New York City with Janelle

Christoph and I took Janelle to New York City to celebrate her 13th birthday just after Thanksgiving and had a fantastic time together. We stayed in "Little Korea" on 32nd Street, one block south of the Empire State Building.

Six years ago when we brought Elise for her 13th she wanted to be sure to get a chance to go to Tiffany and Company. For Janelle, the NBA Store was a priority. Yes, they really are sisters. To our surprise, we found out just 3 days before our trip that Gilbert Arenas (Janelle's favorite player) was going to be there the day we arrived signing autographs. He was launching his new shoes, the Gil Zero by Addidas. We waited 2 1/2 hours and were 2nd in line. That was what she wanted to do and we had an absolute blast together!

Some of the other highlights of the trip were seeing NYC all dressed up for Christmas, being on top of the Empire State Building, Chinatown, Ground Zero, Lion King on Broadway, Times Square at night, FAO Schwarz, and riding the NYC subway. We spent a lot of time at and around Ground Zero one morning. The WTC Memorial has recently opened and it was pretty overwhelming to experience. Everyone remembers where they were that day, including Janelle. Being at the site made it very real.

Next: "New York City Through Janelle's Eyes."

Robert turns 60

Since Robert turned 60 this past summer, the Mays family gathered for a Christmas/Birthday celebration in his honor. In keeping with a long-standing tradition of singing songs with the lyrics changed to reflect the honoree, we sang Gilbert and Sullivan's "Modern Major General" for him. The lyrics fit Robert quite well so we kept it as is. The Mays' excel at laughing at themselves - and each other - so there was plenty of "roasting" going on. Robert, you were a trooper to put up with all of it.

This was Sophie's first real introduction to the extended Mays clan since she was an infant. As she sat at the dinner table with 24 relatives gathered around her, she exclaimed, "Aye yie yie!" Well said. Welcome to the Mays side of the family, Sophie. Your life will never be the same.

Like it or not, Glynn you are ...."The Patriarch." Since cake is not Atkins friendly, Robert was presented with a wheel of brie as we sang "A Very Merry Unbirthday."

Lookout, Jeb. You're next!

Tiny Baby Murphy

Keara Margaret Murphy

Born: December 22, 2006

Due: February 7, 2007

2 pounds, 7 ounces. 15 1/2 inches.

Mother and baby are doing well. Thank you Lord.

"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139: 13-14

Friends at Christmastime

Christmas Eve and Christmas night were spent with friends. To my delight, I had some much needed "photographic consultation time" with Lydia Jane. Thanks, Lyd!

3 days and counting

For Mary and Kathryn....