From the Couch

A statement said to me by a co-worker this morning pretty much sums up my sentiments of the past week: "We aren't allowing you to go away any more. Every time you do, you come back sick."

I've been wishing since Wednesday that I hadn't placed myself in the way of whatever flu germs found its way to me while in Georgia. Maybe it was the four flights it took for me to get south and get back (you know that airlines these days are full of sickness). Maybe it was the crowd of over 500 that I interacted with at the Emerging Christianity Conference (mostly people mostly over 55). Maybe it was just because I played with luck this year by not getting the flu shot. But, whatever it was, my first words to Kevin when he picked me up on Wednesday night were: "Please take me home and let me sleep."

And, on the couch I've been ever since. I did make one stirring on Friday to the doctor's office to find out that I indeed had the flu. (Sadly, my visit was a day past the cut off for the "get over the flu faster" pills. I guess I'll just have to fight this one off the hard way). And I made another stirring this morning to go to church. Trying not to get my church members sick and not to over due things myself, I only went for morning worship, not my normal early morning unlock duty and Sunday School. And, afterwards, I came back to the couch.

As much as I still don't feel great, I have to say that I'm bored of being home. Really there is only so much interesting tv on these days (thank you, writer's strike). And, I can only find myself reading for so long without sleeping. My husband has been great about taking care of me, but he's had work and other responsibilities to take care of as well which has left me at home alone a lot.

But, all in all, I am glad I attended the conference entitled January Adventure. First, it allowed me the opportunity to see my dear friends Jenn and Clark last Sunday night. Jenn and I were in the same class in seminary and now only get to spend quality time together when we attend conferences in the same area. I had a great time reconnecting with her and meeting their hyper dog, Auburn.

Second, I got to hear my preaching hero speak: Barbara Brown Taylor not once but four times! Barbara has such a way with words and story-telling. She makes me want to be a better preacher and writer. If I were back in junior high and put posters on the wall of my favorite people, then I would have one of her on my wall (Ok, I know, I'm a religious dork). Plus, I got to hear her lectures based on her newest yet unpublished book about practices of Christian living.

Third, while at the conference, I had the opportunity to spend time with a new friend of mine, Elizabeth who I met almost a year ago at another conference. Her family graciously allowed me to spend a night with them too. I was encouraged by their hospitality and the joy of being around another young Baptist clergy.

Yet, I wish I didn't have to pay the price of spending some much time at the house as a result. I'm going to be really nice to some of our homebound parishioners when I get better! Being on the couch really isn't as exciting as it sounds.