Running began the story. Kyle and Kristen met through a Tallahassee group dedicated to "social" running--i.e., some running occasioned by libations. And they began their marathon a couple years later in 2017 in Pensacola--during a weekend trip to run a half marathon. Note: Kristen ran her half-marathon PR that race!

More than 6 years later--about damn time according to Kristen--Kyle asked Kristen to marry him on the balcony of their Jamaican resort room.

Since starting this still-continuing marathon in 2017, they have completed a plethora of runs and races: everything from multi-day, multi-race challenges and beer miles to Kyle's first marathon. They have eaten and drank their way through countless food, beer, and wine festivals. They have cruised and traveled. And they have watched more horror movies (including the oh-so-bad they're good ones) than they can count.

The story may have begun with Kristen a die-hard FSU Seminole and Kyle an unwavering UCF Knight. But this house divided doesn't end the story. Kristen now proudly wears her black and gold and cheers almost as loud as Kyle at watch parties; and Kyle adorns his garnet and gold and doesn't miss an FSU football home game. GKCO and go 'Noles! (So long as the two aren't playing each other--ha!)

Kyle and Kristen started their marathon with two furry family members: Suzi Q. ("Sue Bean") Sill and Jasmine ("Jas") Stewart.

Suzi, a whippet mix, was 5 at the time. And Jasmine, a rottweiler-cattle dog, was 2. The two were fast friends--hahaha! If only. Nevertheless, and over the years, they are now mostly fond of each other. They can be found collectively guarding the house, lounging on Kristen and Kyle's bed, and generally being the best doggos.

They are excited for mommy and daddy and look forward to mommy continuing to give them all the treats while daddy rolls his eyes. ("But they deserve a treat; we're leaving the house.")