The Ferris Wheels would come later.

...when two strangers separately navigating the open waters of new life circumstances crossed paths on their respective vessels of self-discovery, and hailed each other in their passing. This is a fancy way of saying that Crystal and Mat happened to meet each other at a local bar in the suburb where they both were living at the time.

This otherwise common occurrence became a remarkable event when they immediately recognized an indescribable yet overwhelming connection between each other – whether it was their shared ideals of empathy and compassion, their inquisitive approach to understanding life, their fanaticism about horror movies or their questionable preference in cocktails – something important had begun.

The Mind-Eraser shots of the evening couldn’t dampen the memory of their serendipitous meeting, and they quickly became as inseparable and devoted as two people can be. And so it was that the adventure began.

Many confidants would counsel – reasonably – against a sudden and unexpected trip to an imposing metropolis in another state for an event that had the word “riot” in its name. However, that’s where Crystal and Mat found themselves in that 2021 summer: Chicago Riot Fest and Carnival 2021. Between the performances of punk-rock and metal bands, and among the trendy food trucks and gothic clown-themed street performers, they shared a kiss atop a conspicuously positioned Ferris Wheel, and a new tradition was born.

From that point onward, regardless of the direction or purpose of their travels, they resolved to share a ride together – to always make time for the simple joy of spending time together doing something fun. And that is the reason that they seek out a Ferris Wheel in every new state they visit together.

To celebrate their anniversary, they found a new Ferris Wheel to enjoy together in Myrtle Beach...

...and a new way to commemorate each other and their journeys.

Before long, the clarion call of Riot Fest would beckon once again, and the couple would rediscover the roots of their unique traditions all over again.

In Miami, they easily befriended the locals, a couple of sloths, and a rockstar, among others.

...but of course, they also uncovered a new Ferris Wheel in their exploring.

In the very heart of democracy, and with the purpose of attending the nuptials of a separate beloved couple, they would investigate the Capital Wheel...

...while apparently unearthing a metallic giant clawing his way up from under the ground....

Is there more to this story? Of course. And what will the future hold? That's yet to be seen.

Between the milestones - geographic or emotional, adventurous or familiar - the story of their love and joy will resonate through...well, whatever circumstances they find themselves in.