The Monks

Potty training "boot" camp...

2011-02-05T14:23:00.000-08:00

Ella, Anne, and Marlee

Ella and Marlee playing in Marlee's bed

Watching Elmo's potty video while finishing treats from using potty! (Marlee finished hers already and decided to eat Elmo!)

Ella and I spent the day at the Owenby's trying to motivate our girls to use the potty more. We dove right in and just put them in big girl underwear. When I told Ella we were going to Marlee and April's house for a "potty party," she immediately said, "We need cup a cakes!" So on the way to their house, we stopped and picked out cup a cakes to share... The girls had a blast and NO they are not potty trained but it was fun! There was some success plus we got to spend some much needed time with friends. Nina and Anne were also in the area and came by for some play time and lunch. Fun Saturday and hopefully, a jumpstart on the potty training business!

A child's faith...

2010-12-27T19:07:00.000-08:00

So it has, once again, been a while.... Ella has me thinking though after watching and listening to her this Christmas season. For over a month we have been reading lots of books that Ella calls her "Jesus books" and her excitement over Jesus's birthday has been building. Of course she also believes that every birthday that comes and goes is also hers! She loved finding baby Jesus in the books and learned quickly the difference in the wisemen, shepherds, and angels. As we got close to Christmas day I began preparing her for our family service at church which involves the children choosing a part to play as the story of Jesus's birth unfolds. All week she insisted she was going to be a wiseman, NOT an angel! She planned on wearing a crown and carrying a gift for baby Jesus. Christmas eve morning she decided suddenly that she was going to be a shepherd! As we entered church, we got her head covering for her "costume" and took our seat in the sanctuary. Cousin baby Anne (1 year old) also got to be a shepherd because of Ella's choice, so we sat, missing Stephen (he had to work), but were grateful to be with Paw Paw, GG, Nina, Dan and Anne. Throughout the service she repeated the minister "playing his part" as he wondered why all the people were in the church on a Friday night. "Why are you here?" Ella questioned loudly repeating him. She happily went down front with me to be a shepherd and watched interestingly as Mary, Joseph and Jesus entered the sanctuary to Silent Night. As I held her in my lap, I had to fight back the tears as I thought that 2 short years ago that was me, Stephen and baby Ella. Here she sat in my lap, talking, walking and growing up too fast.

After returning home from a great reminder of the birth of Jesus, Stephen arrived home, ate dinner with us and prepared for the evening. After getting Ella's bath, pj jamas (this is how Ella says it), we went outside to put out the reindeer food (a new family tradition, thanks to Mandi who made it with our girls). Ella giggled and enjoyed throwing it into the yard. As we finished and turned to go back inside, she stopped suddenly on the porch and said, "I hear them!, I hear them!" Blind faith! From the mouths of babes, we are reminded to have complete faith and believe that God is in charge and knows what is best for us. I can hear her voice and certainty in hearing the reindeer and am now praying diligently to hear God's voice as clearly as she heard those reindeer coming to find their food!

I want some rocks, momma.

2010-07-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

Ella is talking so much these days. It seems like yesterday she was muttering her first words and slowly adding one word here and there. In time for her 18 month well visit I made a list of words that she uses often and now only 1 month later she is saying complete sentences. Her first sentence was, "I want some." These was referring to the sweet tea she saw me drinking while driving.... The next complete sentence was said with confidence and wanting no help from me, "I do it!" She has been saying these two sentences for about 2 weeks and then walking down the road 2 nights ago, I heard, "I want some rocks, momma." I have decided Ella may become a geologist one day. She is obsessed with them as we walk. She can even identify little versus big. It is amazing to see her progression and to realize that she understands absolutely everything around her! I am so grateful that she continues to be healthy, happy and such a joy! I promise to try to do better to update the blog for those of you who keep up with us. The pictures were taken by a friend, Mandi Burdette. If you are in the Brevard area and want professional pictures done, let me know and I can give you her information!

Hollywood

2010-05-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

Pretty girl.

Wearing mommies shoes

At the nature center with cousins and Lucy McLean

Hollywood with Kitty wearing a bow!

Hollywood is Ella's newest nickname. It would be because she has worn these sunglasses (present from Aunt Nina) and another pair for 4 days now...inside or out, playing or napping. When someone tries to take them off of her, she pushes our hands away, shoves the glasses back up her nose and says, "NO!" I guess she likes them! She has also found the pile of "baby" bows that were stacked on her dresser and has decided that her Kitty Cat, LSU doll and Lamby all need bows. She points at the bow and says, "Booowwwa." She is definately becoming her own person with her own opinion. We are welcoming the 2's at 18 months but can not complain as she is very sweet and loving. Enjoy the pics!

It's been a while...

2010-04-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

So it has been a while since we (me or Ella) last posted an update. Let's see. What has been happening? Ella is talking some now....Mama (not used very often), Dada or Daddie (said often and over and over again), An -die (she loves her dog), dawg, more (ususally through sign language and referring to her food), GG, PaPa(supposed to be Paw Paw), B, Pop, Ahn (cousin Anne), Eli-n (this was her first name outside of the family - Elin you should be proud!), cheeees (cheese- which she loves!), El-la (she learned her own name from hearing her little friend Marlee say it over and over on the way to Asheville one day - we got home and hours later looked at me and said El-la - Thanks Marlee!), several others too but not coming to my tired brain right now!

