It was the summer of 2019, a summer of change, discovery, and adventure for both of us. Ruthie took her first steps in expanding her world as an outdoor adventure person and Eric as a manager and man of responsibility. Little did they know what the summer really had in store... In June, Ruthie began working at the Nantahala River, on occasional weekends, where Eric was managing. They first locked eyes in the boat yard where Eric was holding a clip board (Ruthie found this detail very attractive). While apart, they shared emails coordinating various work details. While together, they caught each others eye, exchanging smiles and kind words, but little more than that for the remainder of the season. That autumn, Eric worked up the courage to ask Ruthie to spend some time together after work. Afterwards, Eric flew to Switzerland and kept thoughts of Ruthie with him and the fire stayed warm for a few weeks until he saw her again. Ruthie came back for a very adventurous weekend on the Nantahala River where they spent a couple of days pushing each other and having a great time. Eric showed Ruthie down a challenging section of whitewater and Ruthie encouraged Eric to swim an intimidating rapid. Little did they know that this would set the tone for their future relationship. After that weekend they continued to see each other, push each other to grow and explore more than they ever dreamed they could and fill each other's hearts with the warmth of a happy partnership.