The Jones Family

A Few More of Eli's First Days...

2009-06-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

Ella could not wait to sit next to her new brother when he got home!

In his cradle in the hospital.

Sitting on Daddy's lap.

Ella meets Eli

2009-06-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

Ella LOVES her new little brother. She always wants to hold him, and "pet" him, and kiss him! It is too cute. Here are a few pictures from her visits while we were in the hospital.

Eli gave her this cow backpack as a gift (peace offering) -- she LOVES it and even wanted to wear it to bed that night!

Ella outside our room -- about to meet Eli for the first time!

Delivery Room

2009-06-17T06:26:00.000-07:00

Elijah Stewart Jones (Eli) was born on Friday, June 12, 2009 at 2:39 PM. He weighed 6 lbs 2 oz, and he was 19.5 inches long. The delivery was MUCH different than Ella's...I had an epidural this time! we are so thankful that he arrived safely!

Mom & Eli

Dad & Eli

Brand new!

Heading in for Induction...

2009-06-17T06:15:00.001-07:00

We headed into the hospital last Thursday night (June 11) for a 7:30 induction. We slept there that night, then they started the pitocin early Friday morning. Here are a few pictures that were taken as we headed off for the hospital.

Matt and I comparing bellies...he didn't stand a chance of winning this one!

BIG BELLY!

Last picture as a family of 3!

Birthday Party -Part 2

2009-04-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

These were taken the morning after the party...loving her new toys!

She told me she was "washing her bike"...

Ella's 2nd B-day Party!!

2009-04-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

We has Ella's 2nd birthday party this past Saturday. It was a great time -- and we were completely blessed by all of the people that helped us throw the party (since I am still on strict bedrest). Here are a few pictures -- but I could not fit them all in one post -- so, more to come...Ella received a tea party set from GG Mabel and Great Papa.

This was a tea party with Daddy the morning after the party.

Enjoying some cake and ice cream.

All of the cousins checking out Ella's big gift --

a new play kitchen for her new "big girl" room.

A basket of pretend food!

A dancing bunny from Great Aunt Pam was quite a hit as well.

Ella with cousin Gracie.

The cousins eating cake at the "kids table".

Ella's new bike...her gift from Uncle Nate.

Lorene made all of the food -- it was AMAZING!

These are dirt cups (to go with the springtime/garden theme)

-- chocolate pudding, crushed oreo, a lollipop flower, and a gummie worm.

Ella's sunflower cake -- also made by Lorene.

Show & Tell

2009-02-22T16:03:00.001-08:00

So...Ella's big cousin Edy called last week. She asked if she could take Ella to school....for Show & Tell, that is. Big cousin Clayton also wanted Ella to be his Show & Tell for the week. We were honored that they are so proud of Ella and wanted to "show" Ella to their classes.

Here are a few pictures.

Wearing Edy's backpack.

Sitting on Clayton's lap for Show & Tell.

In Edy's class with Edy (far L) and her friend.

In the lunch room with Clayton and some of his buddies.

The backpack was almost dragging on the ground!

The Robe & The Mullet

2009-02-19T08:52:00.000-08:00

A few pictures of Ella and her robe....and her mullet. These were taking just hours before I chopped her mullet off. Just a note: I have cut the back of her hair 4 times, and I have never cut the front. It simply will not grow. We are hoping by the time she is 3 we will stop getting the "He is so cute" comments from strangers.

Ella with Papa Charlie.

Last picture of the mullet before chopping.

New Years Eve

2009-02-19T08:49:00.000-08:00

This is the ONLY picture I have from New Years Eve at the Warners. This was my attempt at taking a picture of myself with Campbell. Despite the look on Campbell's face, we did not get wild and crazy that night...it really was a low-key evening. The kids all went down in pack n plays in separate rooms, but we still headed home before midnight.

First Big Snow

2009-02-19T08:44:00.000-08:00

Not sure when these were taken...late December, early January I think. This was Ella's first big snow. She thoroughly enjoyed the experience: running in the snow, falling in the snow, eating the snow....and so on. Just don't eat the yellow snow, El.

Christmas at Nana & Papa's House

2009-02-19T06:05:00.000-08:00

Well, this was the "big hit" at Nana's house this year. Ella is particularly fond of horses for some reason. Nana found this rocking horse for her, and it was like a dream come true! Her very own horsie to ride. After taking these pictures our camera battery ran out, and then after we charged it we forgot to take more. Seems kind of appropriate anyway because after she saw the horse, it was hard to get her to open anything else!

New Cousin & Christmas @ GG's House

2009-02-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

This year there was a new Jones cousin to join the family! Here are a few pictures, including one of Cooper, from our Christmas celebration at GG's house.

New cousin, Cooper Timothy.

Cousins Edy (5yrs.) and Gracie (2 yrs.).

Grandma helping Ella and Gracie take turns on the "rocking ottoman".

Ella and Uncle Swartz enjoying Gracie's Yo Gabba Gabba toy.

Christmas Dress

2009-02-19T05:40:00.000-08:00

As usual I am behind in posting. Here are a few pictures from my attempt to get a good photo for a Christmas card. I never ended up with a good one, but thought I would share the effort.

In the BIG chair.

Yes, I used a cane cane to try to get her to sit still for a picture!

The dress was borrowed from her friend, Ava Henry. Thanks, Ava!

