The big day could not have been any more perfect and sentimental to Ashley and Matt as a couple. In March, Matt decided that it was a good time to get back into running, as he previously had done so in the past. Matt signed up for the Nationwide Children's Marathon for October 15th, 2017. This run is for an amazing cause and brings so many supporters to the event.

In May, Matt's niece, Lakin, was born and needed to be immediately life-flighted to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus for medical attention. In six weeks, this princess taught those around her more about strength, faith and love than many learn in a lifetime. Lakin is a huge reason that Ashley grew so close to the Keske Family and for the fostering of the love Ashley and Matt had shared for another.

After Lakin's birth, Rachel, Matt's sister, decided to run the same half marathon for "Lakin's League." Upon this, Matt decided to run the half marathon instead of the full in order to run alongside his sister.

The weekend of October 13th-15th, Matt's family joined as well as Ashley's mom and and step-dad, to support these runners. Ashley's friend and bridesmaid, Kristin, was also in attendance. This was Ashley's first full marathon, spectator that is; however, was dressed the part as a participant with her wet hair in a ponytail, chipped nail polish and workout clothes. We stood at the corner of mile three and seven to cheer our runner on, so it would give us plenty of time to get down to the finish line once they passed.

Upon arriving at the finish line, we found seats in the bleachers to see their finish. The whole day Ashley, Ashley's mom and Kristin could not stop talking about the inspiring and emotional event and how they were going to "get in shape and train for next year!"

Matt and Rachel joined us at the bleachers where the group was having casual conversation, when Matt asked Ashley, "Are you ready to run the rest with me?" Well it was loud and Ashley, being the non-athlete that she is, took it in literal terms as ready to run the remaining 13.1 miles, to which the answer was "no!". Matt clarified a little further wanting to run the remainder of life with Ashley and when getting down on one knee it all made sense! Matt asked Ashley to marry her, Ashley slightly blacked out while asking, "is this real life?!" and then said, "YES!" further growing in the emotions of the day. So many people have asked, "did Matt run with the ring the entire way?!" Little did Ashley know, Matt's mom, not only had the ring up her sleeve, but so much more!

Matt and Ashley had a celebratory lunch with those watched the marathon, followed by an afternoon of calling friends and family with the exciting news (and Ashley getting a much needed manicure)!

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