The Cherry Family

Merry Christmas

2011-12-16T17:51:00.000-08:00

Vacation Part 1- Sea World

2011-09-24T11:21:00.001-07:00

The kids "worked" hard all summer to earn enough marbles to go to Sea World and the Dude Ranch. I'm glad they did it because we had a great time! We spent Friday at sea world which was perfect since the crowds were thin and the temperature was only in the 90's. John Paul was tall enough to ride a few of the bigger rides and boy did he love it! He rode one of the bigger water rides 5 times!

A&M game

2011-09-23T13:52:00.000-07:00

Call it wishful thinking, but I was hoping that by taking John Paul to an aggie game, he would be converted. It worked while we where at the game but as soon as we left Aggieland, he said he would only be an Aggie in Aggieland. I'll take what I can get!

Grace

2011-09-23T13:42:00.001-07:00

How time flies! Grace is 19 months old but thinks she is at least 3 or 4. She tries to keep up with Kate and John Paul. She is quite the climber and has no fear when it comes to heights, slides, animals, etc. She might be our most athletic kid, already throwing, kicking, and sometime catching balls.
Grace has the BEST laugh. She doesn't laugh easily but when she does, it is the best gut bustin giggle! We all love to tickle her!
Her vocabulary is growing daily. Thank You, more, snack, bubba, kat, joh pau, momma, daddy are her favorite words. She will not say Please no matter what! I think that has to do with her strong will. Speaking of that, boy is she strong willed. She will throw herself down in a fit if she doesn't like the situation and will give you a "how dare you" look if you tell her no. She has recently started saying "bye bye" to you after you tell her no in hopes that you will go away so she can continue with the no-no. I have no doubt that she will keep life interesting!
We love our little Gracie-poo!

Kate at 3

2011-08-19T08:54:00.001-07:00

My sweet Kate-ster is 3! Sweet, sensitive, and silly are the words I would use to describe her. She is a super caring, loving daughter and sister who loves to share hugs and kisses. Even though they fight, she and John Paul have too much fun sharing a room. They are constantly getting in trouble for playing at nap time! Kate LOVES pink, even sings a song about her love for the color. Twirly skirts or dresses rank high on her list as well. She loves her baby, pink piggie, and multiple baby blankets.
On the last day of school yesterday, Kate's teacher told me that she was by far her best student for the summer, never giving her trouble, always wanting to help and doing her best on projects. Makes this Momma proud of my little girl.
We love you Kate the Great!

Splash day!

2011-06-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

John Paul and Kate really enjoyed splash day at school. Kate's favorite thing was wearing her "pink twirly swimsuit". (which was a bribe for potty training). John Paul's favorite thing was dumping water on his friends and shooting the water guns. If I haven't mentioned it before, he is ALL boy!

Kate

2011-02-08T20:04:00.001-08:00

BFF's

2011-02-08T19:58:00.000-08:00

John Paul at 4

2011-02-07T07:54:00.002-08:00

Interviewed in our kitchen while making cookies for his school party.
Mom: What is your favorite food?
JP: Cookies
M: What is your favorite color?
JP: Blue and green
M: Who is your best friend?
JP: Griffin and Bella
M: Where do you live?
JP: at Temple
M: What is your favorite toy?
JP: Bubby is my favorite stuffed animal, and elephant and shark and dolphin and covers. (You barely fit on your bed with all your animal friends!)
M: What is your favorite thing to do?
JP: Doing movie night with pallets.
M: Did you just sneak a cookie?
JP: yep!
M: What do you want to do this year as a 4 yr old?
JP: Slide down a pole, climb a ladder and a tree
M: What was your favorite thing you did as a 3 yr old last year?
JP: playing tball and soccer.

John Paul, you are changing before our eyes. You are ready and excited to be a big boy and most days are ready to accept the new responsibilities that come with another year of life. Other days you tell me that you don't want to be a big boy. You proudly told everyone at the bank that you now know how to wipe your own bottom but you still fight mommy on getting dressed by yourself.
The move to Temple this year was harder on you than we thought it would be. You miss your old house, school, church and friends, esp. Griffin. You are making new friends but don't show the same enthusiasm about going to school and Bible class that you did before. Just like at Brentwood, you have quickly made yourself know to the adults at Belton and they love to seek you out to say hello and get a high five. You prefer to play with the older boys than the kids your age. You say your best friend here is Bella- she is a year older than you and has quite the flashy personality so I can see how you might have a little crush.
You have also been sick alot this fall/winter. We finally took you to the allergist to find out that you are allergic to ragweed, cats, bermuda grass, and molds. (or moles as you tell people). We are going back in a few weeks for food testing because your ezcema isn't getting any better. Hopefully this year will be the year that we finally can stop your skin from itching so much.
You love your sisters and they love you! Although you and Kate sometimes fight, you are best buddies and get into all sorts of stuff. Grace loves her big bubba and you are a good helper to mom. Mom's favorite time of day with you is when you get up from your nap while your sisters are still sleeping. (you are tring to stop napping but I'm not letting you!) When you wake up, you are a snuggle bug and sweet talker so I cherish those moments. Dad loves building super big pallets with you, riding bikes, and taking you fishing.
John Paul, you are little guy with big personality who keeps us and everyone around smiling. You put great energy and enthusiasm into all you do and I pray that continues as you mature. I also pray that you will have a healthy year and make lots of new friends.

