We're getting married!

Back when Ali was still living full-time in Aspen, Mike had become friends with Ali's brother-in-law, Garrett, while working together in Denver. Mike quickly became friends of Caitlin, Jim, and Julie before ever meeting Ali. Garrett and Julie tried to casually and informally set Mike and Ali up to no avail. But, when Garrett and Caitlin decided to elope in Aspen, it seemed to be an opportunity no one could pass up. Ali planned Caitlin and Garrett's elopement ceremony in Aspen at Hallam Lake, the nature preserve where she worked. When Ali and Mike finally met & spent time together after the wedding, the sparks flew instantly. Ali showed Mike around the lake and gestured to the beaver lodge across the water. When Mike referred to beavers as "nature's architects," Ali knew she had found "the one."

Fly fishing is one of Ali and Mike's favorite activities together. After weeks of secret planning, Ali, Mike, Caitlin, and Garrett went on a day trip to Cheeseman Canyon (near Denver). We found a beautiful spot by the river and Ali started to rig up her fly line. Mike, holding a fly box in one hand, walked up to Ali and asked, "Which fly should I use today?" Mike got down on one knee and revealed a ring inside the fly box. Caitlin and Garrett ran around and took pictures; everyone cried. Caitlin brought champagne and charcuterie. When we got home to Denver, Ali was surprised to find Nancy, Mike's mom, staying with her parents. She had flown into town from Michigan for the surprise!