Our paths first crossed in a small, almost accidental way. His sister is married to my cousin, so we had heard of each other over the years, but never really knew one another.

That all changed when we started working together. The job brought us into each other's lives. Tanner was married then, with a little boy on the way.

Not long after their son, Carter, was born, Tanner’s wife tragically passed away. It was heartbreaking, and I watched as Tanner navigated grief in a way no one should ever have to. There was so much pain, so much loss, but he was so strong for Carter through it all.

Months passed, and what started as a quiet friendship, built on mutual respect and shared experiences, gradually began to grow into something more. It wasn’t something either of us planned, but it was something we both felt—this bond between us. Slowly, we found ourselves falling in love, not just with each other, but with the life we were building together.

Now, here we are. Tanner and I, living, working, and loving together, raising Carter with all the joy and challenges that come with it. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been real, and it’s been ours. Our story isn’t perfect, but it’s ours—and I wouldn’t change a thing.