We met in 2012 and took our first trip together in 2013 to South Padre Island, Texas! Beach camping, frigid temperatures, but the beginning of a lot of adventures together.
After four years together, Courtney moved to Santa Barbara for grad school. Courtney drove and Martin navigated as they made their way through Big Bend National Park (left), the Grand Canyon, and many other mini-adventures along the way.
Maybe you're thinking to yourself, "Wow, Courtney and Martin have been together for nearly 10 years, why don't they have more photos?" See evidence left.
But then sometimes we clean up well! In 2019, Martin completed his PhD in Physics and moved out to California to "join" Courtney. We were temporarily reunited in Santa Barbara while Martin unwound before starting his job in San Francisco. We spent a few years doing (a much closer, but still...) long-distance relationship between the Bay and SB.
California suits us! This was taken just before our first surf experience (...you should see the after photos!).
And California has also meant wonderful trips to places like the Channel Islands for hiking, camping, and kayaking with those nearest and dearest to us!
”“And what would humans be without love?” RARE, said Death."
- Terry Pratchett
Although it took a lot away from everyone in the past few years, the positive outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic was that we lived together in Santa Barbara. We spent a lot of time inside, but together, and then a lot of time exploring the trails and area around SB. Towards the end of 2020, we moved up to Oakland to consolidate households (and now plan a wedding!).
Martin popped the question off-trail during a snowy hike near Mount Lassen in Northern California after some vigorous sledding.