New Shirt

2008-12-14T07:53:00.000-08:00

Well....here are a few pictures of Ella in her new shirt. It really should have a "to be" at the bottom, but I didn't think of that when I made it. If you cannot read it (since in most pictures these days she just looks like a streak running in front of the camera), her shirt says "BIG SIS". This title should become official some time next June.

Uncle Nate

2008-12-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

Uncle Nate came for a visit this weekend. Ella just adores him. Here are a few pictures of them watching some "baketball", as Ella calls it.

IU Football Game

2008-12-14T07:47:00.000-08:00

This was awhile ago...but we forogt to post. We traveled to Bloomington for an IU football game again this fall. They were pretty horrible, but the tailgating was fun! There are pictures below of each couple, except for Jeff & Kelly....not sure, but we don't have one of them!

Joneses

Wrights

Soon-to-be Millers!

Ah yes...the Turkey Hat!

2008-12-14T07:45:00.000-08:00

We can't forget to share the "turkey hat" that Ella made at "Grandma" Deb's

just before the big day.

Ella & Mae

2008-12-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

Steph's cousin Tommy and his wife Marsha have a daughter, Mae, who is just about a year older than Ella. Boy, Ella thought Mae was cool! They also have an adorable little boy, Henry, who is almost 6 mos.

Mae was so sweet to share her toys with Ella. Ella especially loved this baby stroller....which became the subject of a few lessons on "sharing" while we were there!

Mae's turn!

Playing school.

So cute.

Thanksgiving in Knoxville - The Park

2008-12-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

We went to a park while in Tennessee. Ella LOVED it! She was screaming and running around. You would have thought she had never seen a slide before!

Up the slide....for the thousandth time.

Ella and Mommy.

Ella and Daddy.

That was fun!

She was equally excited about the swing!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-07T07:47:00.000-08:00

We made several stops on the evening of Halloween. Ella was a frog this year.

Visiting Jaxson Gerig.

Ella and GG.

Ella with her cousins: Edy - princess, Clayton - spiderman, Ella - frog (we missed Gracie!!!)

Lost Valley Ranch

2008-11-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

We had an opportunity recently to travel to Colorado, about 2 hours west of Denver, to attend a marriage retreat at Lost Valley Ranch. These pictures do not do it justice. It was GORGEOUS there and the weather was fabulous the entire weekend.

We are usually really bad about taking pictures on trips....so above, here we are frantically snapping shots right before leaving....nice. This place was amazing and we hardly took any pictures. Way to go Joneses.

The Corral

Saturday night there was a costume party themed "Under the Sea"....we went as a pair of penguins. Here we are with our friend/cousin Reid who happens to be on staff at the ranch through the spring.

The dining hall

L->R: Jeff & Kelly Ostermann as the octopus pair, Joneses as the penguin pair, Jeremy & Molly McClish as a shark attack victim and a tiger shark.

P.S. Ella stayed in Indy with Steph's parents and was thoroughly spoiled for 4 days.

Future Musicians?

2008-11-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

Perhaps. These were taken in Indy at Nana & Papa's house around the middle of October.

Ella & Anna

Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2008-11-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

Here are a few from our trip to the pumpkin patch. She was not that into it. We thought she would love it this year, but not so much. After about 5 minutes, she just kept saying, "all done."

Visit from Uncle Steve-O

2008-11-07T07:08:00.000-08:00

Uncle Steve-O was up several weeks (months?) ago from Indy for a business trip. He came over both nights he was in town. The first night, Ella took one look at him and burst into tears. The second night, however, was much better. She LOVED Uncle Steve-O....and she especially loved his iPhone.

Ella and Uncle Steve-O looking at "shish" (fish) on his iPhone.

"Shish, Shish!"

Ella Loves Jed

2008-11-07T07:03:00.000-08:00

These were taken in September (I think)...I know, I am seriously behind on posting photos -- sorry!

Ella & Jed

"I love you, Jed"

"Here Jed, I'll share my bike with you"

Jones Look-alike Meter

2008-09-27T20:06:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family tree outline - Family search

Traverse City - Part 4

2008-08-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

After dinner Saturday night, we hurried back to the beach to take some pictures with the brilliant sunset.

The Girls (L->R): Amy, Cait, Steph, & Sandy.

Our little family.

The Swartz Family.

Grandma and Grandpa with their grandkids.

Traverse City - Part 3

2008-08-06T07:43:00.000-07:00

Dinner at Sledders in Traverse City, MI.

Ella at dinner with Aunt Mimi, Clayton, and Uncle Swartz.

Tim, Cait, & Gracyn.

Grandma and Grandpa.

Clayton & Edy.

Traverse City - Part 2

2008-08-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

More pictures from Traverse City...

Ella and Daddy checking out the lake.

"I love it here!"

Ella and Mommy.

Ella and Grandma.

The Lake Michigan baby pool.

Traverse City - Part 1

2008-08-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

This past weekend (Aug. 1-3) we traveled to Traverse City, MI with Matt's family. We had such a ball. Ella LOVED the beach and the lake, especailly the part about eating snacks on the beach. :) We had fabulous weather, and memories we now have are priceless. We stayed at the Shoreside Inn -- a GREAT place for kids. If you ever want info about it, just let us know!

Ella and her first dip in Lake Michigan.

The Girl Cousins -- clockwise from top -- Edy (almost 5 yrs.), Ella (16 mos.),

Gracyn (almost 2 yrs.).

Gracyn cooling off with a drink of water.

