17 Months

Carter is 17 months old today! We can't believe how fast he is growing up. He is talking a lot more and as curious as ever about everything. His favorites right now are: his 4-wheeler, kissing the dogs, dancing when he hears music, and taking baths. We moved to a one nap day, which he seems to be doing o.k. with (he actually naps about 2 hours in the afternoon now!) and he still sleeps like a champ at night. Eating is still somewhat of a struggle for us, he only wants fruits or certain vegetables. He doesn't really like any meat (except the occasional chicken nugget) so we're trying to find other protein alternatives. He's not wasting away so I guess we're o.k. for now!

Here are some other recent pictures. This first picture was before his most recent hair cut (it was his fourth hair cut!).

Most days we can't get him off the 4-wheeler.

Christmas, Christmas, and more Christmas

We had many Christmas celebrations this holiday season. The first celebration came the Sunday before Christmas with Grandpa Shaffer, Mark, Deb, Bridget, and Sean. We had a great time seeing everyone and watching the kids open presents. Carter really got into present opening this year, it was a lot of fun to watch him.

Grandpa Shaffer, Uncle Mark, and Carter

Carter, Bridget, and Sean checking out the toys

Opening up his stocking from Grandpa Shaffer

Handing us the little tears of paper off the present (the opening took a long time before he realized he didn't need to give us every piece).

Riding on "Dozer" his cool bulldozer toy from Grandpa Shaffer

The second celebration...

We celebrated with Grandpa and Grandma Jernstadt on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning. We did presents on Christmas Eve from Grandpa and Grandma and then had a nice dinner together. In the morning Carter opened Santa's presents and our presents. It was fun having Grandpa and Grandma J. there to share it with us.

Opening up one of his cool new toys from Grandpa and Grandma J. (I think this might be the hilarious porcupine hand puppet that he loves to taunt the dogs with).

Even the dogs got in on the present opening action.

Christmas morning, opening up his stocking (his talking Diego phone, which says "Carter," was a huge hit)

His first set of golf clubs

He couldn't decide which was cooler, the golf clubs or the hockey stick...

More presents!!

Showing off his cool new train station

The Third Celebration...

We headed to Grandma Webb's house late Christmas morning for a delicious breakfast, more present opening, more food, and more food. We had a lot of fun hanging out with Grandma Webb, Uncle Josh, Uncle Mark, Deb, Bridget, Sean, and some of Grandma Webb's friends throughout the day. By the time the day was over though, we were so exhausted and ready for bed!

Opening up his cool new Harley outfit from Uncle Mark, Deb, Bridget, and Sean

Opening some presents with Uncle Josh

He couldn't believe his eyes when he saw this 4-wheeler from Uncle Mark, we couldn't put it together fast enough.

Proudly riding around on the 4-wheeler. It goes about 2 mph and it is hilarious to watch him ride it. No steering or braking, just forward speed and everyone better get out of the way.

Grandma and Uncle Josh

Uncle Josh helping Carter put his feet in the right spot.

Deb and Uncle Mark

"Watch out, here I come!!"

Christmas was very exciting this year with Carter. We really enjoyed ourselves and loved spending time with family and friends. We can't wait for next year!