Happy 1st and 4th Birthday Circus

2011-02-07T07:54:00.001-08:00

Pretty in pink

2011-02-07T07:52:00.000-08:00

Snow Day

2011-02-07T07:49:00.000-08:00

Grace is one!

2011-02-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

As I type this, I can hear you "talking" yourself to sleep. I love hearing your sweet jabbering and occasional words. It seems like you know that you are turning 1 this week because you have really started saying more like yes, hi, and uh-oh as well as drinking from cups without throwing a fit! You continue to be a very happy, easy baby even though you have had 2 double ear infections in the last 2 months.
You love to play with your brother and sister especially when Daddy builds you a big pallet in the living room. You flop around like it was made just for you.
You have the best cheesy scrunchy-nose grin when you are being silly or mischevious, esp. in the cabinets. Speaking of cabinets, you have recently discovered that the tupperware cabinet is super fun to empty out and crawl into.
You look like your big brother but have your own spunky personality and no one can make you laugh like your sister. You continue to be a momma's girl which I secretly love!
A few stats at 1 year old: 6 teeth, picky eater you but love spaghetti, bananas, blueberries, and crackers. You aren't walking yet but are very close. You have a great laugh! When Daddy comes home at the end of the day, you want him to hold you and cry if he leaves the room without taking you.
We love you to pieces!

Year End Update

2010-12-28T05:53:00.000-08:00

2010 was a big year for us. It started with the birth of our precious Grace in February, just a few days before John Paul's 3rd birthday. In the summer, Paul started a new job with the VA in Temple, we celebrated Kate's 2nd birthday and we sold our house. We moved to Temple in the fall, sad to leave behind great friends and church family but excited about the opportunities ahead. God has richly blessed us this year!

John Paul is growing into a little man who loves to ride his bike, do "repairs" and projects with his daddy, and protect the girls. His "job" is to keep Grace out of the tv/cable wires and he takes it very seriously. Grace always has a big smile on her face when her big brother moves her to saftey. He loves his Buddy and Elephant (stuffed animals)and sharing a room with Kate. He recently told me his talent is dancing and I must admit, he is quite entertaining. He played t-ball and soccer this year but really enjoyed the social time with friends more than the actual sports.
Since early fall, he has dealt with chronic alleriges/tonsilitis,etc. so we will be visiting an allergist in the new year.

Kate is a good combination of sensitive sweetness and strong-willed determination. She is a little mother who loves to "help" mommy with Grace, loves school and church, and going to Grandmother's house. She loves to sing and can carry a pretty good tune. If you ask her a question and she doesn't know the answer, she will almost always say "pink". Lately, she has been walking into the room and saying "What's going on here?" When she can't reach something on the counter, she will use ANYTHING, and I mean anything as a stool. A babydoll, a ball, a piece of paper, nothing is off limits. Sometimes I just watch instead of help!
Kate starts her day early (5:30 or 6) and is ready for her nap quickly after lunch. She is showing interest in potty-training (well, really just wants to wear Dora underwear) but doesn't quite understand the concept yet. She doesn't go anywhere without Baby, who gets a bath as often as Mom can sneak her away.

Grace is only 11 months old but she does her best to keep up with big brother and sister. She crawls (even has turbo speed when mom races her to the stairs), cruises and is starting to stand alone. She says mama and dada but I'm not sure if it is meaningful. She loves to wave hi to daddy from across the room. Gracie-girl is a great sleeper and so-so eater. She will let you know if she doesn't like what you are trying to feed her. We are currently in a battle over the bottle vs. sippy cup. Mom will win this battle very soon!!
By 9 months she had 1 tooth but now has all 4 front teeth with a couple more starting to push thru. Grace is a momma's girl (at least more than her siblings). But once familiar with the new church/hursery, she goes to class with no problem.
As far as size, I would guess she around 19 or 20 lbs. She is easily wearing 12-18 month clothes and size 3 or 4 diapers. Like big brother, she has ezcema but only on her ankles and few other spots. Since she has been sick this Christmas (like the rest of us), I have learned that she HATES! to take medicine.

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T04:59:00.001-08:00

Praise God from whom all blessing flow!

Grace-9 months

2010-11-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

Our sweet girl is 9 months old! She is crawling and pulling up which means she is falling down quite a bit as well. She is a great sleeper and eater which is why she is in the 79 percentile for weight. Grace loves her brother and sister who make her laugh all the time. She is a momma's girl which is nice since the other 2 never really were too clingy. She looks and acts alot like John Paul so watch out world! We look forward to watching her grow and love her so much!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T12:23:00.001-07:00

After a church "funival", a school party, and neighborhood trick-or-treating, our kids had lots of candy! Here's a list of things heard last night as they dumped their buckets to look at all the goodies:
-"Kate, candy is our favorite!"
-"I got millions!!!"
-"I love these because their yummy!"
-"We love these! Kate, don't you love these? I love these!"
-"I got 2 yellows!"
-"Lookie here!"
-"I got lots of candy than you."
-"Yummy to my tummy!"