The shark Matt created on the beach.

Uncle Tim!

Another Trip to the Zoo

2008-08-06T07:24:00.000-07:00

Again...we are behind in the postings, so this was a trip we took to the zoo back in June.

Ella and Daddy by the monkeys.

She loves the monkeys!

Gotta Wear Shades

2008-08-06T07:21:00.000-07:00

For the longest time we could not get Ella to wear any of her sunglasses. All of a sudden she can't go without.

Soooo cool.

A diaper and shades, what more does a girl need?

Even needs them inside the house!

A visit from Ava

2008-08-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

Ava and her parents stopped by one night to hang out, and the girls played in the backyard in their pjs until way past their bed time! This was back in June....I'm a little behind in the postings.

Ava is about 8 mos. older than Ella.

Such a sweetie!

Swimming with Makenna

2008-08-05T18:37:00.000-07:00

It is amazing what an inflatable pool can do for your confidence. Makenna loved swimming last summer, but this summer she has been terrified of the water. That is, until she came to Aunt "Tuff's" to swim in Ella's inflatable pool. First Courtney and I got in, then Ella, then Makennna's curiosity got the best of her, and in she came! She and Ella splashed and played for quite awhile, not evening being bother by water on their little faces.

Miss Makenna in her cute little suit.

Ella and Kenna -- best of friends!

Introducing....The Blacks!

2008-08-05T16:02:00.000-07:00

On June 7th our good friends Steve and Meridith were married in Indianapolis. Here are a few pictures from the big day.

The happy couple.

The Joneses posing with the Blacks at their reception, which was held at a dairy farm! There were actually chickens walking around the reception - it was a blast!

Most of the groomsmen got together for this picture. Due to the humidity, some decided to go with the MC Hammer look.

Steph with Jen Wright.

Debut of the Mushroom Pool

2008-05-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

It finally got into the upper 70's this weekend, so we decided to initiate the mushroom pool. Ella was so excited when she saw it, she marched in place and squealed with glee until we helped her get into it.

She was very "busy" with her pool. It is serious business filling up your pitcher in your mushroom pool and transferring water to various locations. Very serious.

Filling Jed's water bowl.

Watering the yard.

First Trip to the Zoo!

2008-05-26T06:20:00.000-07:00

Ella has her first trip to the zoo this Saturday (May 24). We think she enjoyed it, but she has just gotten her 1 year shots that morning, so she wasn't quite herself.

Here we are in front of the monkeys.

With Daddy at the "farm". We only got 2 pictures because we forgot to charge the camera batteries before the trip.

Another Visitor

2008-05-26T06:17:00.000-07:00

We had another friend visit Ella a few weeks ago. Miss Makenna Smeltzer spent some time at our house while her mommy has a doctor's appt. She is such a sweet girl, and she and Ella play so well together. Plus she calls me "tuff" (Steph), which I think is adorable.

Makenna showing me the peanut butter on her face.

Makenna checking out one of Ella's books.

Abby and Anna!

2008-05-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

Abby and Anna came up to visit a few weeks ago. What a ball! Here are a few pictures from their visit --- bath time was definitely a highlight

Anna trying out Ella's bow. Neither one of the girls have much hair!!

Bath time!

How sweet!

Another day in the backyard...

2008-05-26T05:58:00.000-07:00

A few more pictures from a day in the backyard.

Spring is Here!

2008-05-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

Spring is here! Well....ok, so Summer is almost here since it has been so long since we posted pictures! It has been a pretty cool Spring, but things are finally starting to warm up. Below are some of Ella's first experiences outside in the backyard -- since being able to walk. Let's just say she loves the feeling of her bare toes in the grass! We think she might be a bit of a "free spirit"...because she likes other areas to be bare as well.

This is how she started out. "Hmmmm...this is nice..."

This is what followed!

Close up on that grin! Yes....at 13 mos. we still only have 2.5 teeth.

Trying to squirm out of Daddy's arms to get her toes back in that grass!

1st Birthday Party!

2008-03-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

We had Ella's first birthday party yesterday (Saturday, March 29), even though her official birthday is not until next weekend (April 6). She had an absolute BALL! She was so blessed with many people stopping by and bringing all sorts of wonderful things for her. Matt and I were humbled by people loving Ella so much. It was a fantasitc day for her -- she didn't get fussy once, and enjoyed every minute of the action!

Her new chair from her Uncle Nate, who is COMPLETELY spoiling her, and she loves it. If you can believe it, as soon as she saw this she grabbed the remote for the TV

and hopped right up into the chair!

Mama and Nana helping her open her gifts. This year she liked the cards and tissue paper best, but we have a feeling that will change in later years.

Special lady bug cakes that Mama, Nana, & Aunt Nellie stayed up late to make on Friday night! After 2 ENTIRE bottles of food coloring, the "red" icing was still just coral colored at best. Ok, that was being nice -- it was really probably closer to construction cone orange.

Her first taste of cake! We gave her a whole lady bug cake to enjoy....and she did just that. Forget grabbing pieces with her hands, she just dove right in with her mouth! What a champ!

After the cake frenzy, she was whisked up to the bath tub for a "scrub down". The onesie went straight into the trash - there was no hope for it after the orange icing explosion.

Bongos with Uncle Joe

2008-03-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

We stopped by to visit our friends Jen & Joe on Easter evening. Uncle Joe had his bongo drum out. Ella was SO intrigued by the giant contraption that made peculiar noises.

