My Night with Carbon Leaf!

The band, Carbon Leaf, is described as indie rock, alt country, Celtic, and indie folk, but I know them as fellow classmates who roamed the campus of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia with me. Last night, I got to hear and see them in performance at The Hamilton in Washington, DC. They formed Carbon Leaf in 1992 while we were all attending Randolph-Macon, and judging by their energetic performance and the obvious love of the singing, swaying, screaming, dancing audience members, they've not wasted one minute of those 22 years. What a night it was and here are a few images from my first of many Carbon Leaf concerts:) For more Carbon Leaf images, go to my Facebook page!

Vantage Point: A Child's Eye View of Baptism

I've covered every rite of passage in the Christian church - weddings, confirmations, First Communions, even funerals - but my favorite rite, by far, is that of baptism, specifically baptism of infants and children. There is the ritual of the baptismal gown - usually a billowy white satin or lace affair that's sometimes accompanied by a coordinating bonnet. And there is the child's reaction to the cold baptismal waters - a reaction that is, at best, mild curiosity, and, at worst, an ear-piercing scream. Usually, though, the high point is their reaction to the baptismal candle. There is something soothing and magical in the glow of the dancing flame, I suspect. 

Firstborn, Photograph by Shannon Finney May 26, 2013 at Historic Christ Church, Alexandria, VA

Waiting His Turn, Photograph by Shannon Finney May 26, 2013 at Historic Christ Church, Alexandria, VA

The Blessing, Photograph by Shannon Finney May 26, 2013 at Historic Christ Church, Alexandria, VA

Make a Wish, Photograph by Shannon Finney May 26, 2013 at Historic Christ Church, Alexandria, VA