In a heartfelt discussion shared with PEOPLE, actor James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, opened up about their 14-year love story, revealing the charming and often tumultuous journey that brought them together. The couple reminisced about their first encounter at a mutual friend’s gathering, where Kimberly admitted to finding James “really hot,” something she kept to herself for over a decade.

James, who has experienced divorce and a previous single life, shared a pivotal moment of clarity during a trip to Israel. Feeling ready to find his soulmate, he expressed his desire to meet a spiritual partner. It was at this moment that Kimberly interrupted him with a question, capturing his attention and inadvertently igniting a spark between them. Their initial connection blossomed during a memorable day spent in the Mediterranean Sea, where James felt a strong attraction despite Kimberly’s insistence that she wasn’t looking for a relationship.

The couple took a cautious approach to their budding romance, intentionally creating space to avoid burnout. Despite these efforts, they quickly realized their deep connection was undeniable. Their journey took a significant turn when Kimberly became pregnant with their first 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥, Olivia, just six months into their relationship, leading to a whirlwind marriage while she was seven months along.

Over the years, the couple has faced their share of challenges, including multiple miscarriages and near-death experiences. They reflected on how these trials have strengthened their bond and deepened their understanding of life and love. James expressed gratitude for their family, acknowledging the unplanned nature of their 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren and the joy that has come from their experiences.

As they continue to navigate the complexities of parenthood and life together, both James and Kimberly emphasize the importance of savoring each moment and supporting one another through life’s ups and downs, ultimately feeling fortunate to have each other in this journey.