After many ear infections since October 30, we are having tubes put in her ears Monday morning, April 5. Please pray for everything to go smoothly as I am sure it will. Also pray the same for her sweet friend, Lucy McLean who will also be getting tubes the same morning...atleast we will be at the hospital with our friends!

We are enjoying watching our "baby" grow so fast and learn so quickly. Will try to do better with doing updates and posting pics!

Happy Easter! Above are some pictures of Ella hunting her first eggs...she had fun and quickly realized there was food in the eggs - would crack them open and get busy eating!

Megan

Anne Megan Rogers

2009-12-13T18:36:00.000-08:00

Baby Anne Megan Rogers joined the family on Saturday evening weighing 7 pounds 10 ounces, 19.5 inches long. Mom (Nina) and baby are doing great!

What a priviledge and honor it was to be with them during the process. Nina is the bravest woman I know and is so strong! She labored for almost 16 hours before Anne was born. I got to spend some time with them this morning before returning to Brevard to pick Ella up. Anne is very sweet and already has Dan wrapped around her finger.

Thank you to the Dodson's and the Monk's (including Allison and her kids) who all helped take care of Ella while I was gone and Stephen worked. How lucky I am to have a wonderful friends and family who love Ella like we do. Stephen did a great job too on his own all night Saturday night! Ella loved having her Dada in charge. We know this by the babbling of Dadadadadada that she says as she looks around for him!

Ella and Stephen will meet Anne on Tuesday and I am so excited to get to hold her and love on her again! I will upload some more pictures after I can download them from our new camera...Good job Nina and Dan on bringing a precious gift to our family and the world! It will be a better place with her here. We love you all!

Happy 1st Birthday Baby Ella

2009-10-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

One year ago to this moment, I was laying in my hospital bed relieved, exhausted, excited and elated to be holding and laying next to Ella Baxley Monk. Stephen eventually drifted off to sleep in the uncomfortable chair/ bed across the room. (I say across with the room with some sarcasm - the room was so small, he feet touched my bed when he layed the chair down) I layed on the bed on my side, my head propped on my hand as I stared at this itty bitty baby girl - dark skin, black hair and blue eyes sleeping beside me. I couldn't believe she was ours. I couldn't believe she had arrived. I couldn't believe she had been in my body and was now laying beside me. Now I can't believe that I ever had a time in my life when I didn't know her. I remember wondering when I was pregnant what she would be like. Now I am amazed at this remembrance... I can't fathom not having her in my life. I stayed awake all night long. Staring. All night. She wasn't fussy. She wasn't crying. She was just laying there, all bundled up, purple hat from the hospital on her head full of hair, sighing and sleeping. I couldn't believe she was ours.

Today, we celebrated her first birthday. She was precious as usual. Unfortunately she was not quite her usual self... ear infections in both ears caused her to be a little bit clingy, but overall, was happy and sweet as usual. She was curious about her cake. She did not dig right in, but put one finger on it, pulled it back and stared. She was serious and studied this new thing in front of her. This is typical of how to reacts to new situations or people. She ate a few bites of cake and then started pointing.... banana. She wanted her banana left over from her lunch. I won't complain. It could be worse.

I left as my WONDERFUL family (Mom, Brenda, Allison, Dad, Nina, Dan and Stephen) stayed behind to clean up. Ella was tired and in need of a nap. The tylenol set in as we came in the house and she perked up a little. She was able to open a few gifts and play for a little bit as I cleaned up as family arrived with the stuff. After everyone left I decided that I was ready for a nap even if she didn't think she was. I put her on my bed with her "kitty cat" stuffed animal that she loves dearly. She played, crawled around, layed down on me and was restless for a few minutes. Then she leaned against me and settled in. I sang a few lullabys to her and within a matter of minutes she literally fell over, her head landing on my pillow. Both of her hands were gripping my right arm as she curled up and drifted off. I allowed myself to ignore the dishes in the kitchen for the next few hours and enjoy my time holding my baby girl. I layed there and listened to her breath as she sighed. This time instead of a hospital hat, bundled in a blanket I held a one year old dressed in a smocked dress from GG and a matching red bow holding back her long light brown hair out of her beautiful face. I slept some but mostly stared. Stared at her in wonder at where the last year has gone.

Overall a fun, special day. I will sleep tonight without her in my bed. I will not stare at her all night long but will rest so that tomorrow Iwill be rested enough to continue making memories together as a family of times we spend together loving her and watching her grow. Happy Birthday Baby Ella. I love you! (pictures later after I have a chance to download them...)

Rocking Horse

2009-10-10T19:14:00.000-07:00

Ella's birthday present has been given to her early. Stephen ordered it, got it in the mail, put it together and couldn't wait....she has had it since mid-September! In a few shorts weeks, our baby girl will be 1! Hard to believe.

