JK & Scout

Super Bowl XLVI

2012-02-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

After one week of mourning the "not-so-super" Super Bowl, I decided I was ready to post a few pictures. Despite the outcome of the game, we had a fun time with a few of our friends, some YUMMY food, and a cute cheerleader (pictured below!). Now we look ahead to next year! GO PATRIOTS!

(this is a random picture of Emmy glued to the computer watching Shirley Temple and Bojangles Robinson dance!)

TOUCHDOWN

Our little cheerleader!

It's a BOY!

2012-01-22T17:43:00.001-08:00

So unless you are a stalker who doesn't really know me or my family then you probably already know that we are expecting #2. If you don't know and you consider me a friend then maybe we should catch up via phone or email. Anywho, I thought I would make it official on our blog and share that we are pregnant and it's a baby boy. Emmy is going to be a big sister and has no idea how her world is going to be turned upside down. Baby Boy Carter is due to arrive at the end of March. We are super excited to meet him and for your viewing pleasure, here are a few pictures of my big ol' belly!

Making the Most of a Little Snow!

2012-01-22T16:59:00.000-08:00

We went to bed Friday night with snow falling and woke up with enough to cover the ground and make a mini snowman for Emmy. This was the first "snow" Emmy has played in and really experienced. She hated getting on her snow gear but once was got out there and playing she warmed up to it all.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2012-01-22T16:50:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that my birthday is in December and all of us know that December comes and goes quicker than a blink. So this year Joel and I picked a date in January (last night) and celebrated my 30th birthday! We put Emmy to bed and then had an AWESOME dinner - Filet Mignon, baked sweet potato, green beans and chocolate pie! Let me just say it was the best meal ever - he grills a kick butt steak. After dinner we settled in on the couch and watched a movie that I picked out (Crazy Stupid Love). It was a great night - Thanks Joel!

New Years

2012-01-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

We drove to Philly to be with the Dixon crew for New Years Eve. We also did Christmas and Emmy loved pulling things out of her stocking from Nanet and Paul Paw. We had a great time playing games and of course eating lots of yummy food. I just realized I don't have very many pictures from New Years in Philly (sadface). But here are a few that I do have. Ooooo maybe I have more pictures on my phone...stay tuned!

Random Adventures in December

2012-01-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

So December was full of new fun things for Emmy to do and explore. So I thought I would share random pictures from our adventures.

Emmy was very helpful in unpacking Christmas decorations and almost made me pee in my pants!

Emmy loves climbing on any and everything

Emmy's first candy cane ever! She enjoyed to say the least.

Emmy was a big help in picking out our Christmas Tree.

One of Emmy's favorite ways to help mommy in the kitchen is to empty off the "pantry" shelf on to the floor and climb up on the shelf!

Christmas Time

2012-01-16T08:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas with the Carters. We had a great Christmas weekend with almost the whole Carter crew. Joel's mom and dad and sister arrived early Friday am. We had a restful day Friday and did a little shopping. Friday night we had a lovely dinner at Jim and Dottie's house with the Palmer Fam and Grandma Jean. Saturday (Christmas Eve) we ventured downtown and saw some sites, including the misshapen National Christmas tree, ice skating and hot chocolate made the day complete. That evening we all went separate ways and we the immediate Carter's had a yummy lasagna dinner and then went to church where Joel had a reading and did a fabulous job. Christmas we fun but busy. We started early with presents and stockings (Emmy had fun opening and sharing) Then off to church (I had nursery) then home to start the cooking. We hosted the whole crew (all 13) for a yummy Christmas Dinner. It was a great time with the family and we feel very blessed to have hosted some of the weekend!

Ice Skating in the sculpture garden

The National Christmas tree where we got to see Santa in his workshop

Christmas Eve service and family pictures!

Aunt Emily provided a warm coat and hat to match Emmy's Christmas Eve gown! Thanks Aunt Emily

Christmas morning opening presents

Loving on Grandpa

Thirteen people sitting down to eat Christmas Dinner!

Time with Grandma Jean

Dessert and PJs all day!

Patton (Aka Grandma) and Aunt Dorothy

One last visit with Grandma Jean

Thanksgiving 2011

2012-01-14T06:24:00.001-08:00

So I am going to try and catch ourselves up on the blog. Lots to share and even more pictures! We will start with Thanksgiving. The Friday before Thanksgiving Kelly Ann, Charlotte, Emmy and I headed to New Bern, NC to stay with my mom and dad for a few days before heading to Sunset Beach for the McCurry Thanksgiving! It was great being able to see mom and dad's new house and neighborhood. We also had a few minutes to do some shopping at Hallmark and sit in Santa's Chair. The visit was visit was complete with shopping at Hallmark, chocolate chip pancakes and lots of cousin adventures!

Mom and Dad bought Emmy and Char matching PJs. Aren't they cute?

Sunday we headed down to Sunset Bch where the weather was BEAUTIFUL in the 70s. Where we had lots of girl time on the beach! Emmy also showed her Patriots spirit on Game Day!

Time with Aunt Kelly

Practicing her football stance!

Nanet is a big kid at heart and helped the girls get sandy and wet!

Because the whole Dixon crew was together we tried to take some family photos...I think we managed to get one good one of the group and a few of each individual family too!

The ride home wasn't too bad, especially cause we joined up with Mark, Kelly and Charlotte and shared the ride! Emmy was pooped and slept most of the way! Overall the trip was great and always good to see family. - Until Next Year Sunset Beach

Trot Trot to Boston

2011-12-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

Just before the craziness of the holiday's started, Joel and I snuck away to Boston to do a little site seeing. Many of you know that Joel was born in Boston and his heart is still there, but I had never been. So we hit up lots of touristy places: Fenway Park, Boston Commons, Theater District (Blueman Group), Duck Tours, and No Name Restaurant. We had a great time just the two of us, while Emmy was back home being spoiled by Nanet and Paul Paw.

