Landry's World

What a Change!

2009-07-12T18:05:00.011-05:00

So we started the summer with swimming lessons at Schlitterbahn. I had great hopes of Landry loving the water and thriving as a swimmer. I loved to swim as a kid (and still do) and was excited to share that with him. Also, we were leaving for vacation in 10 days and would have a pool on site and I wanted Landry to be able to get to the side of the pool should he fall in. Well my great hopes quickly turned bleak. We participated in the daily ritual of tears and chasing Landry around the pool area to get him back in his lesson. The chase (walking of course) usually ended with me picking him up and either handing him off to the teacher or throwing him in the pool to the teacher, not to mention me getting soaked. It was definitely a tough love experience. I just prayed that the other onlooking parents were not dialing CPS on their cell phones.

Well, after 7 lessons it was time to head to Florida. Landry was confident swimming with a noodle but still would not put his face in the water. As we swam in Florida he got more confident and by the time we left Papa had convinced him that putting his face is was not too bad. Thanks Papa! Landry was having fun swimming and playing in the pool.

Once back home we were scheduled to take lessons with an icon in town - Ms. Bucky! Bucky Smith has been teaching lessons for 30+ years in a pool that she and her father built by hand in the 60's. Landry was very excited and kept asking when he would get to go to Ms. Bucky's. I on the other hand was reluctant and not looking forward to 2 more weeks of tough love.

Day 1 started as Landry followed the other 4 kids into the pool. They all started playing around and before the lesson ever started he was already putting his face in! Hallellujah - we were off to a great start! In the first hour (day 1) the kids learned the dead man float, how to glide on thir stomachs with their face in the water, kicking, and two different arm movements. I was AMAZED at the things LAndry was trying and doing without any fight or hesitation. By day 3 he was swimming across the pool and getting better everyday. The mom's joked that if al this was happening on day 3, it must be olympic tryouts on day 10! Well, we finished 2 weeks of lessons and never once did Landry complain. In fact, each day he asked when it was time to go to Ms. Bucky's. It was such a great experience for both of us (except for sitting in the 105 degree heat every afternoon!)

Well, here is some video of the things Landry learned. I will try to make the day of the lesson if I can figure it out.

The first video is from Day 3.

This next one is from Day 6.

This is from Day 8 or 9.

Here's the "frog" stroke.

OK - so I could go on and on with videos of my new little fish! I am so proud of him.

When we started swimming lessons he would not jump in without holding on to the edge of getting Ms. Bucky's hand. Look at him now! Not only is he jumping in and doing has favorite - cannon balls, but he learned to dive and has even invented his own Superman dive/jump.

I guess I have used all my luck in getting these videos to load becuase I can't get the jumping or diving videos to work. So for now, thanks for reading and watching. Hopefully I'll get the other videos to load for those that want more.

Our first Spring Break

2009-03-27T20:22:00.004-05:00

So Landry and I enjoyed our first spring break (OK - his first and my first in many years). We didn't have any big plans since Steve had spring break 2 weeks ago. But we knew we would have some fun. Landry started his break by going to his first in person Spurs game with Daddy. Here's a quick shot I got before they headed out to the game.

We ended the week with a day trip to Round Top. The beautiful quaint town (population 77) near La Grange, Texas. Every spring they play host to the largest antique, craft fair type of event. Vendors line the road for miles. We walked and walked and walked some more (about 5 hours of walking in all - good practice for our Disney trip). We even came away with a few goodies. Along the way we found a great treasure that is no where to be found in the San Antonio area this year - Bluebonnets. Had to stop and get a picture or 2. Here's Landry posing in the bluebonnets (he even managed a smile after being pooped out from our long day).

In between the Spurs and Round Top, we did a little shopping, played a little Wii, did some cleaning and even made it to a couple of appointments. All in all the hanging out time was a great restful week (and helped me get over a sinus infection) . We are both ready to go back to school and the year with a bang!

Hope you are all enjoying your spring.

Don't Faint!

2009-03-07T17:28:00.001-06:00

We're back! Landry and I sat down at the computer today and gave the blog a facelift. He picked out the background and all the colors. Now were off to find new things to add to the blog.

2008 Christmas Letter

2008-12-22T14:35:00.003-06:00

What a great year 2008 has been. Yet another your full of God's provision and blessings! As I write this I am stuck by how faithful and incredible our God is. He provides, protects, and blesses far beyond what we deserve. I am constantly stunned at how He cares for the little things in our lives even though there is so much BIG stuff going on in this world.

Although not big in the sense of the big picture, 2008 did have some big changes for the Biddison family. Probably the biggest change was in Amy's career. You might remember from last year that she was working on getting her alternative teaching certification. Well, God opened the door for her to begin teaching this year. Amy is teaching 6th, 7th and 8th graders at New Braunfels Middle School. She is a dyslexia intervention teacher and LOVES it. There has been no looking back and no regrets as she ventured from the legal world to the world of education. Amy has one test left to take before she will get her full teaching certificate.

Another big change was the start of school for Landry. He is in kindergarten and doing great. God was so faithful in placing Landry with a teacher that was just the perfect fit for him. It has been such a joy to watch him grow and develop intellectually, socially and emotionally. He has made new friends and loves school. He is particularly proud of his new reading skills and takes every opportunity to point out words that he knows. This year he has continued with his speech therapy and continues to make improvements every week.

