They're Here!

Sorry this took so long to post. My brother Steve and his wife Laura welcomed their twin boys into the world Saturday evening (October 7th) at 8:45 Denver time. Born first was William Khaled who was 7 lbs 6 oz, 21 inches and second was Alex Hamze who was 5 lbs 11 oz, 19 inches. Laura is doing well but recovering from a c-section. I wish we could be there to see them! We'll have to wait until Christmas, though! Congratulations Steve and Laura! Also, Happy Birthday to Gramma (my mom) who now shares a birthday with her grandsons! How fun! In the picture, Will is on the left and Alex is on the right.

And for those curious about the names:

William Khaled Perkins is named for 1) his father's grandfather, William Courtney, and 2) his mother's father, Khaled (Karl) Muriby who came here from Lebanon.

Alex Hamze Perkins is named for 1) no one in particular... they just liked the name "Alex," and 2) his mother's taita (grandmother), who's maiden name was Hamze.

On Eli's blog, the comment discussion raised the question of the historical/religious meanings of the boys' names. I looked up both Arabic names but only found Khaled, which appears to mean "eternal" or "immortal." Steve Googled "Hamze" and found a weblog that suggests the name means "lion." Looking up "William" and "Alex" produced "Protector" and "Defender of Mankind," respectively.

So... We have Will, the Eternal Protector and Alex the Lion, Defender of Mankind. Auspicious beginnings for such little ones!