The Carpenter Family

Raising a Catholic

2011-01-20T19:01:00.000-08:00

Duke has been so lovable lately. I mean he is always lovable but he is also two and a half. Enough said, right. Anyway, lately I find myself delighting in the adorable things that he says.

For example, we were saying bedtime prayers the other night. He started thanking Jesus for his friends and family. "Thank you for Cash, Sadie, Silas, Haven, Yia Yia..." and on. Not wanting Duke to feel like he had to be routine in talking to God (since that's pretty much all our prayers have consisted of so far -- thanking God for friends and family), I said "You know Duke, you can say whatever you want when you are talking to Jesus."

Duke looked at me with his sweet, expressive face, and said, "I'm talking to Mary."

Later, I told Darrell what Duke said. Darrell laughed and responded, "Looks like we're raising a Catholic." Yia Yia and Pops would be oh so proud :)

Boy Speak

2011-01-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

This morning, Duke, Braddock and I were gathered around the breakfast table munching away on cereal. Mid-munch, I heard a somewhat startling noise from the adjacent room. Darrell, apparently resistant to waking up on a lazy Saturday morning, let out a sleepy yawn (which sounded much more like a low growl to me.) As Darrell finished his surprising yawn/growl, Duke let out a matching noise (which I can only explain as a bear club growl) and then proceeded to eat his cereal like nothing had happened. Hilarious, I thought. Must be boy speak.

The World According to Duke

2011-01-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

The other morning, right after Duke woke up, his precious little hands grabbed my own. As he peered at my left hand, he asked, "What's that mommy?" I answered, "It's a ring - my wedding ring."

Quiet pause.

To this, he confidently responded, "Looks like a train."

Hmm. Insight into the world as Duke sees it.

Another recent morning encounter provided equal insight into my little man's world. Sitting on the edge of his bed, I asked, "What did you dream about last night?"

(Mind you, I haven't explained to him what dreams are just yet. I just thought it'd be fun to ask.)

He immediately, and enthusiastically responded, "Chocolate milk."

So, a world where chocolate milk flows endlessly and trains are the new fashion icon. Welcome to the world according to Duke :)

Back to School Again

2010-08-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

First day back to school at Mother's Day Out. This year, Duke goes two times a week. He is such a big boy!

Here he comes, proudly toting his lunch box.
He's so proud of himself!
"Aww, mom, do you have to take a picture?"
"Well, ok. If you insist."

Bring on the babies!

2010-08-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

This pregnancy has definitely been a shared adventure as my friends Lyles and Megan were/are both due within a week or two of me. Monday of this week, Lyles had Baby #1 -- a little baby boy that she and her husband Dan named Tanner Brooks. Meg and I, on the other hand, are still waiting for our little ones to join the world. Not sure who will go first but we're hoping we'll have them on the same day since we see the same midwife!

Tuesday night, a group of girls got together for a baby shower celebrating the upcoming arrival of Megan's little one. Megan is expecting a little girl and they plan to call her Lucy Opal. Below are pictures from the shower and, of course, belly pics of me and Meg. Enjoy!

That's right -- bring on the babies!
Um...hello belly :)
All smiles.
Gotta love girls night out!

Mickey D's

2010-08-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

Today I babysat Megan's son - and Duke's good friend - Silas (age 1 1/2). The three of us went to an outside park and then when it got too hot, made a trip to the two story play area at Mickey D's. The boys were too cute!

Shooting hoops.
Handsome Silas.
"What, you want some of this?"
Trying to get it into the hoop.
Though there were two cars, the boys decided to drive one "together."
Practicing our sharing. Silas gets to drive first!
Now its Duke's turn.
"Vroom, vroom..." Sound effects are a necessity these days :)
And finally - after all that hard playing - it's time for lunch!

Duke's Final SAFE Start Swim Lesson at the YMCA

2010-08-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

Duke finally finished up his 6 weeks of swim lessons. It looks like he's on his way to setting an Olympic World Record in swimming -- just like his great Aunt Nancy!