Steve remained at Southwest High School in San Antonio this year. Although he too made a change from teaching sophomores to teaching seniors. He loves the job change that God opened up for him. He continues to coach girl's basketball for the Dragons, although the season has not started off too well. But - we know that our God is a God of miracles - which is what it will take to turn this season around. :-)

We continue to be blessed having our family close to us. We love that Landry has both sets of grandparents very near and he continues to build bonds and memories with them that he will cherish for many years.

To our family and friends, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are blessed to have each of in our lives. Each of you have left some imprint on our lives that makes us who we are today. We are truly blessed that God has surrounded us with such awesome people.

We hope that each of you has a very Merry Christmas and a great 2009. We are excited to see what God has in store for us in the upcoming year.

Steve, Amy and Landry

Retirement, Zoo and Father's Day, Oh my!

2008-06-19T15:07:00.006-05:00

We had a fun filled long weekend last week. The events started with a trip to Austin to watch my Dad get recognized for his retirement at the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals annual conference. Landry loved watching Papa on the stage and on the big screen. Scott, Mariana and Audrey met us in Austin for the festivities.

Thanks Papa for all the hard work you have put in. You have truly affected the lives of thousands of teenagers and adults during your time as a teacher and administrator. Good or bad we don't know - but you have affected them! Just kidding! It was an honor being known as "Coach Hughes' daughter."

We celebrated the retirment back in San Anotnio at Dad's restaurant of choice - County Line. To see the happy man with his ribs look here.

Friday we ventured off to the San Antonio zoo. We all had a great time and here's the proof.

Landry and Audrey on the lions.

Landry with the map ready to show us where to go.

First stop - Flamingo exhibit!

Landry and Audrey checking out the HUGE snake. See it coiled up there. Imagine meeting one of those face to face. Actually - I'd rather not even imagine it!

Landry and Steve must be watching something really riveting.

Nope, just a bear that looks really miserable in the Texas heat! That was a trend that I noticed amongst the animals. Even the animals that are supposed to adapted to the heat seemed a little hot.

The zebra found the one strip of shade to stand in.

The rhino found his one shady area too!

And don't let these humans fool you. They were actually stalling in the new air conditioned hippo exhibit. Trust me, checking out the back sides of two hippos was not near as exciting as they make it look! Hippo bottoms or stalling in the AC - definitely stalling!!!

Of all the things we saw - the funniest was the neurotic ostrich who was apparently hungry. However, there was no food around, no gnats in the air - nothing. I think ostriche's are capable of having hallucinations in the hot Texas heat! Check out the video at the bottom of the blog!!!

Saturday night we went to Sarah's first birthday party. Landry had a great time playing with his cousins and Aunt Amy got to feed Sarah her first bites of ice cream! We were just bonding Beck!

We finished th weekend up with a celebration of all the father's in our lives. Happy Father's Day!

Wow - what a weekend!

I'm What???

2008-06-04T07:19:00.003-05:00

Last night while Landry and I were laying in bed and getting him tucked in we had another one of those "deep 5 year old" conversations. We started out talking about kindergarten when Landry asked if he would see me at school. I told him no, if Mommy gets to be a teacher she will be with older kids. To which he responded "Yeah - Mommy old, Ginny old." (Mrs. Ginny was Landry's preschool teacher from January - May; and he adored her). Here's the rest of the converstaion:
ME: Well, how old are you?
L: I'm not old, I'm brand new.
ME: Oooohhh (while I ponder the brand new thing). Well how old is Mommy?
L: Mommy is "5 old" like Ginny.
ME: Ooohhhh. (Thinking OK - that's not too old.) Well how old is Daddy?
L: Daddy's not old.
ME: What? (I know he misunderstood the question). How old is Daddy?
L: NO - Daddy is not old.
ME: OK (confused and perplexed about what makes one old - I tread down the family list). Is Mimi old?
L: Yes. "19 old" (BTW - 19 is the biggest number Landry knows right now. Sorry Mimi - he said it not me).
ME: Is Papa old?
L: Yes.
ME: How old?
L: (Shaking his head in wonder) I don't know.
ME: Is Audrey old?
L: NO - Brand New.
ME: Is Tia old?
L: No.
ME: Is Uncle Scotty old?
L: Yes. "19 old"
ME: Is Grandma old?
L: (With a smile on his face that said "silly mommy") Noooooo Mommy.
ME: Is Grandpa old?
L: Yes.
ME: Who else is old?
L: Micah and Meagan are brand new.
ME: So - what makes a person old?
L: (Now with the "duh mommy" look on his face) Jesus!

Well, although no one wants to be called old, if my oldness comes from Jesus then I'll take it. AND - I'm in pretty good company (Old and Brand New alike)!

Here's an update on the job situation for Steve and I:
Steve has an interview Thursday (3:30) at Clemens High School in Schertz for a Boys Asst. position. The pluses: distance (10-15 miles away), no second sport, back to the arena of boys basketball. The cons: it's not a head job - but it is with a good program so that would be good on the resume for future years.

I have an interview on Monday morning (10:30) with a middle school in the Comal district. The job is teaching Skills for Living / Career Exploration. I looked at some textbooks online for this class and the class looks like it would be tons of fun to teach! The kids learn about their interests and aptitude and what careers they might enjoy, communication, being in the workplace, etc. I also talked to the middle school principal here in NB and that is still in the works but 85-90% chance it will happen. However, I probably won't know about this one until early to mid July due to transfers and tests, etc.

Please keep us in your prayers as we both want to be where God wants us.

