It all began in the summer of 2016 when we both found ourselves working at the same restaurant in Steilacoom, Washington. This was a halfway point from where we each grew up. During our college breaks, we’d come home for the summer and share long shifts, late nights, plenty of laughs, and the occasional basket of mozzarella sticks. Our friendship quickly turned into something more, and we spent two wonderful years together. We both lived at home during those years, so we both got to know each others families very well. Those years were filled with travel, Grant going through the Police Academy and completing his first year on the road, while I built my mobile bar, Cactus Cantina.

Life took us in different directions, and we went our separate ways. For five years, we grew, explored, and lived our individual journeys. Then, in 2022, fate brought us back into each other’s lives. It didn’t take long to realize that the connection we shared was still there—stronger than ever. My nephew, Braxen (about 3 years old at the time), absolutely loved Grant. When I told him I was going to be bringing Grant around again, he sighed very deeply and said, "we really liked that guy". The family support and approval was everything to us. Things fell back together so easily, like no time had passed.

Now, after 9 years of friendship, we’re so excited to begin this next chapter together. We can’t wait to celebrate with all of you!