Hippity Hoppity!

Ok, so I truly believe that one of these years, one of these holidays, that Carter will look back at these photos and wonder why in the world we found it so necessary to torture him with this larger than life, man in a white costume, none talking Easter Bunny. (and to think we did it at Christmas too) But isn't it cute and what a classic reaction?!

Here are all the grandkids trying to synchronize their smiles and their ability to sit still long enough for us to get a picture at church with all the pretty flowers. Have you ever tried to get 6 kids, four of whom are under the age of three, to all smile at the same time? I think it is virtually impossible but this was a pretty good shot at it.

We spent Easter weekend dying eggs, watching old home videos, and hanging out with all the Mennel girls and our families. I just love watching all the kids get together and play. They have so much fun when they are together. We are so lucky to have such a close family and I think that it is really special that Carter is getting a chance to be raised with all his cousins. I remember growing up in a large family with all my cousins nearby and the fun we created will never be forgotten. I hope the same is true for Carter and that the years ahead be filled with family, friends, and fun times!

Childrens Museum

Matt and I were so excited to take Carter to the Indianapolis Children's Museum that we grabbed a few snacks, packed up the car and headed downtown and by time we got there we had a sleeping little sweet pea in our backseat. It didn't take long for him to wake up and enjoy looking around at all the new stuff. His favorite part was watching the toy trains go around the tracks. We tried a little Playscape but Carter was more interested in watching all the other little kids. The Carousel was not as amusing to him...he cried the entire time. After that, it was time to hit the road but before we could leave we had to try the huge slide going from the 2nd floor all the wayto the 1st floor...he loved it!

1 year Haircut!

Carter thoroughly enjoyed playing on the slide and the choo-choo train during our 7 minute wait that by the time they were ready to cut his hair he was all worn out. Thank goodness for Nana and Papaw, a thing of bubbles, and his handy dandy thumb....he was all occupied and sat there like a big boy!

Just my thoughts!

Wow, it seems like just yesterday we were calling everybody telling them to hurry to the hospital because little Carter was making his big debut just about 4 weeks early. It took everybody by surprise but the biggest surprise was yet to come. How can something so small grab a hold of your heart so quickly and change your life forever?! Now, it is hard to believe that a year has gone by so quickly. Where does the time go? Over the past year, Matt and I have found great joy in watching Carter learn and grow. From learning to hold his head up to rolling over and now walking laps around all my furniture. It is simply amazing to witness this little 6 lb 13 oz baby who is so completely dependent on you for everything grow into a 19 lb walking, talking, playing machine! Nobody could have told us that parenthood would be this fulfilling and rewarding! Not only has our love for Carter grown with each new day but our love and relationship for each other has also been enriched with this addition to our family. We have found a deeper sense of love, respect, trust, and commitment by sharing this joy of parenthood together. Simply put....our life rocks and who could ask for more!!