Joel sitting on the Green Monster

Us looking over the field

The amphibious vehicle that toured us around Boston, even into the Charles River

Kelli acting like a duck

November Happenings

2011-11-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

The start of November has been uneventful! We have had time to clean and play. Here are a few pictures of playing. Emmy loves wearing her sunglasses these days and watching football with daddy, even if the Patriots aren't doing so great:(

Having Fun

2011-11-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

Silly Emmy! She was taking the massaging thing and pushing it on her toy and laughing at herself (mommy was laughing too!).

Halloween

2011-10-31T16:41:00.000-07:00

We decided one day was not long enough for us to show off our little lion! So we dressed up 3 times. I will try to explain each picture and our halloween adventures...

This was the night we had the moms group halloween party (Thursday!)

Sunday we carved pumpkins and let Emmy play in the pumpkin goop!

This is Halloween night- trick-or-treating!

Saturday night we had dinner at friends house and they made yummy delicious stuffed pumpkins! They were amazing! Thank you Robinson's!

The weekend before Halloween we went to get the perfect pumpkin!

This is Emmy with her friend at church (Trunk-or-Treat got snowed out- yes snow!) The Lion and Tiger!

Saturday morning we made pumpkin pancakes with chocolate chips! Emmy had a blast with this!

Emmy has a new love for lollypops! You can't tell by her facial expression but really she loves them!!

Playing in the leaves at the park with mommy! Just a bonus.

October

2011-10-31T16:32:00.001-07:00

October started off WONDERFULLY. I met my college roommates in our old territory, UNCG, for a fun, relaxing girls weekend. We were able to catch up on life, mommyhood, and food! Love you girls!!!

JOEL'S BIRTHDAY

Next Joel turned 30! Old man. We had a great weekend celebrating the big day with lobster, cheesecake, and 2 dates in one week. We first had a fun adventure on The Spirit of Washington with a fun filled dinner cruise. Then on another date we tried a new Thai restaurant and then checked out a pool hall where the hostest rubbed my belly more than once and reminded me to be careful through out the rest of the night! ***For more fun stories about our adventures in Wheaton please ask!

Down on the Farm

2011-10-10T16:44:00.000-07:00

Today Joel had the day off. So we took advantage of the weather and met some friends at a local farm to show our girls some animals and other fun farm adventures. Here are a few pictures from our adventures.

Andrew, Chloe, Cadance and the Carter's!

HAYRIDE!

SO BIG!!!

Emily Winabel turns ONE!

2011-09-20T07:17:00.001-07:00

Birthday Celebration #3 (on her actual birthday!)

Birthday Celebration #2

Trying juice for the first time! A big hit!

Birthday Celebration #1

Bathtime!

Ended messy and happier!

Banana bread with chocolate icing, YUMMY!

Started out clean and happy!

Maine Family Vacation

2011-09-20T05:41:00.000-07:00

So believe it or not this is only a small pick of the millions we took while on the island. We were there for 8 days and enjoyed some great times together with mom and dad Carter and mom and dad Dixon. We then took a few extra days on the way home to visit friends and family (pictures above). Great times together. While we were in Maine we celebrated Emily Winabel's FIRST birthday 3 times. Once with each set of grandparents and then on the actual day with friends. I will do a separate post with all those pictures and videos - she loved each chocolate experience!

Scout loves the island, I think, more than any of us!

The weather was perfect while we were there but early evening the bugs came out so we suited up to protect! (above mom and I snuck away to watch the sunset. below dad and joel cooked a yummy lobster dinner for us to enjoy)

Adventures at low tide to include clamming!

Adam and Lauren joined us for one night on the island.

Joel actually went swimming in the freezing cold water and scout was right behind him!

Emmy loved picking up all the fun new things: shells, rocks, seaweed, crabs and it didn't take long before each was in her mouth!

Learning guitar with Grammie!

Family photo before Irene hit!

VA Bch - Family Vacation

2011-08-17T16:54:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we packed up our new Honda Pilot and drove to VA Bch. The trip started with Joel and an army reunion. We decided to make it a family trip so Emmy could experience the beach (in the summer) for the first time with mom and dad. We met up with our good friends the Wolf's and met their new baby boy Gabriel. We had a great time and Joel connected with some guys he hasn't seen in a long time!

The whole gang with our serious faces!

The Wolf Family (Left: Isaac, Dylan, David, Lenay and in front baby Gabe)

After taking a little dive in the sand Emmy decided to give sand a little taste test!

Trying to climb the castle.

Sitting on top of the castle.

Daddy and Emmy with the sand castle

Emmy with her shovel after working hard on her castle

Mommy and Emmy

Daddy and Emmy

Emily Winabel is baptized

2011-08-15T10:26:00.001-07:00

On August 7th Miss Emily Winabel Carter was baptized at our home church, Wallace Presbyterian. It was a fun weekend and we wished all of our family and friends could have been with us but know you are all loving and praying for Emmy from afar. Here are a few pictures from the big event!

(Update: I can't figure out how to get these pictures to cooperate with me so stay tuned on the baptism pictures)

GO SOX!

2011-07-25T05:52:00.000-07:00

Last week the Red Sox came to Baltimore and we met them there. We got a babysitter and ventured out in the heat with some good friends and watched the Sox loose to the Orioles (sadface). Even with the lose we had a great time and enjoyed yummy ballpark food and heckling the Yankees fan sitting next to us! The Sox went on to win the game the next day and actually the night before, so it has been hypothesized that we are bad luck when attending the game!

