Paula & Ted Roper

What a year it has been - with lots of ups and downs! In February we spent several days at the Von Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vt. We figured that even if Caitlyn did not like the great outdoors, she would go if there was a musical tie-in. We had a blast. Ted, Eric & Will all loved cross country skiing. Caitlyn & Paula went snow shoeing (after taking a cross country lesson). We toured the Ben & Jerry Factory (too much fun) and enjoyed great puppeteers, and watching The Sound Of Music (shown every Thursday evening at the lodge).

In March we got Bob - our second dog, from our favorite breeder in Minnesota. Bob is beautiful, loving and dumb as a post. But he has been a huge help in getting Buster to settle down.

In May, Ted found himself without a job, and launched into a very busy couple of months, interviewing, sending resumes and moving forward. He started with Avanade in July, and is pleased with his new company. In July he also appeared in the RLO production of HMS Pinafore at Somerset County Plays in the Park (as Dead Eye Dick - photo above).

Paula officiated at weddings in May and June, and created some terrific custom scrapbooks for her customers. She still teaches one card class a month, holds a scrapbook group every week, and is about to start teaching a religious literacy class at Grace Episcopal Church. She is also hosting an organic food co-op at our house four times per month. It's been great to be a bigger part of the food chain, and eat the best food available from mostly local farmers.

In September we attended Ted's 25th College Reunion and caught up with old friends. Ted auditioned for and joined Harmonium Choral Society - which just had a huge concert weekend (Dec 13 & 14).

All in all - it has been a good year!