We are so grateful for an amazing year watching her grow and change. She is "cruising" around the room, walking with help, loves her books, and likes to dance! We are continually amazed at what she understands. When asked "Where is Andie?", she immediately points to her. The same question can be asked about her mom and she doesn't answer. I guess I know where I rank... Andie is pretty sweet with her though. I guess I understand. Andie doesn't have to make her do things like, use saline in her nose, change diapers, stop her from playing in the dog bowls, stop her from doing "fun" things that are dangerous - like play with sockets, etc..... it all makes sense. Andie lets her crawl all over her, "pet" her, and doesn't steal too many of her things. I think Andie is the best dog ever too, so how can feel too bad? :)

Happy Birthday GG!

2009-09-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

Sending you sandy kisses!

Memories made at the Biltmore House!

My GG loves me so much and I love her too. Happy Birthday GG. Thank you for being the BEST GG in the world! I can feel your love all the way from Louisiana, but am ready for you to come back to NC whenever you want! :) Have a great day.

Biltmore House, Fripp Island, pulling up and more...

2009-09-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

I knew what to do with my shovel without anyone showing me!

Feeding Andie! I am sure she loves it...she is the most patient dog we know!

B and Ella

Sleeping under my tent... I fall asleep on the way to the beach each day, take a nap, wake up and play! :)

Here is my make shift tent...I am under it in this picture.

I love the water!

I can pull up and have figured out how to sit down gracefully
Mom and I at the Biltmore House
I can pull up on my music table too! (Thanks Aunt Heather!)

Happy Birthday Paw Paw

2009-08-10T06:15:00.000-07:00

My Paw Paw is the best (along with Pop Pop) Grandpa in the world! He makes me laugh when he enters the room. I love to take his glasses off of his face and throw them down. I also love to feel his cap when he has one on his head. He is looking forward to showing me how to play sports and watch how quickly I catch on! Thank you Paw Paw for being such a wonderful Grandpa! I love you! (Mom and Dad do too :) ) The first two pictures are of my Paw Paw after his birthday dinner with GG, Mom, Dad, me, Aunt Nina, Uncle Dan, B and Pop Pop.

One of my favorite activites now is to crawl around and find Andie's toys... the picture of me alone is me showing my Mom that I got 2 of them! How exciting! I hear her say, "No, that is Andie's.", but I don't listen. :) So instead of getting frustrated, my Mom just laughed and took a picture of me.

Having too much fun to update....

2009-07-23T14:42:00.001-07:00

In the last few weeks we have been very busy. I have started having playdates with several friends, going to the library for storytime, spending time with grandparents, having my first overnight trip from Mom and Dad, swim lessons, continuing to work on getting around - now I am pullling up on people (trying to stand even though I haven't officially crawled yet), learning to say MaMa, DaDa, recognize different family (including Andie), cut my first tooth and working on the second, rocked in my Moms childhood rocking chair, signed more to get more food and to ask my mom to continue singing to me on the change table, etc... we are having a fun and busy summer!

Happy 4th and swimming....

2009-07-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

Happy summer everyone. I have enjoyed swimming and spending time with my family. My dog, Andie is also getting more pets these days because I am starting to chase her around the house. Andie is very patient and just lays there, unlike the cats who take off when they see me coming.

My first trip to the beach and more....

2009-06-22T15:01:00.000-07:00

My duck bathtub from Lucy McLean...I love it!

"Helping" to fold clothes...

On a hike with Mom, Dad and Andie...the pack was Mom's mother's day gift... she loves it and so do I.

First time in the swing at Franklin Park

Beach time with Mom

Me and Dad hanging out in the shade

What is in this bag?

My restaurant...delicious according to Mom and Dad!

Bikini baby - thanks Lucy McLean

I loved the sand!

Mom apologizes for the delay in the update on the blog... life was busy until we left for the beach! Now we are ready for some relaxing summer days! I loved the sand as you can see. I am rolling over and pulling myself along...am trying really hard to get both legs under me to crawl... Mom says it is time to baby proof the house! :)

I rolled over!

2009-05-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

I did it! I rolled over today....three times so far! The first time I started crying a little because my Mom, who is usually fairly quiet, got excited, started clapping and saying "Good job, Ella!"... it scared me and I got a little startled! My GG was right next to me and witnessed it too. Now we are practicing so we can show off for Dad tonight when he gets home! :) I am sure we will video my new trick soon...

Baptism and more...

2009-05-18T06:40:00.001-07:00

Paw Paw is so funny!

Sweet potatoes, please?

I still love to read

Aren't we all beautiful? (B, Aunt Allison and me)

The Monk family

The Baxley family

Me (very tired), Rev. Mike Jordan and Mom

My baptism was perfect. Of course, now I know I don't have to be perfect because I am forgiven...:) Kim Dodson presented me to the congregation and I grinned so big when I heard my name. Everyone laughed. When Rev. Kerry Purselle and Rev. Mike Jordan were baptizing me I tried to reach down and get more water. Mom and Dad were smart to wait until I actually liked water to baptize me. Early on I probably would have screamed and cried!

