Before I started dating again, Ryan, Twila and I sat down and we talked about what we wanted in my future wife/their future stepmom. I listened and made a list and it was sweet to hear what my kids hoped for and ultimately they just wanted me to be happy and have my person. ❤️ They were excited for our 4th chair at the table to be filled! Cue Ashley entering our lives….

Ashley and I met on a dating app after she liked one of my pictures. ☺️ We chatted for a few weeks before our schedules lined up to meet in person. (I had car issues the first day we were to meet and I wasn’t sure if she would think I was flaking but I honestly had a dead car!) Our first date was at Starbucks in Milpitas. I am not a big coffee drinker but it seemed like a good place to meet someone for the first time!

We hit it off right away and our conversation just flowed! Hours would pass when we were together and it was amazing!! We were running forward and things were great!! Until they weren’t… Unfortunately, I was struggling with some things from my past and Ashley took the brunt of my issues… our paths parted for a while but even in the midst of things, God was still working on our story. He allowed us to keep each other in mind as I navigated things on my side. I learned and relearned things I needed to and worked on myself. Ashley was patient and trusted God through it all and I am forever grateful for that!!

I was a mess but God was working and brought healing in an amazing way! He kept bringing Ashley to mind (and vice-versa) so we reconnected and I am grateful for that! Ashley has been so patient and understanding of my past. She loves my kiddos and they love her!

Back to my list the kiddos made… when Ashley and I got together, the kids and I reviewed the list and they were so happy and excited that she met every requirement on it!!! ❤️ We had found our person!! God provided and worked as only He could!! Ashley is the answer to the prayers we have been praying and has helped me heal in many ways. I am forever grateful to God for bringing her into our lives and we can’t wait to make it official and keep walking forward in what God has for us!! One step at a time is my life motto and I am grateful to have Ashley by my side each step of the way now!