I joined the local gym in April 2022. Fresh off the LA Marathon, folks asked if I wanted to train with the gym to run the Portland Half Marathon in October. I said yes, why not! I parked my car and started walking up to the group for the run at LA Historic State Park. I remember seeing Steve and thought, wow, he's cute. We were introduced and I got butterflies - I tried to play it cool. I loved that he was a high school special education teacher. He beat me on the run that day.

A few Instagram story hearts, likes and chats later, Steve asked me if I wanted grab a beer. I said sure, but we didn't say when. A week later, I wasn't sure if he was still interested, I sent him message, "do you want to grab that beer?" Yes, he said. That same evening we were at La Cuevita in Highland Park. We hopped over to Blind Barber where had our first kiss.

Thinking back to our first date, I have never had anyone look at me the way he does. Our paths were meant to cross at some point, 2022 was the year. We both love to run and love working with youth. As Leo's we push each other to be our best and provide that safe space for one another in difficult times.

We've spent every day together since, wouldn't have it any other way. He's my soulmate, my forever.