When Naomi, Craig, and the children headed for the Jersey shore last Friday we instantly missed them. But we were also thrilled the family had the opportunity for a fun week together at the beach.

With cool water, lots of space to play, a house just a block from the shore, and “TOG” (the other grandparents) on hand to appropriately spoil them, Sea Isle City is the perfect getaway.

And the beach, of course, makes for great photo-ops. Naomi, you can be sure, did not disappoint.

Meanwhile, in EasterN Europe:

Meanwhile, over in Europe, Andrew and Alicia took Mr. T. into the Czech Republic for a little R&R. The Pashby-Mauls are getting in as much recreation as they can these last few weeks before moving to their new home in the Big Sandbox off Saudi (a.k.a. Bahrain).

Anyway, the bottom line for this post is that watching our children (both the grown ones and the grands) still makes us smile. Andrew with his family in Germany, and Naomi with her Miami crew enjoying the Jersey shore.

All Children are Beautiful:

Of course all children are beautiful, I know this. But I’d be lying if I didn’t say there is something about Andrew, Naomi, and their families that goes beyond anything I had ever imagined possible.

But isn’t that the point of God’s kind of abundance? We can never contain it within our language, our words, even our emotions. All we can do is to be grateful.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. – Colossians 3:15

Amen – DEREK