Dave and Shannon met in the most unlikely way; on top of a Colorado 14er, Windom Peak. They were both on separate backpacking trips with friends, struck up a conversation, and continued that conversation on the Durango-Silverton Train the following day as they traveled back to Durango.

Since then, Dave and Shannon have continued their adventurous lifestyles together, including multiple hikes, another Colorado 14er, participating in several Spartan Races together, snowboarding in Jackson Hole, competing together in the Crossfit Open, and even expanding their family with a mini Bernedoodle puppy named Ruthie!

They got engaged as they returned to Durango this past February. Dave had surprised Shannon with a birthday trip, including tickets to the Durango-Silverton train where they had first met. It was on a bridge off of Cascade Canyon where Dave popped the question!