(Emily's POV) When Tyler and I met I was not open to romance, not ready to date, not in the mood for flirting. I was wrestling with many things, and found in him a willing wrestling partner - so we talked. About God, our recovery journeys, the mind, organized religion, relationships, politics, spirituality, our hopes and dreams. Since he lived three hours away, there was no chance we would get together, and somehow that allowed a level of frank discourse I have never before encountered. Nothing to lose, no one to impress, might as well let it all out! Eventually, our conversations did become more personal and phone calls gave way to video calls, video calls led to visiting each other, and in very short order, realized we wanted to become a family. There was an undeniable pull, a thread, a spiritual and intellectual connection, deep compatibility. So, we stepped out in faith, praying for direction, and it’s been such a beautiful unfolding. Adding Tyler to the family and becoming a unit of five has been so natural, so right, exactly what we all needed. I remember at some point around mid summer, noticing that when he was around, we felt complete - and when he was gone, something was missing. My kids were all begging me to marry him way before it should’ve been appropriate to bring that up 😆 Turns out, the old adage is true. When you know, you know. When it’s right, it’s right, and it feels safe. Thank you to the friends and family who have walked with me on this journey, I love and appreciate you more than words ♥️