So, here it goes: I have my heart set on proposing to my partner; we will have been together 7 months at the time that I pop the question.
I want to make it very clear that I'm not doing this as a desperate, manipulative move, I'm not doing this as the naggy, impatient girlfriend. In many ways, we prefer our relationship to break from more traditional gender roles.
I have hinted to him (none too subtly) that I might have it in my head to propose to him, and I am 99% certain he would be just as head-over-heels delighted as I would be to be proposed to. He's not the type of guy who would feel like I "stole his thunder" or any such nonsense. He loves being doted on and pampered just as much as I do, maybe even more. We've discussed the future of our relationship, even our thoughts on raising kids, etc. But I digress...
My current Plan A idea for proposing is as such: Right now I am in Germany for a 2-month long program, and he's picking me up from the airport when I return. It's bound to be a very emotional and romantic moment, as this will be the longest time we've ever spent apart! I want to get down on one knee right there, next to my suitcases and everything, making use of the occasion to turn it into a big, exciting surprise.
Here's my question: Should I trust my instincts and make a big public statement like this? Or do you think this will be maybe a bit too public and overwhelming? I think it would be a very romantic moment, but there's also the possibility that he would prefer this to happen when we can be in private.