We met in the high desert of Oregon in 2014 when we were both working at a wilderness therapy program for adolescents. We had a great working relationship and respected each other as colleagues. Years passed in this way… thankfully some good friends were subtly and not-so-subtly pushing us towards each other (shout out to Lindsey!). We had an instant attraction, but we were both very happy to be friends.

Years later, Clara was in grad school in Canada, but was visiting Bend. While she was in town, Clara asked Peter out. This point should be emphasized - Clara made the first move. As time went on, there was a series of delightful coffee and lunch dates. As we got to know each other better as friends, a strong bond developed. We were in different places in our lives, but we kept in touch.

in August of 2017, Clara took a month-long yoga teacher training in Greece. During this time, our text exchanges accelerated dramatically. It should be noted that Clara initiated this acceleration as well. Luckily for Peter, Clara‘s friend Natalie was in Greece with her, and was encouraging her to be bold and share her true feelings. It didn’t take long under these conditions for this relationship to progress, and we started texting each other every spare moment we had that summer. A very strong affection developed between us.

Eventually, Clara returned from Greece, and it was decided that on the day she returned, we would have our official first date: September 2, 2017. Our first date began mere minutes after Clara got back to town from Greece. It was off to the races from there, and we have spent almost every moment together since then. Clara lovingly adopted Rosie, the Great Northwestern Golden Honeybear, as her own. In the ensuing years, we have had so many incredible adventures together!

The relationship went so well, that we decided that the fun must continue. And now, there’s a precious little angel named Alder Henry!