Trying to copy Uncle Joe.

"What IS that thing?"

"I don't know what it is, but I love it!"

Easter 08

2008-03-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

Last year we brought Ella home from the hospital on Easter! Easter was a little later last year, so it is not quite her first birthday yet. Here are some pictures of what was her first Easter dress, even though this was her second Easter.

She found her Easter basket at Grandma & Grandpa Jones's house. Puffs! How did the Easter Bunny know?

Still working on the walking. Nothing like a plastic dangling egg to motivate a novice walker.

The 3 girl cousins on the Jones side: L-> R: Ella (almost 1 year),

Edy (4 1/2 years), Gracyn (18 mos.).

Shades.

Sunday Evening, Part II

2008-03-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Continuing with the BTR...

Pants off...

Dada and his girl.

Weeeeeeeee! Her favorite part!

Time for her bath, then night night.

Sunday Evening, Part I

2008-03-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

This was a very busy Sunday a few weeks ago. After the walk, were were out and about, then came home and started Ella's BTR (our abbreviation for Bed Time Routine).

She doesn't look tied yet...

Let's practice walking a little more...

"I'll pick a book for after my bath. Good Night Moon, it is!"

Ralphie's Brother

2008-03-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

What was Ralphie's kid brother's name in "A Christmas Story"? Well that is who Ella looked like a few Sundays ago when we bundled her up for a brisk afternoon walk.

"Help, whose idea was this?!"

Mama and Ralphie's brother.

Baby Latte

2008-03-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Much to Daddy's excitement, a Starbuck's was built within walking distance of our house. Sometimes Daddy and Ella walk over for a cup'o joe.

Bundled up!

"I drank mine already."

Practicing a New Skill

2008-03-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

Ella has been practicing her walking, and is getting quite brave. These were taken a few weeks ago.

Looking out the back window...where did Jed go?

Back and forth between the window and the couch...practice makes perfect. Green donut for confidence!

Uh-oh....dropped her green donut.

Recent Pictures and News...

2008-03-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

A quick recap...Ella has been growing and changing every day! She is still a peanut....weighing in at about 17 lbs. Her vocabulary is growing. Her new favorite word is "ball". She has a little soccer ball in her room, and she stood up the other day and tried to kick it! Mommy was so proud. She also says: Mama, Dad, Jed, Nana, Papa, Baba (bottle), Bye Bye, Hi, Button, Moo (when she sees a cow), Woof (when she sees a dog), Uh-Oh (when she drops something)....there may be more, but we can't think of them right now. We had a scare this week...she had a high fever for about 4 days. The doctors thought it was a virus, but we ended up taking her to the ER Friday night. They had to put a catheter in to get a urine sample, and sure enough she has a urinary tract infection. We believe that too much bubble bath is the culprit. From what we have researched, that seems to be one of the most common causes, and it is definitely the one that makes the most sense for her because she takes a bath every night, and we all loves bubbles, so I think we have been adding way too much to the tub! Needless to say, bubble bath is now reserved for special occasions. Ella has been crawling since Thanksgiving day, and cruising since mid-January (walking while holding on to things like the couch). Yesterday (3/9/08) she took her first steps! She has taken a few here and there, but this was about 5 or 6 in a row, and she did it numerous times! Papa even caught it in camera - what luck! She still prefers to crawl because she can get there much faster, but we know she is not far from this new independence. She turns one in about a month...we'll try to keep posting until then, and we'll definitely post birthday pictures after her party!

In her high chair, waving her hands to say "all done".

Standing in her room...gotta love a cute little diaper butt!

Playing in her room...she loves to push the swing, but doesn't like to sit in it anymore!

Her hair is growing, but it is a verrrrrry slow process!

Ella & Anna

2008-03-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

We were in Indy visiting Steph's parents a few weekends in February. One of the days we were there, Abby stopped by with Anna and the girls had a ball playing!

"Hey Anna, let me show you my piano!"

"Hmmmm...blocks are fun..."

Night with the Warners

2008-03-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

These are a little out of order...but the Warners came for dinner one Saturday in January.

Ella & Campbell in the bath tub.
Ella & Campbell playing in Ella's room after bath time.

Ella & Campbell saying "hi"when the Warners first arrived.

A Visit with the Smeltzers

2008-03-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

One Sunday in January we got together with the Smeltzer family for lunch at their house. Here are a few pictures.

Ella & Makenna.
Ella wearing Makenna's bunny ears.

Makenna in her rocking chair.

New Years Eve

2008-03-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

So....we are more than a little behind in the postings. Here are a few pictures from New Years Eve at the Warners. A lot has happened since the last post, so we'll do our best to catch everyone up.

Jaxson Gerig playing at the Warners on New Years Eve.

Ella and Campbell....another one of their matching outfits. ALL of the babies ended up going to sleep in the pack n plays...Ella was the last, of course. Once she realized the only people left were old and boring, she decided to call it a night.

Christmas with Grandma & Grandpa Jones!

2007-12-30T19:24:00.000-08:00

Ella had her final Christmas celebration today at Grandma & Grandpa Jones' house. Let's just say she was up for 12 hours straight with NO NAP! She always has a such a ball with her cousins, there is no chance of us getting her to sleep. Sandy made a wonderful, non-traditional Christmas meal -- Mexican! It was delicious. Then we opened gifts, played Bingo (Dave & Sandy have a prize table set up and we get to choose our Bingo rewards!), and watched a movie. If we could have, I think we ALL THREE would have fallen asleep on the way home. Matt and I managed to hold it together and stay awake, but Bug didn't stand a chance. She was out before we left their driveway!