Awesome God Video

2008-05-29T17:15:00.003-05:00

I finally got the video posted on the blog. A little thinking (OK - a lot and a few days too!) and you can out smart the computer. Just scroll down to the bottom of the page and you will see the video box. Click the Play button and get ready to be blessed. There is just something about children singing praises to our God that makes the heart smile! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

The End of a Chapter

2008-05-25T18:46:00.005-05:00

As school comes to an end this year, we are ending a chapter in Landry's life - Preschool. This last week, Landry had his preschool graduation. What a handsome graduate we had!

Although a little shy and not ready to be front and center with the crowd, he did walk down the aisle with a little help from Papa! Thanks Papa!!! Here's a few pics from the night.

Proud parents with the graduate

Landry and his best friend, Chad

The night was also filled with songs from all the classes at the school. Landry's class performed a class favorite - Awesome God. The students started each morning out with this song - so it was only appropriate that they share it with th parents on graduation night. I've had trouble getting the video to load but I will keep trying.

Sometimes you just have to smile - even when they are in trouble!

2008-04-02T11:11:00.003-05:00

Today we have a guest blogger: Daddy! Here's what he wrote.

A couple nights ago, Landry climbed a big shelf in his room to get something from the top shelf. Fortunately for all of us, it did not topple over on him. Amy told him that he was to never do that again because if it falls on him, he could die. In a very sincere tone, he stated that he would go to Heaven. We told him then that he would go to Heaven, but if he did, he wouldn't be able to see mommy and daddy and his other relatives and his friends anymore. His response: "yeah, but I won't go to school anymore." I couldn't keep my smile back after that one (and netiher could Mommy!)

Something lost in translation!

2008-03-17T09:58:00.003-05:00

I had the privilege of working in Landry's nursery this class yesterday with another Mom. We talked to the kids about Palm Sunday. We explained that Jesus came to town on a donkey, the people were excited to see him and they welcomed him like a king. They had palm branches that they put on the ground so he (and his donkey) would not have to touch the dirt. They also waived the branches in the air and shouted "Hosanna, Hosanna." Each of the kids made a palm branch and we used them during our praise and worship time as well as during our story. It was really fun to watch them sing and dance to the Lord!

After we left church, I did my normal questioning of Landry to see what he remembered. Although I know we were very clear in our teaching, something got lost in translation from adult to 4 year old.

Mommy: Landry do you know what today is?

Landry: Sunday

Mommy: This is a special Sunday - do you know what its called?

Landry: Palm Tree Sunday! (With a big grin that shows how proud he is for knowing that)

Mommy: And who went to town on Palm Tree Sunday? (Did I just say that I thought to myself)

Landry: Jesus!

Mommy: And what was Jesus riding?

Landry: A donkey!

Mommy: What did the people waive at Jesus?

Landry: Palm Trees! (That's gives quite a mental visual image!

With each question Landry gets more excited and proud that he knows the answers - by the last question he is just beeming

Mommy: What did the people say to Jesus as he rode into town?

Landry: Jose! Jose!

Gotta love them!
Well - from our family to yours - Happy Palm Tree Sunday!

I hope that during this very special week you will dwell on the magnitude of Christ's love and sacrifice for you!

It's Official

2008-03-06T10:30:00.004-06:00

Thanks for all of your votes and e-mails about a name for the puppy. It was a tight race, and a vocal campaign by many of you. After considering all the input you gave, we decided to name the puppy Fluffy. OK - not really - the puppy's name is . . .

Sprite! This was just too perfect (and Landry was stuck on it). Despite being a Landry favorite, Sprite also lives up to his mythological background of being very feisty and spirited.

Sprite went to the vet for the first time and weighed in at 2.7 pounds. He was an instant hit at the office and was given a clean bill of health. He has explored his way around the house and backyard and is getting accustomed to his new home. He loves chasing Landry around and Landry loves it too! his favorite toy is Landry's dirty sock!

Landry is being such a great big brother. He even helps take Sprite outiside for his morning potty break! One morning it was rather chilly and Landry ran inside to get a hat to help him stay warm.

I guess it was less about immediate warmth and more about thinking of a warm place (note the wide brimmed beach hat)! Or maybe it was just that we live in Texas and don't really have hats that keep your head and ears warm becuase we rarely need them.

This morning, Sprite went to school with Landry to meet his friends. Landry was so excited to introduce Sprite to his class.

Sprite was - once again - an instant hit.

Mommy's Birthday Present

2008-03-03T13:20:00.005-06:00

Mommy's birthday is tomorrow but she already got her birthday present. I just wanted to share it with you.

I just love the new puppy. He is soft and cuddly but he also likes to play tag. I have fun watching him explore the house, especially when he slips and slides on the wood floor.

We went to San Antonio to look the puppies and this one was the first to run, play and explore. Mommy says he is a Maltipoo (Maltese daddy and Poodle mommy). Please don't hold his heritage against him Scotty and Tia - he looks just like his daddy.

Now we have the hard decision of finding the perfect name for him. Mommy has already vetoed many of my choices (Superdog, Bat Hound, John Deere Tractor, and Backhoe). But there are a few we all like! We would like your help because we just can't decide. Please check out the names and then cast your vote in the blue box on the right.

1. Emmitt - we have noticed the ability to run and cut just like Emmitt Smith. This will come in very handy when playing tag with Landry.

