We met in October 2023, and the time we've shared has been full of great memories. As we look forward to many more years together, we want to share a few highlights from our adventures so far...
What began as a simple gift soon transformed into a shared passion. Since that first dance lesson, we've fallen in love with learning many different types of dance—including Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Swing, and more. Along the way, we've also explored both American and English country dances, finding joy in every new step. We want to thank Fred Astaire Dance Studio with helping us on our dancing journey together. Some highlights from our journey so far: - Winning a group formation dance competition - Being named Best Amateur Bronze Couple at the 2024 NWDC - Dancing a dozen English country dances from Jane Austen films (it's ok to be jealous)
Like any great relationship, ours is built on the exchange of passions. Just as dancing brought us together, so has the world of endurance sports. Robert has shared his love of running, while Courtney brought in the challenge and camaraderie of rucking (walking with a weighted backpack). Together, we’ve found joy competing and pushing our limits as a team. So far, we’ve completed a handful of races together and we’re just getting started! We just completed a 12-mile Memorial Day ruck, and we're gearing up for our second Hood to Coast 200-mile team relay at the end of the summer. Last year Courtney took on the dual role of team van driver and backup runner. When one teammate was injured, she stepped in and ran his final leg—this year she's training to run her own legs.
Over the past 1.5 years, we’ve had the privilege of embarking on an incredible journey of faith together. Through the guidance of Father Mike Schmitz, we have completed the Bible in a Year podcast, a transformative experience that has strengthened our relationship with each other and with our faith. This journey has not only deepened our understanding of Scripture, but it has also reinforced the importance of patience, dedication, and growth as a partnership. As we’ve navigated through the stories, lessons, and challenges of the Bible, we’ve been reminded to live a Christ-centered life and to seek God’s will in all that we do.
While both of us have lived in Oregon for a majority of our lives, we've visited a ton of new places in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest in the past 2 years together. The highlights of our trips are: - Hiked in the gorge near Hood River - Built a sand city in Brookings, OR - Completed a 4-day Dark Retreat in Triangle Lake, OR - Enjoyed nine concerts together, from Marcus Miller at the world-famous Jazz Alley in Seattle to Jo Dee Messina at the Ilani Casino - Floated the river in Bend - Climbed the Astoria Column and explored the Oregon Film Museum - Attended a Mariners Spring Training game in Phoenix