she turned around to see if he got the shot, Misia found him on one knee with ring in hand.
Their elebratory dinner at Simply Fish, on the beach at the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, was a joyous affair. Restaurant Manager Raul saw to it there was plenty of champagne and a special cake. Peter’s mother, Effie, offered a tearful, emotional toast to the newly engaged couple, declaring how glad she was to be surrounded by her loved ones “on what is one of the happiest days of life.”
Since they met, Peter admits he has always had one burning question about their relationship. “I asked if the idea to have me rescue Misia was Neha’s, or if it was a collaborative effort; did Misia want to meet me? But she isn’t telling, she has left me to ponder this for five years. No matter. I have to be sure to thank Neha when we get home.”
