We met when we both started teaching in Basalt, Colorado in 2017. Kurt was teaching 8th grade, and Jackie 6th. Neither of us thought much of it. Over a year later, Kurt invited Jackie to celebrate Halloween with him and some friends - how could Jackie turn down drinks and a chance to be a Minion? Over the next couple months, we slowly spent more time outside of the school bonding and seeing one another through some tough times in life. Spending Valentine's Day laughing over some drinks, it was clear our bond was stronger than just "friends." June of 2019 we embarked on a 2000+ mile road trip to Montana together. Given we survived this week long trip, in Kurt's tiny Subaru, and still able to stand one another, we knew the love between us was undeniable. In addition, it was clear that Montana had won our hearts with its "Big Sky" beauty. Two months later, we moved to Montana together. Our first year together was an adventure in and of itself. With another 2000+ mile trip back to Colorado, a flooded apartment, living in a hotel for a month, and a head-on collision with a deer all within our first six months we have found that our bond is even stronger than we could ever have dreamed. Our love only grows stronger with every challenge we face together and our dreams that are much closer to coming true. We know we can do anything because of our friendship, our love, and our families are always there and see us through the hard times and celebrate the good ones.

Anyone who knows Kurt knows he has a hard time "not sharing" his ideas or plans. After spending months attempting to set up a balloon ride he decided to chance a hike in Glacier National Park. Scouting several spots Kurt settled on Rocky Point on Lake McDonald. With Jackie in tow, they set out on the mile and a half hike through the dark to the rock face where Kurt planned to propose. Hoping Jackie was unaware of his plans Kurt had stashed the ring in his pack under a bag of breakfast bars. Arriving at Rocky Point around 20 minutes before sunrise they sat down to enjoy the view. As the first rays of light peaked over the tips of the Glaciers Kurt offered to get some snacks from his pack. Returning to Jackie with a large bag of food in one hand and a box under it in the other Kurt knelt down before the rock and offered Jackie a Cliff Bar. As she reached for the bag he pulled it away and held up the ring box and said; "Jackie will you marry me?". We cannot wait to share our love of Montana and each other with all those who have helped to make our dreams come true.