We have a bit of catching up to do...

Uffda, it has been too long, again. Well, don't worry, I can get you up to speed quite quickly because I have been HORRIBLE at taking pictures this past year. (It's one of my New Year's Resolutions...take more pictures.) We left off in July, so we'll start up mid-August. :)

In August we were blessed with a fine crew of painters to help us paint our horrific "Peppermint Paddy House" something a little more pleasant. My Uncle Paul was the leader of the pack and kept us encouraged and going strong all day (we painted the whole house twice in 6 hours!!). It is a day I will always remember, as my Uncle Paul passed away this past November. Oh how we miss him even now.

This past fall I student taught in 3rd grade (above) for 10 weeks and kindergarten (below) for 7 weeks. It was the best student teaching experience I think I could have ever had. I loved the students and my unbelievably amazing cooperating teachers--thank you for everything Betty and Marilyn!!
On December 15, 2011 I became a college graduate! My very supportive husband, parents, and parent-in-laws were all there to cheer me on. :)
In November my cousins Mark and Liz and their girls, Kajsa and Greta, came for our 2nd Annual Christmas baking. Liz and I baked up a storm while Tom, Mark and the girls were busy with games and exploring Warren. :)

We managed to get Christmas picture, barely.

On March 9, 2012 we became the VERY proud Aunt and Uncle to Silas Aaron Espe. My brother Aaron and his wife Heidi had a beautiful baby boy who we fell in love with instantly. Tom and I were able to be with them over Easter and meet Silas for the first time. The time went way too fast, but we were so glad we were able to get some good holding/snuggling time in with Silas, and just be able to hang out with Aaron and Heidi. (We are secretly arranging jobs for them in Warren, we know they'll be thrilled to move here. Just kidding, but I wish.)
The proud Aunt Greta and Uncle Tom. :)
Aren't his overalls the cutest?!?

He is the sweetest little man!

On April 11th, Tom and his dad started planting their wheat. Tom was truly in his glory when he was finally able to use the LONG awaited new air seeder. This is a pretty fancy deal. If you'd like to see it for yourself we would LOVE to have visitors!

I got to the check the air seeder out for myself when bringing Tom his supper. (Auto steer allows for us to take pictures while driving the tractor.) :)