Chris and Kaitlin met during their PhD programs in materials at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. They were friends for three years before finally going on their first date just after coming back from visiting their families for the holidays. They'd been chatting a lot before they flew/drove home and Kaitlin had said to herself if Chris didn't ask her out when they got back from Christmas, she would. But Chris managed to sneak in a phone call asking right before he flew off to Seattle. Kaitlin's mom knew something was up as Kaitlin fled Apple Valley significantly faster than normal-- and she was right! Had to pick up some guy from the airport and go out to dinner at Destihl.

After surviving two PhD defenses, a move to a brand new state with new big kid jobs, the start of what would be a very long global pandemic, and a brand new pup with some serious anxiety issues, Kaitlin and Chris could hear wedding bells ringing in the distance. Rings were purchased online sitting next to one another on the couch. Now all that was required was the right time. After being trapped at home vigilantly during the panini, a vacation was in order. A short trip to the Smoky Mountains, which Kaitlin and Chris now live fairly close by. Even Bubbles the dog got to come along, as the cabin was dog-friendly. Kaitlin hid Chris's ring in her backpack, wondering if the right time would present itself. And sure enough it did. On their last full day of the trip, they found an excellent overlook-- perfect for watching the sunrise and taking some pictures with their new DSLR. The plan was in motion, because who could resist sunrise over the mountains as a proposal backdrop (and it did not disappoint, as you can see from the picture below). Despite all the nerves, if you ask Kaitlin now she would say it was the easiest question in the world to ask; "Will you marry me? I always want to go on adventures with you". A quick yes and a hug and kiss sealed the deal. Chris then surprised Kaitlin once they got back home with a proposal of his own! So both people were asked and both said yes, which really seems like a great way to start this journey.