We met playing bar bingo in Memphis, TN at Loflin Yard. We made some connections on “The Office”, alternative music, and love of the outdoors! There was some awkwardness on both sides, naturally, and a glorious dry sense of humour that kept me coming back for more <3

For some time, we had been eyeing climbing the Grand Teton in Wyoming. It’s a beautiful mountain but a technical climb which requires some rock climbing skill and experience. We finally felt confident enough in our abilities to climb the Grand without a mountain guide. We drove from Denver through the night (8 hours) and due to a brief weather window, started climbing at midnight when we got there, without sleep. It took 10 and a half hours, 8.5 miles and 7000 vertical feet to summit. While basking in the glory of summiting one of the most beautiful peaks in existence, endorphins flowing and wondering how life could get any better, Mike asked the only other person on the summit for a favor. He said, “It’s a really big favor. I need you to take a picture. Don’t mess this up”. The guy reluctantly took the camera with a fearful look in his eye but soon realized what was happening. Mike dropped on one knee on what I would imagine wasn’t a very comfortable pile of rocks and I have to admit that I forgot exactly what he said because I was absolutely elated. It couldn’t have been a more perfect setting and execution. You did good, kid. We’re getting hitched people!