Karen Goulden and Scott Hanselman

Hear Us Roar

HMR0221

February 2021 Issue
Photography by Thomas R. Love, TR Media World


Met: at the University of Michigan
Careers: Karen is a dentist at Howard Family Dental; Scott is a data analyst for the PGA

A love that took 37 years to culminate, Karen Goulden and Scott Hanselman have tempted fate too many times not to finally be together.

How do you recall your first-time meeting? Karen: We met at the University of Michigan. It was spring 1985. I was 22 and he was 21. I was at his apartment saying goodbye to his roommates as they had just graduated. Scott had just returned from Marine Corps boot camp and this was the first time I saw him. I’ll never forget it. I thought he was gorgeous and hoped I’d see him again. Scott: I know I will be in the doghouse for this, but I honestly don’t remember—it was 37 years ago! We met through mutual friends.  

How have your feelings changed as your relationship ages? Karen: I was so young when we met, and looking back, I’d say it started as a major crush that eventually turned into a friendship. We lost touch after I graduated and left Ann Arbor. It wasn’t until a decade later we reconnected by chance. It was just when I needed him most, and our friendship grew significantly. We remained great friends for nearly two decades, which eventually led to a deep love. Scott:We’ve spent so long together and have been so far apart, I’m just now discovering the depths of Karen as a person.

Three characteristics that stand out about each other: Scott: Karen is so gorgeous in every way, fun-loving, tough as nails. Karen: Scott is smart, funny and chivalrous.

What’s been the best part of reconnecting now? Scott: Discovering how warm and loyal she is on a day-to-day basis. She’s never dull—always bright and lively. Karen: The best part of connecting now is I’ve grown and learned so much from past relationships. I definitely see how changing some of my past behavior has been beneficial to my relationship with Scott. I honestly don’t think we’d be a couple today had I not learned from my past mistakes.  

How did you know you were finally ready to be together? Scott: I had my toes in the Pacific and hers were in the Atlantic. It had been long distance, far too long. Karen: I knew I was ready to be with Scott when I completely lost the desire to meet someone else.  I didn’t want to text or talk on the phone with anyone but him, and meeting someone was out of the question. Believe me, I tried to move on, but it was hopeless.  

What made you come back every time? Scott: Her total devotion and steadfast dedication to always doing the right thing, she’s the most honest person I know… and she always tickles me! Karen:  I always had a feeling we should be together but something would happen to prevent it. When we would reconnect, initially sparks would fly, but we would quickly realize we needed to part ways again.  This happened over a span of about 25 years. It was so frustrating!   

What is your favorite thing to do together?  Scott: We enjoy bars and restaurants, as we travel the country. Karen: Travel! Unfortunately, we can’t really do that these days.  

What has been your favorite date?  Scott: So many spectacular ones! Dressing in style for the Kentucky Derby has always been huge! (Could this May end the tradition?) Karen: My favorite date was July 4, 2020. I was visiting him in Los Angeles, where he lived at the time.  Scott took me to dinner, where we dined outside with a panoramic view of the city. There were no planned fireworks displays in 2020, but to our surprise, fireworks were going off all over the city. The moon was full and looked beautiful through the haze the fireworks gave off. It was magical!

Where do you see your relationship in 5 years? Karen: I hope our relationship is the same as it is today. Scott: Cozied up with dogs and cats and taking time off to see more of the world.
What are some goals and adventures for the future you want to accomplish together? Scott: We’ve long spoken about a trip to Africa for a safari, and we’d like to buy a house together. Karen: One of my goals for us is to buy a home together. After COVID, I hope we can travel; Africa is on his bucket list, and Italy is on mine.

If you had a time machine, would you go back in time and change anything? Karen: Scott took me to the Kentucky Derby in 2018 and 2019. If I could go back in time, I would bet a lot of money on the horses that won. Scott: I would have been more serious at a younger age and not been so flippant about the talents and gifts I was blessed with. But boy have I had fun!

What is your advice for people trying to find love? Scott: Be who you are! You’re going to be found out anyways. You may discover the other person loves you as you are! Karen: Don’t settle for someone because you are lonely or feel you have to be in a relationship. It really. is better to be single than to be with someone you feel unhappy with. Be patient, positive and open. The person meant for you will find you.

What’s the best relationship advice you’ve received? Karen: My brother and father told me not to bring home any more lug heads! But seriously, a few people have suggested reading The Five Love Languages. It’s a great book I highly recommend. Scott: Never hog the covers!

What are you two currently roaring about? Karen: I’m excited Scott is actually here with me on Hilton Head. It’s a dream come true that took 35 years to culminate. I can’t imagine my life without him, and every day I spend with him is a gift. I never take him for granted. Scott: After 37 years of losing and finding one another and the on and off dating, it’s a joy and comfort to be in each other’s arms at last for the long haul. We look forward to buying a home and enjoying all the fun life has to offer! There’s no need to wander anymore…I’ve finally found home with Karen!