What fun! Will this Christmas thing just go on forever? Seems like every other day I get more toys -- right on!

Ella brushing her TWO teeth while Daddy shows her the new book from G & G.

The cousins on the Jones side (Clayton holding Ella, Gracie in the chair on the L,

Edy in the chair on the R).

GG holding Ella. Ella is wearing a corduroy jumper that was Mommy's when she was a baby!

Ella apparently can't wait to get a jump on her oral hygiene...she just kept brushing, and brushing, and brushing...

Christmas Trip to Marietta...Part 3!

2007-12-27T05:49:00.000-08:00

We can't get enough of this hat that Nate got her! AND, she loves it, too....she never even tries to pull it off!

Playing with Uncle Nate.

Oh yes, and she stands now! Mostly she still holds on to something.....but she has let go a few times for a "stand alone" moment!

Step with Aunt Pam & Bogey.

Our attempt at getting a 4 generation picture....Ella was a little less than thrilled as you can see...that is because this was at about 10PM on Christmas night!

Christmas Trip to Marietta...Part 2!

2007-12-27T05:39:00.000-08:00

Our family was MORE than generous to Ella for her first Christmas! However, she really was more interested in the packaging ....anything that crinkles! Here are a few pictures of her opening her gifts.

She was literally SURROUNDED by presents on the floor!

What do I do with these pretty boxes??

Hmmm.... maybe I eat them???

Mama had to help...

The hat is from Uncle Nate! How cute!

And the bunny is from Great Aunt Pam & Great Uncle John.

Christmas Trip to Marietta...Part 1!

2007-12-26T18:20:00.001-08:00

Sunday morning, 12/23/07, we headed out for Marietta, Ohio to spend Christmas with Steph's Mom's side of the family....here are the pictures from Ella's First Christmas!!

Ella with Great Grandpapa.

Ella with Great Uncle John.

Ella with Great Aunt Pam....all dressed up for the Christmas Eve service!

Ella with Great Grammie Morgenstern.

She is clearly speechless about all of the presents that were given to her!

Christmas at GG's!

2007-12-26T18:09:00.001-08:00

The celebration at GG's (Great Grandma's) started of the Christmas weekend. We all gathered at GG's on Saturday night. We were there until about 10PM -- Ella was such a trooper! We had a ball opening gifts...especially the white elephant exchange between the adults.

Ella and Mama.

Uncle Matt with niece Gracie.

Aunt Amy and cousin Edy.

Ella on Grandma's Lap....Grandpa in the background.

Ella and Uncle Swartz -- having a tug of war with his sweatshirt.

Christmas at Home

2007-12-26T18:01:00.001-08:00

It would be good if I could figure out how to rotate pictures....but I don't, so you'll just have to turn your head...sorry! Here are a few pictures of Ella with the presents under our tree.

Ooooo! This one is for me!

Hmmmm....What could it be...?

Maybe I'll pick it up and shake it!

On second thought....

CLOSE UP!

Christmas Pictures

2007-12-20T03:54:00.000-08:00

Well.....we took a few "Christmas Pictures" last weekend for our Christmas cards. It was quite the production....I'm surprised we got any decent pictures! We put Ella in a dress that came from Michelle & Gabi Sinn. It was adorable -- but Ella wasn't sure what to think of it.

Ella's 1st Christmas pictures...The Joneses 2007.

"This is the poofiest dress I have ever worn...I love it!"

She kept pulling the flower off of her dress....hey, it looked good to eat!

Her reaction to the black tulle that was under the dress...."What is this itchy stuff?"

Trying to keep her from pulling the flower off of the dress by distracting her with an ornament! (don't worry -- it was a "baby safe" ornament)

A Fort Wayne Tradition

2007-12-14T06:55:00.001-08:00

If you are not from Fort Wayne, you will not know about this tradition....so allow me to explain. Downtown, on the side of a building, there is a GIANT light-up Santa! Each year, while the Santa is lit, pretty much the whole city makes its way downtown at some point to gaze upon the jolly old guy, and enjoy a meal at a Fort Wayne landmark....Coney Island. This Thursday, Dec. 13, our small group took our turn getting in on the tradition. This was Ella's first taste of this Fort Wayne tradition!

Here she is in front of Santa with Daddy! She really is awake -- I think we just caught her blinking.

Ella and Mama.

Small Group girls: L->R: Annie, Jen, Kelly, Steph.

Small Group Guys: L->R: Jason, Matt (& El), Jeff, Joe.

We think Ella enjoyed her first trip to Coney Island. She really loved her Coney Dog -- JUST KIDDING! She fell asleep on the way home...all bundled up...here she is just moments before...

First Thanksgiving....and some other FIRSTS!

2007-12-14T06:44:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving weekend was a milestone weekend for Ella. She got to visit with friends she had never met, she played ALL DAY on Thanksgiving with her cousins...no nap, she had another visit from Nana, Papa, Aunt Mimi (Aunt Joyce), and Uncle Greg. And most exciting of all --- SHE FINALLY FIGURED OUT HOW TO CRAWL!!!