I hope halloween is always this fun!

2010-10-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

Our house

2010-09-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

Our house is a very, very, very fine house. Our house sheltered us as newlyweds and then welcomed 3 precious babies home from the hospital. Our house showered many friends and new babies, hosted lots of gatherings, and threw a few birthday parties. Our house provided a wonderful backdrop for precious memories.
Tomorrow, after 6 years, we will leave our house behind and make a new house our home. We will miss our house but even more, we will miss all the people who helped make our house a home.

*All photos taken by the wonderfully talented Megan Drennon*

Sisters

2010-09-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Girl

2010-09-17T13:50:00.001-07:00

Grace is my happy baby. She shares big smiles with everyone she sees and loves to watch those around her. At 7 months, she loves to eat everything and sleeps like a dream. She gets into the crawling position but has only figured out how to go backwards or in a circle. She is babbling a little but prefers to yell (I think she knows its the best way to get attention).

I thank God for giving us our Grace daily..she is just what we needed!

Playing together

2010-09-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

i LOVE watching my kids play together! Such joy, fun, and laughter. I pray they continue to enjoy each other this much forever.

Kate the Great is 2!

2010-09-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

Kate turned 2 about a month ago and I just downloaded the photos from the camera! She had a great day surrounded by friends and family and seemed to know it was all about her.

Waco Zoo

2010-08-11T11:57:00.001-07:00

Mayburn Museum

2010-08-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Our vacation this summer included a few days in Waco to visit grandparents and have a little fun. One morning we took the kids to the Mayburn Children's Museum on the Baylor campus and they loved it! Play areas,dress up clothes, water and bubble rooms, live animals, and a lego exhibit were just a few highlights. I would recommend it!

Round Rock Express

2010-08-02T12:21:00.000-07:00

John Paul's tball team was invited to join the Round Rock Express team on the field before a game. The kids were asked to run to various places on the field with a pro-player and stay with them for the National Anthem. Well, these kids all took off to 2nd base and had to be herded to other spots. It was a great night for the kids and entertaining for the adults!

Go Raptors, Go!

2010-08-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

John Paul is on the Raptors t-ball team this summer with some of his friends from church. He talks a big game and likes to hit and run when he isn't playing in the dirt, eating sunflower seeds or talking to the other players. Needless to say, it is fun to watch!

Made me giggle...

2010-05-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

John Paul (from the other room): Mom! More of those fuzzy things! Look!
Me: What fuzzy things? (thinking it was dust bunnies or something yucky)
John Paul: (running into the room holding his arm) Fuzzy things! I'm getting more fuzzy things!

He noticed the hair on his arms and legs...too funny!

Kate:(to John Paul) Cheers bandaids!
(She wanted him to bump their bandaids together!)

Grace

2010-05-18T13:23:00.001-07:00

A few things I don't want to forget

2010-05-12T12:17:00.000-07:00

My kids are changing so quickly and I'm forgetting even faster. So, just to record it for the future, here's a little bit about each one:

John Paul (3yr 3months): Booger-bear, Super friendly and excited little man. Constantly making others smile with your "hi, how are you?" in your weird deep voice. You always tell me that you are protecting the girls and that you love your sisters. You love to give Grace kisses and wrestle with Kate. You are happy to try to pick up Kate when she wants you to "hold you". You are doing great with the potty thing...hardly any accidents since your birthday (except those few that I've blogged about before)
You love church and school and constantly surprise me with the things you know. Just this morning you told me about seeing your reflection in the computer. You are one smart cookie! I love hearing you tell Daddy goodnight and saying that you love him "to the pieces of the moon and back to pieces".

Kate (1yr 10 months): Kate-ster, Kate the Great! You are one super loving girl. You love your babies and are starting to pretend play with them. I catch you feeding or putting your babies to bed quite often. You love shoes even if they are too small and have quite a fit if you can't get them on easily. You pass out kisses to your family constantly and expect lots in return, esp. if you are hurt. When Grace gets up in the morning, the first thing you say is "kiss". You love to play with John Paul, even initiating the wrestling matches. You are a big eater, especially avocado and tomatoes! (and fruit snacks) Most days you eat more than your brother.
You are very strong-willed as well. I know it will serve you well in the future but it is a struggle for me in trying to teach you and discipline you. You are talking and singing up a storm these days. My favorite things to hear you say are "Awesome", "delicious", "I did it". You love to sing "Jesus loves me" and "twinkle twinkle little star". Just this morning you came and tapped my cup with yours and said "cheers"...crazy kate!

Grace (3 months): Gracie-girl. What a happy baby! You sleep 11-12 hours per night and take 2 or 3 good naps a day even when you spend most of the day in your car seat. Although you have been congested/snotty for the past few months, you are always smiley and happy. Just this week, you are starting to laugh at your brother and sister and when mommy tickles under your chin. You smile when I come to get you from your crib each morning. We can't wait to see your personality develop !

Catching up...

