Like I often say, having the grandchildren on board for a few days is a high-energy, hands-on, all-encompassing, no-time-for-anything-but-the-experience situation.

Yet, as deeply engaged as I am with the moment-by-moment, I still manage to come up with some wonderful photographs. I wonder what might be possible if all I had to do was to walk around with my Nikon. I honestly don’t think I will ever get the chance to find out.

There is an amazing energy in these pictures. I’m thinking the one of David “blowing pine-straw” on the driveway pretty much says it all.

• Beks helping me dice an onion, then patiently sitting at the stove while it caramelized.
• David working outside.
• Beks playing the uke with Rebekah.
• The children lounging in the hammock at the mission party.
• Beks on the sofa with our friend Katie.

Certainly high-energy and exhausting but without a doubt the most delightful, cooperative, good-natured, loving children I have ever known.

No, I’m not exactly writing at a deep level – it’s actually not remotely possible for the next couple of days. But I am experiencing a lot of grace; maybe that seeps through and infiltrates the content. I sure hope so.

Regardless, enjoy these photos. The children will be with us through Tuesday afternoon so I can guarantee some more. Later, I may actually get back to writing.

– Peace and blessings – DEREK