It was the week of the 2012 national election. We had been sending messages back and forth on a dating website called Okcupid after he initially broke the ice. We had a good rapport going, so we decided to meet up in person. We had a great conversation at Bittercreek Ale House in downtown Boise while enjoying some beer samples, poutine, and 90s hip-hop music. Despite being a big faux-pas, we discussed politics on the first date. We clearly got along well enough as hours had passed and we were still chatting. That’s a good sign, right? From that point on, we looked forward to every opportunity to spend with one another. A series of dates quickly blossomed into a relationship of love, compassion, and growth (plus lots of concerts). The second official date was Indian food, a punk rock show, and a pitcher of PBR. Oddly, we made it all work and continued to plan the next fun night out with each other. Things continued on and we eventually moved in together. But it was just months later in which jobs were changed, new routines were made, and life would throw more curveballs at us. Even with an 18 month stint of living across the state from one another, we would make the relationship work. That 4 hour drive was done by each of us at least once a month and this situation would further solidify our relationship. But things have a way of working out. Now living together and engaged, we know we are ready for the long haul together. While the concerts and nights out aren't as often in 2020, our relationship is stronger than ever. And we have made the most of this global pandemic by taking steps in planning our wedding. We look forward to things getting back to normal... just with us as husband and wife. :)

On Black Friday in 2019, Kirby proposed to Melissa after sunset while overlooking the Pacific Ocean at his aunt’s property in Malibu - while the rest of the family was wondering where we were (perhaps Aunt Kari already had an idea of what was happening). High on winning the annual family costume contest and getting engaged, Kirby returned to dine with his new fiancée to deliver the news to his family! Champagne was poured and we couldn't stop glowing. (The costume contest theme was "hippie," in case you were wondering)