The night before Thanksgiving, we headed up to the McClish Homestead on Big Long Lake. It was Ella's FIRST time to meet the McClish family. Here she is with Jeremy & Molly McClish -- our friends that live out in Denver. We also got to visit with Jeremy's parents, Kathy & Bill, Jeremy's sister Deb, and his other sister Sami and her husband Ted....and of course, their puppies -- Ella LOVED the puppies.

Here is Ella on Thanksgiving Day with "Big" cousin, Edy.

I'm doing it....I'M CRAWLING! Look out Mom and Dad...

Ella's big cousins helping her pratice her new skill.

Aunt Amy and Cousin Gracie.

The Peapod and a New Friend

2007-11-09T05:54:00.001-08:00

This was Ella's Halloween costume....borrowed from her friend Makenna Smeltzer. We forgot to post pictures of it on Halloween.

She was so funny with the hood. It was in her eyes, but she didn't fuss once -- she just calmly held it out of the way so she could see.

On Nana's front porch.

Full costume view.

Meet Ella's new friend, Oliver. He lives next door to Nana & Papa with his parents Haley and Brian, and his big siblings Lily & Ben. He is about 5 or 6 weeks older than Ella. Ella has been rocking on all fours for a little over a week now...we thought maybe Ollie would show her how to crawl, but that didn't happen. Maybe that is a good thing -- I am not sure we realize how crazy life will get once she is mobile!

A Reunion with The Ferretties!

2007-11-09T05:45:00.001-08:00

We got to see Abby, Eric, & their beautiful Anna while we were in Indy! We had not seen ANna since she was about 4 weeks old (time flies!) -- she has changed so much!!

Eric is hold Anna (BIG smile!!), and Abby has Ella.

Too cute!

This was the best shot we could get - not bad, as far as getting a 5 month old (Anna) and a 7 month old (Ella), to sit still for a picture!

Bath at Nana's

2007-11-09T05:40:00.000-08:00

We visited Nana & Papa last weekend (Nov 3), and Ella had to get a bath in their kitchen sink because we could not fit her baby bathtub in the car! Don't worry, we scrubbed the sink down before AND after her bath!

Just Hanging Out at Home

2007-11-09T05:03:00.000-08:00

Here are a few from end of October/beginning of November. Ella turned 7 months old on Nov. 6 (Uncle Swartz's b-day).

Playing on her quilt.

I think she might be posing here!

This is RARE. Ella is not a cuddler, so Matt and I love it when we can get her to snuggle!

Just a random picture I thought was funny...she loves remotes and phones...oh yes, and her new hat, too!

Beautiful Sunset

2007-10-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

This was the view out our front door last night...

IU Homecoming

2007-10-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

Last week we made a trip down to Bloomington for the IU v Penn State football game. Although the Hoosiers lost, it was a good game and we had a blast. Matt's parents kept Ella for the day and we traveled with Joe & Jen Wright, and Jeff & Kelly Ostermann.

Tailgating before the game.

Here we are at the game....the north end of the stadium is under construction.

Steph & Kel after the game.

Sleeping on Daddy's Lap

2007-10-25T14:53:00.000-07:00

These were taken last week. Even though Ella is 6 months old, she looks sooooo little in these pictures for some reason! I think it's the big poofy sleeper!

The Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

Ella made her first trip to the Pumkpin Patch a week or so ago. It was so much fun! She loves being outside, and it has been so warm this fall that we have been able to spend time outdoors.

Hiding in the pumpkin patch...she blends right in!

Standing with Mommy's help.

Standing all by herself (with the help of a pumpkin, of course)!

On Daddy's shoulders.

She was honestly more intrigued by the little blades of grass than she was by all the pumpkins....we guess she's gonna be a "details" person!

Nanners...

2007-10-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

So....the doctor said we could start giving Ella regular food. Obviously, we have to start with soft, squishy foods (bananas, potatoes, etc.) - but, he said we CAN start feeding her some of what we are eating. How can we be at this oint already!? Anyway...here is her first taste of a real banana. We mashed it up and put it on her Bumbo tray. She really didn't know what to think. She mostly just slapped, splattered, and smeared it everywhere. Thus, our first attempt with Nanners ended in a trip to the bath tub!

Bath Time!

2007-10-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here are a few fun bath time photos!

Ella turns 6 months old....and celebrates with a trip to Knoxville!

2007-10-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

Mommy had fall break from school....so Ella, Mommy, and Nana headed south to Knoxville, TN to spend a few days with Nana's sister, Joyce, and her family. It was a GREAT trip -- we had a ball! And....Ella turned 6 months while we were there!

Ella with Aunt Joyce and Uncle Greg. Uncle Greg initially made Ella cry with his height and deep voice....but she quickly found out he was harmless.

Here is Ella with Mommy, and Aunt Ashleigh (well, we call her "aunt" anyway....she is really a second cousin...or something like that!).

Ella made a new friend while in Knoxville. She met Mae. Mae is Tommy (Steph's cousin) and Marsha's little girl who is almost 18 mos. old. Mae and Ella were very curious about one another....we are sure they will have lots of fun together on future visits! (can't figure out how to turn the picture!!)

Ella LOVED Mae's toy cell phone....and Mae was very polite to share it with her! They were too cute together!

Here are Nana (Cheryl) and Mimi (Joyce) getting a kick out of their grand daughters.

Happy Baby!

2007-10-25T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ella is almost 6 months old in this picture. She is such a happy girl! She has brought us so much joy these past 6 months!

Gracie turns ONE!

