In early 2025, Mitch shared a vulnerable essay titled, “Don’t Waste This Valley.” It was about finding purpose in pain and holding both gratitude and grief at the same time. After reading it, Ali reached out to say “thank you,” which led to conversation between them. Their initial messages about "accepting what is" quickly revealed a profound alignment of heart and soul.

Their first "real" conversation lasted five hours—half over tacos at Cochinito and half sitting in a parked truck, leaving both of them feeling dumbfounded (“is this real?”) and understood.

Their first official date at a Gonzaga game felt like a confirmation from the universe: they ran into the very friend who had inspired the "Don't Waste This Valley" mantra. They were reminded that even the hardest seasons can lead to the most beautiful destinations.

They talked for 32 hours in the first week, after which, Mitch asked Ali to be his girlfriend. She said no because it was “too soon.” Within a couple days, Ali said, “okay, Mitchell Dean…When are we getting hitched?” Apparently that wasn’t too soon.

They spent every night since their second date, through the hours of conversations in person and on the phone, realizing that while they had both grieved the futures they once imagined, the one they are building together is better than they ever dared to hope.