I loved having all of my immediate family here and missed the ones who could not be here. We were blessed to have several friends as well join us for my spiritual birthday.

I also had my 6th month well check this past week. I am 18 pounds (80%) and 27 1/2 inches long (95%). I have started sitting up well and am still loving my jumper!

Sitting up...Yes Sitting, not spitting or....

2009-05-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

I started trying to balance a few weeks back but couldn't quite figure it out. Now I am doing well. I stayed sitting up yesterday on my own for the first time and was so proud of myself. I practiced with Mom a few times and then showed off for Dad when he got home from work. I am still trying hard to roll over but haven't quite done it on my own yet. I am also still pushing off with my toes and scooting around a little. Mom keeps saying that she is going to be in trouble soon when I figure these things out. I also had my first moment of crying because she took something away from me. She handed it back and I smiled. I am going to keep trying to get my way! :) I think it might work even better on my Daddy!

Another Baby?....

2009-04-30T05:19:00.000-07:00

I knew that would get your attention.... No, my Mom is not expecting another baby, but my Aunt Nina is.... yes, that's right, Aunt Nina is pregnant! Mom, Dad and I rode over to see Aunt Nina and Uncle Dan yesterday. Mom got to go into the Dr's office and see my new cousin on the ultrasound. She told me all about it! Then we all went out to lunch before heading back to Brevard. My new cousin will be arriving around Dec. 4th. Just in time for Christmas. He/ She can watch me open Christmas gifts. I am sure I will get to teach them all sorts of new tricks in life. I will try to be a good influence but it would also be fun to teach him/ her how to spit up on parents, how to wake them up often, how to.... :)

Congrats Aunt Nina. Continue to take care of my baby cuz! Love you!

Trying to roll over, crawl, and get to toys

2009-04-24T20:01:00.000-07:00

This is Megan....

Ella worked so hard today trying to roll over, scoot and get to her toys just out of reach. She is picking up her leg, putting it under her with her toe down and pushing off to get her toys. She is also inches from turning over. It is so fun to watch her as she grows, learns and gets excited about her interactions with people. She is talking up a storm and laughing deep in her belly. Her laugh is contagious and so joyous. I will post more pictures and try to get a video up soon of her laughing. That way you can laugh too!

Tigers, older "siblings", time with new friends and family

2009-04-17T14:58:00.000-07:00

Can you tell who my admirer is?

Liam, Heather, Ella, and Raegan

My cousin, Margot, holding me

Morning play time!

I loved holding Liam's hands...

I have decided to adopt Liam and Raegan as my older siblings. We had such a great visit in Atlanta. Mom and I went to Atlanta to see Mrs. Maureen, Heather, Liam, Raegan and Margot. Heather, Liam and Raegen were in town visiting Mrs. Maureen. My cousin Margot also came over to dinner to meet me. We had a wonderful visit. I got to go to the park with Liam and watch him run around. Do you see the "tiger" in the pictures? We all have one. I guess we are still being raised to be LSU fans even though none of us live in Louisiana. I also got to show off my jumping abilities for them all in my jumper. Thank you Mrs. Maureen and Heather for inviting us to come spend time with you all! We had a great time! Looking forward to our next time together and miss you all already!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T19:06:00.000-07:00

Second day of rice cereal
First day of rice cereal...

Checking out my Easter basket

Do you like my dress? (GG bought it for me in Louisiana!)

My Easter basket, bunny and bib from Aunt Allison

This is Megan....We had a perfect day today for Ella's first Easter. Church, Lunch (including Ella's 3rd day of rice cereal), afternoon naps for all, afternoon walk with Andie, dinner at the Monk's (Pop Pop and B's), home for bath/ bed time, and a relaxing evening for Stephen and I. I couldn't ask for a better day overall. I am grateful for all our blessings and the ability to serve an amazing God.

2 new firsts....

2009-04-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

Giraffes

Sarah and Caroline in front of the Lion

Ella and Russell Sarah pushing the stroller

Ella looking at the giraffes

Ella in her Bumbo dropping her toys over and over...

Are we having fun yet?

April 2nd I spent my first evening on the dining room table in my Bumbo seat. I have been sitting in it on the floor some but my mom decided that I might stay happier for longer if I was eye level with them. It worked. I played with toys, talked and listened to the conversation between my parents. I had a great time dropping my toys over and over again, but allowed my parents to eat without getting mad because I was not part of the table!

April 3rd I went to the zoo. My mom drove me to Greenville to meet some college friends, Joy and Michele. Joy brought her 3 kids (Caroline, Sarah, who pushed my stroller the whole time, and William) while Michele brought along Russell, her son. We had a great time. It was a beautiful day which ended with a picnic in the park. I am excited about meeting up with them again soon. I enjoyed the attention from Caroline, Sarah, William and Russell! I know they will teach me all sorts of new things as I grow up!

My sweet dog - Andie

2009-04-01T04:50:00.000-07:00

Andie and Ella on the couch

Andie checking on Ella

Andie

Andie guarding Ella while mom ran downstairs to feed Toes

I first met Andie when I came home from the hospital. My B and Pop brought her home from their house where she had spent several nights. She lays down with me whereever I am, guards me, goes on walks with me, and gives me kisses. I love my dog Andie!

