Unbeknownst to them, Rodney and LiAnne worked in schools next door to each other for 5 years before actually meeting. Rodney had seen LiAnne at her workplace once during an 8th grade visit with students from his school, but they had never formally met.

Both of them had tried the online dating scene only to find it frustrating and disappointing. After nearly giving up on dating, both ended up on the Facebook dating application (who knew Facebook even had a dating app?). Rodney saw a picture of LiAnne's dogs and commented that they were cute and asked what kind they were. If anyone knows LiAnne, the way to her heart is through dogs! Needless to say, the comment caught her attention, so she responded.

After about a week of chatting through the app and text, Rodney and LiAnne had their first date on June 17, 2024. They met for dinner at The Skirted Heifer and then LiAnne proceeded to beat him at a game of mini-golf (much to Rodney's chagrin). Within the first week, Rodney and LiAnne went on 4 dates including a movie, sushi, hiking, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. It must be noted that when LiAnne called her mom to tell her about the upcoming zoo date her mom asked "does Rodney know what he is getting into with you and animals?" LiAnne responded, "I don't think so!" to which her mom replied, "You might want to warn him!"

Thankfully, the zoo date didn't scare Rodney away and the two continued to spend time together and get to know each other. From hiking to weekend mountain trips and many other adventures their relationship began to grow.

A little after a year of dating, Rodney and LiAnne took their first big trip to South Dakota. In true outdoor education form, Rodney planned for them to camp in a tent for 4 nights and enjoy wildlife, horseback riding, outdoor meals, hiking, and the beautiful scenery of the Black Hills area. It did not disappoint! For those that know LiAnne well, camping is not something she has experienced much. On the first night, while trying to go to sleep, LiAnne heard a distinct bellowing sound coming from somewhere outside the campsite. Animals were calling to each other and had no indication of stopping. She asked Rodney what it was and he replied, "Bison are bellowing." She asked, "how am I supposed to sleep?" to which he replied, "it's all part of the experience" and rolled over to go back to sleep.

On July 3rd, after a tough 3.9 mile hike to the top of Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies, Rodney found a private spot away from other hikers. Altogether surprising LiAnne and rendering her momentarily speechless, Rodney asked her to marry him. After composing herself and finding her voice, LiAnne said YES!!

They are very excited to continue their journey together and all the adventures that will come with it!