Gary had been gearing up for a powerlifting competition, only to find it fully booked. With a little push from Amber Goodwin, he opted to switch gears and train with Chad Coy for an upcoming strongman competition instead.

Julia was enjoying her CrossFit classes at CrossFit MKT. Just across the gym Chad Coy was organizing an upcoming Strongman Competition. He convinced a few CrossFitters, including Julia, to participate.

They spent most of the competition cheering each other on. After each event, they'd meet up to talk about how things went. I think it's safe to say they were both "catching feelings." And that's where it all began. Their first date was a long walk along the Gans Creek Trail the day after the competition!

Things were finally official on Halloween! Enjoy their costumes: Gary is Negan from The Walking Dead and Julia dressed up as Gary :)

Happy New Year 2021! The couple took an impulsive trip to Chicago, Illinois!

Julia and Gary take on USS Strongman Nationals together!

Meet Ash! This furry friend marks the couple's first pet!

Gary puts strongman on hold for a bit and dives into the world of powerlifting.

Now meet Jaxon! (aka the boy) They got the boy as an anniversary present!

Julia shortly follows after Gary's newfound focus on powerlifting.

They began crafting a home gym...

Julia and Gary were part of the celebration at the Stokes' wedding! This may or may not have been when the wedding fever started.

They hadn't intended to bring any more furry companions into their lives, but Lincoln had other plans! They discovered her in their backyard shed. Abandoned by her family, they decided to welcome her into their home.

They moved to a different house and crafted some more...

And they crafted some more...

They celebrated at another lovely wedding, and that's when the wedding fever really kicked in!

They weren't kidding about that wedding fever! The next day Gary surprised Julia with a walk along the trail where they had their first date. When they reached a beautiful spot with views of the autumn trees, he got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

...and she said yes!