Red Sox family

(yes that is a baseball on her butt!!!)

Family Adventure

2011-07-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

Monday of this week we packed up the car and headed North about an hour to MD State Park to swim and hike. It was such a fun time. Emmy LOVES being outside and the lake was very refreshing for all of us!

Joel and Em getting a closer look at the waterfall.

Family pic

At the head of the trail all ready to go!

At the beach having a picnic

No sun on this baby! (Though she is super tan and I don't know why cause I put on so much sun block everyday!)

Emmy and Daddy!

Joel's Home!!!

2011-07-11T05:53:00.001-07:00

On July 4th Joel called and shared that he would be arriving earlier than expected. Instead of July 7th he would fly in on the 5th! With disbelief Kelly, Char, Emmy, Scout and myself hopped in the Civic and drove back to MD and then Emmy and I went to meet daddy at the airport. We were sweetly reunited on July 5th around 4pm. As you can see in the pictures Joel did trim the beard but the hair is still very long. I actually gave him the ok to keep the hair cause I was very curious . It is very soft and surprisingly curly. Emmy has done great with everything. She acted as if she knew Joel right away. They are bonding lots and she is learning that he is not just visiting but will be around for awhile! We have had a great low key week trying to break Joel in slowly and reintroducing him to diapers and fussy baby (Emmy's 5th tooth is coming in)! Joel is back to work 1/2 days this week and then full time. It seems surreal that he was ever gone. Thank you to all our friends and family who prayed for us and supported us during this tough time and through the continued transitions of being a family unit once again!

Independence Day!

2011-07-11T05:47:00.000-07:00

We were in NC for the 4th with Char and Kelly. We were able to help my mom and dad get ready for their move and spend sometime playing! It was an eventful quick trip with traffic, yummy food, Emmy's first poop in the tub and a surprising phone call.

Swinging

2011-06-29T17:50:00.001-07:00

For the last 6 months Emmy and I have been going to our home away from home on Tuesday nights for dinner. We are so blessed and our bellies have been filled. Thank you Varbonova family!

Continued blessings...

2011-06-29T17:46:00.001-07:00

For the last 6 months Emmy and I have been going to our home away from home on Tuesday nights for dinner. We are so blessed and our bellies have been filled. Thank you Varbonova family!

Playtime in the Neighborhood

2011-06-29T17:40:00.001-07:00

We are so blessed to have a beautiful house, wonderful neighborhood and even better neighbors. Two of which have been a great help to Emmy and I over the last 6 months. Today especially they babysat while I worked in the yard. For payment we had an afternoon of makeovers and mani/pedis and then got all dressed up for a fancy dinner! Fun times!

Last week we all played outside and got in a big water fight! It was very wet and refreshing.

PlayDate

2011-06-29T17:36:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of a recent playdate with a BOY! Emmy already has the boy's love struck with her beauty. (and JJ is pretty cute too!)

Clearly...

2011-06-29T05:26:00.000-07:00

I am messing with the design of our blog. Stay tuned as I am still working on it and don't have time right now with a crying baby and VBS to attend! More soon...

Charlotte's Recital

2011-06-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

My niece, Charlotte, was just in her first dance recital! She dressed up in a beautiful dress, got her hair done up in a dancer's bun and performed a beautiful ballet piece! Emmy and I felt very lucky to be there and be apart of it all. (Scout came too!)

Summer Time!

2011-06-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am a firm believer that babies should be in nothing but a diaper in the summer months and so here she is, the most beautiful baby in the whole world in all her glory totally enjoying finger foods in nothing but a diaper!

Double Ponytails...

2011-06-05T06:43:00.000-07:00

...Otherwise known as pigtails. YES I am that crazy mom who has discovered that her 9 month olds hair will go up into not only one fountain like ponytail BUT two adorably cute horn like pigtails!

Memorial Day

2011-06-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day 2011 was a good day, an extremely hot day but good! Our Home Group from church came over and we had a nice BBQ but ate inside because it was so stinking hot!

More changes...

2011-06-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

What a cute house behind all of that trash!

(above: after)

(Above: Before pic)

Over the past 6 months we have made lots of changes to our house. Recently my mom and dad visited and helped with some big home projects (painting shutters, the door, hauling trash, yard work, fixing new doors that have broken and faucets that are leaking) A HUGE THANK YOU to Nanet and Paul Paw and all of our other friends and family who have been so supportive this year!

Green Thumb?

2011-05-29T18:37:00.001-07:00

So my love for fresh basil got the best of me, despite the fact that I kill everything green, I planted little seedlings and they are beginning to sprout. I am sooo excited and think that I will be able to have a basil, motza, tomato sandwich before too long. (hun, aren't you proud of me?)

Ponytails and yummy food

2011-05-29T18:31:00.000-07:00

Tuscan Turkey Burgers and grilled veggies helped create a delightful night with Stephanie and Nathan (thank you both for cooking and good conversation and banjo playing!). All in all it was flippin' awesome evening!

My little Sumo Epsilon with her cute ponytail!

Kelly and Char

2011-05-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

Kelly and Charlotte came to visit for a few days last week. We had a lovely visit and even made it into the city to visit the Natural History museum and the National Mall. We enjoyed a lovely picnic on the mall and survived the heat! Good times!

Playtime with Cate

2011-05-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

My college roommate, Sara, and her daughter, Cate, came to eat and play last week. They showered us with yummy food and fun in the sun! Here are a few shots of the girls together.

Texas

2011-05-20T18:08:00.001-07:00

Our Trip to Texas was awesome! The weather was unusually amazing and we were able to spend enjoyable time outside. Emmy had her first swimming experience and enjoyed time with Aunt Leigh and Uncle Aaron! Emmy was cutting her second tooth while we were there (it didn't break through until the day after we left) so she was a bit cranky but she still managed to crack a few smiles and laugh a little!

