About Susan & Colin

In February of 2012, on our first date, we set out on a long hike through the hills of Southern California with only our water bottles, limited phone service, and a rascally German Shepherd dog. The chihuahua was brought in later; we didn't want to move too quickly. Strolling along the trails, under the oak trees, it was apparent that we were heading towards a greater destination.

Things went wonderfully from there on out. We made ourselves at home in a quaint, little bungalow in the city. It was a patch of concrete with no air conditioning, on an alleyway, with trains going by, police sirens, helicopters, and sometimes Colin's friends would crash on the couch for a week or two. It was... the city, but we made the best of what we had.

One year later, on another hiking adventure, in a steep, stone canyon, along a babbling brook Colin asked Susan the question. She enthusiastically said, "Yes, but let's buy a house first. And let's get out of the city.". Our options in Southern California were limited, so we set our sights north to Oregon.

We found our little patch of paradise in the countryside, west of Portland, in a sleepy, little town called Gaston (population 637). The house needed some t.l.c., but the sweeping views of the valley and neighboring herd of bison pretty much sealed the deal for us. Now, almost three years later, we can't imagine life any other way (well, I guess we can imagine, but why would we want to?). So, whatever happened to that wedding thing? Well, my friends, that's why you're here and reading this now. It's been a long journey, but we've finally made it; only to prepare to cross that next valley, climb that next hill, and find our next adventure in this beautiful walk through life.

Thank you for being here. You're all family to us, and we welcome you to join us with open hearts and arms.