2. Duke - Steve loves the Duke Bluedevils basketball team and it seems like a cute name for a boy puppy

3. Scout - Amy's favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird and Scout, a character from the book, won out over Boo and Aticus

4. Sprite - one of Landry's favorite drinks. We just didn't think root beer was an appropriate name for a white dog.

Please vote on the box to the right. If you don't like any of these then please feel free to leave your name of choice as a Comment. Thanks for helping us out. We hope to have the perfect name very soon.

Disclaimer: The family keeps the right to name the new puppy whatever they want despite the results of this ever so official vote!

A glimpse into the future

2008-02-22T09:56:00.005-06:00

This week at school, the letter of the week was V. As we were getting ready for school on Friday morning, Landry wanted to wear his new vest because it started with V. He also wore his new shoes (both thanks to his cousin Micah). He looked pretty spiffy if I do say so myself.

I asked Landry to take a picture so that I could send it to Aunt Maribeth and Micah. Instead of the normal stand by the wall, hands straight down 4 year old pose, his inner diva came out. The first shot was just so natural and is ready for the cover of GQ.

For the second shot, Landry immediately adjusted his pose. Mommy started seeing the future of a model - his natural moves, working the camera . . .

Then he struck his pose and the criminal justice major and attorney in me saw only one thing

my precious 4 year old looked liked he was getting arrested. His arms were up against the wall ready to be cuffed. Talk about seeing a totally different future flash before your eyes! The only thing that kept me in the moment was nice little foot lift to show off the great shoes! I guess he really was modeling and doing his best to sell the clothes (at least that's what I've learned they are supposed to do from watching America's Top Model! That admission in and of itself is its own post.) Here's one last typical 4 year old smile for the camera.

Thanks Micah for passing down the clothes (and Maribeth too!)

Here's a special Thank You just for Micah, from Landry.

School is more than the 3 R's

2008-02-18T15:21:00.000-06:00

So lately the common question in our household is "Landry - where did you learn that?" And the answer is always "my school." No - its not what you are thinking. No four letter words, obscene gestures or subject matters not appropriate for 4 year olds. Let's all pray that we don't go there anytime soon!

We have however, seen an increased knoweldge in many subjects important to boys. First, there was the day that Landry was playing football with Papa and confidently announced "Inpete" as he waived his hands across like an NFL Referee. Then there was his sudden interest in baseball and his instincitve knowledge to hit the bat two times on the ground before getting ready to swing. However, it was last night's demonstration that caused me to laugh out loud. Last night Landry proclaimed to his Daddy "I know karate." After a short demonstration to Daddy he was sent in to show Mommy what he knew. I immediately knew this was one for the blog. Here is an excerpt from the Karate Demonstration. (Just hit the arrow below the screen to watch Landry in action.) I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.

New Year's Resolution

2008-01-01T20:07:00.000-06:00

So Mommy and I were talking today about what a new year is. I don't really get it, but she said we get a new calendar and the year is now 2008. Then we started talking about what we could do in 2008 and we decided on this "Make it GREAT in 2008!" To me this means that whatever I do I will do my best. I am going to be the best helper I can be, be the best obeyer I can be and when it comes to playing, be the best player I can be. I hope you will join me and make your 2008 GREAT too!

An On-line Christmas Letter???

2007-12-18T14:20:00.000-06:00

Yep - that's what this is! Mommy has hijacked my blog to bring you this year's Christmas letter in electronic form. This fall has been CRAZY and we are a little late (no - a lot late) in working on a Christmas letter. So without further ado - here it goes!

Wow - what a year 2007 has been. There's been good and bad and everything in between but through it all God has been faithful and we are here to celebrate the birth of our Savior. The highlight of the year would have to be our trip to Costa Rica. We traveled to Costa Rica with Amy's parents and her brother and his family. We spent the first week on the Pacific coast in a town called Playa del Coco. We stayed in a beautiful home that sat on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Needless to say it was a level of luxury that we could easily become a custom to. While in Coco we spent a few days at the beach, did some deep sea fishing, took a river ride through a wildlife refuge, and visited some surrounding towns and villages. And we can't forget the shopping and lazy days at the house playing in the pool. For the last few days, we traveled east to the area surrounding the Arenal Volcano, one of the active volcanoes in the area. We again were very blessed with our accommodations and had a terrific time in the rainforest. Although the clouds never cleared completely for a view of the awe inspiring Arenal, the sights were amazing. Pictures don't do it justice - so you will have to plan a trip for yourself to see what we mean. For us, the best part of the trip was zip-lining through the rain forest. It was like a scene out of the Amazing Race and an incredible experience. Landry even got to fly like Superman - something he continues to talk about. For more details and pictures on our trip, scroll down just a little and see the blog entry on Costa Rica.

Landry is now 4 1/2 and is anxiously awaiting the day he gets to start at the "big school." For now he is attending preschool at our old church. His week is supplemented with speech therapy (as much as 5 hours a week) as we continue to work on his verbal apraxia and articulation issues. His speech improves by the day and I am amazed at how far he has come. I never thought I'd see (or hear) the day when I would actually tell him to be quiet! We have become quite good at interpreting and understanding what he is saying, but every now and then he throws us for a loop. Context is everything! He does not frustrate easily and is a really good communicator. I can't wait to see the plans that God has for him unfold as he grows. Knowing God and his sense of humor - he will probably be a preacher or speaker of some sorts.

Landry is definitely all boy and is currently obsessed with Superman and Batman, tractors and trains, and playing with his friends. It is so fun watching him grow and develop and experience new things. It's hard to remember life before him and we definitely wouldn't go back to it! He is growing into such a considerate and empathetic little boy. He is often first to run and hold a door open for someone or comfort a friend when they are hurt or sad. And personality and humor he is not lacking! He is little charmer - and despite his speech issues the kids at school love him.

