Once upon a time in the charming town of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, Traci's pigeon racing family's fierce loyalty to the Steelers and the graceful gliding of the Penguins on the ice, were more than just sports, they were a way of life, while across the country, for Sue, a business, cowboy boots, horses and kids (who didn't like horses) were the order of the day.

This is the tale of two -- who challenged destiny to a new dance. This story is filled with love and laughter, (some tears), served with a side of chili sassiness and a dash of umpire wisdom.

In the heart of this picturesque town called Jeannette lived a certain upcoming umpire - that's me - Traci, who had a knack for calling balls and strikes. I took that talent (and many more) with me to Texas. Little did I know that for Riley (a.k.a. Wiggles, my perfect little dog), and me, our life was about to uncover a brand new field that was filled with a different kind of call... the ones that last for 5 hours and lead to an amazing love story for all time.

In the scorching yet beautiful lands of New Mexico, Sue, a fiery aficionado of all things chili and spicy, was busy taming the Wild West with her three amazing kids by her side, co-running a business, following sports and dance, and horseback riding. These kids, with their open hearts, kind souls, and support, played a pivotal role in our story, supporting a future none of us could have predicted. It started with a move to San Antonio, Tx.

From Traci's perspective, Sue's love for spicy food was only matched by her culinary skills and her deep affection for New Mexico, Navajo culture, horses, and big dogs. (Traci said "I had to take NO BIG DOGS off my list" - for those who know about my list). It was as if Sue brought the warmth of New Mexico right into my life.

Our paths crossed in the most unexpected of places - the vast and unpredictable world of online dating. Neither of us had any grand expectations, but sometimes, life throws you a curveball. Now, here's where the story takes an unexpected twist worthy of a Steelers-Penguins doubleheader. We were both casually dating other people at the time, not actively searching for a lifelong commitment. Before we knew it, our witty online banter had us spending hours on the phone, driving back and forth, from city to city, and completely smitten.

It was like two ships passing in the night, yet destined for a single destination. A few life rings needed to be passed back and forth, until they were caught, causing a redirection that was most delightful and unpredictable.

While others may have been wounded (don't be alarmed -superficial wounds) by the turn of events, house plants started being transported back to their original owners (sorry Austin) and others (sorry Seattle) were told it might be advisable to cancel any future travel plans. Our hearts were singing a different tune. What we had blossomed into an extraordinary love.

Both our families have embraced us. Traci's boisterous Italian clan of over-sharers made sure Sue fit in with open arms. She and my dad formed a heartwarming bond (granted it took a while for dad to call her by name not just "the girl". That added a sprinkle of magic to our love story. Sue's kiddos (who succumbed to Traci's charm and wit) were fun, and welcoming, and always made sure mom was okay as she traveled back and forth to Houston. Traci's dad always knew where she was. As Sue found out on a first date, when Dad texted "What are you doing at the park?" (Sue never knew there was an app for that) and she knew she was really "in" when she was invited into the fold of family trackers and learned to be a creeper too. Now she knows where everyone in the family is at any time. Even Jake and Jules (nephew and niece in their 20's )! Pat has yet to succumb (I believe the words were "hard pass" to this awesomeness-just saying, even though his sisters see the value in being a creeper.

So, here we will stand, with our amazing families to celebrate our journey from the organized chaos to the sweet serendipity of love. As we say "I do," we'll raise our glasses to the unpredictable twists and turns that brought us together, to the three incredible kids who have our hearts along the way (although they now have competition with Cal, Esme, Owen, and Maggie). Momma Duez (best ravioli and maple twist maker) and Dad, and of course, #2, #3, and #4 (ask later for details) always welcoming and making sure Sue fit in by appropriate chastising (forgetting to turn out lights) calling her by the wrong name (ummm thanks Marcy, Randy), and general fun making.

To Sue, my chili-loving, horse-riding, big-dog adoring, and incredible mom extraordinaire - you've brought warmth to my cold winters and laughter to my umpire blues. To Traci, my happy ending who makes me laugh every day, and always challenges my perspective! We can't wait to share our love story with all our friends and family, as we embark on this adventure together.

Here's to courage, bravery, the impact of choices (easy and difficult), actions, and creating the greatest net value. May there be many more innings of laughter, love, and spicy food in our lives. Cheers to our forever, in the sweetest twist of fate we could have ever imagined.