2007-10-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

Cousin Gracie turned 1 on September 21. Here are a few pictures from her party.

Mmmmm...cake is good....

I said I'm 1, didn't you hear me?

Grandma and her 2 other girls!

Happy Birthday to ME!

No comment. :)

Big Girl!

2007-10-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

A lot has changed since our last period of frequent blogging. Ella has become very efficient at rolling over...even doing so in her crib. We put her down on her back, and when we check on her, she is on her tummy! She has also grown leaps and bounds with sitting up on her own! She starting doing this awhile back, but has become a lot less wobbly in this last month. We still surround her with pillows though, just in case she takes a spill. Ella is still enjoying her cereal, although now it gets mixed with prune juice instead of water...for obvious reasons. She talks more and more each day -- and she LOVES Jed. She gets a big smile when ever she sees him!

US v. Brazil

2007-10-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

One weekend in September Matt went to see the US soccer team play Brazil in Chicago. US lost, but it was a good time anyway! Here are a few pictures!

Ella Loves Gracie

2007-10-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Cait had a hair appt. and Steph kept Gracyn for her. The girls had a ball!

Gracie's close-up!

Aww...Ella wants a hug!

Ella is cracking up here....she thinks Gracie is sooooooo funny!

Labor Day in Cleveland!

2007-10-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

Ok....so I am a little behind! It is now October 3rd, and I didn't post at all during September. I guess it was a busy month! Now the recap: We spend Labor Day weekend in Cleveland visting family and friends. First stop was Andy & Meri Sikora's house.

Here Matt and Ella are posing with Andy....well, we're not really sure what Ella is doing!

Steph & Meri at dinner in downtown Cleveland.

Ella got a little restless towards the end of the meal, but it was nice that we were sitting outside because we could walk her around if needed!

From Andy & Meri's we went on to Steph's Grandma's house....her parents were already there. Four Generations: Charlie (Steph's Dad), Ellen (Steph's G-ma), Steph, & Ella.

Here we are on Grandma's deck. Her neighbor let us pick corn, tomatoes, and peppers from his garden. That night Uncle Criag got chicken and potato wedges from a local restaurant, and we enjoyed the fresh picked corn with our dinner!

Just for Fun

2007-08-29T06:39:00.001-07:00

We were playing around with the camera last Sunday....here are a few shots from what turned out to be a photo shoot!

Bring on the Cereal!

2007-08-29T06:27:00.001-07:00

Well....we took the plunge and started Ella on solids recently! We have this neat little tray that fits right onto her Bumbo seat and she sits in that since she is still too small for her high chair. She seems to like the cereal, although she doesn't quite know what to make of the foreign object we keep shoving in her mouth to give her the cereal!

Mmmmmm.....cereal is good....

Nana and Papa were more than excited to help feed Ella.

Here is Mommy taking her turn.

After the big meal, Ella played on her blanket with Uncle Nate.

Who is this guy and what is he doing on my blanket??!!

Jones Cousins

2007-08-29T06:17:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we got together at Dave & Sandy's to celebrate Amy's birthday. Because we hadn't all been together in awhile, quite a few pictures were taken! Here they are....the Jones Cousins! Edy (almost 4) is holding Gracie (almost 1), and Clayton (5) is holding Ella (almost 5 mos).

Jones Cousins.

Grandpa with Ella and Gracie.

Edy with Aunt Stephie.

Gracie has just started walking! She took several steps that night, and we all had a ball watching her strut her stuff. Here she is with Mommy and Daddy.

Almost there....only a few more steps!

Ella's Friend Campbell

2007-08-29T06:09:00.001-07:00

Mark & Tonya Hammond had a cookout a few weekends ago, and Ella met up with her friend Campbell Warner. They had fun playing on a blanket - grabbing ears, noses, and what not.

Ella & Campbell.

Ella & Mr. Warn (Campbell's Daddy).

A hat in August might seem strange, but it was really chilly this particular evening. We were all sitting in the Hammond's back yard under blankets! Not a typical August night.

Family Visit

2007-08-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

We had several visitors this week. Steph's grandparents, and her Aunt Pam & Uncle John came from Marietta, OH and stayed a few days. It was a great visit, and on Wednesday afternoon the foursome headed south to Indianapolis to visit Steph's parents and brother.

Steph and Ella with Great Grandma Mabel and Great Papa Dean.

Steph and Ella with Uncle John, Aunt Pam, and Bogey.

Ella with Great Papa Dean -- she LOVES this shirt -- she kept trying to grab the blue flowers!

Ella hardly got any attention while they were here...poor thing.

One afternoon during their visit, Grandma & Papa went with Steph & Ella out to visit Matt's Grandma, Willodean. Here is a picture of Ella with 3 of her Great Grandparents!

Ella is 4 months old!

2007-08-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

Ella is 4 months old...how did that happen?! She is rolling from her front to her back, but when she tries to go back to front she stops on her side. We're sure before long she'll be rolling all over the place. We had her 4 month doctor appt today...she weighs 13 lbs. and is is 25 inches long! She grew over 3 inches since her 2 month appt., and is outgrowing sleepers at an alarming rate. She is one long string bean!

Ready to roll!

Wants to talk....but just can't find the words!

Fell asleep in the car which is actually RARE for her!

Cheese!

More cheese!

