2022 Love List:

Colleen Frentzel & Kimberly Blanchette, Janesville, 16 Years
Grace Novie Stolen (She/Her, Ae/Aer) & Martin (Ze/Hir, They/Them), Washburn, 1 Year
Patsy & Vivian Lin, Madison, 2 years
Sylvester Brown & Giordi Molitor, Milwaukee, 2 years
Joseph & David Rogan-Nordstrom, La Farge, 30+ years
Bear Cunningham & Danielle Jordan, Madison, 2 years

“You have one life, I don’t control your happiness, and I want you to live your truth.” This is what my husband said to me one day as I sat on the couch. At the time, we had been together 16 years and had two children. Jeremy has always empowered and encouraged me, and we communicate very openly and honestly. His words completely altered my view of what my life could be and the journey I took after that conversation led us both to a life and a family we never expected.

I met Jess after a mutual friend was experiencing a difficult time. I reached out to her to ask for advice, not knowing her personally, only that we shared a common friendship. We ended up making our own connection, and a few weeks later, I introduced her to Jeremy. As Jess and my relationship grew, Jess and Jeremy bonded over their love of running, sarcasm, inside jokes, and the importance of scheduling date nights around my naps. We started traveling together, often to race events out west. A few years ago, they both ran 62 miles through the Arizona desert, and I was there to crew them the entire way. We were becoming an amazing team who truly loved and respected each other. In August of 2020, Jess moved in with us. My kids have embraced her and even try to go around Jeremy and me by asking Jess!  

Being in a poly relationship takes trust, love, and strong communication. I never knew a life like this was possible, one I can share with not one, but two great loves. I’ve learned that life is not linear as we’re so often taught growing up. We are a family, this is our normal, and I love that my children are being raised to know that families look different. I want them to grow up knowing they can love whoever they want to love and that happiness looks different for everyone.

There is still a stigmitization and oversexualization of both the LGBTQ+ community and polyamourous relationships. As someone once was for me, I want to be that representation for someone else. I want to give others the courage and empowerment to live authentically; true to themselves, creating their version of happiness.