Matthew and Ashley met at a Crab and Wine festival in the early spring in Astoria, OR. They shared the night among company and friends, drinking wine and having a good time. There was a moment though, among the loudness of the crowd and chaos of the business, where these two souls had a moment, a spark, a fire in them that would change the course of there lives forever.

Ashley returned to Idaho to complete her training with the Idaho State Police, as Matthew went on the AMT A-school.

Life went on, and distance created silence.. until sometime around the early winter when the two sparked conversation.. though the spark between them from that spring never went out.

Between pictures of dogs, adventures, day to day things -- the first phone conversation (which was 4 hours), would lead into much more.

Matthew invited Ashley to spend a weekend in Astoria, OR, with him, and though he already had her soul, he won her heart with the beautiful flowers she surprised her with when she arrived.

One week later, she packed up everything she owned, left ISP, re-enlisted back into the USCG, and moved out to be with Matthew. Never once was there any doubt or hesitation.

From there, they have traveled to 15 states and 1 country, adopted 1 puppy, and a military working dog. They have experienced what it means to be tested by the world and came out not only stronger but more as one. Ashley knows to have ice cream in the fridge and to always have a snack on standby, as Matthew has learned that a quick trip to the store is not always quick, for Ashley will become friends with anyone.

In October 2024.. Matthew asked Ashley to spend the rest of their lives together, to which she said yes!

I have found the one whom my soul loves.

Songs of Solomon 3:4

Registry

Thank you for your love and kindness towards us, and for celebrating our special day! Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Thank you for your love and kindness towards us, and for celebrating our special day!

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18