Connect How did your love story begin?

She wasn’t looking for anyone. A friend told her to get on Hinge during a rough season. His profile said “chef’s kisses to stargazing” and it made her pause. He is smart, kind, hilarious, and the conversations feel easy in a way she didn’t expect. His brilliant mind keeps her curious, and his good heart makes her feel safe. Thank goodness he didn’t list his zodiac sign or she would’ve ghosted him.

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

Meeting in person for the first time. We met at Moe’s. It was fun and easy and we didn’t want it to end, so we just did errands together, very romantic things like dog food and kitty litter. Then we wandered around Habitat’s ReStore, where we found a baby Jesus in a manger on the free shelf. It lives in Ryan’s bathroom now as a bizarre little mascot of our first day together. Some people get flowers or chocolates on a first date. We got animal supplies and questionable religious décor. Nailed it

What would you do with $20,000?

We’d probably do some boring nerd things that bring us joy — like paying for our master’s degrees. Monique would love to see Ryan finish his because he’s the smartest person she knows. Also, she would tuck some away to help him open his dream tinker shop. And we’d have to do one fun thing, like a trip to Ireland. $20,000 doesn’t go as far as it used to, but it’d be spent on things that make life brighter.