We are so excited to celebrate with you (finally!)

We had originally planned for a June wedding, before we knew that there was any possibility of a global pandemic. In early May, we had left to a remote, rural part of Mexico for a yearly church mission's trip. During those ten days, we had no service or connection to any media. While getting back to the United States, we learned of the new state of the world, and in processing we knew we could not have a June wedding. It just so happened all our families would be together in the Black Hills, including my brother back from deployment, and his family . We knew this would be the perfect opportunity to have all our immediate family together for a small wedding ceremony. The Den Hartog's graciously opened their home to us for the most perfect wedding venue, and we were married at sunset on the deck overlooking a fresh snow fallen canyon with our entire family and a few close friends. Even though our hearts longed to have all our loved ones there to experience the moment with us, it was the most special and perfect wedding we could've imagined. We wanted everyone to stay safe and healthy during that time. Being married was something we wanted very much, and we feel so blessed to have a year of marriage, and now still get the opportunity to celebrate with everyone now!

From a high school friendship built a mutual love of skiing, hikes, and all things outdoors, we were best friends before anything else. Our mothers, who used to work together actually the same time they were pregnant (we are six days apart), would say we go back even further. Nevertheless, over the years we found each other still getting together for the occasional hike or climb throughout our criss-crossing paths. In the summer of 2018, while back in Rapid for travel nurse assignment, we ran into each other in town. Per usual, we planned to go on our Spring Creek hike to catch up on each others' life... and this time, the timing was perfect and rest is history!

Jake and I had planned a big ski trip to Steamboat with our friends, The Hartlands. I was really excited to ski Steamboat, especially since I knew Jake had lived there and knew all the best, secret spots of the mountain. The first day there was a day full of sunshine, great skiing, and was an excellent time. Towards the end of the day, Jake offered to go to his favorite part of the mountain, Storm Peak. We rode up the lift, and when we got off, I realized everyone ditched me and already left down the mountain. After moving past a few trees, I found Jake on his knee, and he popped the question! I was so surprised, I don't think I even got unclipped from my snowboard all the way! It was such a surreal moment, and couldn't have been more perfect!