The Mathews Family

Easter

2010-04-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

We have all been plagued by sickness this Easter. Aimee and the girls have all been sick for a week. They were all sick on Easter Sunday, which left me with the task of taking care of them. Now they are all getting better and as I write this I now have what they had! Anyway, we took pictures of the girls in their Easter dresses yesterday when they were feeling better.

Sara's Third Birthday

2010-04-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

Well, it's hard to believe but our little Sara is now 3 years old. She is such a blessing in our lives and we cannot imagine life without her. She adds such an important element to our family and has drawn us all so much closer. We feel privileged to be entrusted with such a special child. Of course, all of our children are special, that goes without saying. We are so blessed by our family! Here is Sara at her birthday party.

A Trip Home to Kentucky

2010-04-06T08:15:00.001-07:00

After submitting my dissertation we decided to take a trip home to Kentucky to take a break.

Celebrating the completion of the dissertation at a Japanese Hibachi restaurant.

Aimee and her sisters.

The kids.

A Visit from the Guptas

2010-04-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

A colleague from Durham (Nijay Gupta) and his wife Amy and children, Simryn and Aidan stopped into Princeton to visit us. He finished his PhD last year and has recently taken a post at Seattle Pacific University.

Dead Theologians (and politicians)

2010-04-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

With the beginning of beautiful weather and the trees and flowers blooming everywhere, we decided to take a walk the other day and ended up at the graveyard!!! Nice, eh? Well, it is the cemetery for Nassau Presbyterian Church and has some pretty notable people buried here. I took some pictures of some dead theologians and politicians.

These two photos are of the grave of Jonathan Edwards, who was the third president of Princeton College when he died.

Grave of Sarah Edwards, wife of Jonathan Edwards (below, the sun somewhat covers her name).

Here lies John Witherspoon, Revolutionary patriot and signer of the Declaration of Independence.

This is Aaron Burr, the third vice-president of the U.S. under Thomas Jefferson. He is the grandson of Jonathan Edwards and is more widely known for killing Alexander Hamilton, the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, in a duel.

This is the grave of B. B. Warfield, lying next to his wife.

Below is the grave of U.S. President Grover Cleveland. If you look closely in the picture you can see the graves of Warfield and his wife just in the background to the right.

Charles Hodge, third professor at Princeton Theological Seminary.

A. A. Alexander, first professor of Princeton Theological Seminary.

The Big Storm

2010-04-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

We got hammered by a HUGE storm a couple of weeks ago. Our power was off for about 4 days. Consequently, our basement, that has a sump-pump for such heavy rains, was off an did not pump the water out of the basement. It rained constantly for three days and the waters rose! This Nor'easter packed a big punch. With 50-50 mph winds and constant rain, we were left with three feet of water in the basement and numerous trees down.

The flooded basement destroyed the furnace, hot water heater, and the washer/dryer. We were without these for an additional week after the power came on! Not fun.

This is roughly 3 feet of water. You can see where it came in through the back window of the basement. All is repaired now thanks to the Princeton Seminary crew!

This tree blocked our road for about 4 days.

These are some turkeys from down the road assessing the damage.

Spring is Coming

2010-04-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

As you can see in these pictures we are stuck between the beginning of spring and the remnants of winter. When the sun came out and began to melt the snow, the girls' cabin-fever went into full swing.

Sara Enjoys the Cold Weather

2010-04-06T07:19:00.000-07:00

We had a ridiculously cold winter in NJ this year and had as much as 2 ft of snow on the ground for quite a while. Overall, Sara doesn't like the snow but there were times when she enjoyed getting out in it. What she does like is clothes. She loves to dress up, even if to go outside. These are some shots of her outside outfits as well as the result of her playtime outdoors.

All that playing makes a little girl tired.

Christmas in Princeton

2010-01-01T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well, the snow storm, dubbed locally as the Blizzard of '09 left us torn about traveling home through the snow. We remembered the year we drove from Dallas through a major snow storm from Arkansas to West Tennessee and it took us 21 hours and many misses from running into a ditch along the way. With Sara Beth making the trip this time we decided against it. We were a bit blue for the holidays but we made the best of it here together. I thought I would provide some shots from the days leading up to Christmas and the bid day itself.

Grace outside of Nassau Pres.

City Center in Princeton

Mom and her new CD

Grace and Raina doing the Snuggie dance

Tired Baby

This is Sara's new chair (recliner) and her new baby doll.

Christmas in New York City

2009-12-31T20:51:00.000-08:00

We decided it would be nice to take a trip to NYC to see the Christmas lights and do a little shopping. We had planned to go on a weekend but we were warned that it would be a madhouse. We went on a Monday and it was still a madhouse. But it was also beautiful. No mangers, no baby Jesus, just pure American consumerism! But the lights are pretty!

The day started with Aimee and Grace going shopping at the HUGE Toys-R-Us while Raina and I went to see the 'Bodies' exhibit. Never thought I would go and see a bunch of human bodies chopped up and on display. But it was pretty cool!

Ground Zero

Looking toward Ground Zero from St. Paul's Chapel.

The huge Toys-R-Us where Aimee and Grace went shopping.

At Times Square

Raina at Times Square waiting for mom and Grace.

We shared a large piece of cheesecake at a nice little restaurant.

2 English Mastiffs resting outside the restaurant where we ate. Aimee and I had an English Mastiff once so we stopped to pet them. Now we're considering another one!

Christmas Lights

The tree at Rockefeller Plaza.

Aimee and Grace at the American Girl Store

Macy's and all the windows of Macy's below.

The Big Snow

2009-12-31T20:36:00.000-08:00

We were hoping to be able to enjoy some snow this year in Princeton and hopefully have a White Christmas. Well, we got our wish, plus some. We received 12 inches of snow the week before Christmas. It never snowed really hard like you would expect. It was a powdery snow that fell all night. It seemed like the kind of snow that would produce 2-3 inches overall. Surprisingly, when we woke up the next morning we had a foot of snow!

Grace by the fire during the worst of the storm.

Raina measuring the snow (in her pajamas).

Sara enjoying a nice book by the fire (she didn't like the snow, it was cold!).

Snow angels

Cleaning off the driveway.

Hmmmmmmmmmmm, where was she when all the shoveling was going on?

Gingerbread House

2009-12-31T20:29:00.001-08:00

For Christmas Aimee got the bright idea we would make a gingerbread house with the girls. Luckily we were able to find a kit pre-made which only required our handy art work and assembly. I must admit, it was fun and looked pretty good when we finished.

Raina reading directions and taking charge.

Almost ready.

Getting ready to do the finishing touches.

Not too bad.

Thanksgiving in Kentucky

2009-12-31T20:22:00.000-08:00

We traveled to Kentucky for Thanksgiving and celebrated Christmas with Aimee's family while we were there. Luckily we did this because the big winter storm in December prevented us from traveling home for Christmas.

Organized chaos.

Beautiful girls.

Dillon and his girlfriend (we've warned her)!

Sara's New Hairdo

2009-11-08T17:11:00.001-08:00

Sara got her haircut today. Aimee's been wanting it short but I have insisted on keeping it long. Once again, Aimee was right!

Sara's New Dance Moves

2009-11-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

We recently saw where this little baby was dancing to a song on television that became a web sensation. Aimee thought Sara was a much more lively dancer so we made our own little video. It's a minute and a half of fun (at least for Sara).

Our New Guest

2009-11-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

Since we moved in, we have had the chance to pet-sit for a number of our neighbors. Most everyone on our street teaches at the seminary, though some of the CTI (Center of Theological Inquiry) housing is just next door. The Perrin family left for the weekend and asked us to watch Sparky. He's an older Beagle that's very mild-mannered, snores like a grizzly bear, and has a bad gas problem. But the girls love him. He's with us for a few nights and it's nice to have him around. However, he and Tanfield (the Stuckenbruck cat) don't get along at all!!!!

