Hanging out at the Pope Table

Last night I had another one of those semi-surreal moments where I realize I stepped into an alternate reality converting from Protestant to Catholic and from a single young woman to a married mom of four who homeschools. Do you ever marvel at the places life takes you?

Last night life took me to Buca di Beppo. Haven't been there in years, and the last time was with my brother and his fam in Seattle. This time was with over a dozen Catholic homeschooling moms and we sat at the Pope table. I take that decision as a sign that the group has a good sense of humor. Shared some shrimp and penne with a friend as Pope Benedict observed us. Planned numerous activities for the coming year. Announced to the group that I never thought I'd be dining at the Pope table as a Catholic --- then one of the women rotated Benedict around on the lazy Susan to face me and said, in an imitation German accent: "Welcome to the Church!" Everybody laughed, including me. Welcome to the Church. Welcome to homeschooling. Welcome to my new reality.