2011-05-17T14:52:00.001-07:00

Photo slideshow made with Smilebox

Teething!!!

2011-05-06T17:57:00.001-07:00

Some of you know that Emmy and I have been struggling with teething for the past 2 months. Everything from pulling ears, rubbing checks, drooling, putting everything in her mouth, fussing and lets not forget not sleeping. I have read and heard that some babies go through teething without a sign or trace and one day surprise there is a tooth. While others go through agony and torture (for both baby and mom). Unfortunately we have had the later experience. BUT on May 2 tooth #1 made an appearance and hopefully it will get easier from here on out!

Here are a few pics of her chewing on celery and pretzels! Double fisting it!!

Easter

2011-05-06T17:48:00.001-07:00

We had a great Easter in Philly at Mark and Kelly's house. Emmy had a great time playing and watching her big cousin and getting lovin' from Aunts and Uncles and Nanet and Paul Paw.

Update...

2011-05-06T14:41:00.000-07:00

Emmy and I are staying busy ripping up carpet and eating grass or flowers or whatever is in reach! We are jumping around from state to state and seeing as many people as we can and we are both very tiered and ready to slow down, but before we do we are headed to TX.

The OBX

2011-04-09T15:14:00.000-07:00

Over the past week Emmy and I have been in NC, specifically the Outer Banks and more specifically Rodanthe Beach, with my mom and dad (also known as Nanet and Paw Paul). It was my first time on the OBX and Emmy's first time at any beach ever. For those who have never been to the OBX, it is crazy. There is only one way on by road and the islands are so narrow. Driving down HWY 12 you see ocean on one side and the sound on the other side, it is really surreal. But it was most fun seeing Emmy experience the beach for the first time. Everything from sand, dolphins, seagulls, waves, wind, lighthouses, and ferrys (seagulls were Emmy's favorite).

Now I am sure you can imagine that I went crazy and took hundreds of pictures but believe it or not my mom takes more than I do. So I will do my best to pick a few of the best ones to share with all of you (or at least the 5 people who actually read this blog!)

Marshal's Visit and Cherry Blossoms

2011-03-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

Helping Mom!

2011-03-25T07:46:00.001-07:00

Look at that tongue! This is something new she is doing curling her tongue in different ways, so cute.

Loves grabbing those toes!

Chillin'

In the laundry!

St. Patty's Day

2011-03-17T17:28:00.001-07:00

Today was a beautiful day and also St. Patricks Day. Emmy and I went on a big adventure with our friends Chloe and Cadence to the National Harbor. We enjoyed lunch and a walk by the water. Hopefully this was the beginning of beautiful weather Welcome spring!

Talky Talky

2011-03-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

Sleep...what's that?

2011-03-14T06:35:00.001-07:00

Oh wait, I need sleep! And that is definitely not happening in this house. Emmy is waking up pretty much every hour for the first 5 hours of the night (930, 11, 1230, 115, 210 and up for the day at 7). I think she is teething but I can't see or feel any evidence of teeth. So we plug along. Hey this little munchkin of mine might turn me into a coffee drinker-who knows!

Me after a rough night

munchkin after a rough night!

Helping Hands

2011-03-06T05:42:00.001-08:00

On Saturday a group of friends that Joel went to grad school with came over to help with things around the house. They were awesome...everything from moving furniture to yard work. Now my house looks amazing and I am sleeping on a mattress again. A HUGE thank you to everyone who gave up their Saturday to help us out!

above: Emmy the overseer

above: Patching up holes in the wall

above: enjoying the new arrangement

above: moving electronics

above: yard work

Bedtime Stories

2011-03-05T06:02:00.000-08:00

Every night around 8pm it is bedtime. We started a routine that starts with bath time. Next we put on PJs and then story time. In these two videos you will see the stories we read. Typically after "Goodnight Scout" Emmy rubs her eyes, we say prayers and it is off to bed. She was extra tiered this night so she was a little fussy, very out of character at this time of night for her. So take a peek!

"Going to Brooklyn going so fast"

2011-03-03T15:43:00.000-08:00

So Emmy and I got the itch to go on another road trip so we went to Brooklyn to visit our friends The Robinsons. Well first Fin and Meg came to visit us in DC then the 4 of us drove to NY and spent a few days. Fun times playing and eating yummy food!

Close Ups!

Dress up time!

above: play time

above: mommy and Emmy

Two babies in a stroller

Cuteness...need I say more

Meg and Fin

belly time

Travels continued to NH

2011-02-18T07:39:00.000-08:00

After spending time in RI with Emily and Isaac, Emmy and I headed North to New Hampshire to visit Grammie and Grandpa Carter. We had a great visit and felt very loved, espcially on Valentine's Day!

Bath Time in Grammie's sink

Reading "Goodnight New Hampshire"

Learning Coupon Management from Grandpa!

Getting an early start on guitar lessons!

Cuddle time!

Above: Grammie reading Emmy her favorite finger puppet book!

Above: cuddle time with Grammie

This is a special face that Emmy makes when she is working it out, if you know what I mean!

First meal video

2011-02-10T15:36:00.000-08:00

First meal of mashed up bananas! Since this video we have tried Rice Cereal and Sweet Potatoes and she loves it all. She is a great eater, just like her mom!

Emmy laughing in Aunt Emily's Arms

2011-02-10T14:19:00.000-08:00

Some day I am going to learn how to properly embed video so that all can see and it is better quality than the 30 second video I get on my phone and today might be that day. I will once again try to do this correctly. So here it goes...