A Trip to the Big Apple

2009-11-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

Aimee's sister and her husband came to visit last week and we took a trip to NYC. The train ride is just over an hour and takes us straight to Penn Station under Madison Square Garden. Needless to say, we'll be making a few trip while we're here. It's relatively cheap round trip ($50 for the whole family)and it is really cool. The girls went to see Shrek the Musical on Broadway with Aimee and Auntie Robin. I hung out in the hotel room with Eric (my brother-in-law) and watched Philadelphia beat the Giants! Then we went out and had a great time.

Yes, that look is, 'Dad, don't take my picture.' So sorry. Raina and Auntie Robin eating funnel cakes!

The food cooked by the street vendors on 6th Ave was awesome!

My good-looking wife and Grace!

My favorite, the Hard Rock!

They wanted me to stop in and perform but I declined.

Central Park

Mmmmmm, Corona and M&M's

The view from the room.

Raina and Grace waiting for Shrek.

Christmas in October

2009-11-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

Aimee's mom came in for a visit and was her over Halloween. They went out shopping and her mother insisted on buying a Christmas tree, even though we will be gone over the holiday. Never mind, it had to be. Not only that, but they put it up on Halloween night. I'll get killed for putting this picture up!

Halloween

2009-11-08T12:22:00.000-08:00

Raina, Grace and Sara had a great time on Halloween. Raina dressed up like some lady on the Phantom of the Opera (she loves that movie), Grace was a fashion model, and Sara was a little fairy. The Stuckenbruck family came over and Aimee and Lois took Nathan, Grace, and Sara trick-or-treating. Nathan dressed up as Darth Vader. They scored huge amounts of candy and we had tons of pizza.

Leaves are Falling

2009-11-08T12:17:00.000-08:00

With the changing of the leaves comes the inevitable, a yard full of work (or fun, depending on who you are!). The girls have had a blast jumping from their swing into the leaves.

Science Fair at Princeton University

2009-11-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I took Raina and Grace to the science fair at Princeton University. They had a really good event for school-age kids and the girls were allowed to participate in some experiments.

We thought this lady was going to burn the building down. She was really into it.

She was making things explode using household kitchen items. At this point I was not so happy that we came.

Beautiful Fall Colors

2009-11-08T11:49:00.000-08:00

Aimee and I were amazed at how beautiful it is here in Princeton when the leaves began to change. We've lived in some pretty places before but so far this is the most beautiful. The colors are so bright it's just amazing. I carried a camera around with me for a week and Raina made fun of me. I thought you might enjoy the pictures.

This picture and the next two below are near the library at the seminary.

This one and the one below are the trees in our front yard.

This is on Nassau St. just in front of Firestone library at the university.

Left Alone for 1 Minute

2009-11-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

Since Grace is now 10 years old, it's been a while since we had a toddler around the house. We forgot how important it is to detect those quiet moments. I suppose it was so nice to have a little silence that we just didn't think. But as you know, when it's quiet, they're into something. This is what we found! We had to empty out the carousel cabinet and move everything higher.

Cold Nights!

2009-11-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

It's been getting cold here in Jersey so I've built a fire a few nights. It doesn't take much for me to build a fire since I would would have one every night of the year! We're very happy to have a nice fireplace in the new house. I think Sara likes it as much as I do.

Pumpkin Carving

2009-11-08T11:31:00.000-08:00

We went out and got the pumpkins for Halloween and this year I let the girls do the carving. They did a great job. Sara wasn't real sure about the goo inside but she got used to it after a while. I was happy we got through the process without losing any digits!

Grace doesn't appear to be very happy here! I think she was afraid Raina was going to cut herself.

Her technique here suggests Grace may have had reason to be concerned.

Grace with pumpkin eyes.

The finished product!

Terhune Orchard

2009-11-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Just up the road is Terhune Orchard, which is known for its hayrides, pumpkin patch and other cider! They also have freshly made cider doughnuts that are delicious. We took the girls and Grace's friend Sophie. We got rained on but made the best of it.

Raina, Grace and Sophie

Sara and I having some cider doughnuts.

Philadelphia

2009-09-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to Philly while Aimee's sister was here. We visited Independence Hall and many of the other historic sites. I must say, I felt a bit more patriotic after the visit. I'm not sure if it was the history or spending time at the Hard Rock!

Tanfield

2009-09-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

We are keeping the Stuckenbruck's cat, Tanfield, while their house is being finished. I'm not much of a cat guy but I have to admit, Tanfield is really cool. He keeps to himself and hasn't destroyed anything yet. The girls just love him and as soon as we get settled somewhere I have to buy them a cat. It's been kind of like renting a car before you buy one to see if you'll like. My luck, I'll get a lemon!

Our Visitors

2009-09-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

We were eating at the dinner table the other morning and these little critters wandered into our yard. We had the screen open and watched them for some time. They ate for a while and then wandered back into the woods. I was surprised by the amount of wildlife around here. It's really beautiful.

My Birthday

2009-09-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

I had another birthday on August 30th and the girls took good care of me. They bought me a HUGE bucket of sunflower seeds, my favorite, and made me a cake!

The Campus at Princeton

2009-09-20T19:19:00.001-07:00

Aimee's sister and brother-in-law were in town after we moved and we had a few days to kick around with them. We went to visit the campus at Princeton University and Seminary. I enjoyed visiting the campus and think it is really nice. However, I have to say it pales in comparison to Durham. Of course, Durham is a medieval city with buildings that are 300-400 years old (the Cathedral almost 1000). So, from an aesthetic standpoint Durham stands out. However, when it comes to efficiency and resources, Princeton wins hands down. I feel fortunate to have been able to spend time at both. The engagement with great scholars in Durham presents a great opportunity and people here are often jealous to hear about the top-notch faculty of scholars in Durham, i.e. John Barclay, Francis Watson, Walter Moberly, James Dunn, etc. Ironically I attended a barbecue yesterday and spent time talking to N.T. Wright as well as James Charlesworth. So there are just as many opportunities here. Needless to say, I am quite happy. I'll take more pictures of the campus when the leaves turn colors. Until now, enjoy these.

A Visit from Mom and Dad

2009-08-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

Our first day in Princeton we were struggling to get things settled. After a long day, we decided to go have some Mexican food, since it had been a loooooong time since we had any. While we were getting into the car, a familiar car pulled into our driveway, it was Aimee's parents. They had driven all the way from Kentucky to see the girls and help us get settled. They brought all kinds of items we needed to get settled and even brought Raina and Grace's cousin, Will. They took the kids to NY City for a day so we could get some other things done. It was a great visit and we are so thankful for their help.

Pa and Raina

Granny and Raina

Granny and Grace

Grace and Sara in the new blanket Granny brought.

Pa and Grace

Cousin Will

Lady Liberty's backside.

Raina, Grace and Will

Will, Granny, Raina and Grace

Another Step for Sara

2009-08-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

The seminary bought a small baby bed for Sara before we got here, which worked out really well. That is, until she decided she wanted out! During one of her naps she figured out a way to escape and we knew it was time to get her a toddler bed. The problem is, she likes to roam around and investigate the new house. However, the way she escaped from the baby bed was even more dangerous. So we made the move and bought her a Dora the Explorer bed. She loves Dora. We were also worried about how Sara would settle in to the new house and new surroundings. Down's children like routine and sometimes major change can set them back. Well, Sara has settled in better than anyone! She loves the house, loves her bed, and is now sleeping in it all night and taking her naps in it.

Sara in her Dora pajamas after we put the bed together.

No problems here!

A Day at the Beach

2009-08-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was BEAUTIFUL and since we are only an hour from the coast, you guessed it, the girls made me take them to the beach! We went to Island Beach State Park and had a great time playing in the sand and swimming. I have included a clip of Sara catching some waves. She loved it and would clap and laugh every time one came. I only had a little time left on the camera, otherwise I could have filmed her reaction for hours. Raina and Grace played together and met some friends. Aimee was in heaven since the beach is her FAVORITE place in all the world!

