We’re getting married!

Samantha and Scott’s story first began in the latter half of 2015. They were both at a point in their lives where they were seeking a serious relationship, with marriage and family in mind. After much online conversation, they planned their first date—which happened to fall on a rainy day. Making the best of it, they went for a walk inside a Target in San Clemente, CA. While having fun shopping for random things, they sensed they would eventually become lifelong partners. It was a sort of love at first sight for the couple, who had finally met in person. In early 2016, Scott moved to Phoenix, AZ after completing his contract with the Marine Corps. Samantha remained in Torrance, CA, living with her family while continuing to get to know Scott through a long-distance relationship. Many FaceTime calls, texts, daily phone conversations, and visits later, they decided they were meant for each other and began planning a future together. They scheduled a week-long vacation during which they intended to get everything done. Samantha brought their rings, and Scott surprised her during a Fourth of July date night, just as the fireworks went off. Samantha was genuinely surprised—even though she had checked his pockets earlier, Scott had cleverly kept switching hiding spots, making her believe he would propose somewhere else and on a different day. On July 6, 2016, they eloped on their scheduled date. While it may have seemed spontaneous, it was carefully planned due to the challenges of long-distance and coordinating court and ceremony logistics. After the wedding, they focused on saving money so they could finally move in together. Scott worked a grueling job as a security guard, while Samantha juggled various roles—promotional work, bartending, personal assisting—alongside her parenting responsibilities. Their first home together was a two-bedroom apartment in Phoenix before Scott reenlisted in the U.S. Army to continue his military career.

In May 2017, Samantha and Scott’s journey led them to Fort Polk, LA—Scott’s first duty station in the Army. It was the furthest from home Samantha had ever been, but they had each other. Scott soon deployed to Iraq, leaving behind Talia, a now-pregnant Samantha, and their dog Mala. He returned just in time—one day before the birth of their second child, Ophelia. During the summer of 2019, Scott deployed again, prompting Samantha to move back to California so Talia could attend a good preschool and kindergarten—something they couldn’t find in Louisiana. Samantha, Talia, Ophelia, and Mala spent three seasons in California before returning to Louisiana after Scott came back from deployment. After enduring a burst pipe flood and two hurricanes, they finally relocated to their next duty station. In 2020, the Summy family arrived in Chicopee, MA. Scott continued his military service as a recruiter while Samantha stayed home to raise the kids and provide them with a quality homeschooling experience during the pandemic. This marked the longest stretch they’d spent together since they first met, and they cherished the family time. After some struggle and heartache, Scott and Samantha joyfully welcomed their third daughter, Rosalia, into their lives on June 6, 2023, while stationed in New England. Sadly, their beloved dog Mala passed away at 12 years old and didn’t get to join them at their next station. As of January 2024, the Summy family now resides in Washington State, which they’ve chosen as their forever home. They’re laying down roots and building a solid foundation for their future. Of course, this next chapter hasn’t come without its challenges. Shortly after arriving, Scott left for a Korean training rotation, while Samantha’s professional dog-walking business began to thrive. The family had to quickly adjust and adapt to yet another season of change. Samantha is now a well-seasoned military spouse. Her experience through past deployments has equipped her to handle this one with more ease. With the support of friends, local family, and a wonderful church community, they’re finally in a place where they can settle down without holding back. Scott and Samantha’s complementary strengths have guided them through every season—and together, they’ve grown into the strong, united family they are today.