Celebrating A Decade of Loving Nikki: ‘The Heart of Our Home’

As Valentine’s Day dawns, Chris Van Avery takes a moment to reflect on the woman who has been his rock, partner and co-pilot through life’s ups and downs. Nikki is a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering support.

Born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan, Nikki embodies the spirit of the Midwest – a blend of Italian and Ukrainian heritage with a touch of grit. With roots as diverse as her vibrant spirit, Chris marvels at Nikki’s innate ability to weave magic into the fabric of their lives.

Whether meticulously managing their finances or whipping up culinary delights in the kitchen, Nikki’s touch transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. A manager and chaos coordinator at a major insurance company, she juggles responsibilities with finesse, all while nurturing their home and garden with equal passion.

In her moments of respite, Nikki finds solace in the garden, cultivating lush gardens that breathe life into their surroundings. Her keen eye for design transforms their home into a sanctuary – a reflection of her creativity and unwavering attention to detail.

With a stepson, Connor, now 19, Nikki embraced the role of a mother with grace and determination. She’s a planner, a strategist, and the steady hand that guides their family through life’s twists and turns. Chris fondly recalls their engagement in the picturesque landscapes of Leelanau Peninsula and Traverse City – a moment of fate that encapsulates their love story.

Together, Chris and Nikki find joy in the simple pleasures – dining out, traveling and testing their luck at the casino. In a lighthearted moment, Chris reminisces about a family adventure up north, where a kayaking trip took an unexpected turn when Connor decided to answer nature’s call in the river. This memory still brings laughter to their hearts. But amidst the joy and adventures, Nikki’s unwavering support stands out, as well as her being a fantastic dog mom to two female labs and a male Great Pyrenees.

Chris recognizes the depth of Nikki’s love and her unwavering commitment to their family. From raising Connor to weathering career changes and uncertainties, Nikki has been his anchor, guiding him with wisdom and love. She’s the backbone of their partnership, the one who plans, organizes, and keeps them on track, even when Chris feels like a “47-year-old teenager.”

As Chris celebrates Nikki this Valentine’s Day, his message to her is one of gratitude, admiration and boundless love. “She does all the little things that I don’t notice,” he shares, “and she’s been super supportive in my career change.”

In Nikki, he’s found not just a partner, but a soulmate – a beacon of light that illuminates their path forward together.