Sara loves the sand! We had to get her a sandbox for the backyard. She could play in it for hours.

I don't know the guy in this picture. I was just trying to take shot that showed how many people were at the beach,

All my girls.

Raina and Grace playing in the ocean.

Early Morning Friend

2009-08-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

When I make coffee in the mornings I always empty out the grounds in the shrubbery since I use a french press and can't pour them down the sink. Plus, it's good for the plants! Anyway, I walked out on the patio to pour them into the bushes and saw this little fellow, curled up in the bush trying to get some sun! It startled me at first, but I noticed it was only a garter snake. Of course, I had to take a picture! This is what can expect living in a wooded area.

Our New Digs in Princeton

2009-08-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

Princeton Theological Seminary arranged our housing and put us into one of their homes next door to the Center for Theological Inquiry. It is a secluded area on a circle with very little traffic and loads of trees. What's more, all of our neighbors are faculty at the seminary (except the residents of CTI)! They are very nice and the girls have already made friends and are settling in nicely. We are only two or three minutes from Nassau Street in Princeton in one direction, and shopping and groceries in another. This puts the library very close!! We are absolutely elated with the housing arrangements. I have already been spending my days in the library and was able to finish a new article I have been wanting to write. There is no better theological library in the U.S. and I must say, being able to work quietly in a great library makes all the difference. I have added pictures of the house and the yard where the kids have found plenty of space to play.

What a Mess!!

2009-08-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to move back home was almost as hectic as moving the UK, but not quite. We did use our maximum baggage allowance: 10 large suitcases (62 linear inches, 55 lbs. each), 5 carry on items (medium suitcases), and 5 personal items (computer bag, baby bags and purses). All in all 20 bags! Nothing got broke except a plastic piece on the top of my french press (cafetière), though it still works fine. Our wonderful friend Anthony Bash rode to the airport with us at 6:00 a.m. and helped get all the bags into the airport. It would have been a nightmare without him. We miss the Bash family already!

I took a couple pictures of the house the night before we left. I had to weigh the suitcases by first weighing myself, then lifting each bag and factoring the difference. Lifting those 55 lb bags over and over until we got it right was a great workout! We left almost everything but our clothes and some special toys that Sara liked. After two years in the UK, we were sad to leave friends but happy to return home.

The large suitcases.

My old office room where everything kept getting stacked! We kept the items here that we sold to other families until they could come and collect them.

Raina's Birthday

2009-08-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Some of the families in Keenan House, primarily theology students, get together on SUnday evenings for a pot-luck dinner. The Sunday before we moved we had a cake and ice cream for Raina's birthday, since our flight was on her actual birthday. Since then, I have counted at least four other celebrations we have had in relation to Raina's birthday! I think the greatest gift for her was returning to the U.S. But we will miss the get-togethers with friends.

The Lake District

2009-08-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

Aimee, Sharon Miller, myself, and all the girls, took a trip to the Lake District. It was a blustery day (as Pooh would say) and it was cold and rainy. We did have spells of sunshine, though the grey English weather made it all seem a bit more authentic and somewhat romantic. We visited Keswick, Hawkshead, Windermere and many other areas where I got lost and cannot name! It is truly a beautiful area. We took loads of pictures but I am only providing a few here because I need to get packing to leave in just a few more days! I have put it off long enough! Most of the pictures need no explanation. I do comment on a few. Enjoy.

Keep in mind, this is taken in July! We were on a large mountain, but still…

The English garden leading up to the Beatrix Potter house.

Sorry, but my rules require that Sara be in every post!

Heading up to the Beatrix Potter house (this is not it).

Castle Cottage

Here and below is the Beatrix Potter house (known as "Hill Top"). I spoke for quite a while with a woman who was a tour guide and quite conversant with regard to the life of Helen Beatrix Potter and her "relationship" with Hill Top. She indicated that this was never Beatrix Potter's "home" but only her house; that is, she never made it her residence. Her primary residence was always with her parents in London until she was married at the age of 42. She owned the home but only visited. This is the place where most of her stories took place. When you go in, they give the children illustrated books and have them identify the furniture and rooms where the stories took place. The house in the picture just above this (the white one) was her actual home with William Heelis where the guide told me she was known as Mrs. William Heelis, not Beatrix Potter. That house (Castle Cottage) is just across the street from the Hill Top in Sawry. However, when she was at the Potter house, she was Beatrix. She said that Beatrix somewhat lived two lives. Even after her husband died she continued to visit the house and would change the furniture around and such. She indicated that it was like a full size doll house for her. It was interesting to see.

Grace and Emilie at Castlerigg Stone Circle

Raina and Elisabeth at Castlerigg

Castlerigg Stone Circle (supposedly 3000 years old)

Hadrian's Wall

2009-08-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

As our time in England draws to a close, and since we have company in town from our church in Dallas, Aimee decided we needed to visit a few sits before we leave. Sharon Miller and her two girls Elisabeth and Emilie set out with us to Hadrian's Wall just north of Durham. It was a pretty typical British day, cold, wet, and windy, but we endured.

Mom and Sara checking out the ruins at Housesteads.

Raina and Elisabeth

Sara wanted to take off running (I think for the car, it was cooooold).

Housesteads site.

Vindolanda site.

Fort at Vindolanda (Raina and Elisabeth keeping watch).

Hadrian's Wall

The Wall. Story has it, one of the greatest problems those had with the restoration was keeping the farmers from taking rocks from the wall to build them around their own farms. Apparently this was done for some time.

Home Group Says Goodbye

2009-08-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Since we have been in Durham, Aimee and I have attended St. Nicholas' Church (St Nics) in Durham city centre. We found a great community of people there and the girls made some good friends. Thus, we made this our church home while we were away from home. We have been part of a home Bible study group, though infrequent members! Yet, many in this group kept in touch and helped us to 'fit in' at St Nics and were faithful pray warriors for our family. We are very grateful for all of them. They decided to have a going away party as we prepare to move to Princeton, and I thought I would share pictures of our friends with you.

The Home Group!

Grace and her friends.

Me, trying to fit into the conversation.

Heading to Princeton

2009-07-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

Well, it's now official. We have received confirmation on our housing through the seminary, have purchased our airline tickets, and will be leaving for Princeton, NJ on August 6th. I will finish my last year of research at Princeton Theological Seminary, mostly writing the final draft of my doctoral thesis. We are all very excited to be moving back to the U.S. and I am especially thrilled to be going into an academic environment like Princeton. I will still graduate from the University of Durham but will have the continued contact and interaction of my supervisor Professor Loren T. Stuckenbruck. The library is excellent and will be perfect for the writing process. Rarely will there be a volume that I won't be able to find. We are also looking forward to being able to visit our families at Christmas since it has been two years since we have celebrated the holidays with them. This is a great blessing and we are very grateful that the Lord has worked out all the details and we are so thankful for those who support us and have made this possible.

4th of July!!! Happy Independence Day!!!

2009-07-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

It would be easy to get homesick here in Durham if we didn't have so many good American friends to share holidays with such as today! We just got back from our annual cookout at the Cavins' home in Newton Hall. It was a wonderful cookout, even though we did get a bit of rain later in the day.

ISBL Rome

2009-07-04T12:52:00.000-07:00

I just returned from the International Society of Biblical Literature Conference in Rome. The conference was held at the Pontifical Gregorian University. I presented two papers: "Name Calling at Qumran and in the Book of Revelation: Identifying Phases of Sectarian Development through Labels and Sobriquets," and "The Question of Genre Concerning 2 Peter: A Comparison with Jewish and Early Christian Testaments." I had a great time and was able to get out and see the sites. The family and I had been last year so I had already seen most of them and it wasn't as much fun without them. However, I did go to Ostia Antica, a major sea port city for the Roman Empire during the late Republic period and into Imperial times. It flourished during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD and began to dwindle during the 4th century. Over 2/3 of the city has been excavated and one can visit the archeological site which is still under excavation. This city boasted two ports, one directly on the sea and the other at the mouth of the Tiber, making it an extremely important trade route for grain and other goods being imported into the Empire. I have included some pictures of the usual sites as well some of Ostia. I took over 300 photos at Ostia but am only including a few.

