Russellville couple are "just a good fit'

Michelle and Jason Ford of Russellville balance their common interests with individual pursuits.
Michelle and Jason Ford of Russellville balance their common interests with individual pursuits.

RUSSELLVILLE, Mo. - In 20 years of marriage, Jason and Michelle Ford have never had a bad year.

"We're just a good fit," he agreed.

They met at a Bible study on the Central Missouri State University campus in March and by July they were engaged.

"I felt that she was the one; I never had any doubts," Jason said.

A key to their relationship has been a balance of common interests and individual pursuits.

When their daughter Katie, 14, took up dance, so did Michelle. The mother and daughter also enjoy spending weekends baking, making jewelry or oil painting.

And Jason often can be seen jogging along Route C. He also is scoutmaster of Boy Scouts Troop 96, where he spends time with their son Andrew, 17.

They also make time for each other.

"We make a conscious effort to seek each other out," Michelle said.

As a family, they enjoy camping, especially trips with the extended family.

Through the years, they have coached T-ball, baseball and Upward Basketball, served as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts leaders, Vacation Bible School director, and Band Booster officer.

They also found a church home at Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

"We're pretty active in our own lives, but God is a high priority," Jason said.

Michelle has been a speech therapist for 20 years, the last 10 for the Cole County R-1 Schools. She also is the Junior Beta sponsor.

"I like working with the kids and seeing their improvement," Michelle said.

Jason's work for the state family support division brought the family back to his hometown of Jefferson City.

But the perfect house, a close-knit community and the potential opportunities for their children, drew them to Russellville.

Because both Jason and Michelle, who grew up in a military family, attended multiple schools growing up, they strongly wanted to stay put for their children's education.

That has meant turning down higher paying jobs and making other career sacrifices.

"We have no regrets," Michelle said.