Joseph said to his father, “They are my children, whom God has given me here.” And he said, “Bring them to me, please, that I may bless them.” – Genesis 48:9

Serendipity is a quick visit to Richmond to see the grandkids.

That’s the summary, and I could leave today’s post at that (so long as I included the pictures). But – as I am supposed to be a writer – I’ll throw in a few more words.

My cousin Liz is visiting from England. She flew in to Pittsburgh for an event with the seminary and took the opportunity to enjoy a few days in Wake Forest. Tuesday we drove up into Virginia for lunch with Naomi, Craig, David, and Beks.

We were only there for a couple of hours, but I was able to enjoy complete grandchild saturation nonetheless.

TOUR-de-FORCE: I’ve written about their irrepressible enthusiasm before. But, good grief, the full-throttle “hooray!” they both own is a tour-de-force that hits you like a mini-tsunami.

After lunch, play, and even time for some reading, we took a short walk through Naomi and Craig’s still-under-construction neighborhood. David is getting comfortable with his bicycle; Beks thunders along on her scooter; they both sport bumble-bee helmets that can’t help but make you smile.

But that’s what grandchildren do best, isn’t it? Making their granddaddy smile.

Enjoy the photos (most by Naomi). I’ll be over here smiling. – DEREK

When Israel saw Joseph’s children, he said, “Who are these?” Joseph said to his father, “They are my children, whom God has given me here.” And he said, “Bring them to me, please, that I may bless them.” Now the eyes of Israel were dim with age, and he could not see well. So Joseph brought them near him; and he kissed them and embraced them. Israel said to Joseph, “I did not expect to see your face; and here God has let me see your children also.” – Genesis 48:8-11