Connect How did your love story begin?

In college, I met Nathan. He was a lot older than me, returning to school after a long-decorated military career, carrying the weight of divorce and loneliness. I was just beginning my academic journey, wide-eyed and eager, when our paths crossed. My mom didn’t warn me about "Non-Traditional Students" so I was alarmed to find out this guy I thought was so handsome was a divorced veteran in his 30s with three kids. A little too late for me to turn off the feelings, so I didn't!

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

After marriage we decided we didn’t need any more kids— Nate had three boys and I didn’t think I wanted any. That soon changed and we agreed to have a baby. It was a rough start as I lost my first one, but the second pregnancy was successful and Baby Jude brought the family together— Nate’s older boys and me were now fused through this sweet, silly little boy. He was the common stitch that bound all of us together. And with Jude, it felt like our family was complete.

What would you do with $20,000?

We have chosen to take Jude on a special trip each summer of high school before we launch him into manhood. Our plan is to have all of this culminate in a trip to Europe so we can have a meaningful experience together before Jude is launched into adulthood. A memory we can all share together and reflect on until we die. The $20K would make this trip much more possible.