Steve has once again started the year in a new school. He is now coaching at a 5A high school on the other side of San Antonio. He is the Assistant Varsity Coach for the girls teams and started the season helping the Junior Varsity team while their coach was finishing football season. Although the season is not starting off as he and the other coach hoped, the experience and exposure he is getting at the 5A level will benefit him for the future. He is also teaching Sophomore English. He had one of his friends from La Vernia also transfer to this school so he was able to start the year knowing someone. He has since made some new friends and is enjoying his time at Southwest High School.

Amy continues to work at home as an attorney for the Texas Workforce Commission, although a change is on the horizon. She is working on her Alternative Teaching Certification and hopes to become a teacher. She would really like to teach 2nd - 5th grades or Government to high school seniors. Yes - she knows this is quite an extreme and she is getting used to the looks on peoples' faces when she tells them this. In actuality though, it really shows the two different sides of her personality. No - I didn't say multiple personalities!

In May, we started a new adventure with our church. We were part of a small group that left Community Bible Church in San Antonio to help start a satellite church - Community Bible Church New Braunfels. It has been amazing to watch God work in our new church. Amy is the Children's Director and oversees the program from nursery through 6th grades. Steve has helped with some planning for the youth. We also lead a small group with other married couples in the church. In addition to our satellite, CBC has started about 12 satellite churches across the state, country and around the world. God has opened some amazing doors and on any given weekend there are 11,000 people worshipping through CBC.

We are excited to see what God is going to do in 2008. Please keep us in your prayers as Amy looks to change careers, Steve continues to impact the lives of students through teaching and coaching, and as Landry starts kindergarten. It looks like 2008 is going to be a big year!!!

We would love to hear from you so feel free to leave us comments here or e-mail us at amybiddison@sbcglobal.net. Check back throughout the year to see how we are doing!

The Biddison Family
Steve, Amy & Landry

Who Are You???

2007-09-14T15:01:00.000-05:00

YEAH - I have reached the 500 mark! That's right 500 views of my blog!!! My only question is WHOOO ARE YOU? I know my Mommy loves me, but she has not viewed this 500 times. I know my cousin Audrey visits becuase she leaves my comments. But I know that Audrey has not been here 500 times either. So - here is the question of the day - WHOOOOOO Are you? WHO WHO? WHO WHO? (If you don't get it watch the beginning to a CSI episode - and no my Mommy does not let me watch that).

Just let me know who you are by leaving a Comment on the blog. If you don't know how, its very simple. Just click the word Comment at the end of each posting. Type your comment in the box on the screen that pops up and click enter.

You see - I am really asking to help out my Mommy. She works from home and gets a little quiet sometimes when I am at school. So her conversations are usually with the computer. It would be great for her to coverse with those that leave comments, instead of all those stangers on her Mommysavers board. Help her out - leave a comment when you like my blog! If you don't leave comments, she will assume that no one is reading or no one likes it and she just might stop writing. PLEASE oh PLEASE leave her comments becuase I like telling my story through this blog!!!

P.S. I recently did a book about ME and I am hoping Mommy will post it here. Please give her some encouragement to do so!!!!

A message for Grandparent's Day

2007-09-09T12:35:00.001-05:00

I love you Grandma & Grandpa

and

Mimi & Papa!!!!

Happy Grandparent's Day!

and now a message from Mommy and Daddy to all of the wonderful Grandparents in Landry's life:

THANKS for all that you do. We appreciate all of your love, support and encouragement. Landry has the best Grandparents in the World!!!!

Superman in Training

2007-09-09T12:17:00.000-05:00

Being Superman takes a lot of hard work and training. Here are some pictures a a video from a recent training session. Just a note about the video - it is not in fast-forward, that is just my super speed and spinning ability at work! Hope you enjoy it!

Happy Birthday Audrey!

2007-09-01T09:50:00.001-05:00

Today is my cousin Audrey's Birthday! She is 2 years old today. Last week we had her Nemo birthday party. I think Audrey is getting really big - she's not a baby anymore. I love to play with Audrey and show her how to do things. Happy Birthday Audrey!

Then:

Now:

Big Boy School

2007-09-01T09:37:00.000-05:00

I had such a great week! I got to start big boy school with my teacher, Miss Erin. Since I am 4 years old now, I am in the class with the biggest kids at the school. Mommy says when I am 5 I will get to go to the BIG school across the street. Almost everyday I ask if I am 5 yet, but mommy just tells me that is along way off. So for now I will enjoy my school with the other 4 year olds.

This week learned all about A. I know that apples, ants, alligators, and astronauts start with A. On Wednesday we had to bring something that started with A for show and tell. I finally decided to take a picture of my mommy becuase her name is Amy. (Look below becuase the picture I used was one that I took!) We also a read a book about making an apple pie and then we got to eat one! It was a really fun week!!!

Here are a few pictures from the first day of school. I made a deal with mommy - I would let her take some pictures of me if I could take some pictures of her. I hope you enjoy them! Don't forget to check out my hair - I did it myself!!!

Daddy started at his brand new school this week too! His school is really big!! He has to go upstairs to get to his classroom. He really likes his new school. And I really like when Daddy starts school becuase that means it time for football games. Daddy said maybe next week we can go to a football game. YEAH!!!!

