Josh's Story:

Back in February of 2008, my friend Jonathan Kirzner found out about a Jewish event through Sinai Temple's ATID organization - it was an early-morning "Run / Walk" mixer on the Santa Monica pier. Looking to get back into exercise, and hoping I might meet a nice Jewish girl in the bargain, I headed to the pier, where I met up with about half a dozen girls interested in running. The cutest one of the bunch was Lena.

After some polite introductions, we all started running. I began to run alongside Lena, who quickly suggested I run ahead so she wouldn't hold me back. That wasn't going to happen.

We jogged together from Santa Monica all the way to Venice beach and back, talking about each other. She was from a Russian background and was into music and dancing. I was a game producer who was into videogames, music, and fun events. I told a few jokes as we ran and she laughed. Both our knees were sore but we kept going.

Afterwards, we met up with the group and headed to a vegan restaurant. I knew I wanted to ask Lena out on a date, but realized that most girls weren't always into traditional coffee / dinner dates. Instead, I asked if Lena enjoyed playing racquetball, and suggested we play together sometime.

The rest was history. After racquetball, we went to a museum, the planetarium, a party, miniature golfing, and even broomball. Later we traveled to Israel together, other fun excursions, and eventually to Carmel-by-the-Sea, where I proposed to her in April of 2009.

Now one year later, we head towards our next adventure in life, and I can't wait to experience it all with my dear Lenochka by my side.

Lena's Story:

My friend, Debra Greene, told me about ATID's run/walk. I was indecisive (as usual) about attending the event. But it just so happened that after being a hermit for many weekends and studying for classes, I had an encouraging conversation with my mom. We talked about the importance of balancing out a social life and my education....that it was possible to do both. (Later on, I discovered the truth to this while having Josh as a supportive boyfriend/fiance. He knew when to give me my space for my studies and when to be the best distraction in the world).

With a sudden rush to have a little more fun with my life, I had planned all sorts of events that weekend of February 9-11, 2008. Some events overlapped and so I had to choose one over another. I chose the run walk on February 10, 2008... a good choice!

It was my first non-hermit weekend. I just wanted to get out and get a good work out. Little did I know that I would meet my husband-to-be. And as Josh said, the rest is history. He was a good match for me as time would show...and with time I grew to appreciate all of his wonderful qualities. Joshik has added beauty to my life and I am looking forward to our future.