Gibbs and Dorothy met in February 2022 on Match. After viewing profiles and several unsuccessful dates, she was ready to give up. While Gibbs' selfie game could use some work, she thought he was attractive and had similar interests in books, movies, art, travel, and animals. His dedication to thoroughly filling out his profile caught her eye! The two exchanged numbers and chatted almost every day before their first date at Swing's Coffee Roasters. After coffee and pastries at Swing's, the two walked around the park across the street. Although Dorothy was a few minutes late, Gibbs was intrigued by her intense personality, love of literature, strong convictions, and beliefs in social justice. Since then, they've enjoyed many dates and trips. From Virginia Beach to plays at the Folger Shakespeare Theatre to bookstore trips, the two have shared many moments together. Some of those memories include Repeal Bourbon & Burgers in Virginia Beach, the National Cherry Blossom Festival in DC, frequent museum dates, setting up Dorothy's various classrooms, the National Book Festival, shows at State Theater, Heavy Heavy concerts, Halloween parties, bookstores in Winchester, local wineries in Loudoun County, trips to Birmingham, hiking in Shenandoah, kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay, paint and sips at Muse Paint Bar, movie nights at Cinema Arts and the Angelika, and exploring the local events and arts scene. They've dubbed Saturdays "pizza and anime" nights and make a point to watch the latest anime and bake pizza at least twice monthly. They're always exploring the area as a couple-introducing each other to favorites and sharing new experiences. Next stop-Alaska! In May 2022, Gibbs met Dorothy's furbaby Atticus Catticus. Since then, Atticus and Gibbs have been inseparable and Gibbs has become his favorite person. In August 2023, Dorothy and Gibbs moved in together. While Galen was initially hesitant to accept Dorothy and Atticus, they eventually became close companions. After Galen's passed in January 2025, the two navigated grief and loss of a pet. In June 2026, they found joy in two cats from Egypt. Their house has been affectionately dubbed "The House of Meow" by their friend, Laura. Gibbs is affectionately called "House Favorite" as the preferred person for all the animals in their home. While Dorothy would love to add a dog, Gibbs frequently reminds her of the possibility of cold morning walks. Dorothy introduced holiday cheer and matching Christmas sweaters. Christmas has become a special time for both the couple and their cats (see various holiday pictures in the Gallery). Some of their favorite traditions include selecting and decorating a live tree, enjoying mulled wine, attending George Mason's Holiday Pops concert, and bringing in the new year together. While Gibbs is hesitant to peruse Home Goods for seasonal items, Dorothy finds a way to take him on shopping trips every now and then. The couple now has decor for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Every season, the couple enjoys museum events. Over the Labor Day weekend, they decided to visit the National Museum of the American Indian, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. While leaving Dorothy's favorite exhibit (cultural artifacts on the 4th floor) the African American Museum, Gibbs pulled Dorothy towards the railing. He placed both of her hands in his and proceed to ask the most important question. Dorothy's immediate response was "In front of all these people!" since she wasn't expecting a public proposal. Before Gibbs could finish the question, she shouted "Yes!" multiple times. The moment ended in laughter and surprise from both followed by many selfies. The couple is excited to have many future adventures together and look forward to a life filled with travel, art, children, and pets.