Fun at Grandma & Grandpa's House

2007-08-06T18:12:00.000-07:00

Ella took her first dip in Grandma & Grandpa's pool this weekend. We only dipped her legs in, but she seemed to like it! After the swim, Daddy worked on freezing some sweet corn so that we can enojy it all winter long. Swartz, Aim, & the kids then joined the party and we ordered pizzas for dinner. Lots of fun!

Ella and Mommy before the swim.

Ella and Daddy!

Ella and Mommy in the pool....just dipping her toes in the water.

Mommy and Ella with "big" cousins Edy and Clayton. Ella LOVES them! They get lots of smiles out of her.

Ella with her Grandma & Grandpa Jones.

BIG Smiles!

2007-08-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken today, August 3rd, 2007. Ella is almost 4 months old, and smiles all the time. We caught a BIG smile today. She was looking right at the camera, and it seemed like a good time for some pictures.

Ava Turns ONE!

2007-08-03T19:27:00.000-07:00

Ella's friend Ava Henry (daughter of Dave & Ashley Henry) turned 1-year-old on August 2nd! Last year we returned back from our month long trip the day Ava was born. What a fast year it has been! Ashley had a few of Ava's little friends stop over to say hi on her big day, so Ella put on her party dress, and we were on our way over! Here are a few photos.

The birthday girl.

We tried to get a picture of Ella & Ava on the chair, but Ella kept leaning forward! Here Ava is trying to keep her from falling by stopping her with her hand AND her foot! Don't worry, no one was injured!

The best shot we could get...Ava kept wanting to pat Ella's head! It was too cute!

The BUMBO Seat!

2007-08-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

While Steph & Ella were in Indy, Aunt Joyce bought Ella a "Bumbo" seat. Ella loves it! It helps her sit up on her own...she looks like such a big girl when she uses it!

A Visit from Andrea!

2007-08-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Steph's best friend from grade school came for a visit on the first of August....all the way from Denver! Steph & Andrea had a great time shopping, talking, and getting coffee - and Ella went along for the ride! Here are a few pictures of Andrea & Ella.

Where did July go?

2007-08-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the month of July. Steph did not have any classes during July, and was able to spend a few days in Indy visiting with her parents, Aunt Joyce & Uncle Greg, and cousin Teddy and his wife Liz. Unfortunately, not many pictures were taken! These first 2 were taken at home, then the pictures with Uncle Nate and Papa were taken during the Indy visit.

Here Comes the Bride!!

2007-07-08T16:17:00.001-07:00

I didn't get any pictures at the church because I was busy with other tasks...so these are from the reception which was held at the Mariott.

Jen & Joe's first dance as husband and wife.

Jen, Kelly,and Jen's special "wedding reception flip flops", hand-beaded by Kelly herself!

Some of the guys: Matt, Brian, Andy, and Jeff.

First photo of the Wrights and the Joneses!

Ella slept through quite a bit of the reception, but was bright-eyed when we got home... at 11:00! Oh, Ella Bug, what are we going to do with you!!??

Rehearsal Dinner

2007-07-08T16:11:00.001-07:00

A few pictures from Jen & Joe's rehearsal dinner...

Jen tacking down the aisle runner at Grabill Missionary.

Jen, Joe, and pastor Brian rehearsing.

Jen & Joe with Joe's Dad. He seems to be giving his approval. The dinner was held at Metea Park.

Nicky, Steph, & Kendra.

Annie & Steph.

Jen's Bachelorette Party!

2007-07-08T15:28:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, July 5th, several gals gathered for dinner at Biaggi's to celebrate Jen's upcoming nuptuals. After dinner we headed to the home of Marcy Hart (Annie's Mom) where Annie had planned a personal shower for Jen. We had a blast!

Jen looking lovely at the shower.

Annie and Steph.

Molly and Kelly.

Steph and Jen.

Fourth of July Part 3...a fashion show at Lowena's!

2007-07-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

After our stop at Abby and Eric's, we headed back to Fort Wayne for a get together at Lowena's to watch the Leo fireworks display. Andy and Liv were there with Campbell, and we had a little fasion show for the girls because they have several of the same outfits...enjoy!

Campbell and Ella on the catwalk...

Work it girls!

Ella, pull your dress down! That's not too lady-like.

Back "in the dressing room", holding hands.

Fourth of July Part 2...Introducing Anna Rose!

2007-07-08T15:07:00.000-07:00

While in Indy, we made at stop at Abby and Eric's to meet their new little girl, sweet Anna Rose, born June 8, 2007. She is abosolutely PRECIOUS! Here are a few photos from Ella and Anna's first visit.

Anna and Ella hanging out on the couch...playing with Ella's bee. :)

"Aunt" Stephie holding Anna.

The new Mamas.

The proud Papas, and Daddy's little girls.

Miss Anna and her long legs!

Fourth of July...A Busy Day!!

2007-07-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July Part 1...a quick visit to Indy.

Ella and Daddy at Nana & Papa's house.

Ella and Nana before bed.

Ella sitting up on Nana's couch.

" Yeah, I'm big now."

Ella and her FAVORITE "pink seat" -- borrowed from her friend Ava Henry.

Wrapping up June 07

2007-07-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pictures to wrap up June, then I think we will be current on the blogging!

Ella and her piggy!

Cousin Gracie (9 mos) came for a visit!

Those are Daddy's lips!

More lips!

Still working on the Tummy Time!

Ella's Hats

2007-07-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Ella seemed to be fairly fond of this little yellow sun hat...

The green bonnet was a different story! Not so happy in this one!