I find that the best couples always have a ‘Monopoly’ story.

What’s a ‘Monopoly’ story?

I’m glad you asked.

It typically comes up unexpected. A lazy evening leads to a decision to break out the old Monopoly board. “Ya, that will be fun. I can’t remember the last time I played Monopoly.” It seems innocent and begins harmlessly. But this is a critical and defining moment, often infamous, in the history of the relationship. What starts out as a relaxing way to spend the evening quietly picks up momentum. She lands on Free Parking and explains that it’s her family tradition to collect $500. He happens to be the first one to land on Boardwalk… then Park Place. She won’t trade. He puts up hotels.

Next thing you know true personalities are revealed, competition begins to surface, things are said, tempers flare, somebody has a tiny metal thimble thrown at their head.

Thus, the birth of the Monopoly story. The epic tale of why you know longer play Monopoly together.

Of course, it’s not always Monopoly for every couple. For Kristi and I, it was actually a card game. But we survived. Now we laugh… and decided to protect our marriage by never being on the same team when playing cards…

I think all the best couples have a story like this because I think all the best couples enjoy playing together.

Josh and Courtney are that couple. They love to spend time together, to play together and have fun together. They fit together just perfectly. Watching them, you can see how well they compliment the other’s strengths and weaknesses. They take care of each other. They walk their dogs, enjoying the weather and each others company. They cook together, creating their own traditional recipes. Their love for each other and enjoyment of life is both inspiring and contagious.

I’m so excited to be part of telling their story and can’t wait for their wedding in September.

Maybe I’ll get them Monopoly as a wedding gift…