In July 2017, both Casey and Aneke were on medical leave from work. Casey was recovering from a broken collarbone after a losing battle between his motorcycle and the road. It turns out, he doesn't fly or bounce. Aneke had just bought her house and learned that home renovations were not as fun when you're allergic to the products. Aneke had reached out to Casey on a case and left her cell phone number, asking him to call back. He called and long story short, they connected over medical issues and new homeowner woes. They chatted for a few weeks before their first date and met for Indian food. Casey showed his cooking prowess soon after and Aneke knew she'd found the real deal. The guy can cook!

For those of you who don't know, Aneke was well on her way to crazy cat lady status when she and Casey met. She likes to say she had 2 1/2 dogs and 2 1/2 cats but altogether, she's got a zoo! And the largest hurdle Casey faced was accepting and/or being accepted by the beasts (depends who you ask!) Murphy, 120 lbs of emotional drama, laid eyes on Casey and found his soulmate. Their bond as "best friends" has deepened and Casey's patience with Murphy's neuroses is a godsend! Cat, approved of Casey the moment he filled his food dish. The twins, Stella and "Lil Man," approve of Casey and are appreciative of a second lap to snuggle in. Cooper, the Cockapoo, and Aneke's Horcrux was the toughest sell. He did not like sharing more of her affections. But once he realized that Casey was the reincarnation of Dr. Doolittle and knew all the right spots to scratch, Casey was officially part of the pack.

Took a little trip to the coast to get some Vitamin Sea and (b)each. First time on vacation as a couple, we stayed in a tiny ( no joke) house and with Horcrux Cooper and Monster Dog, Murphy. Murphy makes all car rides very interesting. Ever travel with an uncontrollable, very vocal banshee? We are willing to loan him out for the experience. Free of charge. Four hours and significant hearing loss later we arrived at an Air B&B. The place was in a little clearing next to some walking trails along the coast. We tried a tiny house and found we are not capable of living tiny. Casey does have giant's blood in him after all. Two days full of sampling the breweries on the coast, taking the dogs for long walks and beach time. Murphy, being the water dog he is, found the fastest route to the water. He loved playing in the water with a stick or ball that he procured at the dog park. We found a new favorite place in Arcata to eat. Aneke continues to beg for a return trip to Slice of Humboldt for more empanadas and craft cider. She is obsessed with green chili now too! Good thing Casey has the best recipe! The trip brought us closer together and a little more hard of hearing thanks to Murphy.