2010-05-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

I'm only catching up in terms of posting a few photos from Easter morning and Grace at 2 and 3 months. We have been busy the last few months getting our house ready to sell, church retreat (no photos as I didn't have a free hand for a camera) and fighting off stomach bugs. Hopefully, summer will be a healthy, relaxing time for us all.

Clean up, clean up, Mommy please clean up!

2010-04-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Besides cleaning up the house in general for selling purposes, I've been busy cleaning up after one messy boy. I wish I was talking about general messes like toys, books, food, etc but no such luck. I'm talking about the nasty, only a mother would clean it kinds of messes! Here's a few stories that Paul wanted me to blog so we would remember and maybe a few folks would have a good laugh .

Let's start on Friday. We had the carpets cleaned so the kids and I needed to be out of the house for a few hours. Since it was raining, we headed to the mall to play on the indoor playground. Our first stop was the bathroom of course so I thought we were good. 30 minutes later, "Mommy, I need to go poo poo." So, I get everyone onto the stroller, go to the bathroom and "I don't need to poo poo." So, 10 minutes later in the middle of an ice cream treat, "Mommy, I need to go poo poo." So, I get everyone onto the stroller, go to the bathroom and "I don't need to poo poo." So, 10 minutes later, this time while playing, "mommy, I need to poo poo." So I get everyone onto the stroller and as we are walking to the bathroom , "Mommy, I don't need poo poo anymore." "Why?", I ask. You guessed it! So we cleaned up, threw away the underwear and left the mall because I was done.

Jump to Saturday night. We are at my parents for the night so our house can stay clean for the open house on Sunday. In the middle of the night, John Paul throws up in the bed (which he is sharing with Kate.) I just stripped everything, remade the bed and threw it all in the bathtub until morning while Paul cleaned John Paul.

Jump to Sunday night. We had dinner after church in the FLC (gym/cafeteria). As we were getting ready to leave, one of our friends comes over and says, "John Paul just came out of the bathrooms wearing only a shirt. Paul went but he will probably need help." I looked over at the bathroom just in time to see Paul waving for me and a half naked John Paul at his side. You see, John Paul tried to make it to the bathroom in time but well, I'm not quite sure how he did what he did. Of course he chose the ladies restroom so I got to clean up. I asked him where his underwear and shorts were and he pointed into a stall. Hoping to only wipe his bottom and help him get dressed, I opened the stall door to see his underwear floating in the toilet, a pile of used toilet paper on the floor next to his shorts (which I thought were "clean" until I picked them up and poop fell into my hand), poop on the wall and toilet seat. I got John Paul cleaned up and into a diaper (which he cried about ) then proceeded to clean (and throw away our second pair of underwear for the week).

So, let's hope we are learning out lesson about not waiting too late. But that would be too easy right???

Funny kid!

2010-04-15T07:27:00.000-07:00

This morning John Paul wanted to take a bath and afterwards, I told him to put on his underwear. He comes out of the bathroom with his underwear hanging from his butt crack. This conversation followed:
Me: Put your underwear on correctly. They go on your bottom!
JP: Why?
Me: That's how normal people wear them.
JP: I'm not normal!

Later as I was trying to get dressed, he brings me a bottle with water in it from the kitchen. I just said "thanks" and put it on the counter. He then said " I'm a big help. I'm so proud of me!"

Funny kid.

Springtime fun

2010-04-01T12:57:00.000-07:00

Grace

2010-03-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

Grace is 1 month old and I'm finally getting around to posting photos from her birth. She is happy baby who still likes to eat about every 3 hours so we are quite tired! Her big brother and sister love to kiss her. John Paul calls her either "Gracie" or "Vegetable Grace"...who know where that came from!

John Paul's birthday

2010-03-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

My boy is 3! Seems like only yesterday that we brought you home from the hospital. You are a sweet boy with lots of energy and enthusiasm. We love to hear your stories and watch you play with your sister and friends. I asked you the other day about a few of your favorite things. Here's what you said:
Favorite color: blue
Favorite food: bread
Favorite movie : Peter Pan (you love anything with swords)
Best friend: Griffin

We love you John Paul!

Grace Nicole Cherry

2010-02-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

John Paul and Kate want to introduce their baby sister, Grace Nicole, who came into the world yesterday at 1:55pm. Grace is 7lb 10 oz and 21 inches long. We are so blessed!

Pregnancy Update

2010-01-27T15:08:00.000-08:00

Unless this baby girl decides to come on her own, she will be born on February 4th (next Thursday). I'm still praying that she comes before then but at least I can see the end! For those interested in this sort of thing, I was 4 cm today. I've never been more ready for anything in my life!!

December 2009

2010-01-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

What a busy time of year! We started the month off with the Chuy's parade downtown then the North Pole flyer train ride with John Paul. I think the kids really enjoyed both and it was a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

We spent Christmas Eve here in Austin with the Cherry family then had Christmas morning at our house before heading to Waco. John Paul wanted a "glow in the dark sword" from Santa this year after seeing one at Sea World back in October. He now says that it is his favorite toy. Kate got a shopping cart from Santa and seems to enjoy pushing it around the house. We had a great Christmas and look forward to next year with another kiddo!

Kids say the funniest things...

