To Papa Carl

Today, April 18, would have been Papa Carl's 58th birthday. We've all been thinking of him and missing him like crazy! We feel so fortunate that Ellison got the opportunity to be in her Papa Carl's arms when she was a baby. Anyone that knew Papa Carl knows that was one of his favorite things to do -- hold little ones. He was rarely seen at family gatherings without a child in his arms or his lap. I (along with my siblings) was so blessed to grow up with him as my "second dad". Our families did everything together, and when all of us kids (me, my siblings, & my cousins) were older and having families of our own, our parents (my mom & dad, Uncle Carl & Aunt Yvonne) did everything together. We are still a very close family, but there is such a massive void. Even though Ellison didn't get to know her Papa Carl for very long, he'll still always hold such a special place in our hearts and our families. We love and miss you, Carl! Today, on your birthday, we celebrate how beautiful your life was to each and every one of us!

Here are photos of our little Mookie with her Papa Carl...