We’re getting married!

Despite living in a small town, it took the power of the internet to bring us together. After “swiping right,” grabbing a beer at Bonsai turned into a multiday backpacking trip in the Jewel Basin, fishing on the spotted bear river and then Christmas snowmobiling to Challenge Cabin in subzero temperature. As we explored the rivers and mountains of Northwest Montana, it became clear that there was more than our love of the outdoors bringing us together.

Matt’s Story: The anticipation for me really began as we were planning a camping/fishing trip on the spotted bear river. I was hoping to snag a particular campsite where I knew I wanted to propose. After driving the 60 miles of gravel road, we pulled up to our destination and began setting up camp. The next morning after breakfast, I would ask the love of my life to marry me. I woke up with eager anticipation and started making coffee and breakfast while Ann Marie slept in a bit. After we shared a nice big breakfast I warmed up her coffee and started to get nervous. I was giggling and sweaty. Somehow I still managed to surprise Ann Marie when I knelt in front of her as she sipped morning coffee and asked if she’d marry me. Quickly followed by a lot of happy crying and a “yes” in there somewhere. Then we went fishing for Westcoast Cutthoat. It was a perfect trip...Except for when we got a flat tire... Ann Marie’s Story: We found the perfect campsite along the Spotted Bear river. That morning, I woke up and Matt already had coffe going. I sat sleepily in my campchair, hot coffee in hand, watching the river as Matt fiddled around the car getting breakfast ready. The morning sun was warm, and Dexter the dog was smelling about. I can’t remember what we were talking about, but all I remember is Matt all of the sudden laughing... giggling really. To the point where I asked, “are you ok?” I felt his hand, and his palms were sweaty. He said he was fine. Matt crouched down near me, and with shaky hands placed a small, velvet green box on my lap. “Will you marry me?” I wrapped my arms around him, laughing, smiling, crying and then finally realized I haven’t said anything yet. “Yes!”