2009-11-29T17:40:00.001-08:00

Since I'm so far behind on posting photos and the task of catching up seems overwhelming at the moment, I thought I'd write a few of the things John Paul has said lately that we don't ever want to forget.

1. This morning he came into our room at 6:30am and we didn't want to get up so Paul asked John Paul to go fix our breakfast (joking of course) and his very quick response was "I'm not a chef".

2. To avoid naptime today, he called me into room:
JP: My tummy hurts.
Me: Why?
JP: Because I have feelings.
Me: Rest is best for a hurt tummy.
JP: I'm all better.

3. A few weeks ago, Kate pooped in the bathtub so we hurriedly got JP out so to not re bathe him. As Paul carried him out of the room he said: "Kate, Santa Claus saw that!". Not 2 nights later, he pooped in the tub and asked everyone if they wanted to see it!

Not to leave Kate out, I'll just give an update on her development. She started walking at about 13 months (about 3 months ago!) and now tries to do EVERYTHING her brother does! She has lots of words including: baby, mama, dada, apple, thank you, please, bye bye, night night, cracker, juice, church, go, up, eat, cheese. She is a sweet but stubborn girl who will make a great big sister in a few months!

Fall 2009

2009-10-04T16:53:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of year! I love the colors, smells, crisp cool air..well, sometimes. Anyway, here are few pictures of what we have been up to lately. The first 2 photos my sister took while the kids were in Waco visiting the grandparents. She's a great aunt and a great photographer!

The slideshow is from our trip out to Sweet Berry Farms in Marble Falls this past Saturday. It was a perfect morning:cool, not too crowded, and loads of fun. If you've never been, we recommend it! They have face painting, horse rides, hay rides, flower picking, and more varieties of pumpkins than I'd ever seen!

2009-09-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

Kate

2009-09-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

Kate is now 13 months old and poor girl is just now getting a post about her birthday! (I'm afraid that she is in for a lifetime of Mommy not being on the ball about things!)
Kate is my sweet girl! She knows how to flash that smile at just the right time, loves to give slobbery kisses and pester her big brother. She can say dada, mama, hot, ball, and a few animal sounds and is really staring to say more since her ear surgery. She is still maybe the best pointer and grunt-er i know! Although not walking yet, she thinks it is great fun to take a few steps into your arms or stand up just to fall into pillows! We look forward to all the big changes in the next few months with walking, talking and more! We love you sweet Kate!

Where did the summer go?

2009-09-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is over and John Paul has started back to "school", I'm finally going to update everyone on our summer activities (or lack of!) We started summer off with John Paul's end-of-school water day then Camp Agape (our VBS). By the first week of June, the poor kids summer fun was pretty much over! I found out I was pregnant (yes, 17 weeks as of yesterday) and had a tough first few months. If it wasn't for Granny's help, I don't know what we would have done! Anyway, all is better now and we are back to normal. Kate did have tubes put in her ears in July and seems to be happier now so we are praying for no ear infections this year!

Here's a slide show of the summer highlights:

Anyone know a good...

2009-06-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

pediatric ENT in Austin?? I need to take my sweet Kate to see one so I'm hoping that some of you mommy's out there can help me out and suggest a great doctor! Thanks.

Catching up

2009-06-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

I'm so behind that I don't even know where to start and since I can't leave a post about poop as the last post, I'm going to post a few of my favorite photos from the last few months (and then 2 slide shows for those you care to see more!)

In the last few months, we've been busy with trips to Dallas to visit my sister then to Port Aransas with Paul's family. Both trips were fun be we are glad to be home and get on a schedule again. (Well, until next week). I'll try to post more soon, especially since Kate turns 10 months old today and I need to get her picture in the big chair! Enjoy the photos!

The best way to start off the week...

2009-06-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

is NOT cleaning poop off of a boy (shoulders to knees), his pajamas, and the walls/clothes hanging in the closet where he was "hiding". (It wasn't his closet!!)

John Paul is on a strong antibiotic for a sinus infection and it better work!!! Off to finish cleaning out the closet and make sure I didn't miss a spot or 2!!

Kate is 8 months old!

2009-04-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

As you will see from the slide show, I somehow neglected to take a picture at 5 months! Poor girl, her mommy isn't being very diligent in capturing all her milestones on picture or video. Anyway, she is a very happy girl even when sick. (3 ear infections in the last 2 months and she never complained!) She has the best smile especially now that her 2 bottom teeth are coming up! She is so close to crawling and loves her big brother! We love you Kate!

Spring Break and more

2009-04-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

For spring break, the kids and I went to Dallas to visit my sister. We had fun hanging out with them and going to the Dallas Arboretum. As you can tell from most of the photos, John Paul doesn't like to be still!!! I've also included a few photos from the hailstorm we had last week. Looks like we will be getting a new roof.

Chuck E Cheese, Valentines, etc.

2009-03-09T18:28:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos from the last few months. We had fun at Chuck E Cheese with Griff for John Paul's birthday and enjoyed a few days outside flying a kite,etc. We have also had 4 ear infections (2 each) and 2 viruses (both JP) since his birthday so we are happy to be out and about again!

