Louise (28) and Martin (30) went on their first foreign holiday, to Crete, this summer. "It was brilliant except the drivers are mad - much worse than here," says Martin. Louise nods in agreement.
Engaged for three years, they are planning their future together and saving for a place of their own. "We're in no rush because we're very happy as we are," says Louise.
They both have a learning disability, and they met through KARE, a voluntary service provider in Naas, Co Kildare, which supports, trains and promotes community inclusion for people with learning disabilities.
Martin now lives independently in a flat, and Louise is a frequent visitor. Martin works full-time as a porter and caretaker; playing his beloved bagpipes at weddings brings in "an extra few shillings to the kitty". He also plays badminton, and attends photography night-classes. The two of them share a broad circle of mutual friends they frequently meet.
Louise, a part-time office assistant in Magna Donnelly Electronics in Naas, loves her work.
She says she is committed to the computer classes she attends at the KARE Training Centre, where she is also developing her cooking skills. In her role as chairwoman of her local self-advocacy and diversity programme, she is preparing a speech to give at a conference in Co Kerry in November.
Swimming and fashion are among her interests. But while she says she loves window-shopping, clothes and make-up are low on her list of priorities.
"Some girls may need all that stuff, but Louise is so pretty she doesn't," says Martin.
Their families and KARE have given significant support to the couple, and they're looking forward to the future. Louise says: "We mean everything to each other," and Martin adds, "I just love her.
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