Connect How did your love story begin?

Our love story began at 18 and 19 when Charles kept me warm on a cold night after a party. We lost touch but reconnected years later and built a friendship that grew into love. Through breakups, blended families (7 kids between us), difficult exes, and the loss of my son, we kept choosing each other. Last year he proposed, and now we’re building our life together in Florida. Our love isn’t perfect, but it’s real, resilient, and worth fighting for.

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

Our favorite memory as a couple was our first trip to Las Vegas together. It was our first real couples getaway, and we had so much fun that some of the details are honestly a blur! We wore matching outfits, laughed nonstop, explored the city, and made unforgettable memories. It was also the first time I got to spend quality time with Charles and his best friend together. More than anything, we loved being carefree, happy, and fully enjoying each other’s company.

What would you do with $20,000?

If we were given $20K, we would use it to strengthen our future together. We’d invest in growing our business and upgrading tools and supplies, set aside savings for stability for our blended family of seven children, and pay down responsibilities to ease financial stress. We would also use a small portion to create a meaningful family experience or trip to make lasting memories. Overall, we would use it to build stability, growth, and a stronger foundation together.