Shakenya was a new teacher who dreamed of taking her students on weekly field trips in the summer, but had no money. I saw her vision and her beauty. I got a school bus and offered free rides, making her dream come true. Together, we brought exploration joy and learning to the kids. We shared those magical moments, our love blossomed, creating a fairytale of its own. We were two hearts united by a passion for learning, adventure, and each other.

Our wedding day! We planned it in just two weeks. Shakenya’s childhood church squeezed us in between Mass. Her TA’s husband was the deacon, leading the ceremony. After, we kept it simple. We devoured tacos, had an epic after-party at our house, and everyone hung out as a big blended family. Even the neighbors dropped by, turning it into an all-night fiesta. It wasn’t traditional, but it was *us* :) spontaneous, full of love, inclusive and unforgettable.

I’m no longer a bus driver so first, $5,000 to Shakenya’s school’s field trip fund because we believe kids deserve adventures. Next, we’d buy new furniture for our home. Then, we’d take a big blended family vacation to an overwater bungalow. We'd relax and unwind, soaking in the beauty of the world and celebrating all the love and memories we've built together.