His teacher, Jaime, had Darrell and I get in the pool with him for his final lesson. We practiced having him swim between us.

Here, Darrell moves out of the way so Duke learns to flip on his back and float.
Darrell making sure Duke makes it to float position... :)
Can you tell he's a proud papa?Way to go Duke!! Our little swimmer.

BEACH WEEKend

2010-07-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

Some of Darrell's favorite childhood memories stem from Beach Week. Growing up, every summer the same group of families would gather for one week at a beach in Florida. Darrell says he remembers how much anticipation accompanied the build up to this week.

Today the Beach Week tradition still continues - though the time looks a little bit different as the group has grown and the "kids" from Beach Week now have their own kiddos. This year, instead of gathering for a whole week, we gathered for the weekend at Reunion Resort (about 40 minutes outside downtown Orlando). No beach, you say?! Yep. No beach. But there was a pool and a cool water park with a lazy river. Though the time was short, it was good to be together.

Hangin' at the pool.
Swimmin' with Gita and Bear.
Cruisin' on the lazy river.
Darrell, Duke and Jemima
Our little fam.
Dinner by the pool.
Gita showing Duke the ropes :)
Ok, I wasn't there for charades but from the stories and look of the pictures, Darrell was pretty entertaining!

Twoo! Twoo! All Aboard for Duke's 2nd Birthday!

2010-04-11T20:54:00.000-07:00

Host: Station Master Darrell Carpenter
Location: Train boards at Carpenter Station
When: Sunday, April 11, 12:00PM to 2:00PM

Chug-a, Chug-a, Choo, Choo...
Duke is turning two!
All aboard and don't worry if you're late,
We'll be sure to save you ice cream and cake!

No gifts, please - just your company!

Shout outs:
* Yia Yia the cake maker! For making the most incredible Thomas the Train cake I have ever seen. I think she found a new calling!
* Gita. For making PB & J sandwiches cut in the shape of little trains.
(Let's face it, the party would have been a lot less cool without both grandmother's touches!)
* Mckittrick, Meredith and Greg Simmons. In from out of town, they pitched in and helped us get ready for Duke's big day! We loved having them here with us and appreciated their help.

Proud Pops & Yia Yia with thier newest grand baby

2010-04-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

This past Easter weekend, my parents traveled up to York, Pennsylvania to meet precious Colton for the first time. Here are Pops and Yia Yia with Ellena, Connor and Colton (the newest addition to my oldest brother Pat, and his wife's Christie's, family!).

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine decided to host her own Easter Egg Hunt this past Saturday. Well, more specifically host one for her 18th month old daughter Reagan and all her little friends (most of which ended up being 2 and under). We went to a local park. Parents provided coffee, bagels and treats, and soon the kids were off. Duke had the best time. Unfortunately, (although totally adorable too!) I spent most of the time coaching Duke on 1) how not to take other kids baskets of goodies and 2) how the point was to collect Easter eggs rather than just stop and eat the chocolate he found in each one. Too cute!

Here are some pictures from the event. My friend Courtney Milam who planned the event had her friend Kirsten Zarek (who is a photographer) come and take photos of the hunt. Enjoy! You can check out more of Kirsten's work at kirstenzarekphotography.com.

Gettin' geared up for the egg hunt!

And everyone's off! Duke finds his first egg and immediately tears into the chocolate goody he found inside!
Duke's friend Reagan (cutie that's in front of him on the right.)
Yummy chocolate!
You want some?
Mommy stealin' some of Duke's sugar :)

Classic pic of Duke's running stance.
You guys coming or what?

I love this little boy!!!

Made My Day!

2010-03-11T18:47:00.000-08:00

Thank you Sara. And Megan.

Thursdays are great. Duke and I have begun making it a tradition to hang at my friend Megan's house with her two kids, Sadie (age 3) and Silas (age 1). They live in College Park and therefore are within walking distance of our house.

