Nadine Tran and Chicago firefighter Stephen Curley from Illinois, USA, first met a year ago and it was love at first sight despite the big age gap
AN entrepreneur who fell in love with a firefighter 28 years her senior is on a mission with her man to show that love comes in all shapes, sizes and most importantly - ages.
Nadine Tran, 27, and Chicago firefighter Stephen Curley, 55, from Illinois, USA, first met a year ago at the Rock N Roll McDonald’s.
It was love at first sight for Nadine who was making her way inside the fast food chain as Stephen was leaving.
Both parties did a double take, instantly smitten, and Stephen bought the pair breakfast.
Nadine was taken with his muscular physique and believe it or not, his wrinkles!
But for Stephen, it was his girlfriend-to-be’s infectious enthusiasm and the stories she told that drew him in.
Nadine said: “The age gap is nearly 30 years and it has never been a problem personally for either of us.”
While most people have embraced the age difference, Nadine says sometimes it can be difficult.
Her family are still getting used to the idea, while his adapted quickly.
Nadine said: “My family was shocked and are still processing the relationship whereas Steve's family was very accepting of it."
And while her and Stephen’s partnership is loving and easy most of the time, sometimes a clash of old and new school rears its head.
Nadine said: “The most difficult thing in our relationship is forms of communication.
"I prefer to communicate through text and Steve likes to communicate in person or over the phone.
“I’m always texting instead of calling.”
Although Nadine is a fan of Stephen’s wrinkles she’s not such a big fan of his bedtime beauty regime.
Nadine said: “I don’t like it when Steve uses anti-wrinkle creams before going to bed.”
“And he listens to the Chris Stapleton radio station over and over.”
Most of the quirks they find annoying about each other though are just the minor irritations every couple face.
“Steve doesn't like to find my hair all over the house and I’m always asking questions that have already been answered and always want more details which annoys Steve." [sic]
She added: “He’s unable to read my mind either.” [sic]
In general their relationship is plain-sailing and they spend a lot of time with Nadine’s 18-month-old daughter, Kate, who they love to take care of together.
Nadine said: “We don't have Kate full time so the days we do have her, spending time together on the boat or with family are probably the happiest. [sic]
Other times the pair love trying new restaurants, keeping fit, travelling and taking pictures.
Nadine said that she gets positive reactions from the public about her relationship with Stephen.
"Love comes in all different shapes, sizes and ages.
"Don't judge a relationship by the photos or the age difference.
"Get to know their story first before judging.
"When people approach us they usually have great comments to say.
"We haven't really heard anything negative and those people who have negative things to say won't say it to us in person.
"We are no different from any other couple.
"We like to go to dinners, the gym together, hang out with friends, family, and neighbours, we go grocery shopping together, we live together, we boat together, we are just like any other couple.”
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