Some stories take the scenic route.

For Amber and DJ, that route began when they were just 15 years old. The two dated as teenagers before life took them in different directions and they lost touch for 27 years. Then, thanks to Facebook, they found each other again.

They quickly realized the connection they had as teenagers was still there.

“It truly feels like life brought us back together at exactly the right time,” Amber says.

Today, Amber and DJ are engaged and have built a life centered around family, community and plenty of adventures. They moved to Placitas in February 2025 along with Amber’s mom, Jere, and Amber’s son, Silas. Rounding out the family are two Great Pyrenees, Ozzy and Libby.

While Placitas may be a newer home for the family, New Mexico certainly isn’t. DJ was born and raised in Albuquerque, as was Silas, while Jere is originally from Roswell. Amber was born in South Dakota.

For Amber and DJ, Placitas offered something they were looking for: peaceful surroundings, natural beauty and a genuine sense of community.

“We love the balance of feeling a little tucked away while still being close to everything we need,” Amber says.

That natural beauty occasionally comes with visitors. Amber’s perfect day starts with a quiet cup of coffee in her garden, watching the wild horses and deer wander through the neighborhood.

There is, however, one condition.

“It’s such a special sight, as long as they’re not helping themselves to my garden while I’m enjoying it.”

At the center of family life is Silas, who graduated from V. Sue Cleveland High School in 2024. After completing his first two years at a junior college in Colorado, he has decided to continue his education at a four-year college in Texas. He recently accepted both a baseball and academic offer and will continue his education while playing the sport he loves.

Watching Silas play baseball is one of Amber and DJ’s favorite things to do. Sports are a family affair, and they enjoy attending sporting events together and following the LA Dodgers.

But this family has another shared interest that’s a little less conventional.

They love haunted places.

Haunted attractions, haunted hotels, historic locations and spooky experiences have become family adventures. It isn’t only about the thrill, either. They enjoy learning the history and stories behind the places they visit.

When they aren’t seeking out something spooky, they’re equally happy with family game nights and escape rooms, where teamwork, laughter and a little friendly challenge create some of their favorite memories.

Travel is another big part of their family time. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a larger trip, Amber and DJ enjoy discovering new places, trying local food and stepping away from the busyness of everyday life.

Back home, both stay plenty busy professionally.

DJ owns and operates a plumbing and HVAC business providing residential and commercial services. His work ranges from routine maintenance and repairs to larger installations and upgrades. He enjoys hands-on work, solving problems and building long-term relationships with customers.

Amber works as a business broker, helping owners value, market and sell their businesses while guiding buyers through the acquisition process. She was drawn to the industry by the opportunity to help people through major life transitions.

“What I love most about what I do is the people,” she says.

Community involvement is important to both of them. Amber serves as an Ambassador for the Rio Rancho Chamber of Commerce, and the couple participates in networking groups, supports locally owned businesses and nonprofits, and volunteers. They are also deeply involved in their church and small groups.

They still find time for their own interests. Amber looks forward to a monthly Bunco night with a group of women, complete with food, laughter and a little competition. DJ enjoys flying his drones and capturing different perspectives from above. Amber also loves farmers markets, craft shows, comedy shows, discovering local restaurants and settling in for a good TV series.

Through all of it, family remains the priority.

Amber says they feel most connected during the simple moments: cheering for Silas, traveling, playing games or trying something new together.

And perhaps that makes their story coming full circle even sweeter.

After meeting at 15, spending 27 years apart and finding one another again, Amber and DJ have created a life grounded in the things they value most: family, faith, community, gratitude and time together.

This time, they’re making plenty of memories along the way.