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Anna Martin: From 'The New York Times, ' I'm Anna Martin.
This is 'Modern Love.'
A few years ago, Nell Stevens,
the author of today's essay, had a lot of time on her hands.
So she spent it entering giveaways online.
Everywhere there was a chance to win something for free on the internet,
Nell put down her name and email.
It was part distraction and part a long shot that her life might get better.
But just as Nell found out that she'd of the biggest,
most extravagant prize she'd ever gone out for, her life fell apart.
Nell Stevens, I'm so excited.
Welcome to 'Modern Love.'
Nell Stevens: Thank you very much for having me.
Anna Martin: So where are you coming to me from right now?
Where are you?
Nell Stevens: So I am in the Cotswolds in the UK.
Anna Martin: OK, tell me about the Cotswolds a little bit.
What does it look like where you are?
Nell Stevens: I don't know how this translates into an American scene.