Our love story began in high school just as the pandemic shut everything down. No movies, malls, or dinners. Just car dates with fast food, park picnics, and long talks. While the world paused, we built something real in quiet, creative ways. We watched stars from the car, explored every park in Western NY, and became best friends without distractions. Our relationship started in chaos, but that made our bond stronger, more genuine, and full of love that’s only grown over five amazing years.

Our favorite memory is our recent spontaneous trip to Greece. It was our first fully independent adventure. We planned everything ourselves and went with a friend to visit another studying abroad. With no strict itinerary, we embraced every moment: wandering historic streets, exploring museums, having deep conversations about life and history, and connecting with new people. It was the perfect mix of adventure, learning, and love. An unforgettable experience that brought us even closer together.

If we won the $20,000, we would put it toward our dream of starting a life together in a home of our own. We’ve been working hard to save, but with Dalton in law school and the me switching from in field work to CTE education, it’s been a challenge. This opportunity would bring us one step closer to finally having a space that’s ours, to build a future, start a family, and create a home filled with love, laughter, and everything we’ve dreamed of since the beginning of our relationship.