I have been writing this series of “Granddaddy Letters” since 2011, when our first grandchild, David, was born. The columns have included reflections, advice, observations, perspective, and – hopefully, a little wisdom for what is now a lively group of four (David, Beks, Mr. T., and Geoffrey).

Today our one and only granddaughter, Beks, has – disarmingly – turned ten, and I am just about beside myself with both pride and “oh my goodness I’m not nearly ready for this!”

“The Big One-Oh!”

Beks, who announced she is “Turning the Big One-Oh!“, exudes life, vivacity, light, creativity, joy, and brilliance. Everyone who sees her sees our daughter, Naomi. And everyone who has known us for a long time also sees Rebekah. And everyone who has known the family for a couple of generations looks at Rebekah (and Naomi and Beks) and sees Nell Alexander… and also Beks’ great-great-grandmother, Mae Perkins….

So I pulled up a couple of random photos on my phone and showed them to Rebekah. We were startled at how stunning Beks has always been (the headband pic is at three and a half). Then a loud exclamation when I put these two photos side-by-side. Rebekah at 16 and the image of Beks taken this past week.

The Gift:

It’s fun to trace family likenesses. It’s even more fun to see the ebullient inner life shine through – Rebekah, Naomi, Beks – and it does so in a manner that takes your breath away!

So happy awesome amazing spectacular blessed birthday to this ten-year-old light. Not ray of light, not shaft of light… but an explosion and a saturation of light and love.

I am looking forward to seeing you continue to grow in response to faith and goodness and grace. I want to see you continue to be so filled with light and joy and more that it overflows and gets all over everyone around you.

Your granddaddy Derek!