Our trip to RI

2011-02-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

(above) silly time with Nanet and her glasses!

(above) Emi and Mommy watching TV

(above) Uncle Isaac and Aunt Emily with Lil' Emi

Aunt Emi bought a new baby towel that is really soft for all visiting neices! Lil' Em broke it in.

(Below) Bath time in Emily and Isaac's sink

(below) Lil' Emi, Nanet and Emily looking cute

(below) Aunt Emily and Little Emi looking at the birds

Our big New England adventure. We set off to see family in New England, starting with Uncle Isaac and Aunt Emily in Rhode Island. Here are a few pics of our time there. Next, we go north to New Hampshire to see Grandma and Grandpa Carter!

Emi first solid food

2011-02-02T13:22:00.000-08:00

Enjoy it so much she went cross-eyed

The above three pics are actually meal #2 (2\2\2011)

So as most of you know January was a difficult month in the Carter household. From the flu to strep throat and loss of power for 72 hours, we were very happy to say goodbye to January and look to happier days in the months ahead. So on February 1st Emi had her first real food, Bananas. She loved it! This weekend we plan to introduce some rice cearal!

More around the house

2011-02-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

all worn out from running around with Nanet and mommy

More Bumbo time

Her first time in a Bumbo seat! She very much enjoyed sitting up in it like a big girl.

Still moment with Paw Paul
Close up!

Everyday Life...

2011-02-02T09:28:00.000-08:00

Though the reflux is getting better we still have our moments!

My sweet Emi...

Scout has adjusted really quickly to being allowd on the couches!

smiles and giggles!

2011-01-30T12:43:00.000-08:00

It has been a challenge catching Emi's smiles and definately no giggles on film. As soon as the camera is on she just stares at it as to say "no cameras please, this is a private showing only." So I have to be sneaky and use my phone and descretely film when possible. I felt very lucky to catch a few giggles and smiles the other day!

Jumping Bean

2011-01-19T16:33:00.000-08:00

Emi has started really understanding the jumper now. At first she just sat in it and enjoyed being upright. Now she jumps and is learning how her legs work! (sorry the video is sideways)

Rolling Over

2011-01-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

Emi (as you know from previous posts) has been rolling over from tummy to back since early December. She is super private about this and any time we turn on the camera she stops moving! In the last 2 weeks she has been rolling from back to tummy and I was actually able to catch her in the act...

Emi giggles

2011-01-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

Around the House

2011-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Emi jumping in her jumper for the first time. Not sure what to think of all this!

Nanet reading to Emi

Christmas in Kissimmee, FL

2011-01-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

Emi with her second cousin Emily!

Below: Joel and cousin David. Above: Joel and cousin Jon

Emi met Grandma Jean (Emi's Great Grandma Jean) for the first time!

Emi met her aunt Dorothy for the first time!

We spent 5 days over the Christmas holiday in FL with the Carter Fam. It was great and almost everyone, including cousins were accounted for. We played shuffleboard and enjoyed the 70 degree weather! It was great seeing everyone in one place.

Christmas Pics!

2010-12-20T06:45:00.001-08:00

For all anxiously

waiting Carter Christmas Poem is coming soon! We tried for a cute family photo but she had had enough!

Joel is going for the Santa look this year!

First Flight...Austin, TX

2010-12-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

Oh and I almost forgot to share about our flying adventures...So we started in NC and flew through Chicago to Austin. I was kinda anxious because I was flying alone with Emi and didn't want to be "THAT lady with the crying baby". But on the way out it all went great. She was awesome sleeping most of the way and being cute. We were blessed to sit next to very sweet and understanding people. Our flights arrived early and took off on time! So all went awesome. NOW on the way back it was a little different...I was very excited because we had a direct flight from Austin back home so I was thinking we were smooth sailing. Until I arrived at the airport and because of bad weather in Chicago our flight was delayed 1 hour...no big deal just threw off my plan for Emi with nursing and sleeping but we can handle it. So we finally board our flight and not even an hour into it Emi wakes up and is fussy...then lets loose a masive poop. (Leigh didn't I tell you she would do that to me?!) So once we reached our flying altitude I ventured to the front bathroom where there is a "changing table" aka a fold down flat board, and proceeded to change my sweet angles diaper. As I began to undress her I realized that this lovely present she made was all over her...up her back and on her clothes. So I striped her down changed the diaper as best I could in such a small place and carried her back to our seat with just her diaper on. Luckily I thought ahead and brought a change of clothes but getting a 3 month old into a oneise in an airplane seat isnt the easiest. We finally landed and were waiting on Joel because his flight was delayed 2 hours therefore our ride, Joel, was delayed. So we sat tight for 2 and 1/2 hours until we finally made it home around 1230am! What an adventure!!!

As I mentioned earlier, Joel had training in TX and so Emi and I took the opportunity to fly out and meet him and visit my Brother and his girlfriend. This was their first time meeting Emi. We had lots of fun and enjoyed 75 degree weather in December! Thank you Aaron and Leigh for letting us take over your lives for the weekend with all our baby stuff. Love you guys!

First Snow

2010-12-20T06:14:00.000-08:00

Emi experienced her first snow and believe it or not it was while we were in NC!

Visit with Great Grandma McCurry

2010-12-20T06:09:00.001-08:00

After Thanksgiving Emi and I stayed in NC for an extended visit while Joel headed off to TX for work. During our stay we ventured to the central part of NC to visit my grandma and Emi's Great Grandma. It was so good to see her and see her meet Emi. So blessed to have four generations in one room!

Rolling Over

2010-12-03T15:46:00.000-08:00

Today my sweet little Emabel turned 3 months old. She has been celebrating her birthday week by keeping mommy up all night long and I can't figure it out. BUT she totally redeemed herself tonight when we were G-chating with daddy and she rolled over for the first time ever and Joel got to see it all! No pictures yet but over the next few days we will try to capture it all on video!

