How did your love story begin?

Our fate occurred when we met in Omaha, Nebraska in our teens. We were instantly connected and had strong ties to one another other, even though we just met. Our fathers were both engineers on Union Pacific Railroad and had similar journeys growing up in North Platte, Nebraska. We dated for many years long-distance until we broke apart due to poor decisions on my part. As years went on, I knew I lost the best person I have ever had and had a rough time adjusting to any partner or life at all.

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

There are too many to name! We are very intentional about creating lasting memories for ourselves and our family. One that comes mind is after having 4 kids, we were expecting our next. In the doctor’s office, Jess was getting her first prenatal and while the doctor did her sonogram, she says “okay… as you see, Baby A and Baby B..” I almost fainted l, forreal while Jess quietly nodded as if she knew.

What would you do with $20,000?

We would like to use the money to invest in a homestead where we can further our love and legacy. As part of a big family, we want the opportunity to grow together and share in relationship for many generations to come. I can envision our homestead as a pave where the community comes to have their children as well as a place to engage in rich, real-life education. We do the best we can in NYC but having land and space would be amazing.