Baby Pictures

It's a boy

Early this morning my sister gave birth to a baby boy. He is 7 pounds 10 ounces. Overall there were no complications and everyone is doing well.

Taking Back the Piews

Actually my church uses chairs. And they're comfortable. And their not orange. Or brown. But the point is that my church like all churches has an unofficial youth section and it is an honor and a privilege to sit there. We get front row to the baptismal tank, a short walk to change the world, a quick duck to the kitchen, an suitable area for post service conversation and the easiest path to the right Eucharist table - which we all know is the best. It's a great spot and I still remember back to the days when I longed for it.

Now like a good Christian setup this section is class based. Only those who have the boldness and courage that comes with age are allowed into the front row. Next is the row of youth who actually can and will sing followed by, in row three, everyone else. Row four is for dropping off clingy siblings. Now, I've belonged in that front row for a few years. I've earned it with skits, actions, misplaced choruses and more than one rap. I'm not alone either. That front row should have at least six name plates.

Well, I have some bad news. The front row is being taken over. This morning there were two kids there, barely into their first provincial exams. I sat next to them and smiled through my teeth. That's right, I put myself into enemy territory, surrounded myself with cracking voices and shinny braces to show them that they haven't won without a fight. This means war.

I'm going back in next Sunday. I'll need backup.