Temple of Antonius and Faustina

Ruins in the Roman Forum

Roman Forum

It struck me as interesting how this was once the power center of the known world and one of the greatest empires of all time, yet today it is nothing but ruins and rubble. I'm sure they thought it would last forever.

I passed this fountain every night on my way to the room. It is in the Piazza Barberini and is known as the Barberini Triton. It was built in the mid 1600's. It is really pretty in the daytime, but at night, it is by far the most beautiful in Rome, even when compared with the Trevi Fountain.

The Pantheon

The Pontifical Gregorian University where the conference was held.

The Trevi Fountain, or as it is known in Rome, Fontana di Trevi. Legend has it that if you stand with your back to the fountain, take a coin in your right hand and throw it over your left shoulder, you are insured a return trip to the city of Rome during your life. I'm sure there are several versions of the myth. Almost everyone that visits the fountain partakes in the tradition. Approximately $3500 is thrown into the fountain every day!!!! The money is supposedly used to finance a market that feeds the poor.

Here I am in what it said to be the prison in which Peter and Paul were kept, obviously at different times. One wonders about the legitimacy of the claim, though there are no rival interpretations that I saw or heard while I was in Rome. It could be an old prison cell from that period that now represents, conveniently, where they were once held. It may be where one of them was held, or it may be true altogether. I'm not sure but I visited it nonetheless. I can say, if this is what a prison cell was like, it was no picnic, especially on a hot, muggy day. Notice the upside down cross on the front of the memorial. Emphasis seems to be given to Peter.

This is an old Roman road leading into the ancient port city of Ostia.

The amphitheatre in Ostia.

These two photos show what was once a very large, and important bath house in Ostia, probably the most important. The large walled areas with the columns (bottom photo) would have been heated rooms with heated water, while the other photo (top) shows the large courtyard. In spots, one can see in this courtyard that the entire floor would have been a mosaic. So it would have been a huge tiled, mosaic floor where people would have gathered to exercise, congregate, take baths, etc. Kind of like our modern day health spa.

This, and the following two photographs show the area underground from the large heated rooms shown above. It is down here that slaves would have kept fires burning to heat the water and the rooms.

It was very cramped down here.

Everyone in Rome must have been really short!

How about this for public restrooms!

Belsay Castle and Gardens

2009-06-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

The Theology and Religion Department of Durham University had its regular departmental outing yesterday. This year we went to Belsay Castle and Gardens. It is an English Heritage site and is absolutely beautiful. The old castle where the Middleton family used to live was built in the 14th century with later additions in the eighteenth century. The family later loved to another house known as Belsay Hall. It reminded me of an old southern Antebellum mansion. The gardens were also beautiful. We had a day of it, picnic by the Hall, an afternoon break in the tea room, even some wine tasting. It was a great time.

The entrance into Belsay Hall.

While we were visiting the castle, which is now a private association or club, archers were practicing and I think competing. It was really interesting to watch and the women were much more accurate than the men!

This is Belsay Castle, the original home of the Middleton family.

Grace in front of the Monkey Tree.

This is a crystal horse that was designed by Stella McCartney.

Another shot of the castle (below). Notice the three different sections. The original castle portion is from the 14th century. The sections in the middle and to the left were added later.

In the garden area.

Raina and the HUGE leaves.

Raina, Grace and Sara

This is in the garden area that was once the quarry from which the stones used to build the castle and Belsay Hall were taken.

Inside Belsay Hall

Belsay Hall

Sara the Shoe Snatcher

2009-06-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

Sara has a fascination with shoes (she obviously gets that from her mother!). Anyway, she is learning how to put her own shoes on and in the process likes to put on anyone else's shoes she finds. As you can see, she has a bit of time trying to walk in them, but she loves it.

Black and White

2009-06-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

I finally figured out how to take black and white shots with my digital camera. I took the camera with me on my walk into the study room the other day. I really like these shots.

I like the Sepia setting. This is Prebends bridge.

This one is a good visual analogy of how my research is going. Do you see that little light at the end of the road? Me too!!!!!!

The Puzzle

2009-06-28T06:43:00.001-07:00

When my mom was here we made a trip to York where Sheri and Raina decided to buy a puzzle, 1,000 no less! Of course, I got succered into helping put it together. I'll have to say, it got more enjoyable the more I did it.

The finished product!

Making Some Last Goodbyes

2009-06-28T06:31:00.001-07:00

Moving about has allowed us to make so many good friends over the past years. However, it also brings with it the pain of having to say goodbye when families begin to move on. We will be moving to Princeton the coming weeks, some time in August, and are now having to say our goodbyes to the friends we have made here. There is no way to put every person we know on here or try to list them all. Each family we have come to know here in Durham is very special to us. One family in particular has been very special to us while we have been here. From the time we arrived to now, Ben and Heather Blackwell (Elam and Silas too!) have gone out of their way to make us feel welcome. Ben and I have enjoyed a number of trips to Cambridge together and the boys have been great playmates for my kids. Heather is the hostess with the mostest (corny I know but true). Hosting the NFL nights at their home as she did made assimilating into the community here INCREDIBLY easy. Thanks so much Heather. We will miss all of you but know we will continue to visit in the years to come.

We had a nice grill out at the Blackwell's on Father's Day.

A Visit from Mom and Aunt Sheri

2009-06-28T05:59:00.000-07:00

My mom and her youngest sister actually came to visit us here in Durham a few weeks ago. My mom just turned 72 (she'll kill me for posting that) and I was impressed that she came. It's a long flight to here from the U.S. and the girls were absolutely thrilled to have them. We visited the local sites around Durham and took trips to York and Edinburgh. It was a great time. Here are some photos.

Here they are acting like a couple of school-girls playing guard at Edinburgh castle.

They weren't very keen on all the hills! Raina is trying to encourage them to keep going.

In front of Edinburgh castle.

Now this is one of my favorites. Aimee went full-force with her cooking while my mom was here (like any daughter-in-law would do). I have to say, she made FANTASTIC meals every night (another reason I like to have company over)! In fact, they were so good, this is my mom and Sheri actually standing over Aimee's shoulder while she was cooking trying to learn her secrets!!

My mom wasn't very keen on the rain either.

My mom, Aimee and Grace in Durham city on a beautiful Saturday!

More than once my daughters would come up to me and say, "Nanny is flirting with another man!" Of course, she is a widow and has every right. However, she could be a bit more discreet. Here she is putting the charm on for some guy we met in the city centre.

Raina and mom about to go doen the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, shopping, shopping, shopping!

Fish and chips at Bimbi's!!!

Sheri and the girls! They had never really spent any time with Sheri before but they absolutely LOVED her. We are all so glad that she decided to come. I'm sure my girls will never forget it.

My mom and the girls. She had only seen Sara just after she was born. Sara put on a good show for them!

Sheri and mom with Durham Cathedral in the background.

South Shields

2009-05-31T04:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was absolutely BEAUTIFUL, I needed to take Saturday off, Aimee LOVES the beach, and we live near the coast. You know the rest of the story. We loaded up, took a train to South Shields, and made it a family day. This stretch of beach is actually very nice. The weather was great, though the wind made it a bit cooler than we prefer. The water is ICE COLD and it made us all the more homesick for the homeland. The girls and I had a great time. Check out the photos.

Tweddle Farm

2009-05-31T04:09:00.000-07:00

The Ustinov Family Society took the kids to Tweddle Farm here in Durham last week and Aimee took some pictures. The Society underwrites trips like this for international families, which makes for a good time to get to know people from different parts of the world, as well as a few Americans along the way. Enjoy!

