How did your love story begin?

I met my husband at my Grandma's funeral when I was 16 (he was 24). That night, we kissed - I told my friend that I was going to marry him one day. 15 years and a LOT of life later, we were wed! I wanted a crisp fall outdoor wedding on October 7, 2007. It was 98° outside Chicago on my outdoor wedding day! Sadly, several people died that day while running the Chicago Marathon - so, every year on our anniversary, we say a special prayer for the families of those who passed away that day.

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

My husband and I LOVE Notre Dame Football. For our anniversary, I purchased tickets for us to go to a home football game. We had a blast exploring, tailgating, and being squished into tiny seats! We saw Jon Bon Jovi on the sidelines for Notre Dame. Sadly, the Irish did not prevail that day (after two OT's). As we left the stadium of dreams, we had no idea where our car was parked. Ultimately, we walked for 4 hours until we finally stumbled upon it with aching bodies and joyful hearts.

What would you do with $20,000?

We would use $5,000 of your generous gift on desperately needed home improvements and repairs (painting, replacing the "kitchen floor", new blinds, fixing our railing, etc.). We would use $2,500 of the unexpected windfall to take our first vacation in 5 years, and attend my best friend's wedding. We would donate $5,000 to Saint Jude's Children's Hospital. And finally, we would use the remaining $5,000 to pay down some of our debt. Not exactly the most glamorous use of a $20,000 gift,but it's us!