Conversations

2009-02-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

#1
Yesterday morning before school:
Me: "You get to go to school today and see your Friends!" (he was sick last week)
John Paul: "And see Griff?"(his bff)
M: " No. Griff went to see his grandparents in Arkansas."
JP: "I want to go to Arkansas."

then last night he randomly says...

JP: "I want to go in Arkansas with Griff grandparents!"

#2
This morning from the living room I hear:

JP: "Lynna, Look!!" " Lynna"
Me: " What is my name?"
JP: "Mom" ( with a sheepish grin on his face!)

a few minutes later:

JP: "Lynna! Look!" (looking at me smiling!)

He has already started saying "Mom" instead of "Mommy" which I can handle, but "Lynna" ?? I don't think so!

John Paul's 2nd birthday

2009-02-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all our family and friends who made it a special day for John Paul! I'll post pictures of John Paul and Griffin's Chuck E. Cheese experience next!

Christmas in February!

2009-02-02T13:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm finally posting Christmas photos. At this rate, I'll post John Paul's birthday around Easter.

Kate

2009-01-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

Swim Goggles...

2009-01-24T20:22:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look like Christmas...

2008-12-22T11:10:00.000-08:00

November 2008

2008-11-24T13:06:00.000-08:00

Cutie Pie!

Look where I can get!

Sweet Baby Kate

2008-11-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

Hard to believe but Kate is 3 months old. She is such a sweet, happy girl. We love her so!!!

LIVE! from Austin....

2008-10-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

in an intimate, straight -out-of-bed setting, John Paul "Lyle Lovett" Cherry!!!!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

Fall Festival Fun

2008-10-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

Between the 2 days of not-so-much-fun, we managed to get out of the house for a little fun at the Brentwood fall festival. John Paul had fun but was tired and probably not at full strength. Kate just took it all in from her stroller.

Look at that form! What an arm!

What a Morning! Part 2

2008-10-20T06:36:00.001-07:00

2:00 am- Up with Kate for 1 hour (she normally sleeps until at least 5)

7:00am- Up with Kate for the morning.

7:30 am- Kate has blow-out while eating breakfast.

7:45 am- John Paul walks into Kate's room while I'm cleaning her up. He smells!!! As he turns around, I notice that his blue pj's have a brown tint from neck to knees!

7:50am- John Paul in bath, Kate crying in swing, Mom covered in poop.

8:00am- John Paul clean, Kate stopped crying, Mom cleaning poop off pillow, sheets, comforter.

8:30am- Kate down for nap, John Paul watching Curious George and eating cereal, Mom preparing to disinfect the whole house. 2nd load of laundry.

I know others of you have had similar morning....I'd love to hear your stories! (btw, John Paul had a normal day yesterday and acts like he feels just fine but no school today just in case!)

Pictures

2008-10-18T16:06:00.000-07:00

I'm too tired to come up with a creative title for this post! (see previous post) Enjoy the pictures.

What a Morning!

2008-10-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

3:30 am - Up with Kate for 30 minutes.

4:40 am - Up with John Paul for 1 hour.

7:00 am - Up for Breakfast.

8:00 am - John Paul pukes all over kitchen floor, slips, hits his head and is covered in puke. John Paul washes up in shower and mom cleans the floor.

8:30 am - Kate up for the morning. First load of laundry. John Paul trips and spills his milk on the floor.

9:00 am - John Paul calls from the kitchen "I did it!". He poured a cup of sprite. Were were impressed then cleaned the sprite off the floor.

9:30 am - Kate spits up while being dressed. Second load of laundry.

10:00 am - Mom cleans herself up so we can get out of the house.

Just a few pictures...

2008-10-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

My sister informed me that I needed to post something new on the blog so this is for you Dianna. Kate is now 2 months old. She is 11.12 lbs and 22 inches. The nurse and I were both so surprised by her weight that we did it twice! She has a double chin and lots of rolls but she just doesn't seem like she is in the 70th percentile!! Anyway, here is her 2 month picture in the big brown chair and a few pictures to show how John Paul wanted in on the action.

He is really into pointing out buttons. As you can tell, Kate wasn't impressed.

Yesterday was farm animal day at John Paul's school. He really loved chasing the bunnies around, trying to either pick them up or sit on them.

That's my boy! Part 2

2008-09-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

I'm posting this so that I have it recorded (because someday I'm going to do one of those blog books like Megan!) but also to brag on my boy. He amazes me everyday with his ever growing vocabulary and knowledge!
At almost 20 months old, he is consistently saying words like porcupine and guacamole. Yesterday, we were coloring and he asked for a "circle". After the circle, I drew other shapes and asked him to name them. He correctly identified an oval, triangle, trapezoid, and diamond (which was actually a square but from his perspective looked like a diamond).
Today, he helped me count to 10. He filled in the numbers 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, and 10 at the appropriate times! It just really surprised me!
But the question remains, if he is smart enough to do those things, why doesn't he remember what "no" means and why does he think it's perfectly normal to eat out of the toilet?

That's my boy!

2008-09-26T07:34:00.000-07:00

My cute kids!

2008-09-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

I love my kids so I think almost every picture of them is just adorable. So, I hope that I'm not boring all of you with my slide show.

