They met at CrossFit — both showing up to sweat, not to fall in love. She was in her element, messy bun and Vans; he was all focus and quiet confidence. The crush was instant, but neither said a word for weeks. Finally, he got the courage to ask her out. A sunrise on the beach, endless conversation, and coffee later — they both knew this was different. What started as a gym crush quickly turned into something real — laughter, adventures, and a love that just felt right from the very beginning.

We moved in together and made our house a home — movies on the couch, evening workouts, endless banter, and the unanimous decision that two dogs and two rabbits were necessary. Bears vs. Packers games test our patience, but somehow only make life more fun. We love each other’s families like our own, and they’ve become part of the chaos and laughter too. Best friends, soulmates, partners in crime — and just when life seemed perfect, it got even better.

Helen thought she was heading to a “retirement dinner” for her sister Nancy, who was expecting her first baby — not walking straight into one of the biggest surprises of her life. The whole family gathered at The Breakers, dressed up and ready to celebrate. After taking photos by the Christmas tree, Helen’s mom suggested one more picture in the courtyard. Still completely unsuspecting, Helen lined up in front of AJ. When the photo ended, he pulled her aside. She assumed he was about to make one of his usual jokes — or maybe push her into the fountain, in typical AJ fashion — but instead, he looked at her and said softly, “You know how much I love you, right?” Then came the ring. The next few seconds were a blur of surprise, laughter, and happy tears. Helen swears she blacked out from excitement. Almost no one knew it was coming, which made it even more special watching everyone else’s shocked faces. (Lane’s still a little salty she wasn’t in on the secret, but we’ll call it proof she really can keep one!) It was the most perfect surprise — surrounded by family, laughter, and Christmas magic — a moment they’ll never forget.