This particular Thursday I decided to walk over with Duke. I opted for the stroller but Duke, who is asserting himself a lot more lately, sat down in his blue push car (it's exactly what it sounds like - a car Duke's size that he can sit in and which has a long handle attached on the back that I push him with.) Anyway, Duke and I set out on our walk while it was slightly drizzling. And, you guessed it, that slight drizzle turned into a torrential downpour midwalk.

In an attempt to "save" Duke from the rain, I covered him in my own jacket. Seeing that even that wouldn't suffice, we took cover under a large oak tree. Within the minute, the door of the house we were standing next to swung open - a sweet woman poked her head out inviting us to take cover in her house. Feeling the rain starting to fight through the leaves of the oak tree, I grabbed Duke and rushed inside.

Meet Sara. The sweet woman who must've taken a glance outside her window midmorning only to be met with the sight of a half soaked mom and her son standing in the rain. She welcomed us in, handed me a towel and kindly offered us a seat. Shortly after entering and drying off, the rain completely died down (typical of Florida rain -- and something I've come to love have grown up here). So off we went again - but Sara wouldn't let us leave without providing Duke a rain jacket (which she said we could keep) and a shower cap to cover Duke's head. I was dying laughing looking at Duke as we finally approached Megan's house. He kept the shower cap on the rest of the walk and he was wearing a rain jacket 2 times his size.

And finally to be met by lovely, and joy radiating Megan -- who was (and is) equally as generous as Sara. I walked in her house to a beyond warm welcome where I was almost immediately treated with a delicious egg, turkey, and cheese sandwich - paired with a hot cup of coffee. (Megan is pregnant too! Only two weeks ahead of me and each of us strongly believe in a second breakfast around 10:30 am). For those of you who know my love of breakfast, you can understand what a wonderful treat that is!

Once again, thank you Sara and Megan. Today you made my day!!!

Back to School

2010-03-01T19:35:00.001-08:00

There are a couple days in my week where the schedule is set. Generally being a very unscheduled person, I find comfort in those days that are, well scheduled. Like today. Like every Monday. For Duke and I, every first day of the week signifies going Back to School. Here's the breakdown.

Monday morning comes. I wake up, make my breakfast and savor the quietness. Then I undoubtedly wake Duke up because the adorable thing normally sleeps till 8:30 am or later and his school starts at 9. Once awake though, he's immediately demanding, requesting breakfast or better yet "juuuice." Breakfast these days (every day actually) consists of oatmeal, yogurt and chocolate milk. As he eats, I pack his lunch and back pack for school. Always rushed toward the end, Duke gets buckled up in the car as mommy adds her own book bag and snacks, and then we're off!

Today, on the way to Duke's school - a Mother's Day Out program he attends once a week - we got stopped by the train. In previous days, I would have waited impatiently, hoping for a "short" train so I could go on with my day. But seeing as Duke is in awe of trains lately, I found myself saddened when only 8 train cars past and before I knew it, the train had past. Meanwhile, Duke kept straining his little neck to see more of the "choo choo." Yet even in the aftermath, his brightened smile remained. The train sighting had made his morning.

After the train, I walked Duke to his classroom. By chance, he's in a class with only boys, all super cute. Dropping Duke off at school has gotten easier for me as he's warmed to Mrs. Jennifer and rarely cries when I leave. This morning, however, I related to a mother who brought her son in for the first time. She broke into tears as she left, hearing her little one cry out for her. She looked away to hide her tears (and perhaps would later think to herself that she was overreacting and that he'd be fine.) I didn't say anything but understood. It's in those little moments that I feel indescribably connected to all the mothers in the world and the deep vulnerability of the heart that accompanies having a child....

