Thank you, Gatorland Toyota, for providing poor service. If you’ve ever shared a few libations with us, you’ve probably heard this story (catch me after a few drinks for the uncut version). The short version? Yessenia’s aura had every working man and a few women at the dealership in a trance. I mean, the whole mechanic crew literally left their workstations and started “checking on the lobby.” Productivity? Gone. The consequence? That reliable 2011 Toyota Corolla came in for an oil change… and left the dealership drained but not refilled. Talk about a costly distraction. Naturally, Yessenia was confused as her dashboard lights began raving on the way home. What was the logical next step? Reach out to the valet who’d slid into her DMs on Instagram. Me? Always two steps ahead, I told her I was “busy working on my biceps” and she could bring it back when she had time. (I was crossing my fingers she’d return next day in another tight maxi dress.) But if you know Yessenia, she’s not the kind of woman you tell “later.” She runs on her time and I had just tested her patience. When she showed back up, it became clear she was using me to solve her Toyota dilemma. Perfect. Foot in the door. I knew from day one she was out of my league, a woman with presence, confidence, and standards. But if there’s one thing everyone here knows about me, it’s this: I aim high, and when I hit my target, it’s never luck. Fast-forward almost eleven years filled with furry friends (RIP Ollie, Joey and Kovu), six different homes, long-distance stretches, late-night meals, sports, dancing, frustration, and growth. But through it all, love, the real kind that showed up every single day. Ours is a forever track. A timeless duo built through discipline, laughter, and faith. Refined physically, mentally, professionally, and spiritually. What we have can’t be replicated; it was engineered from work, patience, acceptance and heart. So here’s to love that endures, that challenges, that fills your tank when life runs you dry. If you’re lucky enough to find it, hold on tight and invite the calluses, it’ll become your favorite story too. - JL