It all started one day in September when Melanie received a message from Steve on a dating app called “Hinge”. At first, Melanie was skeptical, considering Steve lived in Santa Clara and she lived in Petaluma. But, after some rummaging through Steve’s profile and finding out that he enjoyed backpacking, being out in water, and puppies, Melanie decided to see what else Steve was all about. After exchanging some messages back and forth, Melanie suggested setting up a FaceTime date. Thanks to Covid, FaceTime dates were the new norm! After FaceTiming with each other and liking where things were heading, Melanie made another suggestion - “I’ll be down in San Jose this weekend. How about we meet for a hike and take our puppies with us?” Steve accepted the invitation. Melanie and Steve met that weekend, as did McAbee and Riley. They had great conversation and shared some laughs, but it wasn’t until Steve insisted on picking up Riley’s.. well, you probably get the picture 💩, that Melanie knew Steve was a keeper. Right after they finished their hike, Steve was all in. Melanie knew this because he told her months later that he immediately got in his car and canceled the next date he had planned. Steve went off to New York that following week for the 9/11 Tunnel to Towers 5k, but he stayed in touch with Melanie every day he was there sharing text messages, pictures, videos, and even a good ol’ 1am phone call 😏. To this day, Steve hasn’t missed sending a “Sweet dreams, M&R” or “Good morning” text to Melanie. Melanie and Steve can’t wait to start their next chapter in life together, along with all of the love and support from their loved ones 🥰.