I stumbled upon this recording the other day of my friend Roman helping me learn my marriage proposal speech in 2006.

I surprised my wife by proposing on a trip to her home in Uzbekistan in front of her parents, who are native Russian speakers. Before going, I had Roman (originally from Moscow) help me translate and learn to pronounce in Russian a little speech I had prepared for the proposal.

Translation:

Excuse me - I have something to announce.

I love your daughter very much. She is the most beautiful, smartest, and lovely girl. We have been dating for 2 years, and I can’t imagine my life without Jamila. I ask for her hand in marriage, and for your blessing.

Jamila, please be my wife.