Connect How did your love story begin?

Mark would tell you it was love at first sight. The moment he saw me, he knew I would be his wife. I believed in soulmates, but being so young, I wasn't sure we truly understood what love was. Over time, his compassion, servant's heart, and constant belief in me showed me what real love looks like. He has always encouraged me to chase every dream, and together we've built a life that proves soulmates really do exist.

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

This takes us back to when we were just teenagers. Mark told me that if I was going to be his girlfriend, I needed to learn how cars worked. Under a big oak tree in his parents' yard, using a come-along to lift an engine, he patiently taught me. While we worked, he shared his dream of owning an honest repair shop. That day, he also empowered me to help other women. We weren't just fixing a car—we were discovering the purpose that would guide our life together.

What would you do with $20,000?

Every chapter of our life has brought lessons, memories, and goals we've worked hard to achieve. Our children are grown, our businesses are successful, and we now live in the dream home we found, complete with land and farm animals where our grandchildren can learn the value of hard work and enjoy the simple joys of country life. Our next chapter is about us. We'd use the $20,000 for our dream trips to Alaska and Hawaii, creating memories together that will last a lifetime.