we do!

Allison moved to Nashville in April 2020 to escape the hustle and bustle of California and to try something new and ambitious. She started a new nursing job and began to immerse herself in the culture of Tennessee (COVID did kind of throw a wrench in this plan, RIP to 2020 am I right?) and how different it was from the last 26 years in California. Matt and Allison met for the first time at the hospital where Allison had newly began working. She knew immediately there was some type of connection but very quickly blew off the idea of a romantic relationship because, (in case everyone didn't already know), Matt was shorter than her. Matt's first thought about Allison was that she was beautiful but awfully tall and that he better leave that idea behind him because it'll never happen. Over time the connection between the two was undeniable, but they continued to be friends for the next year, slowly growing more and more fond of each another. They were always looking at the next way to spend time together without making it painfully obvious that they were secretly interested in each other. Allison subconsciously started using her sling-pack workout backpack just like Matt did and started drinking Monster energy drinks during her night shifts, just like Matt as well - this is a bad habit and I will forever be indebted to you Matt for provoking this ;) Eventually Allison decided to ask Matt to go on a hike with her and her dog Maxx, which he graciously agreed to (after months of nudging and pushing him to do so.) At this point, as most would assume, Matt was still ignorant to all the blatantly obvious cues of Allison being interested in him and he thought this was just a friendly encounter. Regardless, this was still a pivotal moment for the two of them as it sealed the way they really felt about each other. Allison later found out, that day they went on that hike, Matt left his hometown of Pleasant Shade, Tennessee a day early, where he was planning to spend a few days with his family- just so he could spend the day with Allison. Anyone who knows Matt, knows this would NEVER happen unless it was for someone or something important. After that day, they've been inseparable and the rest is history. Allison has had many low blood sugars that Matt has been more than gracious to help treat, Matt has continued to convince Allison that rock & roll is the best music genre, they've spent many waking hours together, been on a multitude of walks with their dog Maxx, gone on multiple trips, traveled to see each others families, moved two times (no more moving please!), but most of all have enjoyed spending time together and loving the life they have created. One of the initial thoughts Matt had upon getting to know Allison was the she was going to be one of the "good ones" but little did he know that she ended up being the very best one he could have ever hoped for. They got engaged in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida on September 18, 2024, where Matt pulled off the biggest and best surprise he's ever accomplished and they can't wait for their wedding on October 3rd, 2025. Life is sweeter and more special just because they get to be together.