On July 15th 2011, I wrote the Data Structures and Algorithms exam for the last time (of 4… ouch!).

On May 23rd 2011 I finally had a way to leave a horrible position and move on to what has been my dream job as a Problem Solver / Software Engineer at Patchcord.ca Inc. Better yet — I received paycheques from two employers during my transition month of June. Win!

On December 4th 2011 the unthinkable happened. Jen and I had to helplessly watch in horror as my acoustic guitar fell to the floor and snapped it’s neck. After much reading and investigation as to whether it could be fixed it came down to the fact that the guitar would never be the same so I was forced into an early upgrade (not to say I’m complaining). Our home’s humidity is closely monitored now with the new CF Martin guitar sitting in our living room.

On November 25th 2011 Patchcord staff and their counterparts celebrated the upcoming holidays by hardening our livers for the drinking season to come. We had many laughs (and debates) and enjoyed many drinks and snacks.

On October 31st 2011 Jen and I celebrated our second anniversary. It certainly feels like we’ve been together much longer (but in a good way). I’m very blessed to have such a wonderful girl as my partner.

On October 14th 2011 Jen and I took possession of our first home together. I still can’t believe how beautiful our first home is. We’re both very happy and proud to say there have been no domestics… yet.

On August 26th 2011 the Brown’s had a repeat of last years canoe trip with the added presence of Trevor, Jenny, and Jen! This years canoe trip marks the beginning of a new family tradition and I think I speak for all of us when I say I can’t wait until next years already!

On August 23rd 2011 I bought my first vehicle. A brand new 2011 Ford F-150. It’s a sweet ride! I couldn’t be happier with my choice.

On August 22nd 2011 Canada received sad news that Jack Layton had passed away. Jack was a symbol of hope for myself and many other Canadians. Jack will forever be an inspiration to me.

On July 29th 2011 the Lamothe family held their annual family reunion at Jen’s Uncle Don and Aunt Sue’s home on Lake Ramsay in Sudbury. We had lot’s of fun hanging out singing songs and eating until our guts burst. The whole weekend we were blessed with perfect weather (which was a nice change from last year when we got hit by a Tsunami while camping out overnight on Jocko Point).