Through Thick and Thin

While Anya was super excited to land the job of her dreams, she had no idea she would also land the woman of her dreams :D

Kjersten and Anya became fast friends at work. They originally bonded over a similar passion for physical therapy but then began expanding their bond outside of work with hiking, orienteering, skiing, biking, attending concerts, community events and film festivals.

Kjersten fell in love with Anya on their backpacking trip to Reeds Lake that was supposed to be a wonderful sunny adventure and turned into a stormy, cold and wet slog. Despite the terrible weather conditions, Anya’s resilience was unforgettable and unmatched in Kjersten’s eyes.

Similarly, Anya was comforted by Kjersten’s patience, non-judgmental attitude and generosity as they pitched a tent in the miserable wind and rain. Anya knew they made a tenacious team at work and now knew that they could apply that same tenacity out in the wild wild wilderness of life.

For both of them this marked a significant turning point in their relationship, and they sealed the deal.

While on another multi day backpacking trip along Kesugi Ridge, a 27+ mile trail, Anya fell and severely sprained her ankle at the halfway point. They both made the decision to continue forward on the trail even with Anya’s injury. They knew it would mean that the way forward was going to be even more challenging, but equally rewarding. It was a combined effort requiring unwavering support, compromise, and a strong spirit from both of them to finish the trail even with a serious injury. Kjersten learned just how brave and determined Anya was to finish what she started, and Anya learned that she could rely and trust in Kjersten to stay calm and supportive regardless of the circumstance.

Their relationship has been full of unforgettable adventures but by no means has their partnership been unmarked by challenges, struggle, and individual hardships.

Both Kjersten and Anya are excited to begin their journey together knowing that neither one is going to give up halfway. They will be there for each other through thick and thin and no matter how hard the way forward looks; they are going to get through it together.