In the Beginning

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

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

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!!