For the Thompson family, finding their home in Lake Forest was a journey worth taking. Matt and Steph, along with their children Reid, 11, and Caroline, who will turn 8 on May 10, officially moved to the neighborhood in September 2025 after spending a full year searching for just the right fit.“We looked at a lot of houses,” Steph shares, laughing, “but this one just felt right.” After 12 years and three homes in the Polo Fields area, the Thompsons were ready for something long term. “We love updating homes and making them our own, but this home in Lake Forest is it for a LONG time.”Originally from different parts of the Midwest, Steph grew up in Miamisburg, Ohio, just outside of Dayton, while Matt is from Cecilia, Kentucky, near Elizabethtown. Their paths eventually crossed thanks to mutual friends, but it was not until a St. Patrick’s Day celebration in 2012 that things truly clicked. “Steph came to Dayton to celebrate with friends, and I was there too,” Matt recalls. “The rest is history.” Both attended college in Ohio and Kentucky, with Steph earning a degree in Finance from the University of Dayton and Matt studying Finance at the University of Kentucky. Their careers eventually brought them to Louisville, where they have built both a life and a strong connection to the community. Matt is a Financial Advisor with Fifth Third Securities, working out of the Lake Forest location alongside his business partner, Mary Blankenship, and assistant Jennifer Hall. Steph spent a decade at River Road Asset Management before stepping away from her full-time role in early 2024 to spend more time with her family. She now works part-time at Nativity Academy at St. Boniface, helping with fundraising and advancement for the school. Their children keep them busy in the best way. Reid, a fifth grader at St. Patrick Catholic School, is involved in tackle football, basketball, boys' volleyball, travel basketball with 502 Elite, and summer swim team. He also enjoys golf and tennis and, as Steph says, “he loves it all.” Caroline, a second grader, has an equally full schedule with flag football, basketball, soccer, swim, ballet, tap, piano, and even a growing interest in ice skating. “She is always up for trying something new,” Steph shares. Family traditions are a big part of life for the Thompsons, and many of them revolve around their shared love for the Kentucky Wildcats. As season ticket holders for both football and basketball, the family spends plenty of time in Lexington and often travels to support the team. From Nashville to Milwaukee, Texas to Chicago, they have made countless memories together cheering on UK. Their favorite tradition, however, is one that brings the entire extended family together. The annual Thompson Tailgate is a highlight each year, drawing a large crowd of relatives no matter the weather. With Matt being the youngest of six siblings and a growing group of nieces, nephews, and now the next generation, it is a celebration that continues to grow each year. When it comes to dining, the family enjoys a wide variety of flavors. Some of their favorite local spots include Simply Thai, Clay Oven, Bento, and Quezadillas. At home, Reid gravitates toward hearty meals like steak, homemade crunch wraps, and lasagna, while Caroline is known for her love of charcuterie-style snack plates and, of course, anything sweet. Travel is another passion they share. Over the years, they have explored beach destinations like 30A, Sandestin, Miramar, and Anna Maria Island with close friends. This year, they are heading somewhere new, Michigan, where Steph is excited to introduce her family to the places she loved growing up, including Bear Lake, Mackinac Island, and Sleeping Bear Dunes. A recent Disney Cruise to the Bahamas over Christmas was also a standout experience, with the kids making new friends they still keep in touch with. The Thompsons are also deeply involved in their local community. Matt serves as the offensive coordinator for Reid’s Celtic Knights tackle football team and helped lead them to a Toy Bowl victory this past season. Steph runs the third through eighth-grade boys and girls' basketball program at St. Patrick, supporting young athletes and helping build strong teams. As they settle into life in Lake Forest, the family is also preparing to welcome a new addition, a puppy. They are currently in the process of adopting what will likely be a petite mini goldendoodle, adding even more energy and excitement to their home. When asked what they love most about their new neighborhood, the answer is simple. “The convenience has been amazing,” they share. “And the sense of community here is incredible.” From friendly neighbors on Oakhurst to kids playing with friends nearby and evenings spent at the country club, the Thompsons are enjoying everything Lake Forest has to offer.