Cousin Time Interupted

2010-12-03T07:20:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-28T18:29:00.001-08:00

Kelli and Joel are so sleepy these days!

Uncle mark is eating Emabel's foot!

Nanet is sleepy after cooking a yummy dinner and helping with her grandbabies (and doggies)!

Uncle Danny came to visit and watch the Pats with us. He met Emi for the first time and of course thought she was the best ever.

After dinner we all felt like doing what Emi did! Pass out with a full tummy! I was very thankful because Emi let me eat an entire meal while it was still hot! Thanks Emi.

Finally we joing her and enjoy and delicious feast! So blessed.

Charlotte is patiently waiting for us all to join her for Thanksgiving dinner.

Cousin time!

Watching the Patriots play on Thanksgiving Day. The whole family even Scout's wearing his bandana.

Is that a smile?

First big road trip to NC

2010-11-28T17:44:00.000-08:00

Emi was able to meet her 3rd cousin, Marshal. She cuddled right up to him.

Nanet and Charlotte made cupcakes and decorated them to share! Cooking with Nanet is always YUMMY!

Charlotte is an awesome big cousin to little Emi. She enjoyed reading to her and making her smile.

Above - Tea party with cousin Charlotte and Nanet

On the Friday before Thanksgiving I picked up my sister-in-law and neice at Union Station (and it was so pretty all decorated Christmas) and drove to NC to visit with Nanet and Paul Paul. My poor dad was out numbered 5 to 1, but we didn't hear any complaining from him as he soaked in all the youth from his beautiful grandaughters!

BFFs and mommies too!

2010-11-15T13:05:00.001-08:00

My bestest friends in the world both had babies this year and both had beautiful little girls. So that makes three...this past weekend we all were able to be together and introduce the little ones who are destined to be best of friends. Meg and Finn came in from NYC and we met at Sara and Cate's house for some fun photos (yes we are crazy mommies who are very proud of our little ones). Cate was born in June and Finn was born in Sept. just 15 days after Em. Hopefully we will all get together again sooner than later and our girls will grown up knowing each other and become BFFs!

Grammie Carter makes a visit to MD

2010-11-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

Joel's mom came to visit for a long weekend. We had lots of fun exploring the neighborhood and taking pictures in the fall leaves. the weather was beautiful so we spent a lot of time outside taking walks and taking pictures. Emily was a sweet girl (most of the time) and loved to hear Grammie play guitar and dance with mommy!

Temper, temper...

2010-11-09T16:53:00.001-08:00

I am not sure you can see clearly in these pictures but my sweet little angle has what I call angry spots. Yes my sweet little emily gets so upset and screams/crys that she gets little red dots on her face. This has only happened 2 times in her short little life but it amazes me how strong her lungs are! But even with little angery spots she is the cutest thing ever.

Nap time with mommy!

2010-11-09T16:50:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon nap!

My pink overalls

2010-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

Emily is growing so fast I have to capture some of my favorite outfits in photos...some she has only worn once and is now too big to wear them again!

2010-11-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

Trick or Treat!

2010-10-31T13:42:00.001-07:00

We carved our pumpkin with our neighbor this afternoon. Joel insisted that we have a throwing up pumpkin this year...isn't it beautiful! But we both couldn't take our eyes off OUR little pumpkin. She is so freaking cute!

Cloth diapers part 2

2010-10-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

It has been almost 2 weeks since we embarked on the cloth diaper adventure and I can honestly say its been going very well. Emily has adjusted very well and I have too. Apart from doing laundry every other day their really isn't much difference. I feel good about it on many levels...1. helping the environment 2. they are really cute 3. saving $$$. The first day or so we did have a few leaks because she is still on the small side (not for her age but for the diapers) it took me a little while to find the perfect seal. I am now fully committed and excited about the days ahead. Oh, and a big thank you to Aunt Dottie and Grammie Carter who made this adventure possible. (See my cute little Emabel looking like a little sumo champ!)

The Cloth Diaper Adventure begins!

2010-10-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

Today, October 18th, we begin the adventure of cloth diapers! A little nervous about this adventure but excited too. Em is growing so fast and hopefully the diapers will fit until she is over 35 lbs! We will keep you updated and post pictures soon.

National Harbor

2010-10-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Joel had a three day weekend and the weather was unbelivably awesome. So we decided to venture out on our first little day trip with Emily. We went to the National Harbor and spent the afternoon watching the water and the "Jump Off" jump rope competition.

The Meeting of Cousins!

2010-09-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

this past weekend Uncle Mark, Aunt Kelly and Cousin Charlotte came to visit and meet Emabel for the first time! So fun having them around and seeing Charlotte with Em and imagining the two of them running around together in a few years!

Two of three meet...

2010-09-27T12:27:00.001-07:00

Emabel meet one of her 2 best friends when Sara and Micah brought little Cate for dinner! It is amazing how much and how fast little Cate has changed in the last 2 months (see earlier post of our visit after her birth in June). Now we just have to get little Finn down for a visit or us up to visit and the circle will be complete! And just in case you were confused I am holding Cate (left) and Sara is holding Em (right).

Auntie Em AKA Big E

2010-09-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Little E meet her beautiful Aunt Emily last weekend. Auntie Em came for a visit to meet and love on Little E. What a special weekend for all! Big E is a natural with Little E and they bonded right away. Lil' E felt so comfortable with Big E that she almost peed all over her! And for all who do not know...Lil' E is named after Big E!

