We were both on a dating app called "Hinge". Hannah had been on dating apps, but was growing more discouraged as time went on. Matthew was always skeptical, but with the help of some coworker friends, he finally gave it a try. After only a few months, he was already debating whether he should continue using it or not. Little did we know, on January 2nd, 2022, that would change.

For those unfamiliar, the app has question prompts and allows each person to see the other's answer. One of Matthew's prompts was "What's a typical Sunday?" Hannah could easily relate to his response of "Going to church, watching the Packers, listening to 'What I Love about Sundays', or being on a boat." Matthew saw a beautiful woman with a response of loving country music and custard, what else could you ask for! It quickly became apparent how easily our conversation flowed. Our short messages about hobbies quickly turned to long ones about values, morals, and long-term plans.

We had our first date at a restaurant in Appleton, called "Houdini's", and both had a great time. A few days after, Matthew left for a family trip in Mexico and upon returning, had to cancel the 2nd date due to a work commitment, on his birthday nonetheless. He thought for sure that may be the end of us talking. But instead, Hannah sent him the sweetest birthday message and even took him out to dinner the following week. Matthew knew right then, she was someone special.

The following weeks we went on many more dates and had long conversations. We shared similar values, faith, and outlook on family and how we would want to raise our future kids. Our love for country music, traveling, watching the Packers, and summer activities deepened our connection. After about a month, Matthew asked Hannah to be his girlfriend, to which she easily replied 'yes'. Not surprisingly, she was the bold one to ask for the first kiss.

Over the next year and a half, we went on many trips and adventures together. Hannah expanded Matthew's horizons to other activities besides volleyball. We've went to many Packers/Bucks games, went downhill skiing, finally got up on water skis, played pickleball, started Matthew in swim lessons (yes, you read that right), rode our jet ski, and went to countless country concerts.

Then on June 8th, 2023, Matthew flew down to Nashville to join Hannah and her mom for CMA Fest. We went on a tour of the Grand Ole Opry, which was amazing, if any of you get the chance. The last part of the tour you get to go on stage and get your picture taken in the historic 'Circle that cannot be broken'. When it was our turn, Matthew got down on his knee and with very steady hands (not), pulled out a ring! Hannah practically was nodding her head yes before Matthew even had time to ask the question! It was a wonderful moment that we're glad to have both picture and video remembrance of.

Over this past year, we've been growing together as a couple and still having plenty of adventures, in-between all the wedding planning. Hannah has been exceling as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Winnebago Mental Health. Matthew got a new job as an electrical engineer at Kimberly Clark. We moved in together into a duplex in Oshkosh in January and now into our dream house in July! It sure has been a crazy year!

Thank you all for your continued love, support, and encouragement! We cannot wait to celebrate with all of you on the 21st Day of September!