I met Mary Kate & Scottie in person for the first time on a crisp but sunny early morning very near their place in Chicago, along with their beloved, if occasionally naughty, teddy bear of a dog perfectly named Bear. Within just a few moments Bear made it clear that he had a path in mind as he raced off towards the dog park by the river, leaving Scottie holding the leash. They laughed, gave chase, and willed their heart rates to slow once they had him back in hand. It was a silly, frantic way to start a session, but one that totally gave me insight into how Scottie & Mary Kate approach life together: with laughter & teamwork, a boat load of friendship and an aptitude for rolling with the punches. That’s the strong kind of foundation every couple needs, but especially during a pandemic year (or two.) So while I directed them towards the sunshine and the good views they took some time to appreciate just being together. It was a morning best described as sweet and perfectly charming, just like them.