Grandpa Carter makes a visit

2010-09-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

On his way home from dropping Dorothy off in TX, Grandpa Carter made a visit and was able to meet little Emabel before returning home to New Hampshire. She fell fast asleep in his arms! (Emabel looks forward to meeting Grammie Carter in early November!)

Nanet and Paul Paul

2010-09-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Nanet and Paul paul or Grandma and Grandpa Dixon were here from the begining of Emabel's life! We were very thankful and lucky to have them here. They helped with Em allowing mom and dad to get some much needed sleep. Not to mention the cooking and cleaning they helped with. So a BIG THANK YOU to them for all they did during their visit!

Is my Emabel cute or what?

2010-09-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

Since we have been home from the hospital we have taken over 400 pictures of our little Em. She is so cute so every time she moves its cute and we have to take her picture. So I thought I would share some of her cuteness with you!!!

Wehadababyitsagirl!

2010-09-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

On September 1st at 11:55pm I awoke from a dream. But not just any dream...a dream that I was peeing myself. I sat up in bed and quickly realized that I had peed myself. So I waddled to the bathroom and noticed that fluid was still coming out. So that is when I put 2 and 2 together and yelled out to Joel, "I think my water just broke!" And he replied, "Ok honey!" and rolled over in bed. So I repeated myself' "JOEL I THINK MY WATER JUST BROKE!" Then he quickly jumped out of bed, turned on the light and said "what time is it? what color is the fluid? How much? Does it smell?" My heart was warmed to think he DID pay attention during our birthing classes!

So after we woke up and calmed from the excitement, we made a call to the doctor who told us to head to the hospital so they could check me to make sure my water did break. So that is what we did.

Once we were at the hospital and had confirmation that Lil' Em was on her way we decided to call Nanet and Paul Paul (Dixon's) to let them know to get on the road so they wouldn't miss our little angels arrival. Little did we know that it would be another 25 hours before she would make her grand appearance!

September 2nd was kinda a blur. We labored, played cards, called friends and family and waited and waited. After two epidural (the first one didn't work), two or so hours of pushing, and lots of prayer Lil' Emily Winabel Carter decided to come into the world on September 3rd at 1:19am!

Here are a few pictures that tell the story a little better than I could write!

quick jump to NYC

2010-07-21T14:13:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we drove to NYC to see good friend's Meg, Gabe, Dakota and Fin (still in momma's Belly). We had to let our little ones meet while still in the belly.

Meg's girlfriends threw her a shower and it was so cute and fun. She has a lot of great women in her life.

Many of her friends have babies and all are so cute!

The beginning of baby time!

2010-07-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

Joel and I got some practice time holding, burping and just loving on sweet little Cate!

They even dressed her up special to meet us!

She looked like she just melted into daddy's sholder.

Cate and daddy!

Sleeping babies are the best!

Sunday night Joel and I drove to NVA to visit with Micah, Sara and new baby Cate (Catherine Francis Corder). She is so beautiful and tiny. Sara and Micah look great and they are a beautiful family!

July 4th!

2010-07-13T16:53:00.001-07:00

Dorothy came and spent the week with us and helped us celebrate the 4th! Good times hanging out in good ol' Kensington. The fireworks were surprisingly awesome and within walking distances of the house. A few couples from church and our neighbor hung out for a bit and watched the fireworks with us. Fun times!

this is our attempt at Zoolander faces! I look like i am blowing kisses or something! Silly me.

After church we hit up the thrift store and found cheesy shirts to wear. what you cant see in the picture is the mickey mouse on joels shirt and the matching eagles on Dorothy and my shirts. Dorothy is also sporting a star spangled head band! Dont be jealous ya'll!

My Baby Shower!!!

2010-07-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet 9 months pregnant friend Sara, threw a beautiful shower for me in June! Friends and family came from the Maryland, Delaware area. It was so fun and I truely felt showered with love and lots of gifts. Thank you Sara for everything. My hubby has assisted with the pregnany by gaining sympathy weight, but I have official (by a lot) out grown him.
My sweet momma came all the way up from NC to help shower me! thank you Nanet.

This is sara and I hugging on our friend meg who couldnt be there! Meg you were truely missed we love you!

Guess who is 9 months prego and who is 6.5 months? hard isnt it?!

This is my bestest friend from the 4th grade, Nancy, and her precious daughter Morgan. They drove from DE to be at the shower and to equip the nursery with everything I could possibly need and want! Thanks ladies.

Me squishing Morgan!

Sara and I with the yummy beautiful cake made by her friend!

The CAKE. Almost too cute to eat.

A front shot of the bellies!

Memorial Day

2010-07-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Horseshoes in the backyard.

Oh yeah...and we celebrated our 5th Anniversary. My hubby bought me roses amidst the business of the weekend!

Charlotte and her daddy having a tea party with Pickles.

David sitting still...this is huge. I think I can count on one hand how many times I have seen David sit still. Thank you David and family for helping us out with the fence.

Charlotte and her momma! she is so big.

My neice Charlotte...taking a peek at the boys playing horseshoes.

The fence crew

Friends and family came from all over to help us over the Memorial Day weekend build a fence and break in our new deck! we decided to have a professional do the deck and then Joel and his "team" built an awesome fence. I have to admit that I didnt think they could build it and build iit so straight. when I returned home after spending a night with my sister-in-law and neice I was pleasantly surprised.

Sara's Baby Shower!

2010-05-23T11:35:00.001-07:00

Tina cutting the cake

Fashion Show with her new Ergo

Opening Gifts

Sara with her mom, who will be Mimi

A little girl decorations!

the cake...super cute...her friend Tina made it!

(Sara, mommy to be)

On Saturday, I went to one of my bestest friends baby shower to help shower her with love before Baby Corder arrives end of June! Sara (the mother to be) is the cutest and doing very well! It was great to see her and her big belly.

