Growth has always been a pillar of our relationship. Not unlike most first dates, we shared ideas for the future and discussed what it would be like to make it there. As our relationship blossomed, we took time to talk about how we pushed each other to be better people and what we could pursue as our "next chapter" together. This focus eventually led to many milestones, like moving in together, journeying across state lines (Ohio), welcoming our amazing son (Tinker) into our small family, and buying our first home in the heart of it all (Toledo). Today, we are working towards better work life balance, engraining ourselves in the LGBTQ+ community of Toledo, Ohio, and finding new and fulfilling hobbies. We couldn't be more thankful for the deep and loyal love of family and friends who continually support us in these endeavors and make us feel so strong.

The start of our love began like many others, expanding the radius of our dating profile accounts a little larger than preferred in the hopes of finding something interesting, and I guess in the end, we got what we wanted. Our meeting at The Jagged Fork for brunch (and the hike that followed) was quite literally the sunrise breakfast of what has become Our Story. Our first few months were full of whirlwinds - like driving back and forth to Ohio/Michigan every single weekend, the daunting task of meeting the ever-so-large Stefan Family, and nurturing the sparks of each other's thoughts for the future. But it was also laced with so much fun : romantic picnic serenades in Hines Park, DJ Disco light basement dance parties, and Goodwill outfit photoshoots. The most important part of this journey, was becoming each other's biggest fans - tailgating at MSU football games, writing notes of encouragement for job interviews, and pushing us to be the best versions of ourselves. With all this positive momentum, the next chapter had to be just as good.

What's a story without some drama? Upon making the choice to move in together (Monroe, MI), we had the rainiest moving day ever. Ethan's ego wouldn't have anyone else driving the U-Haul, so naturally, when he backed it into the grass and got it stuck after many people told him not to, no one was surprised (again, all about growth here). But our first place to call home was absolutely thrilling. We could host parties, show off our industrial elevator, and explore a new area. This time of our lives was centered around the growth of our communication. Clark was often working 12 hour days far north of home, and Ethan drove 45 minutes south for his school. It was a challenging time for us both, but one we wouldn't give up for the world. It helped us build grit, value time with each other more, and redefined what meaningful conversation looked like. But even with these challenges in play, the fun never stopped, and still hasn't.

One clear thing you'll notice about us, is that our weekends are filled to the brim with action. They always have been. Concerts with the cousins, Camping trips with the family, Vacations to Florida, Backyard campfire jam sessions, Trips up to the Lake Erie Canada Coast, Ventures out to Grand Rapids, Visits to Como's Pizza in Ferndale, Backpack hiking trips, and many other adventures frequently pack our schedule. The adventures themselves are truly thrilling, but the common denominator that makes them come alive is each other. Quality time is what makes every day so much more comfortable. With all this "free time" on our hands, you might be thinking, "what next"?

Upon settling into a new job in Toledo, Ohio, and moving to the Maumee River, we picked up a special expansion to our "pack" - Mr. Tinker Thomas Jessing - VandenBossche, the 1st of his name, Ruler of the Backyard, and Leader of the Squirrels. This new sense of pride and purpose was everything we could have ever wanted. It was so amazing to discover our caretaking tendencies and fulfill our dream of becoming pet owners to what is quite possibly the best dog in the entire world. Having Tinker in our life has continuously pushed us to grow and understand each other better. We wouldn't trade our pack for anything.

In May of 2023, we bought our first home in the heart of Toledo, Ohio. It was a bold move, but thankfully has been one of the best financial and stabilizing choices of our story so far. It was an incredibly outdated space with dog-pee soaked carpets and crumbling dry wall. This journey for us was full of new skill discovery and leaning on family members who stepped up to make sure the floor we stepped on was one to be proud of. We are still in the process of deep renovations, working the garden beds, and turning our garage space into party central. Tinker is absolutely thriving with his new fenced in backyard, and the ability to guard the front door from the Amazon delivery driver. Within our community, we have found our neighbors to be like-minded and supportive. We have found favorite restaurants, city events, campgrounds, and parks. We have truly made Toledo our home. The old adage reigns true: "You will do better in Toledo".

At this time in the story, we had already built what most would call "The American Dream". Our trip down to St. Pete's beach in July of 2023 was the grand finale of that dream, when Clark kneeled down in the sand, in front of a beautifully cloudy sunset, and asked Ethan to marry him. The adventures have never stopped. The growth has never stopped. The love has only gotten stronger. What would Ethan say?!?!?

YES! - We cannot wait to celebrate our special day with everyone we love and cherish so deeply. Thank you for being there for us through every chapter and bringing us so many smiles. None of this would be possible without your love. <3