The Cinnamon Chronicles

Happy Father's Day

2009-07-19T20:01:00.011-05:00

This year Father's Day was on June 21. We celebrated by going to dinner with Gran & G-Pop. We ate at G-Pop's favorite restaurant. Pappadeaux. Afterwards, we went by to see my Dad and deliver his gift. I am grateful for the three wonderful men in my life. My husband, Father-in-law, and my Dad. They are all great Dad's and are a blessing to me. It has been fun to see Greg grow into his role as a Daddy to Landry. He's doing an awesome job.

Baseball

2009-07-19T19:09:00.014-05:00

I'm off

Proudly wearing my Astros shirt from G-Pop

Josh & Landry

Daddy & Landry

Landry, Mommy & Aunt Christy

On June 19, Landry went to his first baseball game. The Frisco RoughRiders won the game! Thanks to the Cox family, the bar has been set high for Landry's baseball outings. We were in a suite and had fireworks after the game. Landry's activities during the game included briefly sitting in the outside seats, pushing Josh's stroller around in the suite while a/c was blowing on him, and running around outside. He saw a few plays! I am happy to report that he enjoyed the fireworks. He sat in mama's lap and didn't seem scared by the loud noises. He would tell the fireworks bye-bye. What a fun time we had!

June Birthdays

2009-07-19T18:33:00.016-05:00

Celebrating Angie with Gran & G-Pop

Gran, G-Pop and Landry

Birthday Girls Amy & Angie

Greg, Landry and Grandma

Grandma & Angie

Landry before haircut

I'm trying to watch TV

4th Haircut

Elmo, Landry & Grandma

The summer is going by so quickly. There is no way that I can recap the many months that I have missed blogging, but I am going to start with the summer. June started out by celebrating Amy & Angie's birthdays. Grandma (GiGi to LCR) was in town and came to the Mills birthday celebrations. Landry also got his 4th haircut that weekend. Grandma was happy to take part in the event. We had a great time visiting with Grandma!

21 Months

2009-07-19T18:04:00.014-05:00

Weighing in at 22 lbs. 1 oz.

I can't believe my baby is 21 months old. Yesterday (7/18) was his birthday. We still celebrate every month. I guess Landry is officially a toddler now...I think he has been for a while, but that sounds so grown up! Landry is learning new words everyday. I have no idea how many words he can say....but he likes to talk. Recently, he has been putting more than one word together...saying phases. Some of his favorites are "Daddy Home", "Get in the hole" (yes, he likes golf), and "Here you go!" They other day he said four words in a row very quickly. "Mommy, Daddy, Basketball, Golf"

Tomorrow we start our second week of swim lessons. The water is a little cold and sometimes Landry seems more interested in playing with the water toys than learning to kick, move his arms, float on his back, or whatever the class is doing. We are having fun though and he loves the water. Especially playing in the fountains.

Landry is climbing everywhere. He likes to get up in Daddy's La-Z-Boy chair and climb in the chair to sit at the kitchen table. He still likes to throw balls and every other toy! We are trying to teach him not to throw toys. That's a bit of a challenge. And in the past month he likes to try to hit golf balls (plastic of course). Landry likes to get into everything. He can almost open doors! Just went to the store today to buy safety knob covers.

It's so much fun to see him learn new things all the time! We love being parents and are grateful for this precious life that God has given to us!

Vacation to Virginia and Washington D.C.

2009-06-13T11:23:00.014-05:00

On April 1 we traveled to VA to visit some of my (Angie) friends that we hadn't seen in a few years. This reunion trip to the Rivah house was much different than 2 1/2 years ago. The first trip in 2006 was a Girls Weekend. This time we all have kids and the husbands came along! It was great to see Melissa & Laura....and Andrew and Mike. But extra special for Landry, Peter and Annika to meet. Wow....how our lives have changed in a few years! We missed you Kari and Hal.

After leaving the peaceful Rivah house (thanks Dennis family), we traveled to Washington D.C. for a few days. I had never been before, so it was fun to see all the sites. Landry was a great traveler and rode along in the stroller even in the cold and rain. Greg used to live in the D.C. area, so it has fun for him to show us around and visit some places he used to hang out.

Where have 4 1/2 months gone?