Anyway, back in my car and with Duke settled, I left for the library on campus. In my second year of pursuing a Masters in Mental Health Counseling, I always require more homework time than there is available. In the beginning of entering this program, I made a goal not to have school interfere in my hang out times with Darrell and Duke. Therefore, it gets squeezed into my free Monday mornings. Well, today I bit off more than I could chew. Did I mention I am not the most scheduled person in the world?? Anyway, I had a paper to complete and realized shortly after arriving at the library that I would be unable to finish what I needed to do. So after a little panicking, I got a Chai tea latte, slowed my pace and decided to be realistic. (Darrell is always much better than me at this....) The paper would not get done, and would have to be turned in late with a couple points docked (but as my BS girls know, this is a much better option than lying to the professor.) Anyway, suffice to say the paper did not get completed but I did get some work done and was able to enjoy my time at the library. After the library, I was off to class from 4 pm till 9:30 pm. If you ever want to know about the content of my classes, just ask. I feel a little bit bad (well, not really) that Darrell has to hear everything I learn, so he'd probably be glad if you asked.

While I was in the library and then off to class, the little Dukester got picked up from school by my mom around 2 pm. He hung with Yia Yia and Pops (where he's always completely entertained) till I got back around 9:45 pm.

And finally, at the end of the long day, (which is probably unfortunate for Duke, but something I love) is getting to wake Duke up, plop him in my car and close out the night with a quiet 15 minute car ride home. During the drive home, I reach my hand out behind me and near to Duke (who has glazed over eyes, and a far off sleepy look) and just wait until his little fingers curl around my own. Though no words are exchanged, to me its our little way of communicating - "So how was your day, mom/son? Good? Mine too."

First pics of Baby Carpenter #2

2010-02-25T20:15:00.000-08:00

We're so excited that Colton has a cousin on the way! Yeah for Baby Carpenter #2!

Darrell and I went to the doctor today for the initial ultrasound. Below are the first pics of Baby Carpenter #2. Super sweet!! The first pic you'll see is the outline of a baby with a little hand next to his/her face -- that was the first image that popped up on the ultrasound, as if the baby was saying "Hey there!" In the second pic you can see the legs sticking out. Though these still pics are fun, it's amazing during the actual ultrasound watching the little one moving all around, moving it's arms and legs as they try to take his/her picture. It's hard to believe that what they're taking a picture of is actually taking place inside my body -- such a miracle! Can't wait for the arrival of this new life on or around Sept. 12, 2010.

**Pics would not upload. Will have these once I figure out how to put them on the blog.

Welcome Colton Pierce Ryan!!!

2010-02-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

My brother, Pat, and his beautiful wife, Christie, welcomed Colton Pierce Ryan on February 23rd.

Colton's big sister, Ellena (age 4), and big brother Connor (age 2), were both thrilled at Colton's arrival!! Their adorable family live in York, Pennsylvania, so for now I have to settle for admiring my nephew from afar! Your Aunt Meredith loves you!!

Duke's announcement for what the New Year will bring...

2010-02-03T17:23:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas Time in the City Part 5

2010-01-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

Duke wearing Darrell's old sweatshirt! Too cute!

What a wonderful holiday season. Now I'm looking forward to what the New Year will bring!

It's Christmas Time in the City Part 4

2010-01-24T19:12:00.000-08:00

Dec. 23rd. Dinner at the Carpenters.
So great to have Derrick and Ben (Kimsey's boyfriend) in town!
Church on Christmas Eve.
On the right is the Lane Family - having them join us for Christmas Eve made the night all the sweeter!

A pic of my dad reciting poems - a favorite past time.
I believe the poem titled "The Tiger" by William Blake was shared (in case there are any poem lovers out there!)

Good times!

The little Duke man all dressed up for Christmas Eve.

Christmas Day. Family movie outing.

Dinner with Bailes, Dalton and Carpenter Families. Loflins and Quarles - you were missed!

It's Christmas Time in the City Part 3

2010-01-10T16:48:00.000-08:00

What are the holidays without a trip to the Orlando Science Center?!

Flying to outer space!
Vroom! Vroom!
Hey Parker, do ya know how this thing works?