The girls had the chance to ride a pony. These are obviously not Kentucky thoroughbreds so it was kind of hard to get our girls excited about riding a "horse," at least that's what the farm called it.

Grace Faye

Raina on a go-cart.

Raina and an ostrich that seemed to fancy her.

How about this little fella?

Grace feeding the sheep.

Raina feeding the sheep with Nathan Stuckenbruck.

Grace was a little scared by the piglet.

Raina, Grace and Nathan petting a lama.

Nathan, Raina, and Grace doing some climbing.

Sara had a great time sliding and riding in the play cars.

Dinner with Friends

2009-05-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

Living in university housing for international students has been a great experience for all of us. Frequently I have shown pictures of the girls with their friends from all over the world. Here, I wanted to include photos of our good friends from Iran, Peyman and Nooshin. THey have a beautiful little son named Armin who is about the same age as Sara and just loves to play with her. We have gotten to know them since we moved here and have learned so much from them. We have had some very interesting conversations. What has been most beneficial for me is getting to know people from other cultures and beliefs. We are so blessed to have friends like these. In the course of my PhD studies, I must confess, some of the most important information I have received has been from the relationships we have made with our friends from other parts of the world. It gives a whole new meaning to "every tribe, tongue, nation and people."

Peyman and Nooshin will return to Iran after his PhD where he will take over his family business. His stories of his family and life in Iran are very interesting. We hope to be able to visit them in the future and hope they will do the same wherever we are.

We watched the Eurovision Song Contest 2009 (a particularly European event) where the nations of Europe have non-professional singers represent the country in song and performance. Afterward people vote on who was the best, though they cannot vote for their own country. Anyway, Armin and Sara had a dance during the performances.

Some New Words

2009-05-16T02:36:00.000-07:00

It was early, but I had Sara give a small sample of her new words. She's starting to enjoy hearing herself (something I have often been accused of, as well as Raina) and is talking more and more. We are excited and obviously we understand her better than anyone else. But here goes.

The Blanket Monster

2009-05-16T02:33:00.001-07:00

Raina and Grace like to torment the baby by dressing her up and playing with her like a baby-doll. The other day they wrapped her up in a blanket and she loved it. This was during the girls' Latin lesson. You can hear the Dona Nobis Pacem song in the background. So much for learning Latin!

Sara on Her New Phone

2009-05-16T02:31:00.000-07:00

Here's Sara talking on her new phone. She dials, talks, then says goodbye. I guess she'll be wanting a real one for her next birthday.

The Spice Girls

2009-05-16T02:14:00.000-07:00

Raina and her friend Hannah Bash decided they would have a contest to see who could eat the hottest spices (not sure why other than the fact they're teenagers). Anyway, we had tabasco, jalapenos (they pronounce it with a "j" here), curry powder, crushed red chili peppers, and some other hot sauce we had on hand.

Here are the samples.

The taste-test.

And the results!

They don't look as if they like it!

You'd think a girl who lived in Texas would do better than this.

Another Goodbye

2009-05-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a group shot of another farewell party for a Ustinov family that is going back home. Mauro and Larissa Properzi are heading back to Italy where he is from. Pretty soon it will be us (though not to Italy)!!!!!

Lightwater Valley Theme Park

2009-05-16T01:56:00.000-07:00

The Ustinov Family Society took the international families to a local theme park called Lightwater Valley. A chartered bus took us about 30 minutes into the middle of nowhere where a theme park had been built some time ago. It was really nice for the kids and is very family oriented. It's not Disney World and doesn't claim to be but does boast of the 'longest' roller-coaster in Europe. Aimee and I rode it along with the girls (less Sara). It was very different riding a roller-coaster in the middle of a huge field where all you could see around you is farm land. Overall the girls had a great time.

Sara taking a bit of a break.

The "longest" roller-coaster.

Someone got killed on this ride a few years ago so I wouldn't ride it.

Grace and Hevron riding the Ladybug..

Raina and Muhammad riding a really scary ride.

This is Grace and Hevron, her friend from Jordan.

The girls on the carousel.

Sara and I on the Panda.

Sara really liked the Panda ride.

Sara Saying 'Two'

2009-04-19T05:49:00.000-07:00

Sara recently learned how to say two and three. She hasn't figured out one yet. Anyway, we thought since she just turned two that we would teach her how to tell people how old she is. Here she is saying two. She holds up her thumb and first finger for two since she has a hard time holding up her two first fingers at the same time. See what you think!

Easter Cook-Out

2009-04-19T05:19:00.001-07:00

We had a cook-out with friends at Keenan House on Sunday afternoon. This is a group of American PhD students with their families celebrating together. Most of these are theology students as well. One of the guests was a friend of ours who is British and is part of the Research Faculty at the Department of Theology and Religion at the university. He's a real hoot!

Ben Blackwell and Jeremy Bergstrom (Elam Blackwell w/back to camera)

Assorted friends.

Jono Linebaugh and Liam

Anthony Bash. That's a hot dog by the way. Excellent British humour!

Of course, there were some gifts for Sara. This last photo shows Elam Blackwell giving Sara a present.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-19T05:10:00.000-07:00

We did the proverbial Easter morning picture (that Aimee insists on every year). It was actually the least stressful Easter picture event we've ever had. Nobody raised their voice, the girls didn't cry, and we made it to church on time. Whew!!

I know, I know, I need a hair-cut really bad, I'm still refusing to shave (it takes up too much time), and Sara wouldn't look at the camera. But Aimee, Raina, and Grace, looks better than ever!

These are Sara's "melt our heart" looks. She knows she can get whatever she wants when she does either of these, though the first one normally relates to wanting food. The second one is more of a general "are you sure?" look.

She thought her "crocs" would go well with her Easter dress.

Sara's Birthday

2009-04-19T04:59:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that 2 whole years have gone by since we had precious Sara. She's growing up quickly and is really learning a lot. We had a weekend long celebration with her birthday falling on Good Friday and going into Easter Sunday. We had a small birthday celebration at the house with just the family and then we had friends together for a big cook-out in Sunday afternoon. The weather was fantastic and a good time was had by all. Here some pics.

Sara's birthday cake from Costco. It was VERY good!

Playing with her birthday present. It makes rainbow colors on it when she paints the mat with water.

Mom and baby!

Sara with her new play cell-phone. She likes to pretend she is answering the phone. She'll put it up to her ear and say, "Hi" then babble a little bit and then close it and say "Bye."

Getting ready for her big party!

Sunny Sunday

2009-03-29T04:21:00.001-07:00

This morning we woke up to a beautiful blue sky. I won't say we don't get sunny days around here because we do. They're just infrequent. In addition, they are often accompanied by clouds later, then rain, and sometimes snow. The other day we got all three in one day! Even on sunny days they're usually the proverbial "partly sunny" because we almost always have clouds. But today, we have a beautiful blue sunny sky. There's not a could to be seen this morning. It is fabulous. I suppose the fact that I'm taking a picture of a blue sky suggests how rare they are. We were talking to friends on Skype the other day and they were in Texas and we could see the sun glaring in their window. Now we get to enjoy some sunshine. I have to say, when the weather is nice here it's REALLY nice. But when it's bad, it's REALLY bad!

Spring in Durham

2009-03-29T04:10:00.001-07:00

Well, Spring has sprung in Durham. Last night we actually set our clocks forward (3 weeks after the U.S.) so our days will be a bit longer now. As I've been walking to my study room every day I've been noticing the flowers blooming with the arrival of Spring. However, I've also been painfully aware that it still feels like January around here. I can't understand how the flowers bloom like the weather is warm, but I guess that's just the way it happens here. I took some pictures on my way to 5 the College the other day. It really does look like Spring! What the pictures don't indicate is the 50 mph wind that has been blowing for three days or the 40 degree temperature. Other than that, it's just like Spring!

Grace on Piano

2009-03-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Grace entertained us with some of her piano playing and was quite a bit more cheerful than Raina.

