A boy from South Carolina and a girl from Texas met in Washington of all places...a trip that would forever change the trajectory of each other's lives. Through a shared interest in hiking and outdoors, Ashley and Matthew signed up for a Christian Outdoor Collective event to climb Mt. St. Helens. Their fates were forever entwined after that point. Ok so the trip ended, and what happened afterwards? Well both Ashley and Matthew are thankful for other friends who they met in Washington, and one of those friends (Marissa) started a group text thread to stay in touch. Ashley and Matthew both just happened to be in this group. Within this group each shared more personal and intimate details and the crush that Matthew already had on Ashley began to grow. He started asking other members of the group what they thought of Ashley and if they thought there was mutual interest. Matthew also began to set up regular game nights over video calls to try and catch a glimpse of Ashley's smile. Matthew prayed over this decision and not so patiently waited on God's timing. Matthew knew that pursing Ashley meant a move to Texas and four wonderful children. With this he knew that seeking God and placing him first would allow His will to happen in their lives. God began to open doors and Matthew finally shared his crush and interest in Ashley in November of 2025, a little over 5 months after they first met. Matthew then made the 14 hour drive to take Ashley on a date and the two had an amazing time together. They both knew this was the start of something special. Five months, a lot of miles, and a few flights later they got engaged! God has truly blessed them and they are so VERY excited for their future together.