We met in Boston in graduate school; although, the exact date depends on which one of us you ask. We quickly became friends through late-night conversations over very limey gin and tonics (just the way we like em’!). Once we realized we were better off together, it has been a whirlwind of moving in together in Boston, defending our PhDs, and starting new jobs in Chicago. Our mutual love for good food, drink, and adventure makes for a partnership we both appreciate: James does all the cooking and Michelle bakes dessert; Michelle books the camping trips and James gets the campfire going. We're not sure where we'll be working or living in the next few years, as we endure other “big life events”, but we know that no matter what or where - we want it to be together. We’re so looking forward to celebrating with our closest friends and family to make our deep commitment to each other official!