Well hello there! Yea, I know it's been awhile since I've blogged. Like, TOO LONG. Sorry 'bout that. But after the weekend that I just had, I believe that this story needs to be told. Now.
I'll start with Michael. He's one of those people who constantly brings a smile to your face. He's funny, outgoing and extremely sincere. He's my boyfriends younger brother, and one of the best humans out there. He brought Kayla into the equation, and ever since I met her, she was a ball of happiness. Always laughing, smiling, and has a heart of gold.
They live in Kansas (Move to Colorado already!), and told us they were embarking on a 2 week roadtrip through Colorado, and we made it work to hit the first weekend on the road with them. Fairplay, CO is the backdrop for some off the grid camping in a killer little cabin out in the middle of nowhere. Michael has planned to propose to Kayla on top of Mt Sherman, after we climbed the massive 14er. Capture the moment for us- he asks? UH, YES PLEASE!!!
The whole hike up, we're trying not to drop hints, bitching too loud that our packs were super heavy (2 bottles of celebratory wine + mini Coors Lights in tow!) Naming Meredith "Frodo" because her pack was carrying the precious ring. I think all 14ers need an incentive like a surprise proposal at the summit. It made it easier to continue on after every break.
At the top, we took the obligatory photos with the Mt Sherman sign, catching our breath, and giving out high-fives. Then, Michael pulls Kayla over to the side, for a touch of privacy. As his exhausted legs wobble on the way down to one knee (hey - we just hiked 14,000 feet!) he took her hand and spoke the words that every woman dreams about. I am so honored to have been chosen to capture the emotion of their proposal - two humans who are are meant to be together for the rest of their lives. I cried. (duh).
Afterwards, through tears and hyperventilation, we tore open some wine and coors light to celebrate welcoming Kayla into the McClanahan family. The newest member. The first woman added to the brother's crew. We got back to camp after a quick descent and popped some champagne, and drank from our camp mugs. What a day! THE. BEST. DAY.
I personally cant wait to see all the adventures these two take on. They are two becoming one, partners in crime, the adventure team, learning and experiencing life together. This is what its all about - love and adventure.
Cheers to you, Michael and Kayla! You're pretty awesome humans, that I'm lucky to have in my life. Have a wonderful rest of your roadtrip, and I'll see you in a few weeks when you return!
