From very early on, when love was still evolving into a spoken word, Clay and Cassie built a strong connection and bond. They structured their relationship on quality time together, talking about each other's days and feelings, and realizing the others compassion and dedication for a shared joy. As easy as this came, it began during the onset of the pandemic, less than a month after the world shut down. So it wasn't a speed date that began the love, it was a direct message (DM).

From 2021 until 2023, Cassie chased a dream of being a travel nurse, working in North Carolina for 3 assignments, providing the marvelous care that she now graces the mamas at Sarah Bush with. From the moment she broached the idea until she returned home for good, Clay's support never wavered. Skype dates and all-night drives, the two learned quickly what each other meant and each day grew more excited for the upcoming happily ever after.

It took Clay long enough to agree, but Cassie finally found the cutest German Shepard puppy and convinced Clay they needed just one more. Their first dog together was in Sugar Creek, Ohio and ready to be brought home to a new brother and sister. Rex's energy and playfulness fit right in with his brother, Winston (a mini golden doodle) and his sister, Quin (a Siberian Husky). Since the drive home from Ohio, Rex has gained 70 pounds and continues to keep the other 4 on their toes!

Clay's time at the university in Madison, WI makes him frequently yearn to return. The winter of northern states makes Cassie not even recognize their existence for a season or two. So there was only one, sure-fired act that could convince Cassie to share the love for the Badger State capital. And after two days of walking, shopping, and passing up enough opportunities to fool Cassie into thinking it wasn't going to happen, atop the Monona Terrace, overlooking Lake Monona on a sunny 75 degree day, Clay was on a knee when Cassie turned around after taking a selfie.

In early 2022, Cassie and Clay made the decision to remodel and move in to the Bess family home of 52 years. Over the course of the next year and a half, countless projects took place until the first floor was as cozy as Cassie wanted and as peaceful as Clay remembered. The couple moved in during the fall of 2023 and have loved every minute since in their naturally-lit open floor and their shaded, bird-haven acre-and-a-half yard.