Borrowed Breath

Last night, we got together with the family for one of our multi-month birthday celebrations. When there are as many of us as there are, you cannot celebrate single birthdays. So we share. Which is nice.

Last night was the September and October birthdays.

From left to right, Leah Branford (one of my 4 beautiful nieces) Aaron Manthey (my older brother) me, Matt Jordan (my brother in law) Michelle (clearly amused by something Aaron said) and our nephew Ryan Justus (the world’s cutest baby and ardent Phillies phan). Missing is Anna Elizabeth Manthey, who thought it would be a good idea to go to college and get an education, and in doing so, miss this very important day. WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU, ANNA! See you on the 25th.

Birthday songs by the Manthey’s are usually “interesting” enough. But when six people are being sung to, it is utter mayhem, especially when they get to the “Happy birthday, dear…” because at that time, everyone’s name is thrown into the mix in whatever order the individual singing deems best, which is not the same order the people around them chose. If you listen very carefully, you still cannot decipher your own name through the chaotic chorus. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Today, we are going to H*VMI‘s 35th anniversary banquet. Their annual banquets are always a special time, but this year is the biggest yet with over 600 people attending. It will be a wonderful time of celebration and worship and thanksgiving.

In other news, I’ve insinuated a few times that we are looking at a fixer-upper townhouse in Downingtown. Well, we are buying it. Settlement is on Thursday. We are very excited and a little anxious.

Next Saturday, our family and friends will be joining us in the first of several workdays.

Have a great weekend.
Go Penn State!
Go Phillies!
Go Eagles!