5 months old

2009-03-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Deanna
Anna (expecting Rebecca who arrived March 17th) and Ruby

Heather's Ella, my Ella, and Heather

Brittany and Betty

Colleen and Charlie (Ella has almost caught up to Charlie!)

Janna (Lila coming soon!), Kim and Ella

Erin and Ella

Aaron and Ella - those socks are way too small now!

Kristi and Ella

Beth and Ella (that hat is way too small now and Beth's hair is as long as Ella's! :) )
This is Megan...I can not believe that our little baby is already 5 months old! She is growing so fast, changing so much and is such a blessing to us. When I think of the family and friends who have supported us I feel lucky and grateful. We have been encouraged, supported, prayed for, and loved by so many people in this journey of parenthood. These are a few pictures of some of our friends who came to meet Ella along these last 5 months. Enjoy! :)

Happy 5 months, baby girl! We love you!

PJ's for Aunt Nina....and a fun Sunday!

2009-03-30T05:57:00.001-07:00

Nancy, Cary, Ms. Nancy and Ella

Bo ( I mean, Cary) and Ella

I had a great time meeting Cary, Nancy and seeing Ms. Nancy Perkins again ( I met her at my Sip and See in Plaquemine). Ms. Nancy was very nice and drove a car full of my stuff to come back to Brevard for my GG and Paw Paw. Mom told me that I would have a friend like Cary one day - probably Lucy McLean and Marlee - one who you grow up with and know will always be there for you. One that you can pick up with in 2 seconds and feel like you haven't missed a beat! Needless to say, we had a great visit and look forward to seeing you all again soon!

My Aunt Nina and Uncle Dan also came for their Sunday visit. After everyone left I put on my new pjs (thanks B!) in honor of Aunt Nina. She is always saying I need more cat stuff because I have so much dog gear! So... here they are - my kitty cat pjs!

Love you all!

I love my feet!

2009-03-26T11:29:00.001-07:00

I think those funny things on the end of my feet look really tasty! Any chance I get these days I am reaching down or up depending on my position, trying to get my feet so I can eat my toes! I am also still talking, laughing and demanding attention from anyone who will listen.

Jumping at B and Pop Pop's house

2009-03-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

Napping on Pop Pop after jumping

I love my bumper jumper - Thanks B and Pop Pop

Can I get any cuter? I had a big day at B and Pop Pop's house on Saturday. I had a new toy waiting for me and boy did I love it. My Pop Pop also read his favorite book, "So Big!" and after all this excitement, I fell asleep in his lap.

Sip and See in Louisiana

2009-03-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

Train in the bayou...

Napping with Paw Paw before my party

Thanks to GG and Paw Paw, Ella had a Sip and See in Plaquemine where she was able to be shown off to her friends there. She looked beautiful as always and was an angel. We all got up Saturday morning, enjoyed our time together before eating breakfast and then the phone rang.... it was Becky (a family friend) who called to ask us if we had been evacuated. Clearly we did not know what she was talking about as we were all still in our pajamas playing with Ella. Two train cars had derailed a few blocks from my parents house around 6 am and fallen into the bayou. The highway coming in and out of Plaquemine had been shut down and traffic was rerouted pretty close to my parents house. (In case you don't know GG - she could be described as a worrier, but to her credit she was not phased.... I think Ella's presence had something to do with this!) Then, the phone started ringing, ringing and ringing.... invitees wondering if we were evacuated or if the Sip and See was still happening. After seeing the frustration rising, I asked my Dad to field phone calls for Mom, which he gladly did. The Sip and See did go on and we had a wonderful turn out and time together.

Thank you GG and Paw Paw for a wonderful visit. Ella loved her first trip to Louisiana. She didn't even mind flying (maybe that is her Paw Paw in her).

Hot, sunny, south Louisiana

2009-03-06T14:21:00.000-08:00

Meeting Uncle Bubba

It is only March but sunglasses and sun hat are a must, plus I look adorable!

Traveling Ella....

2009-03-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

Ella and Rachael

Judi, Ella, and Megan

Jennifer who had me singing Old MacDonald with her!

Raegan who made me feel so comfortable that I fell asleep on her!

I love my Great Aunt Joyce!

Paw Paw showing me the birds on the golf course.

I have taken my first airplane ride where I made my mom change a diaper on the plane... luckily the man next to us was very nice and allowed us to use his seat as well as ours! I have met lots of people so far and really enjoyed a day of meeting my cousins on Wed. I also met my Great Aunt Joyce! I met Judi and had lunch with her, mom, GG and Paw Paw. That evening my other cousins Rachael, Jennifer and Raegan came to meet me and eat dinner.

I woke up this morning and played on my GG and Paw Paw's bed until my Paw Paw took me on the porch to see the golf course being watered. He showed me the birds and rocked me to sleep outside. I had such a nice time with him! Then my mom and GG took me shopping. Can you believe they shopped and did not buy anything at all for themselves but only me! I got a baptism gown, an Easter dress, two pairs of shoes, socks, a sun hat, a pair of sunglasses and my first monogrammed outfit! It was a big day. I am now going to go play with my GG. She thinks I am going to let her rest, but I have news for her... no rest for her - I want to "talk". :)

Laughing...

