Welcome to Earth! Grandaddy letters - the "birth" edition

The awesome David Henry and Naomi

Well, folks, I've been waiting to write this post for a long time. Only a few months, really, and only impatiently for the past few days. But, David Henry Campbell made his appearance at 12:25, just after noon, today - Sunday October 16.

My grandson David is a big boy, weighing in at a whopping 9 pounds and 12 ounces. But mother and baby (and Craig) are doing well after a long night that included being sent home from the hospital around 6:30. Of course they had to turn right around the moment they arrived home and made it just in time for the big event.

Naomi called us about 20 minutes after the birth. "Listen, Mama and Daddy," she said. She didn't even have to move the phone - we could hear David screaming his little head off. What a beautiful sound.

The picture posted below (on Craig's lap) was taken at less than an hour old. You can tell how huge he is, right? Lots of black hair. Lot's of loud opinions about the transition from his comfortable "womb crib" to the bright lights and noise of a hospital.

But at least he's at Yale. Not a bad start to his journey as a life-long learner.

Craig and David Campbell

I've got some words for you, David: First, welcome to Earth! You have been anticipated and loved for many months now. In fact, your light has already shed some hope and promise exactly where it has been needed.

Take this morning, for example. We faced (are facing) a terrible tragedy with one of our church families. A much-loved man was leaving this world about the same time that you were pushing your way in. John knew and loved your parents and your grandparents; he was a huge encouragement to your family on more than one occasion and he was a "larger-than-life" character who added vibrancy and humor to the personality of our church.

Your arrival, David, has already ministered grace and joy to many people who love John, even in the middle of their hurt and grief.

David Henry Campbell

I'd like this to be a precedent for your future. My prayer is that you will grow into the kind of boy (and then man) who brings the light of God's goodness and love into the lives that you touch. Your mama already has this gift. Learn from her, and learn from Jesus, who came into this world full with grace and truth, the very definition of light and life.

I can't wait to get to know you, David Henry. And I can't wait to share some life together. But for now, just rest up, and grow, and let your mama and your daddy love on you. It's going to be a wonderful journey.

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1

Love and huge hugs from your Grandaddy, DEREK