The Graduate

We drove the long way around to end up in Norfolk, Virginia to attend the high school open house of our great-nephew (and great-grandson) Ryan James. It was a nice party, highlighted by fried chicken from the place where Ryan works, and pulled pork sandwiches made by my nephew Adam. Adam is a career Navy man, which is why they are living in Norfolk.

From left to right...it is my sister Terrie, Ryan, dad Jim, Adam, and my niece Lindsey. 

We are very proud of Ryan, and it was a special reunion between Lindsey and my dad (her grandpa.) She was the only one who didn't know we were coming, and both the welcome and the departure were tear-jerkers. 

All through our lives (hopefully), there are "special" moments, but this one went beyond special...especially the grand entrance. Lindsey came in the door (after taking Marley the dog for a walk) complaining that the dog had rolled in something...blah, blah, blah...and then she saw her grandpa. I'm tellin ya...the look was priceless, there was hug after hug after hug...and then the tears started to flow from both of them. I'm tellin ya...it was magical, precious, and it just warmed the cockles of your heart.

After the party, and after another long hug-fest, we left at about 5:30, and are spending the night in Staunton, Virginia. On the morrow, we hope to go touring through West Virginia before heading home.