2009-02-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

I can laugh! When I laugh I make everyone smile... how could they not smile when I look this adorable and make such cute noises?

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

Thank you Aunt Allison, Uncle Max, Victoria, and William for my Valentine's outfit and book! Don't I look cute?

This outfit is from my B. I am nice and toasty!

Me, Dad and Andie in front of the French Broad River

Me and Dad about to cross the swinging bridge

I have had an exciting Valentine's Day. I got several gifts. I got clothes and a book from the Max, Allison, Victoria, and William, clothes from B and Pop, and car seat straps that help me to be more comfortable from my Paw Paw and GG. I think a few people might love me!

I went for another hike with my mom, dad, and Andie. I love riding in the Baby Bjorn facing forward because I can look around at all of the trees, mountains, water and my dog.

I have learned a few new tricks recently. I can laugh outloud. My B is very good at making me laugh. It is such fun because once I laugh then everyone around me laughs too. I can also turn myself around now, not over, just around and around on my playmat. Mom puts me down on my back one direction and the next thing she knows I have turned around. I accomplish this by throwing my legs up in the air and trying to roll. I do this over and over until I have moved myself on the playmat. It is such fun.

First Hike and Reading

2009-02-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

I love my book!

Wearing my special shirt Aunt Nina had made for me!

April and Marlee

Mom, Ella, and Andie

I went on my first hike with Mom, April, Marlee and of course, Andie. I also love to read my Fuzzy Bee book.

I love Tummy Time

2009-01-26T10:22:00.000-08:00

Me and B before a baby shower for friends

Playing with my dog blankie

Am I cute or what?

About to go on a walk with my mom and Andie!

I am trying to figure out how to crawl!

Happy Anniversary GG and Paw Paw

2009-01-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

My first real snow

I love my Winne the Pooh blanket

This is Ella writing...Thank you for setting an amazing example for my Mom and Dad for what a marriage is about... Come back and see me soon. We all miss you and are happy for your special day.

Growing up and changing fast

2009-01-18T15:01:00.003-08:00

I love my Daddy

I am becoming more mobile, active and love to make faces at people! I smile a lot and love my family and friends. I went to my first birthday party and enjoyed staring at Charlie who is 9 months old. I am also grabbing toys and hugging my blankets.

More pictures of Ella and family

2009-01-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

Andie and Ella playing on the play mat

Megan and Ella waking up from a nap

Andie, Aunt Nina and Ella

Today my Aunt Nina came to visit. Andie got a little jealous of her giving me all of the attention, so she jumped up and sat in my Aunt's lap too! Andie also lays beside me as I play on my play mat. She doesn't even try to steal the toys off of it.

Wearing Mom's Dress

2009-01-06T17:09:00.000-08:00

Here I am wearing my mom's dress from when she was a baby! Don't I look adorable!

I had a routine visit to the Doctor today. I weigh 11 pounds 13 oz and am 24 inches long! I am growing fast... can you see the rolls in my legs in the pictures? They poked my leg though and that made me mad! I was brave and got over it pretty quick.

A Monumental Week

2009-01-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

Allison and William

Me and William

Stephen, Megan and Ella

Stephen and William

It has been a great week since Christmas. We have gotten to celebrate with Allison, Max, Victoria, and William; have learned to sleep in our crib for our naps consistantly, and have taken our first bottle! (Thanks to Aunt Allison's help and guidance... Stephen did a great job!) Here are some pictures of our time with them! Victoria approaches whoever is holding Ella quite often, kisses her head and says "She is so sweet!" I always respond, "Just like you!" She always smiles and walks away. Yesterday in our visit she did the same... walked up, kissed her head, said "She is so sweet!"and then quietly whispering before I could say it, said "Just like you!" We both laughed. William is fun to watch as he is always on the go! He is so loving and every now and then looks at Ella and exclaims, "Baby!" Brenda and Don (Stephen's parents) kept all the kids (yes they were brave!) while Max, Allison, Stephen and I enjoyed a dinner out! It was very nice!

I got to go to BES today and "work." My sub is wonderful and already had so much done! I got to show Ella off and have her meet lots of my friends there. It was a nice day. We went to lunch with Beth, my mom and some friends from Hendersonville. Ella was well behaved once again for lunch as she slept through most of it!

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-25T19:07:00.001-08:00

Paw Paw Hugh likes the Santa hat.

I don't like it so much.

But I do like my new puppy toy.

Merry Christmas, all of you large, smiling, baby-holding creatures!

Christmas Eve...Holy Family Reflection

2008-12-25T01:30:00.000-08:00

This is Megan - Ella is sleeping soundly - it is 4:30 on Christmas morning.

I have spent many nights as a child so excited about Christmas morning that I could not sleep. Those nights the excitement was over the presents under the tree and the fun to be had the next day. I am sure many of you can relate.

