Deseere is a proud mom to two teenage boys who share her love of sports, anime, video games, and fishing—though she admits the boys have the upper hand when it comes to gaming. Her home office is also the domain of two feline “co-workers”: Roger, a 20-pound Blue Russian, and his arch-nemesis, Kahlisee, a fluffy 15-pound Calico who is undeniably in charge. Both are loving, demanding, and always nearby, silently judging and waiting for treats.

She shares life with her partner, a Marine Purple Heart Veteran and General Contractor with what she affectionately calls “Disney Princess energy,” who also has two teenagers. Together, they enjoy dressing up for renaissance fairs, hosting dinner parties, watching period dramas and sci-fi, raising their own food, and preparing farm-to-table meals for family and friends. Their story began—appropriately—over delicious food, introduced by close mutual friends.

As a family, they attend church together and engage in open, thoughtful conversations about spirituality and how faith applies to everyday life. At the core of Deseere’s beliefs is a guiding principle she strives to live out daily: Love one another. It remains her greatest teacher and highest value.