Raina on Violin

2009-03-29T04:02:00.000-07:00

We made the girls play their instruments for the blog so that I wouldn't keep getting accused of showing favoritism toward Sara. Oh the vicious rumours! Anyway, here's Raina playing her violin with Sara cheering her on in the background. You can tell at the end how happy she was about performing. Ahhhh, teenagers!

Sara Plays Catch

2009-03-29T03:52:00.000-07:00

Recently Sara has learned to catch a ball. This is EXCELLENT progress for her hand/eye coordination and we are very happy. But she loves to do it. The other night I played catch with her for about 15-20 minutes and she laughed the whole time. It's kind of old news for her now but you can tell by the second video how excited she gets.

Sleeping Beauties

2009-03-29T03:48:00.000-07:00

We were watching a movie the other night and Sara wanted to lay on top of dad the grizzly bear. Raina had covered me up with her favorite blanket (blanky) and her pillow. Well, it doesn't take long for me to go to sleep under such terrible conditions! Sara did the same. Then the girls got the camera out!

My Three Daughters

2009-03-29T03:38:00.000-07:00

I often get accused of only putting pictures of Sara on the blog. I understand it seems like I'm a bit biased but it's not because I don't try. Raina and Grace can be a bit elusive when trying to get them on film other than when we go to Disneyland (which proves I take lots of pictures of them too). They're either playing and don't have time, or think their hair doesn't look good, or don't want to be bothered. Well, this morning I made them take pictures, though they had just got up, and made them play their instruments just so I could get past this terrible image of me being a father who shows favoritism. It's just not true!!!!! Anyway, they would only let me take one picture. Sara, on the other hand, will let me take loads of pictures. But don't get me started!

Raina objected strongly to having her picture taken and was moving about so it's a bit fuzzy. But she's still quite beautiful!

Grace had just got up but posed for the camera. You can see she just lost another tooth! She also has stickers all over her face from the other day when she and her friend played with some kind of face painting game. But she too is still beautiful

Sara loves the camera!

British Mother's Day

2009-03-22T03:03:00.000-07:00

Today is Mother's Day in the UK and this year we decided to celebrate here and in the U.S. since Aimee is the best mom in the world! The girls got up to go to church with her this morning and I was feeling a bit under the weather. I took a picture of mom and her babies.

Sara's Phone Call

2009-03-22T02:56:00.000-07:00

Sara has recently picked up on how we answer the phone. She found a small piece of Lego in the floor and began walking around the house holding it up t her ear and saying, Hi! Of course, we thought it was the grandest thing in the world so we took her into Raina's room and recorded her. We all sound a bit giddy and silly as we're getting her to do it, but it would be hard for you to imagine just how much fun we have with her.

Cambridge

2009-03-22T02:34:00.000-07:00

I spent the majority of last week in Cambridge at the University Library. Durham has a good library relatively speaking. For a British university, Durham's library is probably in the top ten. However, the difference between one and two, and the remainder of the libraries is significant. Obviously the Bodleian Library at Oxford has everything you can imagine, but you cannot access the stacks directly. All books have to be ordered and there is some wait time involved. Not to mention the fact that you can only request a certain number of volumes at a time. Cambridge University Library is also a copyright library but allows one to access the stacks. This allows for a significant amount of research to be done in a short time. Moreover, there are very rare volumes here that are only found in one or two libraries in the world as well as ancient manuscripts. Overall, I think Cambridge is the best place to study.

That said, the majority of my time was spent collecting information and making copies. I found a considerable amount of information in the rare books department and made a number of copies. In addition, there were a great number of volumes that can only be found in 4-5 libraries world-wide from which I was able to obtain copies. I thought I would take a picture of the stack of copies I made during two of the days I was there. This gives you some indication of the amount of information one has to sort through in the course of their research. And this is only a SMALL fraction of it! This is almost two reams of paper.

Baby Shower

2009-03-22T02:31:00.000-07:00

Aimee and some of the other ladies in Keenan House thought to throw a baby shower for some friends. Luckily they had it when they did because the mother gave birth the next day! Good timing. Anyway, I thought I'd put up the photos in case they wanted to see them.

Raina's Football Game

2009-03-22T02:24:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the year at a Superbowl party with some friends, Raina had the chance to meet a young man named Adam. Whilst all the kids were playing in the back garden of our friends' house, he loaned his gloves to Raina because her hands were cold. Well, you can only imagine, they immediately began to fancy one another. Adam's father is the President of St. Johns College and they are a delightful family. Whilst entertaining a visitor to the college he had the chance to take him to a football match in Newcastle. Of course, young Adam, who is an avid sports fan (even American football) asked if Raina could come along. The match was between Manchester United and Newcastle. She took some photos.

Dancing Machine

2009-02-19T10:38:00.001-08:00

I know we post a lot about Sara but we are all have so much fun with her. She is such a sweet girl. She loves music and when she hears it, she dances.

Sara, Solo on the Slide

2009-02-19T10:36:00.000-08:00

Sara has now learned how to climb up on her slide by herself and slide down. Her therapists are thrilled with her progress. Check her out.

Sara's Pony

2009-02-19T10:08:00.000-08:00

We got this pony from some friends of ours who moved back to the U.S. last year. Sara is just getting big enough to get on and stay on though we have to help her rock it. But she just loves it. Watch!

Disneyland Paris

2009-02-19T07:59:00.000-08:00

For Christmas the girls received money from their grandparents and wanted to go on a trip to Disneyland Paris. We spent time at Disney and went into Paris to see some of the sites. It was a great time and the girls learned so much. Here are some pictures.

It was a bit cold while we were there but that meant not too many people and NO LINES! We were able to ride just about every ride we wanted without waiting over 5 minutes or so. The walk into the ride took longer than any line. We went through It's a Small World three times and never got out of the boat!

Only kids can do these tea-cups. Too much spinning!

Drama Queens!

How Romantic! The girls made me pick Aimee and up and hold her in my arms while they took a picture but she wouldn't let me post it! I was proud of myself.

This is in the hotel. Each morning they would have a different character taking pictures with kids. Sara liked Eeyore but didn't care too much for Pluto.

Goofy, Goofy, and Goofy!

Raina and Grace going on the Hollywood Tower Hotel. I was surprised they would go on the big thrill rides but they loved them. We rode Space Mountain, the Rockin' Roller Coaster, Hollywood Hotel, and the Tower of Peril so much we were all terribly soar every morning. (especially me!)

Sara's was on a big waving kick. HI!!!!

The girls after a looooooooooong day.

Cotton Candy

After the runaway train ride.

Sara at Planet Hollywood

The girls in front of The Louvre

Sweetness!

The Venus de Milo

Aimee in the Picasso exhibit. I got in trouble for taking this shot!

The Wedding Feast at Cana

In front of the Mona Lisa

The Louvre

The Eiffel Tower. This thing is unbelievably HUGE! Pictures don't do it justice. We went all the way to the top and when we got out on walkway, I was terrified every time I got near the edge and it has a 9 foot fence all the way around it.

If you look in the middle section you will see a little red spot just to the right hand side of the tower. This is one of the elevators going up and it probably had 30 people on it. In this picture it looks tiny.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Sara Foils the British Healthcare System!!!

2009-01-20T13:21:00.000-08:00

This post has a bit of sarcasm (some may think more than others) in it so I want to state up front that this is not a jab at any of the wonderful people who cared for our Sara while she was in the hospital today (and, no, I just can't bring myself to say she was "in hospital." She was in "the" hospital. Those who understand the British term can appreciate that, others won't). Anyway, when Sara turned one her doctor told us to introduce milk into her diet to see if she had grown out of her milk allergy. Heaven forbid we give her an actual test that can tell right away. Up to this point she had passed all of her hearing tests with flying colors. Within two weeks, however, we noticed that she wasn't responding to everything and she began to do poorly on her hearing tests. We were obviously alarmed. We told the audiologist about the milk allergy and the coincidence in timing, which he rejected as foolish.

