He spent years in the friend zone—and never once walked away. We met working at a restaurant in Jersey and became instant best friends. We hiked, dreamed of Colorado, and laughed through everything. TJ knew we were soulmates before I did, and he waited—patiently, without pressure—until I was ready to see it too. One day, I looked at him and realized: my forever had been beside me all along!

One of our favorite memories is the day we packed up and drove across the country to start our life in Colorado. After years of talking about it, dreaming about it—it was finally happening. Our dog curled up in the back, the car packed tight with everything we owned—and more snacks than we’d ever admit to. It wasn’t just a big move—it was the moment everything we’d hoped for became real. That drive turned a dream into our real life!

If we won the $20,000, we’d finally plant some roots—a little piece of land in Colorado to call our own and start creating the life we’ve always dreamed about. We’d also donate a portion to the National Park Foundation. We got engaged in a national park, have explored 15 parks together, and our wedding is even National Park-themed! They’ve shaped our story in the most beautiful way. Giving back would be our way of saying: thanks for helping us fall in love—with the world, and with each other.