Trip to the Beach

2007-08-19T12:56:00.000-05:00

First - yes we are all still alive and here. Mommy says it has been a busy summer. She promises to do more blogging now that we are getting back to our school year routine.

So last weekend - Mommy and Daddy decided that it would be fun to go to the beach for the weekend before school started. Here is a scrapbook run down of our weekend that mommy created. I hope you enjoy it!

Costa Rica Part 1

2007-07-02T10:19:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

We are back from Costa Rica and Mommy has gotten back into her work schedule and now has time to update my blog. We had a wonderful time on our trip. It will take a few days to get all of the details to you - so think of it as a chapter book not a little kid book!

For the first entry - I want to give you my Costa Rica Top 6 (that's as high as I can count!)

6. Beautiful Sunsets - Mommy likes to point out sunsets to me when we are driving or at home. I was so excited the first night we got to Costa Rica because I saw a beautiful sunset. I ran into the house to tell mommy. She got her camera and we took some pictures. Each night I made sure to show the sunsets to Mommy. When we look at sunsets we like to talk about God's favorite colors that day. In Costa Rica He liked orange for many days - but each day was a little different.

5. Making new friends - When we arrived in Costa Rica we stayed at a beautiful house on a hill. There was a very nice couple, Lucia and Raul, that worked at the house. I quickly jumped in to help Raul with his duties. He also showed me some frogs that came out at night. Raul and I became quick friends and by the end of the week I could say "Raul mi amigo!" Here's a picture Mommy took of me with Raul.

4. Discovering the beach - I got to go to the beach for the first time. I had so much fun playing in the sand and waves. I really loved running into the water and then running away from the waves as they came in. I also liked going out really deep with Mommy, Daddy and Papa and jumping as the waves crashed into us. As much fun as the beach is, I really don't like getting water in my mouth! Yuck!!!

3. Meeting a crocodile face to face - I got to venture out on a River Safari. I was so excited to look at interesting birds, monkeys, and frogs. Then we saw him - our first crocodile. I was so excited to see a real crocodile - but I did make sure and ask Mommy if he was going to eat me. Mommy explained that crocodiles only eat Captain Hook and I was safe. Once that was settled, I couldn't get enough of those cool crocs!

2. Learning to Swim - Before going to Costa Rica, I shared with you about my swimming practice in the bathtub. Well - when we got to Costa Rica I learned to swim all by myself! I started out practicing putting my face in the water. Then, with the help of my life vest, I learned that I could go all the way around the pool by holding onto the wall. Pretty soon Papa taught me how to kick my legs and move my hands. Before you knew it I was kicking all the way across the pool. I even got brave and tried it without my lifevest! I also learned how to lay backwards and float on my back! I really love swimming and want to go more. If only it would stop raining here!!!

1. Flying like Superman - This was the greatest thing I have ever done. When we went to the rainforest, we went on a canopy tour. This is an awesome adventure like I have seen on the Amazing Race on TV. We got all our gear on and then started flying through the rainforest on a zip line. I think I smiled for days after this! The best was when my guide helped my lay out and fly like Superman. That was a dream come true!!!

I know this Top 6 was short and I promise more details from the trip will be coming. But I wanted to share my favorite moments from the trip with you. Stay tuned for the next chapter!

Costa Rica Countdown

2007-06-08T15:03:00.000-05:00

For the longest time - Mommy and Daddy have been telling me about our trip to Costa Rica. Well they finally told me that we are going in a couple of days! We have to get everything ready now. First, I am finally a passport holding citizen of the United States. We took our pictures and sent in our papers a long time ago. Mommy says it was 16 weeks ago but I'm not really sure how long that is. I just know it was a long time ago. Mommy has spent many hours on the phone talking to people about our passports. We checked the mail everyday - but no passports. Well -last night Daddy and Grandpa went to Houston to pick up our passports in person. They had to stand in line all night (no this is not an exageration) before Daddy was able to get in the office to get the passports today.

A BIG BIG BIG Thank you Hug to Daddy and Grandpa for getting our passports. Now I can go see Nemo!

Yes Audrey - Mommy says when we go to Costa Rica we can see Nemo in the ocean. I know that you like Nemo too. Get your swim suit ready becuase its almost Nemo time!!!

Now for the important packing list:
Superman backpack - check
A couple of tractors - check
Coloring Book -check
crayons - check
fruit snacks for the airplane -check
mask and snorkel for seeing Nemo -check

Mommy - I'm ready to go now!!!!

Mommy's response: If only it were that easy!

Getting Ready for Summer!

2007-05-24T14:34:00.000-05:00

Summer time is almost here and I am getting ready. I love going swimming and Mommy tells me we are going to do a lot of that in Costa Rica. Apparently I will get to see the ocean and thebeach for the first time. We have looked at lots of pictures and I am really excited. I have been practicing swimming in the bath tub and diving for hidden treasure. Here are a few pictures of my newest talent!

It's a Tough Life!

2007-05-18T22:56:00.000-05:00

Well - birthday time means picture time in my house. Mommy always takes me to have pictures done around my birthday. This year was a little late - but not forgotten. Mommy took me for my 4 year old photo shoot. I had a lot of fun - espcially when I got to put on my Superman and Batman costumes! Mommy said I did a really good job and she liked the pictures. It didn't take long for her to go home and put one on her computer. She added some of her favorites to the photo slider at the bottom of the blog page, so make sure and check them out!

