Connect How did your love story begin?

In 1999, I met Shannon while serving as a missionary. She wasn’t impressed, but years later, she called me, sparking a connection. Our parents disapproved, swayed by a letter from Shannon’s step-grandmother comparing her to her mom. We parted for a year to appease family, but love endured. I called Shannon, heart racing, and learned she still loved me. I drove to Florida, we eloped, and defied doubts. Now, 24 years strong, with 5 kids, Shannon’s the favorite daughter-in-law, and our love thrives

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

I worked nights on a Florida job site, away from Shannon and our two kids. After six weeks, my three days off loomed. Shannon surprised me, booking a hotel and SeaWorld trip. Exhausted after an 18-hour shift, I drove six hours to SeaWorld, hitting 24 hours awake. I trudged through the park, determined not to ruin the fun. By the hotel, I’d been up over 30 hours. I planned a quick nap but slept a day and a half, missing dinner. Shannon was mad, but now we laugh—our family’s love shone through

What would you do with $20,000?

With the $20,000 prize, Shannon and I will kickstart our dream for The Youngbloods: Anchored In. We’ll buy a small Tennessee plot to build an off-grid shipping-container home, living sustainably. We’ll plant a garden to grow food, sharing the harvest with local families in need. Our YouTube channel will document this journey, inspiring others to homestead and give back. The funds will cover land, seeds, and solar panels, fueling our mission to feed and uplift communities.