We took her off the milk and waited to see what would happen. All the while her doctors were doing hearing tests which she was failing miserably. They continued to tell us that she had some significant hearing loss and probably had "glue ear." We asked if it could have been caused by the milk allergy and were told "no." However, another NHS doctor told us it could be caused by the milk allergy. Now we were confused. So we made another appointment with a different doctor who after about 30 seconds into the meeting said she probably had glue ear and would need surgery to remove the fluid and would need to be fitted for hearing aids since she had severe hearing loss. All of this he gathered from a VERY antiquated hearing test, in which it was obvious Sara was uninterested in the noises.

Now I know this sounds like a parent who wants his child to hear even if they can't. But there's one person that can't be fooled, Aimee. She cried night after night thinking Sara was going to be given hearing aids and that she would look like a bad parent if she refused them. She was CERTAIN Sara could hear and she was CERTAIN the problem stemmed from the milk allergy. The only problem was, the NHS wasn't listening to the parents. These individuals who spent less than 10 minutes (if that) were rejecting everything we were saying. My attempts to show how inconsistent their diagnoses and theories were did not prevail either.

So, after canceling the first surgery to have the fluid removed from her ears we finally gave in. Only because one of their instruments kept showing that she might have fluid. However, we kept insisting that her ear canals were too small for the instrument, though we were totally ignored (Down's children can have very small ear canals and Sara's are very small). We were willing to do this because they would give her a test while under anesthesia to test her brain waves to sound to see if she had hearing loss. Well, today was the day so I've added some photos and a little running commentary as to the total lack of organization on the part of the NHS.

Sara when we first arrived. It was about 7:30 am and she was still a little sleepy. But she quickly decided to have a good time, as she always does!

Well, the nurse came in to welcome us (and we hoped to reassure us) and find out why we were there. That's right, she asked us why we were there! Not a good start. Then, when completing the paperwork she asked me what day it was. At this point I was going into panic mode. I will say, however, that this lady was very sweet and loved Sara. She took good care of her. She was only working with the system she knew. After letting her know why we were there she gave Sara a little gown and put some cream on her hands to help numb the area where they would put the anesthesia. I guess I should say now that Sara acted like a champ and never even squirmed while she did this. I should also say that the nurse never checked for veins and they ended up doing it in her foot after they gave her gas. Thus the twenty minutes to wrap up her hands with the cream was a total waste of time and money, but it was protocol. Here's Sara in her hospital gown.

Aimee put some tights on her legs because the hospital was cold.

Loving her bunny. Man, this one tears my heart out!

Well, Sara was supposed to go first because she was the youngest. They have like 5-6 kids come in on the same day, all at the same time, and then take them in according to age. Thus some sit for 3-4 hours waiting for their turn. A very organized system, eh? I wonder if they ever thought about scheduling by time? You know, your surgery will be at 2:00 pm so come in around 1:00, something like that!!!!

Anyway, they started taking older patients and we were waiting and waiting and Sara was beginning to get restless with those bandages on her hands. We asked what was wrong when lo and behold, we were told her records (this is meant to be singular) were at the hospital in Durham since she had been seen there between the time of her surgery today and her last appointment. In other words, she has ONE set of records within the entire NHS. I know this is normal practice in a privatized system, but within the NHS they send one copy around from hospital to hospital. No computerized records, no communication between hospitals, and what's worse, they knew we were coming for over a month. We even attended a pre-assessment meeting last week to make sure "we" were ready for the surgery. I guess we should have had one to make sure they were ready!!!

They decided to have them faxed, which took another 30 minutes, but finally it was Sara's turn. I was terrified that something might happen to my baby. I just had this real bad feeling that I was dealing with very unorganized, unprofessional people. This, of course, led me to believe that the doctors were not qualified, which was a wrong conclusion on the part of her doctor today. But one can see where this would make us feel VERY uncomfortable. Well, here are pictures of my angel after her surgery.

Still under the juice. She had been awake but went right back to sleep.

She finally woke up and watched a little TV, ate a turkey sandwich, a container of Jell-O, 2 bags of chips (crisps), some raisins, and a few pieces of Aimee's sandwich.

Oh, I guess you want to hear the outcome? Well, it seems that Sara has foiled the NHS doctors. We kept telling them during their hearing tests (that looked like something they made up in a junior-high health class) that she wasn't interested, We know that she ignores things when she has lost interest. But we were told we were wrong. The doctor came in after the surgery and said that Sara had NO fluid in her ears and that the brain wave test showed that her hearing was perfectly normal. Hmmmmmmm, seems like I've heard this before.

SBL Boston

2009-01-13T04:28:00.000-08:00

Last November, I know, I am having a terrible time keeping up with my posts, I went to Boston for the annual Society of Biblical Literature Conference. While I was there, Ben Blackwell and I took a trip down the 'Freedom Trail' in the heart of the city. This trail takes you to the most historic places, probably in all of American history, since this is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. Ben took pictures of all the historic sites we visited and has shared them with me. I thought you might like to see them.

The Old North Church where two lanterns were hung by Robert Newman and Capt. John Pulling, on the evening of Paul Revere's midnight ride during the American Revolution.

This is Paul Revere's home and a statue of the man himself on horseback.

A statue of George Washington

This is a graveyard where a score of famous people are buried

This is the grave of the real Mother Goose!

Samuel Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Independence (and I hear from some of my friends a pretty good beer)

John Hancock's memorial. I think his actual gravestone is no longer around and they put this up in its place.

Robert Paine, signer of the Declaration of Independence. I starting taking these photos of people who had signed the document out of awe. I quickly realized there were NUMEROUS signers there and didn't have time to take pictures of them all.

Paul Revere's grave and memorial (and you recognize that other guy)

Don't remember this guy's name but he was the sitting judge (or the one most famous for) the Salem Witch Trials

New Years Eve

2009-01-13T01:14:00.001-08:00

We spent New Years even with our good friends Ben and Heather Blackwell along with their two sons Elam and Silas. It was rather uneventful but fun. That is, it was not a huge party that can be overwhelming nor was it boring. We sat around and talked, played games, and celebrated the incoming year. Ben is a fellow PhD student from the U.S. and a fellow Dallas Theological Seminary grad. He is also a fellow southerner, which always makes for some good conversation!

Aimee and I just after the New Year arrived!

Ben and Heather

Here we all are sitting around and waiting for the New Year. Grace and Silas are playing in the floor and Elam is enthralled with the Nintendo DS Lite.

Hannah Bash, Raina's friend celebrated with us and then they had a sleep-over.

Our New Year's toast!

Sara's Chair

2009-01-13T01:10:00.000-08:00

Sara is now big enough to climb up into the chairs in the lounge (den in U.S. language) and sit. She gets a real kick out of it. She'll climb up and sit down and then look around at everyone and laugh. She even knows how to turn around and climb down, which is a drastic change from her previous lack of fear of falling and breaking her neck.

Christmas Dinner with Friends

2009-01-12T13:56:00.000-08:00

We had Jeremy, Jackie and Nathan Bergstrom over for Christmas dinner as well as Yuji Tomita from Japan. It was a nice time though we missed our families back home. Jackie and Jeremy were also unable to return home for Christmas and Yuji's family is now in Tokyo while he finishes the last stages of his dissertation. So we thought we could ease each other's pain by getting together.

Aimee and I were also invited to the home of Anthony and Melanie Bash, a wonderful family we met from our church. THey have a daughter and a son that are friends with Raina and a younger son who is friends with Grace.

Here we are at the Bash's home. I'm sure Anthony and I are having a theological discussion!

Raina, Aimee and Grace.

Hanging out at our dinner party. Notice all the decorations the girls made for the party! They're quite the little socialites.

This one's a little blurry.

Sitting round the kitchen table. Very Christmassy!