I quickly learned during my photo shoot that being a model is a tough life. Sit here. Stand here. Wardrobe change. Go here. Lean there. Smile big -no not that big. Look here. Wardrobe change. Sit here. Put your hand over there. Cross your legs. Straighten your back. Wardrobe change. Then we had to pick the pictures we liked. Exhausting!!!

All that work was worth it though - I got to go to my favorite store in the mall (well, maybe my second favorite since mommy didn't take me to the bouncy place). I got to walk to the Cookie Booth and get my favorite sugar cookie with sprinkes. This time was extra special though - no stroller and I got to ride the escalator like a big boy! Mommy didn't even stand on the same step as me! The best part of all, jumping off at the end!

Oh yes - paper copies of my pictures are coming soon so do not fret! And if you don't get enough paper copies, mommy has the disk and you can order more!!!

GQ - here I come!

What's a Redneck???

2007-05-18T21:46:00.000-05:00

This morning I got to go back to school after being out sick all week. Mommy was fixing my lunch and I wanted to have Batman Spagheetios with my sandwich. She helped me find a small bowl with a lid that would fit in my lunchbox. We filled up and packed it away. Then mommy went to get ready. I was hungry so I grabbed the Spaghettios can and a spoon and had some breakfast. When I walked into mommy's bathroom eating Spaghettios from a can, mommy said "My - we are having a Redneck moment."

What's a Redneck????

I turned 5!!!!

2007-05-17T09:02:00.000-05:00

I finally made it to 4 & 5! Although there were times Mommy wasn't sure I would make it - I did!!! I had a monkey birthday party at a Wildlife Ranch that is the home of many retired circus monkeys and Joey.

This is Joey and he is almost 2 years old. He lives with Miss Kathy in her house at the ranch. He wears little boy clothes and diapers - just like I did when I was 2! He is lots of fun and adventurous just like me!

For my birthday party, I had lots of my family come to Dripping Springs to help me celebrate. I had 3 great grandparents there and even a little cousin that has yet to make her presence known in our world! (Aunt Becky is due in about a month and Sarah Michelle can come to my next birthday party in person!) And everyone in between.

At my party we had lots of fun! We made a monkey craft, ate monkey tails and monkey munch for dinner. I got to play on the playground for a little while too! Then we played Pin the Monkey on the Palm Tree with all my cousins - the ones that are born that is. And we had a big monkey cake too! At the end we had a monkey pinata. I had a little trouble finding it as it was swinging around just like in the jungle. A little peeking never hurt though! We had a really fun day!

At the end of the day I was very tired and ready for bed. I got to spend the night at the ranch with Mommy and Daddy in the Cabana. I had no problems falling asleep with Superman by my side!

So all in all that was my 4th Birthday!!!

Then the following week Mommy told me it was birthday - again!!!

Mommy made me some Happy Birthday Jello to take to school. I really liked the jello and so did the other kids in my class.

After school, I got to meet Micah and Meagan (two of my cousins) at the bouncy place after school! It was nice for mommy to make sure that we had the place to ourselves - at least for a few minutes before any other kids came! We had such a great time bouncing and sliding.

When we left there, I got to pick where I wanted to eat dinner. I choose The Choo Choo Train Place. They have a train track hanging from the ceiling and I love to watch the train go round! I had a great day!

Now when people ask how old I am - I proudly tell them I am 5! I had two birthdays so that makes me 5 by my count!!!

2007-05-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

OK - So mommy's quiet week quickly turned into a busy week and she forgot all about my blog. I kept telling her that I have "people" and that those "people" want to know about my happenings. She just doesn't understand what its like to be so cute and adventurous.

Well - mommy is back (at least for today) and I am going to get you updated on all the happenings in Landry's world!

Quiet Week

2007-04-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Wow - it has been a fairly quiet week here in my world. Mommy finished the fundraiser last week so this week she had to get back to work as normal. School was fun this week as we learned about rain. I got to play in the water and color an umbrella, raincoat and rain boots! I earned lots of coins this week becuase I have been going to sleep in my own bed. I almost have enough coins for another surprise!!! The highlight of my week was visiting Papa at school on Wednesday and then going to the farm for a while. Oh yes - and the most exciting part of all was my first official ride in the red Corvette. Boy was that fun. Mommy has a couple of pictures that she will have to post later. You've never seen 2 more handsome dudes! Hope you had as goo of a week as I did.

Happy Easter!

2007-04-08T19:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter everyone! This morning mommy explained to me that today is Easter. She told me that on Easter we celebrate Jesus. I love Jesus and I know that He loves me too! Then mommy said we have all done bad things like disobeying and hitting or taking toys away. She told me that becuase of these bad things Jesus had to die. I don't really know what "die" means though. Mommy told me that when Jesus died for me he took away the bad things that I have done. I don't really understand that but it was very nice of Jesus to take away the bad stuff. She also told me that Jesus now lives in heaven with God. A lot of this I don't understand or know what it means; but I do know this - Jesus loves me and you and that's reason enough to celebrate!!!

Happy Easter!

Who needs Rachel Ray!

2007-04-08T19:18:00.000-05:00

I hear that Rachel Ray is all the rage making 30 minute meals (mommy really likes to watch her!). But who needs a boring old 30 minute meal without any fun. Let me show you how it's done - Landry's 30 minute meal and fun!!!!

Step 1 - Have mommy hardboil some eggs while you sit on the counter and watch. (Approx. 12 minutes)

Step 2 - While the eggs are boiling prepare the work area.

Step 3 - After the eggs have cooled in some ice water dye them pretty colors.