Thanks Yia Yia. I didn't know cars drink juice too!
Don't worry guys, this tightening the bolts on the tires is a cinch.
Wait, what are these...?
Ohhh cool! Sea shells! And sand!This place rocks! I'm glad our Yia Yia thought to bring us here!

It's Christmas Time in the City Part 2

2010-01-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

Another holiday outing was a Bowling Adventure with the Ryan clan:

My sister Chelsea showing her son Parker (age 2) the ropes.

Go ball, go!! Did I mention that Duke and Parker's ball barely made it down the lane? :) Oh, and check out the bumpers. Definitely a necessity for Duke and for me!
The boys. Just hangin'. The Ryan Clan.
Uncle T, Peyton, Aunt Nancy (visiting from Colorado!), Madison, Eric, Parker, Chels, and me and Duke in front)

It's Christmas Time in the City Part 1

2010-01-04T19:46:00.000-08:00

This year, we celebrated both Christmas and the New Year in Orlando. Thankfully, we were able to spend time with our families (immediate and extended). It helps that both sets of grandparents live in town and that many loved ones traveled to town for the holidays. Since fun pictures were captured on more than one camera, this is the first installment. More pics to come!

My sister, Chelsea, brother-in-law Kevin and their son Parker visited us to bring in the New Year. One night, the "grown-ups" snuck out for a night on the town at the restaurant Seasons 52.

Group shoot. (Left to Right: Kevin, Chelsea, Me, Darrell, Mom, Dad)

The Ladies.
The Men.Mom and Dad (known as Yia Yia and Pops by their grand kids).

A New Year

2010-01-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

Hello 2010! Good bye 2009!

As this time of year usually brings about resolutions, I have spent the past couple weeks thinking about mine. And here goes...This year my New Year's Resolution is to actually add entries to my blog. A radical thought, I know. In fact, I have set myself the lofty goal of posting once weekly (or if I miss a week, at least aim for four entries per month). But in truth, the greater goal I have for myself is finding creative ways to stay in touch with you -- family members and friends -- as this New Year takes way.

So, to begin, here are a few recent pictures of Duke (since the last picture of Duke posted on this blog is from when he was a day old!!) More updates to come!

In the Beginning

2008-08-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

On April 11, 2008, at 12:48 am our little peanut joined the world. Seconds later, Darrell announced it was a boy (as we had waited to find out the sex). We chose boy & girl names prior to delivery and felt proud to name our little boy Darrell Franklin Carpenter III after Darrell's dad. We nicknamed him Duke (Mr. Darrell had considered calling Darrell by that name.)

While caught up in admiring Duke, a nurse announced there were people in the waiting room, expectant faces glued to the window. Darrell and I laughed and told the nurse our family was more than welcome to come in. Seconds later, our parents and Darrell's sister Katyrose flooded into the room, each with tears in their eyes as Darrell and I grinned from ear to ear.

The next clear memory (one I will never forget) is waking up to Darrell sitting in a chair at my side, fast asleep, and with Duke nestled snuggly in his arms. As I drifted back to sleep, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace, like all was well in the world.

Our New Expanded Family

2008-04-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

The first time I held Duke just seconds after he was born. Even though Duke came two weeks early, he weighed in at 7 lbs. 10 oz.

Proud Papa (even at 2:30 am in the morning!)
Darrell's first diaper change as he wonders "What did I get myself into?"
Mr. Darrell enjoying his status as Grandpa -- no more changing diapers for him :)

Darrell Franklin Carpenter I (Duke's namesake)

Duke's Great Grandmother (Meredith's Dad's Mom).
Duke all bundled up!Our new expanded family!

Darrell F. "Duke" Carpenter, III

2008-04-12T19:06:00.000-07:00

Darrell F. "Duke" Carpenter, III

Born April 11, 2008 at 12:48 AM.
7 lbs 10 oz
21"

The greatest things in life come in small packages!!

M and D

2007-08-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

And
then
there
were
three!!!

Yep! The Carpenter family is growing! The newest member of the family should be joining us late April.

The Lord has truly blessed us. We couldn't be more excited!!