Our Visit to the BIG state!

2010-04-30T17:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks Germenis Family for a great night of fun, food, and family! (Can you find Joel in this picture?)

Saturday night, while Aaron and Leigh were at a friends wedding, Joel and I hit the road and ventured to visit and have dinner with his aunt, uncle and cousins. We enjoyed yummy chicken fajitas and margaretas. It was really a great time and we enjoyed reconnecting with family. They even made a fire and a little fireworks show for us. We truely felt special!

(For those of you who know my brother aaron, or have evey seen him in a picture you know he is not very photogenic....though very handsome he just takes a bad picture so it took a few shots and modeling coaching from Joel and we finally got a good shot!)

The first weekend of April Joel and I snuck away to see family in TX. We have been talking about visiting TX sinse before we got married (almost 5 years ago!). We flew out Friday night and spent most of the weekend with my brother, Aaron and his girlfriend, Leigh. Aaron and Leigh live in dowtown Austin, TX. We were able to see some of the town and eat lots of good food. Thank you Leigh and Aaron.

snowmageddon

2010-02-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

More pictures to come. But this video should tide you over until then. It shows where motivation/procrastination can get you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhlzXVXN7kw

back again...

2010-02-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

So I lost our USB cord so I haven't been able to post any pictures. But I just found it so we are back in buisness just in time for The Blizzard of 2010! Snow started Friday at 11am and is still going strong now at 12 noon Saturday. We have about 22" and they are expecting much more! I haven't seen this much snow in my entire life. I don't know if I am excited or scared. we are lucky becasue we still have power and a lot of place around us do not. So we are cooking a pizza and cleaning out the basement until we venture outside to dig ourselves out! (We got an early start yesterday and made a huge snow man around 4pm)

Carter Christmas Poem 2009

2009-12-30T18:09:00.000-08:00

Gone since last year but now back and alive

The Carter Christmas Poem has now made it year five!

But if these once a year updates just can't keep you calm

Check out jkandscout@blogspot.com.

We bought a house in Maryland just north of DC,

At least WE can benefit from the bad economy.

And so many visitors, much more than three

Why didn't this happen back in Greenville, NC?

Is it the monuments, museums, the zoo or just us?

We're happy either way so there is no need to fuss.

Our lives since we moved here have hardly stood still,

And we entertain all the time now since we bought our fist grill.

Are ailments this year have not been so fun,

Like Keli's rough bout with the H1N1,

And Joel thought his stomach hurt just from something he ate

but his appendix got worse from an ER trip so late.

Kelli has fully recovered and Joel's appendix is now out,

and we're back enjoying life so there is no need to pout.

Kelli is happier now than she ever has been

'cause Joel will be an intern never again!

He finally got a real job with the DoD

Making the terrorist more worried than they ever could be.

Kelli's job gives cause for even great emotion

'cause with all her hard work she received a promotion.

And Brady's back with the Pats but each week is a toil,

It's years like this that us fans must stay loyal.

We missed the McCurry Thanksgiving and hated being away

But Kelli's cooking and baking more than save the day,

Hosting our first Thanksgiving with the Carters and boy it was the best

She was a true Martha Stuart minus the house arrest.

And as Christmas approaches we received quite a treat

The snow's coming in fast and approaching two feet!

We pass on the spirit of Chrismas just as much as can be

Like when we volunteered in this live nativity!

As we spend our fifth Christmas we'll be thinking of you

So have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years too!

Maryland, a winter wonderland?

2009-12-19T16:43:00.000-08:00

The snow started Friday night around 10pm and I am sitting here now 8pm Saturday and it is still going strong. I don't think I have ever seen this much snow in my whole life. We woke up and there was about 8 inches and now about 2 feet. Scout loves the snow even when it is taller than he is. We spent all day hanging out with our cool neighbor Charlotte and watching Elf and building an igloo. So overall a productive day!

JK & Scout

Super Bowl XLVI

It's a BOY!

Making the Most of a Little Snow!

Happy Birthday to Me!

New Years

Random Adventures in December

Christmas Time

Thanksgiving 2011

Trot Trot to Boston

November Happenings

Having Fun

Halloween

October

Down on the Farm

Emily Winabel turns ONE!

Maine Family Vacation

VA Bch - Family Vacation

Emily Winabel is baptized

GO SOX!

Family Adventure

Joel's Home!!!

Independence Day!

Swinging

Continued blessings...

Playtime in the Neighborhood

PlayDate

Clearly...

Charlotte's Recital

Summer Time!

Double Ponytails...

Memorial Day

More changes...

Green Thumb?

Ponytails and yummy food

Kelly and Char

Playtime with Cate

Texas

Teething!!!

Easter

Update...

The OBX

Marshal's Visit and Cherry Blossoms

Helping Mom!

St. Patty's Day

Talky Talky

Sleep...what's that?

Helping Hands

Bedtime Stories

"Going to Brooklyn going so fast"

Travels continued to NH

First meal video

More Videos

Emmy laughing in Aunt Emily's Arms

Our trip to RI

Emi first solid food

More around the house

Everyday Life...

smiles and giggles!

Jumping Bean

Rolling Over

Emi giggles

Around the House

Christmas in Kissimmee, FL

Christmas Pics!

First Flight...Austin, TX

First Snow

Visit with Great Grandma McCurry

Rolling Over

Cousin Time Interupted

Thanksgiving 2010

First big road trip to NC

BFFs and mommies too!

Grammie Carter makes a visit to MD

Temper, temper...

Nap time with mommy!

My pink overalls

Trick or Treat!

Cloth diapers part 2

The Cloth Diaper Adventure begins!