Christmas Morning

2009-01-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

Here are some shots of Christmas morning in our flat. I know they are a month late but I guess it's better then never!

Raina when we were out doing some shopping.

Me while we were out doing shopping. I'm sitting in Santa's chair (he was gone to lunch).

Raina and Grace when they first woke up.

Mom and Grace. Notice Aimee is filming everything!

Sara opening her gift.

Sara continuing to open her gift.

Sara wondering what to do with the gift now that it's open.

She is somewhat taken back by the whole thing. But I think she likes it anyway. She's probably wondering, "Why did they wrap all this stuff up if we're just going to tear all the paper back off?"

Grace still in the same spot.

Sara starting to get the hang of it. And the fact that her nose is running like a faucet doesn't seem to bother her at all! BTW, we cleaned her up after the picture.

5 The College

2009-01-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

Recently I acquired a post-graduate study space through the department (thanks to my good friend Ben Blackwell). Study space is quite difficult to come by and very rare! The space is in a building where the archives for the Cathedral and the University library are kept. It is called "5 The College." It is very picturesque since it is somewhat connected to the Cathedral and is surrounded by the beautiful buildings. While life in Durham is not about comfort or convenience, it is certainly about the "views." And I have a spectacular view from the window in my study space. I thought I would share.

First a view of my walk in each morning as I go round the back of the Cathedral.

This is the gate I pass through to enter the courtyard where the building is. It is kind of like a courtyard. Notice the bright red Royal Mail box they've carved into the wall of this wonderful ancient building.

This building is "5 The College."

This is a view out of the window in the study room.

Another view.

This is a view of the entrance gate from the study room.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

2008-12-20T06:02:00.000-08:00

This will probably be my last post before Christmas, though I still have some Thanksgiving photos and some pictures from my trip to SBL in Boston still to come.

We want to wish everyone who follows our family on this blog a VERY Merry Christmas. We miss you all very much. This is our second Christmas in the UK and it is difficult not being around our families. However, it is only for a little while. The time is passing quickly and we hope to be home soon. In the meantime, we aim to enjoy it and learn from our experiences here. We have had the great privilege of making friends from all over the world and many of you have made this possible. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Merry Christmas from the Mathews family!

The family and I just before going into Durham city to look around at all the snow. It snowed all day that day!

Durham Cathedral from the lookout point in the park.

The park was beautiful!

This church was so pretty. This is the kind of picture you see on a calendar (if I say so myself!).

Palace Green library, where I have done much of my studying.

Durham City Centre.

This is where we live, Old Dryburn Way!

This is the whole family. I'm the short white guy in the front!

Secular Country has no Problem with Christmas

2008-12-20T05:53:00.000-08:00

It amazes me, all the flack godless people in the U.S. give about celebrating Christmas and calling it what it is. Look, if someone wants to be an atheist that's their business. But pushing the phrase Happy Holidays on people who celebrate Christmas is exactly the same thing they claim Christians do when they insist on calling it what it is, Christmas. Get off of it already. If they don't want to celebrate it that's fine, but leave everyone else alone. The GREAT majority of Americans celebrate Christmas. Get over it!

Moreover, the argument that it is offensive doesn't hold water. I live around several Muslim families who are very dear friends to me. And all through the season they are constantly wishing me a Merry CHRISTMAS. They don't say happy holidays, they say Merry CHRISTMAS, and they have no problem with it.

Anyway, I thought it was neat that the city of Durham sends the same message. And so, I pass it on to you, from a so-called secular country and secular city, Merry CHRISTMAS!

University of Durham Theology and Religion Dept. #1 in the UK!!!

2008-12-20T05:26:00.000-08:00

The recent results of the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) here in the UK place the University of Durham's Theology and Religion department as #1 in the UK. Moreover, it even ranked #1 in all of the departments within the University of Durham. The RAE examines the quality of published research that comes out of UK universities and grades it based on originality, rigour, and whether it is world-leading, internationally-leading etc. The results place Durham above both Cambridge and Oxford.

Many people only know of Cambridge and Oxford, but Durham is the third largest, and third oldest (arguably) university in the UK. Moreover, its Theology and Religion department has always been outstanding. And at the moment, it trumps both Oxford and Cambridge (no offense anyone!). A glimpse of the faculty webpage that provides bios on all the present staff reveals that Durham's theology department is stacked compared to other institutions. For example, Prof. John Barclay, Prof. Loren Stuckenbruck, Prof. Francis Watson, Prof. Walter Moberly, Prof Robert Hayward, Prof. Emeritus James D. G. Dunn, and many more! This is a really great place to be.

Abbey House, Theology and Religion Department

Entrance to the University Castle, University of Durham

Sara's Piano Playing

2008-12-20T05:11:00.000-08:00

Did I tell you Sara favours the piano? Oh, yes, we could help her a little with her choice of performance costume. This is her playing in her Birthday Suit.

Our Little UK Cheerleader. Go Cats!!!

2008-12-20T05:07:00.000-08:00

Aimee's mom sent this cheerleader outfit for Sara. Either that or it's one that one of the girls had since they have all been adorned with such in their lifetimes. I guess I don't need to elaborate on the seriousness with which the family follows the team! You should hear the conversations and such during games at the Reichenbach household at Christmas or during March Madness. Anyway, here's Sara in her first UK outfit.

A Visit from Kentucky!

2008-12-20T04:31:00.000-08:00

Aimee's mother (Marie Reichenbach) and her two aunts (Janette Powers and Hannah Kee) came to England to visit with the girls while I was away at SBL in November. Obviously you can see how far behind I am in posting since it is now December! Anyway, they took a trip to Stirling Scotland, visited the Lake District, home of the late Beatrix Potter, and took the train to York. Needless to say, it was a busy, but enjoyable time. I thought I would share the photos that Raina took whilst on the trip.

Here they all are at the Durham train station getting ready for a long day out!

Gracie got to act as ticket-taker.

Raina likes to take pictures through the window on the train.

This is Stirling Castle. I knicked this photo off the internet because the girls couldn't get one from this angle.

The Stirling Youth Hostel

This is a statue of Robert the Bruce.

Marie got into a little trouble whilst in Scotland and the girls are trying to console her during her time in the stocks.

Driving through the Lake District.

Raina and Grace on a boat in the Lake District.

Another shot at the Lake District.

Not sure where this is.

Sara's New and Improved Walking

2008-11-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Well, if we thought things were hectic when doodle-bug learned how to crawl, it's a mad-house now. She is all over the place, and quick!! We have to keep all the doors closed so she can walk up and down the hallway. When we go after her to get her, she turns and runs. It is so funny! She is a real hoot. I took some video of her walking. She really thinks she's something. Watch how she puts her hands behind her back when she walks.

Grace's Birthday Date with Dad

2008-11-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Grace's birthday is on Nov 19th and I will be at the ETS/SBL Meetings in Boston that week. I am presenting a paper at ETS. Anyway, she wanted me to take her to a movie for her birthday so this morning we got up and went to see High School Musical 3 (I had been waiting for this one!). Anyway, I got through it and we had a great time. Grace absolutely LOVES spending time with her daddy. She held onto my arm and laid her head on my shoulder almost through the entire movie (except when we were eating popcorn). We went to McDonalds afterward. What a great day to spend with my little girl. By the way, I know, I know, I need a haircut and I need to shave!!!!! But everything has been sooooooooo hectic lately I have put it off. Perhaps next time you see me I will have a good haircut and a clean shave. The focus of the picture, however, is Grace and that cheezy little smile!

Potty Training

2008-11-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

We forgot how much fun potty training was, but Sara seems to get it pretty well. She has used the potty primarily for about the last six months or so. Before then she used it but it was hit and miss (not the potty, just using the potty). Anyway, when she goes she has to have someone read to her (Imagine that!). Her favorite book is "That's Not My Dragon!" I got a picture of Aimee reading to her. I'm sure Sara will one day be really mad that I took this picture.