Fun with John Paul

2008-09-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Being the active little boy that he is, John Paul manages to get into lots of things and make lots of messes. Here are a few examples:

"Helping" Mom sweep

Eating ice off the sidewalk. (yes, I just watched him do it)

Learning to color

"Coloring" when Mom isn't watching. (you should've seen his hands)

"No, don't clean my face"

One of Kate just because she's so cute!

Weekend with the Grandparents

2008-09-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

For the Labor Day weekend, we went to Waco to visit my family. It is always nice to see family and relax a little with extra hands and eyes to watch the kids. Here are a few pictures:

John Paul, Kate and their grandparents

John Paul and his Great-Grammy

I love this boy!

Kate and the big brown chair.

2008-08-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

I took pictures of John Paul every month for the first year in our big brown chair so I'll try to do the same for Kate. Here are the first few photos and one of John Paul for comparison.

1st day of school

2008-08-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

John Paul offically started school today. Well, a mother's day out type of program but it still counts. He wasn't really into posing this morning so this is the best picture I could get. He is saying "open it!"

I think he had a good time, got a good report from his teachers and is wiped out! He has been asleep for over an hour! Woo-hoo!!

A few of my favorite pictures

2008-08-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the past few weeks. Kate is growing like a weed and John Paul is a great big brother. (Emily..these are for you!)

The last few days...

2008-08-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Things have been busy around the Cherry house. Since coming home from the hospital last Friday, we have had a stream of visitors (many bringing wonderful meals....thanks!), celebrated 2 more birthdays, had 4 trips to the pediatrician (3 for Kate and 1 for John Paul), survived1 case of Croup (John Paul), cut 2 teeth, and had very little sleep. We have never been happier or felt more blessed! Here are a few pictures for those interested:

http://picasaweb.google.com/lynnacherry/KateWeek102

Photos of Kate's First 48 Hours

2008-08-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy this slide show.

Kate Nicole is Here!

2008-07-31T19:37:00.000-07:00

Kate Nicole was born at 1:53pm today. We are so blessed with a healthy little lady and we are so thankful for wonderful family/friends who share in our joy!!

Kate's Info

Kate and Mom

Happy Birthday!

2008-07-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

The end of July and early August is a busy birthday time for our family. Within a 2 1/2 week period, we will celebrate 5 birthdays. I just wanted to take a moment to say Happy Birthday and I love you to 3 of the 5.

First, Happy Birthday Paul! I thank God daily, but especially today, for the wonderful man, husband and father that He has made in you! I have no greater joy than watching you with John Paul and I know you will love your daughter with the same passion! Happy Birthday Babe, I love you!

Second, Happy Birthday Dad! Thank you for being a wonderful father to me and a great G-daddy to your grandkids. I pray that John Paul will live up to his name and exhibit the wonderful characteristics that you and Paul are teaching him. I love you! I hope you don't mind sharing your birthday with your granddaughter.

Third, Happy Birthday sweet daughter of mine! We can't wait to meet you tomorrow! Your big brother has been practicing saying "Happy Birthday" so get ready! Your mommy and daddy love you!!

Baby Update.

2008-07-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

For those interested, we are scheduled for an induction next Thursday, July 31st. My doctor seems to think she will come before then but she said that with John Paul too. (He had to be induced after his due date!)

Please pray for a safe and healthy delivery for us all!

2 Things John Paul learned from his Daddy.

2008-07-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

1. Dancing
2. Making Muscles
(He didn't really learn those moves from Paul. You can't teach moves like that...the kids got talent!)

Rate My Space

2008-07-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Big changes have occurred in the last few months around the Cherry house. John Paul has moved into a big boy bed and the guest room is now a nursery. Here are a few pictures of the new spaces: (feel free to comment or offer suggestions!)

The walls are pale pink...kinda hard to tell.

Bad Bedtime Book

2008-06-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

Aunt Dianna gave John Paul a new book this weekend so we pulled it out for our bedtime reading tonight. It's safe to say that he likes the book and that we won't be reading it at bedtime anymore! Here's a video of the 2nd reading:

A kid after my own heart...

2008-06-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

When I was little, if you asked me what my favorite food was, I wouldn't say pizza or cake or hamburgers like most kids. My favorite food was corn on the cob!! Well, maybe John Paul is a little bit like his mother. Just look at the way he attacked this corn:

29 weeks and a Crazy boy!

2008-05-27T11:32:00.001-07:00

Sunday morning Paul wanted to take a picture of me (oh the joy!) since we are at almost 30 weeks. Only 10 or so more!!!! Of course, crazy John Paul jumped in the picture.

This morning (notice the wild, wooly hair) John Paul brought me shoes to help him put on. He wore these around the house for hours before finally pulling them off. The converse is still a little big so watching him walk was entertaining.

Saturday Fun

2008-05-19T09:01:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, we went to the Williamson County Park to ride the Cedar Rock Train. It was John Paul's first train ride and I think he enjoyed holding his tickets as much as the ride itself.

Later that afternoon, we went to a dinner/pony ride at Granny's work. John Paul rode the pony, wore his hat, and said "horse" more times than I could count. Thanks for the invite Granny!!

