It started from a mere meet on the job and introduction by another co-worker inquiring how Sam could obtain an OC, aka pepper spray from the Less Lethal Department. Brandt looked puzzled for a second, (Sam claims it was a long second and maybe that was on purpose) as Brandt failed to realize she was left handed and she had her pepper spray on the opposite side of her belt. Simple small talk thereafter led to them bringing up shows they enjoyed on Netflix as well as outdoor sports.


This kept them intrigued but the overarching irony on their initial attraction stemmed from a staring contest around 2021, where all wore masks. As they attempted to keep things light during these unscripted moments, Brandt would fail each time attempting to hold his own when looking into Sam's eyes. Neither of them knew what their relationship would result in, but they knew there was a connection and were eager to find out.


Their first official date was to an ice maze. They continued to date, playing board games, hiking, etc. The dates got crazier, Brandt having just completed his skydiving license showed Sam the thrill of jumping as well ....and it stuck.


Things progressed and by spring they knew they had something special. They had so many little things in common, but the more they spoke, the more they realized they had the big things in common too. Topics such as where they wanted to be in life, their goals, and their values, were aligned.


Numerous trips were made back and forth after Brandt left for his tour in Toronto, Canada. These moments were soaked in as they traveled a total of two countries and eight cities together.


In November 2023 they both visited Brandt's family in Florida. Sam's parents had traveled down as well and they were having a BBQ in Brandt's sister's backyard. Towards the end of the night Brandt slipped away with his sisters. Sam was outside with the parents watching football on tv. Sam then needed to use the restroom and went inside. Brandt and Lynda were inside near the bathroom lighting candles... this was odd to Sam. Brandt played this off stating the candles were being lit for scent purposes for another family member. Unbeknownst to Sam, she had walked in on them setting up a very special surprise.


Some time later Brandt asked Sam to come inside. He led her to that same room which was now fully lit by candles, pumpkins, and other seasonal decor. Brandt got down on one knee and gave a speech about them and their story. He ended it stating how they are just beginning their forever. She said Yes! And the Family celebrated together.