Step 4 - After they all done (and barely dry) have a blast cracking and peeling them

Step 5 - Egg Salad for Dinner!

How's that for a 30 minute meal and fun all in one!!!! I promise - 30 minutes is all it takes - and it was a blast!!!!

New Member in the Family

2007-04-02T13:43:00.000-05:00

I have a new "cousin" - actually 2! Yesterday I got to meet my new cousins out at the farm. There are 2 new baby cows and they are very cute! One is a little over a week old and the other is only a few days old. I had such a great time seeing these new babies for the first time. It was also fun to play in the fields (without the cows!). The farm is so pretty this time of year. THere are thousands of purple flowers everywhere! Papa says the rain has been really good for the farm and the cows are eating good!!

One week old A few days old

I also made a new friend with one of the "big kid" cows. He was very friendly and was interested in checking us out up close and personal. He even licked mommy's hand!

Oh yeah - I can't forget the cow that was taking a bath - that was very funny!

The walk from the barn to the cow field was pretty far for a little guy like me. I got awfully tired on the way back. I decided to hitch a ride. Luckinly a really nice man drove by and he let me jump in the back of his pick-up.

I can't forget all the fun I had on the tractor! Papa and I got all ready for some farming and then we took the tractor out for some hard work (and play!).

p.s. For those of you that are having trouble sleeping becuase you don't know the status of my reward - I just wanted to let you know that I went to the bouncy place in the mall. I had so much fun. There was a Batman and a Spiderman bouncer this time!!! Mommy didn't take her camera - but that's a good thing becuase I was jumping so much she probably couldn't have gotten me in focus!

10 Coins!!!

2007-03-30T15:13:00.000-05:00

Last night I got my 10th coin! OK - let me back up so you know what I am talking about. A couple of weeks ago, mommy and daddy gave me a surprise bank. They told me that I could earn coins to put in my surprise bank and when I get 10 coins I get to pick a surprise. I can earn coins by going poopy in the potty, or having an extra good day. Well I got my 10th coin!! Mommy and I had so much fun counting those coins over and over.

Now I get to pick my surprise! I am just not sure what I want to do. Lately, I have been asking my mommy to take me to the zoo, so that would be a good surprise. But I also like to go the bouncy place in the mall. They have lots of bouncy castles (Superman, Batman and Spiderman to name a few) and I can jump until I pass out! I have been there a few times and I just love it. Maybe that would be a good surprise. Or maybe I should see if the store has a new backhoe. A boy can never have enough backhoes. I just don't know. Please let me know what you think I should do by leaving your comments. You can vote for one of these ideas or suggest your own. I can't wait to hear your thoughts.

It's Raining!!!

2007-03-30T15:11:00.000-05:00

WOO HOO! It's raining and that means I get to wear my new boots to school again! I just knew you would be as excited as I am!

Fashion Sense

2007-03-28T17:54:00.000-05:00

Today I will start of with a riddle:

What's Blue with Red polka dots and BIG teeth???

Do you know yet?

Still guessing?

Why it's my new rain boots of course!! I just love my rain boots. Now I can splash in the puddles just like TV friend Caillou!

Well - today my mommy let me exercise my brilliant 3 year old fashion sense and wear my new boots to school. I decided it was best to pair my new boots with some shorts becuase those long jeans just hide them. This worked perfectly - you could see every square inch of those boots! Mommy even let me splash in some puddles before going inside. That was a good thing becuase the other day I wore my boots to Papa's farm and they got a little muddy. No worries though - a little splashing cleaned them right up!

The other kids just loved my boots and the teachers' thought I was very cute! I just love growing up and getting to choose my own things. It is lots of fun being a big boy! Maybe tomorrow I can wear my Superman outfit to school!

By the way - what should every fashionable gentleman do? Offer flowers to their favorite girl!

That's all for now. More coming soon!

Silly Mommy!

2007-03-27T14:21:00.000-05:00

I just have to share with you something silly that my Mommy asked me the other day. After I woke up we were cuddling and playing in the bed (my favorite thing to do first thing in the morning!). My mommy asked me if I was going to be a good cuddler when I grew up. I immediately answered "NO! I'm going to be Superman!" Doesn't mommy know that Superman doesn't have time to cuddle! Silly Mommy!

Welcome!

2007-03-26T15:22:00.000-05:00

Thank you for checking out my blog. I was encouraged to start one after my cousin Audrey started hers. We thought it would be a great way for us to stay in contact. As the older cousin I hope to teach her lots of neat things that she can do as she gets older! But I think the rest of you will also like what I am going to post on my blog. Some might just be funny stories, other might be really serious things that I am learning as I grow up. I'll keep you posted on the most important things in my preschooler life!

First line of business, I have some very important information that I must pass on to Audrey. You will never guess what Papa got for us to "play" on . . .

a new HUGE tractor! You are not going to believe how big this tractor is. The back tire is bigger than I am. I am sure when you come down Papa will take you for a ride! Unfortunately, mommy didn't get a picture of the big scoop on the front or the grader on the back. This is one cool tractor - I know you will love it!

As for the rest of you - you would love this tractor too! Papa lets me raise the scoop up and down, use the stearing wheel, and even honk the horn! Boy do those cows move when I come driving their way! Papa and I have been scooping up hay and moving it around. I'm not sure who likes the tractor more - me or Papa - but I think I edge him out! Well I can go on and on talking about this tractor but I think you get the picture.

That's all for now - but stay tuned there will lots more excitement coming now that my blog published!