The past few months...

2008-04-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

I realize that I'm way behind on blogging so here are a few of my favorite pictures from the past few months. Since my last post, John Paul has started walking and gotten a few new teeth. Otherwise, we are looking forward to meeting our daughter in August!

Click on the photo to see more!

It's a ....

2008-03-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!!

We went to the doctor today (I know our countdown says we are 13 days away from finding out) because I was having some pain. All is well with me and our little girl. We are excited and Paul has visions of little Cinderella's in his head! If I get the time and energy, I'll try to add a picture tomorrow. (but we all know that sonogram pictures don't really show that much)

John Paul's first big vacation!

2008-03-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, we went to Disney World last week. It was a last minute trip thanks to Paul's brother and we had a great time. Paul and Stephen rode all the big rides while John Paul and I took in the kid shows and met lots of characters.

John Paul's 1st Birthday!

2008-02-20T08:35:00.000-08:00

We celebrated John Paul's 1st birthday a few weeks ago with family and a few friends. He had a good time playing and really enjoyed his first cake! (Thanks to Granny Faith for making such a cute, delicious cake!) We don't really have a picture of him covered in cake because he didn't really dive in and make a big mess!
John Paul and Griffin playing with the new sand/H2O table.

John Paul and his 2 cousins

All of John Paul's immediate family (minus Uncle Stephen and Uncle Scott)

He really didn't mind being the center of attention! He could stand and clap all day!

The day before, Paul and I took John Paul to Toys R Us. This is what you find if you leave them alone for a few seconds:

John Paul's big news!

2008-01-15T11:52:00.000-08:00

(sorry its sideways, if anyone knows how to rotate video, let me know!!)

Christmas photos!

2008-01-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

I'm a little slow at posting, but better late than never. Here are a few pictures from our time with the Cherry's and with my family in Waco:

John Paul's new toy from Aunt Dianna

He was fascinated by the fire (real or fake):

John Paul and his Daddy

Look Uncle Micheal, I can stand!

Granddaddy is funny!

Cheese!

Playing with the train set:

These cars are the coolest!

Christmas Morning

Twas the weeks before Christmas....

2007-12-18T07:02:00.001-08:00

and we have been busy!!! Here are a few shots of the places we've been and things we've done:

Family fun at Cabela's

Early Christmas with Aunt Nancy

In Zilker park before the Trail of Lights

Our friends the Drennons before the race:

Megan, Lleyton, Kennedy, John Paul, Amber and Luke (sorry Luke, I almost cut you off)

Christmas Card rejects!

2007-12-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

For weeks, I have attempted to capture the perfect photo for our Christmas card. Here are some of the rejects:

Thanksgiving

2007-12-05T06:18:00.001-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving with Paul's family then headed to Waco for a little time with my family. John Paul loved the turkey, dressing, potatoes, green beans, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce!

Granny got out his Christmas present --hope he doesn't remember!

All the boys!

After a long Turkey day:

John Paul and his crazy cousins, Bailey and Abby.

Where's John Paul??

2007-12-05T06:05:00.000-08:00

Since John Paul has really started to move, we have found him in quite a few places:

Looking at the Christmas tree:

In the cabinets:

Under the table:

On the vacuum cleaner:

In the closet:

In the laundry basket:

9 Months old!

2007-11-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

Wow how time flies! We are so blessed to have such a happy baby boy. Even with a cold and ear infection, our little man is a joy to be around.

G-daddy and John Paul

This is one of his favorite places to play with the baskets to empty and books to pull down!

9 Months old in the big brown chair.

Happy Halloween 2!

2007-11-01T05:12:00.000-07:00

Introducing Pope John Paul:

(Some might confuse him with Elvis or a boxing champ without the Pope hat!)
Which costume should he wear to trunk-or-treat, the lion or the pope? Or both?

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T06:30:00.001-07:00

Lazy Lion likes to sleep. He stretches out and snores!

But if you dare to wake him up, he pounces and he roars!!

John Paul has another costume, so come back for more pictures soon!

Waco Vacation

2007-10-23T08:17:00.001-07:00

Last week, we spent a few days "vacationing" in Waco at my parents house. We enjoyed our visit with family and had a fun day at the zoo.

John Paul giving "sugar" to Great-Grammy.

John Paul with his grandparents.

I shouldn't be doing this!

Fun at the zoo.

How to Blow a Raspberry

2007-10-17T07:54:00.001-07:00

One should always follow these steps when Mom is trying to take your picture:

1. Suck on bottom lip for maximum spit production.

2. Pucker lips, careful not to drool too much.

3. Stick out your tongue.

4. Close your eyes tight and blow with all ya got!!

5. Smile really big! You did it!

Fall Fun!

2007-10-12T12:52:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Pumpkin Festival with our good friends Katie, Griffin, Amber, and Luke. Since Luke is just 6 weeks old, we don't have any pictures of him...maybe next year. Anyway, I think John Paul had a good time, saw lots of animals and fell asleep on the hay ride!

Anyone else see the similarities??

Look Mom..Goats!!

John Paul and Griffin talking about the duck.