I have a cold (read: I hab a code). I don't think I'm especially whiney in life, but for whatever reason, this cold in particular makes me want to sit on the couch and be left alone. Not. possible.

So, we'll move on. I've had umpteen posts floating in my head for a while now, but none of them ever come to fruition. Sadly. Still, I need to tell you guys some kind of important things, and if I don't have time to write it well, I'll at least take the time to write it down.

Next week is our last Sunday at our church. Brian has been offered another worship leading position in town. It was hard to decide to leave where we are, because we are so comfortable there. I can wear jeans, I can hand off a baby to run to the restroom. I can rely on an elder to catch Asher before he climbs the stage. They love us and we love them, and now that I've done this a few times I realize that kind of relationship does not always develop when you worship and are employed in the same place. Nothing negative is shaping our decision in any way, but there are a few spiritual reasons and a few practical reasons we've decided to make the move. If you want to know more, email me and I'll happily share.

But, because of the timing of changing churches, I have been in this baby dedication conundrum that I think is finally resolved (I think). We're going to combine Silas's dedication and birthday party (the new church will only baptize, they will not dedicate babies. And while I clearly agree with their theology on some level - otherwise why would I dedicate him either? - I just don't want to take the experience of baptism away from my kids. I was baptized as an infant and resented that when my faith became my own, I had no means of making a public profession. Assuming we remain Presbyterian - and my assumption is that we will - my kids will, Lord willing, be in the same position.) We've decided not to baptize our infants only for that reason. However - after deciding to combine the birthday party and dedication, it occurred to me that several of our friends now may not be comfortable attending a home grown baby dedication. So much of my understanding of the Sacraments was formed at Chrysalis (i.e., church camp) and from living with the Searcys that I'd forgotten it is not commonplace for others to have Communion with their dinner at home, or in an outdoor tabernacle served by mimes. I hope people will come anyway - to the party if not the dedication, but to the dedication too, right? But it's done now. Reservations are made, flights are booked, it's on.

And can I just veer off topic a little? As I was writing about Communion and the Sacraments and thinking of when and how I've experienced them, it reminded me of Jesus, and how he brought the sacred to the mundane. Georgia's Mom is preparing a sermon right now about Matthew 25 - I was naked and you clothed me, I was hungry and you fed me - and about how the Christian life is about seeing - Lord, when did we see you hungry? - and what we choose to see. It's so true. What I choose to see - and how I choose to respond - in large part defines me. I just can't help but think that Christ is delighted by homegrown ceremonies - youth group foot washings and impromptu baptisms, Communions at church camp and baby dedications in the park. Bringing - and seeing - the sacred in the mundane.

Anyway, we're going to have a homegrown baby dedication in the park by the river, and I couldn't be more excited about it. There's going to be a watermelon-looking cake, and a real watermelon, and it will be great fun. I don't usually send invitations to out of state friends (unless I already know you're planning on coming), but if you're going to be in the area on the 20th of Juen, you're all invited.

Good night all.