Connect How did your love story begin?

In 2003, I just left home for the first time and moved to Santa Barbara with my sister. Valentine was an Air Force recruiter living in Marina del Rey and happened to be in town for work. One evening we were both at the same club when he says he spotted my smile across the dance floor and introduced himself. My response was a playful jab at his name “Valentine “. That led to a conversation, a drink and exchanged numbers. Despite living 90 miles apart, we made it work and the rest is our story.

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

Seven years ago, we made a life changing decision; we sold our home, gave away nearly everything we owned and left behind our careers to travel the world. In 2019, we journeyed across 5 continents and 22 countries, covering more than 75,000 miles. While the destinations were unforgettable, the true purpose was to reconnect- with each other and our families. The greatest discovery wasn’t the world; it was finding our way back to what mattered most.

What would you do with $20,000?

We’re already planning a family trip to Ireland in 2028 to celebrate my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. My mom is part Irish, and visiting Ireland has been a lifelong dream of hers. Winning $20,000 would allow us to pay for my parents’ trip, invite my in-laws to join us, and create an even more memorable experience for everyone by enhancing the trip and making this milestone celebration truly special.