“I wouldn’t change my grandchildren for the world. But I wish I could change the world for my grandchildren.”

anon

First off, much as I like the above quote, I really believe we are about more than wishing change – we are actually doing it. To the extent that Rebekah and I engage life with a “grace-forward” perspective, living as if we actually believe the promises our faith offers, then we are absolutely effecting positive change.

So we are back home in North Carolina. It was a fast visit for a few days to see Andrew and family in Michigan, but wonderful in every way. We got in the all-important soccer game, we witnessed Mr. T. score a goal and we watched his practice session too.

Then, after church on Sunday I enjoyed the rare privilege of soccer on the grass, one-on-one, pure joy for over an hour as T kept up the endless energy of chase and dribble and shoot and dive and do it again.

So if I were to share just the one photograph today it would be this (above). But of course there are more in the “photo dump” gallery below.

Fall in Michigan is putting on its display to spectacular effect so I have included some of the trees in Andrew and Alicia’s neighborhood.

Saturday evening we were privileged to listen as Alicia – who is a gifted music teacher – directed her high school chorus students over in Coleman. She is pleased with their progress and has high hopes for the program across the district. “I’m happily taking the baton from my predecessor,” she said, “and carrying it onward.”

Then there are photos featuring Andrew’s guitar – back in good working order, the amazing gourmet meal we enjoyed together in downtown Midland, and then more neighborhood trees clad in fall colors – plus the image of Mr. T. heading into his elementary school in the morning.

Finally, one of my favorite shots from the weekend, the very clever personalized number plates Andrew got for his new Subaru. Some of you know that he changed to the sobriquet “Drew” after he left home and started living overseas. Well, now he drives the Drew-baru – DRUBRU.

It is good to have this beautiful family back in the USA. Rebekah and I are grateful and full with blessings and love.

Grace, peace and love – DEREK