This morning is different. I just finished nursing Ella and just feel so blessed that I can not sleep because I am so at peace and genuinely happy. When Kim asked me if we would be Joseph, Mary and Jesus in our family Christmas program I immediately said yes knowing it would be a special moment. Little did I realize how special of a moment it would be. It was special for several reasons and some of those reasons are just hitting me now. I knew it would be nice to show my thanks to God for giving us such a beautiful, sweet child. I did not realize how wonderful it would be to be the center of attention for a moment. I am not someone who enjoys having all eyes on them, but I knew this would be about Ella and Jesus. What I am realizing now is that for me this moment was about realizing what an amazing group of supporters we have in our church family. As the doors opened for us to process in to Silent Night I saw so many friends, my parents and Stephen's parents. Friends were there with their families and were so happy to see Ella (some for the first time). After we processed out, people gathered around us in the parlor to get a closer look at Ella and congratulated us on her. As adults gathered, several children did too. Lily, Emilee and Mia were anxiously waiting a better look. Lily (a second grader and daughter of friends) rushed in to the room grinning from ear to ear. She was so excited to finally get to meet her and have a chance to hold Ella. She was so sweet and loving. (Dan and Anna will be blessed with another daughter soon and I know that her older siblings, Lily, Trip and Ruby will be amazing with her after seeing them with Ella tonight). Emilee stood near smiling and proud to say that she had held Ella at our house before. Mia also held her in her sweet arms. This moment as adults gathered round to get a look and give us a word of encouragement, make me reflect and feel so grateful to have an amazing church family and a place where Ella will be so loved and cared for growing up. I know she will have lots of adults, youth, and children to look up to, go to for guidance and learn about the unconditional love of God.

Thank you FUMC and Kim for asking Ella to be Jesus. What a special moment in our lives...

Ella's first Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T17:16:00.001-08:00

After the church service.

Ella in Monk family Christening gown

Andie loving her toy

Andie really wanted Ella's butterfly toy.

Me and Ella before lunch

We spent the day at the Monk's house with Ella in her special dress made just for her and given to her by "B." We had a wonderful lunch, dessert and exchanged gifts. From there we headed to FUMC where we were the Holy Family in the family oriented service. Ella was the star as she was Baby Jesus. She was wonderful - wide awake and happy. She wore a gown that has been worn in Stephen's side of the family for years for Christenings. She looked gorgeous. I guess she has big shoes to fill after being Jesus tonight. She is waiting for Santa in her Rudolph pajamas sleeping in her sweetpea swing snoring. (That really means I should be napping instead of writing this...) Andie enjoyed her day at the Monk's too as she got lots of attention and a new toy which she already started to shred.

Christmas day will be spent at the Baxley's house in Brevard with Aunt Nina, Uncle Dan and Uncle Ghent. More tomorrow....or the next time I have a moment with Ella asleep. Enjoy the pictures and this special time of year celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T06:58:00.001-08:00

Meeting Joy and Michele

Jason, Michele, Ella,Joy and Jon

We are about to celebrate Ella's first Chirstmas and are so grateful for her in our life. She is growing so fast and changing every day. Merry Christmas....

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-12-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

I hope you have the BEST birthday ever! I have a very special present for you and it is not in my diaper like Mom keeps saying....

I love you,

Ella

My Wonderful Aunts

2008-12-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

I have two wonderful Aunts who love me so much! My Aunt Nina was in the hospital the night I was born. She has also come to see me every week since I have been born. She talks about me at work and home all the time. She shows my pictures to her friends and brags about my beauty and sweet spirit! She has given me several gifts and I love it when she holds me. (Her husband, my Uncle Dan, is pretty special too.. you can see from my former post that we have already had some good times together) I am looking forward to many more special times with my her. I keep hearing about how much fun we are going to have on hikes in the forest.

My Aunt Allison is also very special. She drove from Augusta on my birthday, Halloween, with my Uncle Max and cousins, Victoria and William. They came to see me within hours of my birth. Victoria stayed up late to meet me. Aunt Allison has given me all sorts of equipment and clothes. Below are some pictures with me in my swing, bathtub, play mat, and bouncy seat. I have worn lots of the clothes too that Victoria and William have passed on to me. I am looking forward to seeing them in a few weeks to celebrate Christmas together. Apparantly Victoria and William are going to help me learn all sorts of new things (some of which my Mom and Dad may prefer me not know...)

Thank you to the best Aunts in the world! I love you both!

Fun with Uncle Dan

2008-12-11T15:37:00.000-08:00

Uncle Dan and I had fun with the camera on Thanksgiving while Uncle Ghent, Mom, and Aunt Nina scavenged the leftovers and Dad fantasized about being in his basement, listening to rap and playing Xbox.

"Hey, Uncle Dan," I whispered. "Remember what we talked about that time on the phone?"

"You mean the camera game?" he asked.

"Yeah, that's the one!" (Uncle Dan and I can read each other like books. Oh, wait ... I don't know how to read books yet. Maybe Aunt Nina will read me a nice, thick, 19th-century Russian novel someday.)

Anyway, Uncle Dan got his camera out. "Look, Ella," he said. "I'll make faces. I bet you won't be able to keep from laughing."

