Clayton and Maria met online like everyone does these days (thank you, Bumble). They agreed to go to a place called Middleman. It was about 100 feet from Maria's door. Maria didn't want to even walk that far, but her friend Soraia convinced her to go inside. Clayton was bewildered with the online dating scene and was praying for chemistry. After they met, there was an instant connection!! The conversation was easy didn't feel like an interview. Maria's first big smile made Clayton want to make her smile a LOT more. Maria thought Clayton looked better than Brad Pitt (she still does!). They learned about each other and chatted the evening away, finding common ground in Middleman. After having a taste of what the future might bring, both went home feeling like this one was different!!! Their next date was Clayton teaching Maria about American Football, and the rest is history.

Just like everyone else, March of 2020 brought with it an entirely new normal that we all have had to become accustomed to. This included being trapped inside, with nowhere to go for long periods of time. This would break some couples, but for Maria and Clayton, it brought them closer together. Clayton was able to share his favorite movies, shows, and homemade treats with Maria, and Maria even turned Clayton into someone that enjoyed going to the pool. Puzzles were completed. Hobbies were attempted. After surviving this extended quarantine together, Maria and Clayton knew that they had something extra special!

In late 2020, Maria and Clayton were both going crazy from COVID confinement. They decided to take the dogs on a grand, socially distanced adventure, driving up to Yellowstone National Park. They camped for a nice night by Aetherton Campgrounds, on the shore of Lower Slide lake, then found a little hotel that allowed puppers and met Bison, Elk, and other critters as they drove for more than 1,300 miles. Despite the low odds, they both actually still really liked each other after the trip!!

On August 20th, 2021 (Maria's birthday) Maria not only had a birthday she also got hitched to Clayton! Not knowing when things might calm down, C & MP hoofed it on down to the courthouse and got 'er done. Since COVID was still running amok, no parties could be had (did we mention that this was the bride's birthday?). So, now is the time!! Come join us for Clayton and Maria's Wedding SQUARED: their First Anniversary and the Bride's birthday, with our celebration of all our family, friends, loved ones, and the natural world around us.