Internet dating apps might seem like just an entertaining way to pass the time, but they can certainly lead to real connections. Like many millennials, Kaitlin and Tom Cowan logged onto one. It was during the Covid-19 pandemic – Tom was living in California, which was closed down, so he spent more time back home in the “free state” of Florida working remotely. He decided to set his app location to Sarasota. When they connected and then met, Kaitlin was skeptical of his stated interest in moving back to Florida. Fast forward several years and they are married, have a baby together, and live in a beautiful home in Poinsettia Park. Tom jokingly said, “I had to do it – just to keep my word!”

At the time, Kaitlin was a single parent to two toddlers. Tom jumped right into the long distance relationship, with frequent visits back and forth, weathering the storm and sincerely enjoying the mayhem. He eventually moved back to Sarasota and in with Kaitlin. She jokes that Tom’s type really must have been “single moms!” Tom was concerned “I might be a masochist!”

Jokes aside, Tom has deep roots in this area – his parents met here in high school, and his mother was a beloved elementary and middle school teacher for over 35 years in town. His grandfather was a prolific home builder in Sarasota during the 20th century construction boom and also a founding member of the local Field Club.

He carried on the local legacy with Kaitlin and her two cute little kiddos, now 6 and 10 years old. The ten year old daughter is an avid tennis player and reader. The six year old son loves basketball and treats. Tom and Kaitlin grew the family with a new baby boy, now 6 months, who is into sitting up and rolling over.

Tom, of Scottish descent, and the Cowan “Clan” live on Wisteria Street. The house initially needed updating. Tom thought it just needed new paint, but he lost that argument. Kaitlin explained, “It needed serious elevating. I like to cook, and the kitchen was not up to snuff.” They moved out briefly, and it was a busy year with Kaitlin pregnant while renovating. They ended up bringing the baby home to the rental house, but luckily made it back into the renovated house just in time for Christmas.

Kaitlin has degrees in finance and business, and previously crisscrossed the country as a healthcare consultant. She is now a Senior Director at a cloud-based software in healthcare. In her free time, she loves reading, doing pilates, volunteering in the kids’ classrooms, and elevating Tom’s fashion style.

Tom holds engineering degrees in the aerospace and biomedical fields, and in law, and he was an engineer at NASA and Northrop Grumman. He is now a patent attorney with the intellectual property law firm Knobbe Martens and advises companies in intellectual property matters. In his free time, Tom enjoys “0% humidity humor,” geeking out on technology (especially rockets that land backwards!), driving golf carts, and following Liverpool FC.

Family traditions revolve largely around food, perhaps an influence from Kaitlin's large family – she has over 30 cousins! She said, “Family dinner is important. We eat together most nights, to enjoy time as a family and reflect on the day. I cherish the special recipes passed down several generations by my family.” Tom says he contributes as the “taste tester” and dish washer.

While they love to travel – their all-time favorite trip was to Italy – they also enjoy local trips. “We love to do ‘staycations’ here, and hang by the beach and pool for a weekend. We also enjoy time on the lake in northern Michigan in the summer,” explains Kaitlin.

Tom and Kaitlin had heard of “west of trail” but didn’t’ quite get it until they moved here. Now the two understand what the fuss is all about! They love their neighborhood and friendly neighbors.

They have long since logged off the dating app. Tom often reminds Kaitlin that he kept his word and moved back. She playfully questions his judgment having joined her on this crazy journey. The two are clearly happy together and with the kiddos.

So say hello to the Cowan Clan if you see them. Be sure to welcome the newest addition to their family, and congratulate them on their return to their beautifully renovated home!