"Oh, yes I will," I said defiantly. "You can't make me laugh. I'll just keep my eyes closed. Like this. See?"

I giggled a little, but Uncle Dan was so impressed that he took the camera out and snapped the first picture.

He looked so silly I had to shut my eyes and hide my mouth in my pretty dress because I was laughing so hard.

"OK, Ella, we're both going to smile this time, right?"

"OK," I said. (Actually, I said "aaahh ... ah ahhh," but it was Baby Talk for "OK.") So I put on my sweetest little smile and he snapped the picture.

And wouldn't you know it ... I blinked! I've either inherited GG's bad luck, or Uncle Ghent's non-photogenic-ness. I don't know which is worse.

Then I noticed a movement to my left.

"Here comes Mommy!" I said. "I'm going to pretend to be asleep in this one. Let's see if we can fool her!" So I shut my eyes tight and started to snore.

"No, Ella," said Uncle Dan. "Don't snore. She'll never believe you're really sleeping. Just make your tongue loll out of your mouth instead. That's how your Uncle Ghent used to fake-sleep. It worked for him every time."

But it was too late for me to do anything else. I heard Mommy talking.

"Dan, would you like me to get a picture of you and Ella with the camera?"

"No, that's OK," said Uncle Dan. "Ella and I are having fun. See? Ella Bella, smile for the camera!" I tried to hide my face and wear my most serious "I-am-sleeping-and-wish-not-to-be-disturbed" face. Then he snapped the last picture.

I can look very serious and somber when I want to. (This is clearly not a trait I have inherited from Uncle Dan.)

The End.

Dancing in My Sleep

2008-12-11T15:36:00.001-08:00

Ella's adventures and crazy hair!

2008-12-06T09:29:00.000-08:00

Here are a few updated pictures. Check out Ella's crazy hair! The hair coming in is much lighter so we will see what color she ends up having! Either way it is really soft and likes to stand up all over her head. It is getting really long in the back too.

The yellow outfit was Stephens. We put it on her before going on a walk. She falls right to sleep in the carriers. I have being wearing her around the house quite often when she does not want to be put down.

I got creative the other day while trying to move the laundry basket. She seemed to enjoy the short ride and then stayed there for a while playing with her hands and kicking her feet.

Ella's First Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T17:02:00.000-08:00

Ella celebrated her first Thanksgiving meal at her GG's and Paw Paw's (Megan's parents) house in Brevard with her parents, Uncle Dan and Aunt Nina, Frankie (Dan's nephew in from out of town), her grandparents, and Uncle Ghent. She slept for most of the actual meal and woke up just in time for dessert. I was so glad to have a real meal and be able to finish my food before she woke up. I think it was one of the first meals I have finished without her waking up in the middle of it or already being awake. We had a great time. As you can see in the pictures, Ella looked beautiful in her dress made especially for her from her "B" (Stephen's mom).

Ella's first "real" bath...

2008-11-23T15:54:00.000-08:00

"Daddy, put that camera down and help me"

Ella had her first "real" bath today with the help of her "B" (Grandma Monk). She cried at first as you can see, but settled in after a few minutes. Then when I took her out of the water, she started screaming! She does not like being naked - I think she gets cold.

She is doing great. Learning to sleep in her crib during the day and is going to try her first time in her big crib tonight. Maybe I will sleep better without hearing every breath she takes being beside the bed in her bassinet. We'll pray it goes well and that I can sleep trusting the monitor to let me know when to check on her.

Megan

Ella and her pets...

2008-11-16T15:21:00.001-08:00

Ella, Oscar (cat), and Andie (dog)

Andie getting as close as she can to sneak a kiss

Sydney resting after a long night listening to Ella

cry.

My mom decided yesterday morning that we are in trouble if I have allergies. Check out my morning play time pictures. The animals came and surrounded me. Andie takes advantage of being able to get this close to me. She even stole a sock right off of my foot the other day. The downstairs cat (Toes) will post a picture later when she has more time to get to know me.
Love,
Ella

My family loves me

2008-11-15T11:07:00.000-08:00

Uncle Dan and Aunt Nina

Uncle Ghent who carved my pumpkin

Aunt Allison and Uncle Max who drove all the

way from Augusta that night to meet me

Granma "B" Monk

Granpa "Pop Pop" Monk

Grandpa "Paw Paw" and Grandma "GG" Baxley

2008-11-14T16:58:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

Hi! My name is Ella Baxley Monk. I am 2 weeks old today. Luckily, I have a great aunt (Erin) who knows that my cutie patootie self deserves to be showed off... so she made me this website for my 2 week birthday. So... here is a little bit about me...

As you can see, I have a great family. My mama (Megan) and daddy (Stephen) love me to pieces. I remember, in utero, hearing how much they loved Andie, my dog sister. I remember thinking... wow... if these people end up loving me half as much, I am going to be one lucky little girl. Well, don't tell Andie, but I think they love me more!

I have lots more family members that love me to death. Aunt Erin is trying to find pictures of all of them for you to see. For now, enjoy these and know that more will come soon.

Love,

Ella Baxley Monk