2009-03-08T16:45:00.002-05:00

So, we've been terrible about posting on our blog. I could blame it on facebook, getting a new camera, getting a MAC or taking care of a little boy. Mainly, we haven't made it a priority. But we are back. Perhaps, I will try to play catch up, but for now here's a cute picture of your little boy taken in February after he turned 16 months.

Landry took his first real steps this past week. His record is 21 steps now without falling. It will not be long until he is running around the house. He cruises with his toy walker, which Greg calls his "training wheels." Landry picks it up, stops to clap, and uses the walker to stand up. He is turning into a little boy!

Happy Birthday Landry

2008-10-26T20:33:00.028-05:00

Landry turned ONE on October 18. We had a sports themed party for him at a park in Frisco. It was a beautiful day and lots of friends and family came to celebrate! 34 adults and 32 kids. Plus Mommy, Daddy and the BIRTHDAY BOY for a total of 69 peeps. What a fun time!! However, the day was not complete. We missed Na Naw because she was not feeling well...and had to be admitted to the hospital the next day. We are thankful that she is home now.

I can't believe my little boy is already ONE. Landry is growing up fast. He is pulling up on furniture (no steps yet), crawling fast everywhere, has 6 teeth, smiles a lot, and loves to play with balls. His laugh is contagious. Landry says Dada, Mama, Ball, Uh Oh, Bye-Bye and makes lots of other sounds :)

Happy Birthday Pumpkin! We love you!

Landry's First Haircut

2008-09-18T15:32:00.033-05:00

Before

Mom says I'm gonna get my hair cut

There goes my bangs

This isn't so bad

All done. How do I look?

I'm a BIG BOY now!

On Sunday Landry got his first haircut. We went to Cool Cuts 4 Kids which totally caters to young kids and first time moms! They gave us a little card with some of his hair in it and a picture in the play car. Landry watched the Old MacDonald Baby Einstein DVD while sitting in mommy's lap. Ms. Amy blew bubbles for him and helped keep him entertained....all while cutting his hair. Daddy was the photographer and videographer. It was a family event. Landry did a great job and it was a fun experience.

Landry has a new cousin

2008-08-05T23:34:00.005-05:00

Josiah Michael Wall was born on Thursday, July 31 at 7:12 p.m. He weighed 7 lbs. 10 oz. and was 19 1/2 inches long. Josiah is Laura's fourth baby (3 boys and 1 girl). NaNaw & PaPaw now have 8 grandchildren....5 boys and 3 girls. We look forward to loving on Josiah for many years!! Congratulations Wall Family.

Lake Tahoe / San Francisco

2008-08-03T20:43:00.010-05:00

Woah, my Daddy isn't this tall!

Landry wouldn't let us leave until he got to dip his toes in the water!

Angie's friend Ava came to Lake Tahoe for a visit!

Landry poolside with Mommy and Daddy (and Ducky)

Learning how to wave...backwards

One of my favorite pictures from the trip!

What a great vacation we had up in the Northwest! It was Landry's second airplane trip and he did wonderfully (thank God!). We spent a few days at Lake Tahoe - which was so relaxing. We love the water and got to see plenty of it while we were there. Angie's friend Ava and a couple of her grandkids came up from Stockton for a visit. Then we met up with my sister and brother-in-law in San Francisco for a long weekend. Landry got to meet Uncle Ben for the first time and we had a great time hanging out. They were such wonderful hosts! Highlights from the trip were: paddle boating across Lake Tahoe, Landry dipping his toes in the water at the beach, walking the trails of Muir Woods, sampling Ghirardelli's Chocolate at Fisherman's Wharf, eating fresh sandwiches while exploring Sausalito and meeting Cousin Elaine and Roy at the Cliff House for Sunday brunch.

65 Candles

2008-08-02T17:44:00.024-05:00

Jen, Angie & Teresa

Yea, Lisa was in town

Angie & Sharla

34 + 31 candles = restaurant discounts!?

Wow, that's a neat gift, maybe I can borrow it sometime.

Cool and the Gang

NaNaw with the kiddos

Angie's first celebration was with some dear friends at Blue Goose. Yummy!
Angie and Amy both have birthdays in early June and so we celebrate them together every year. It's always fun to get everyone together at NaNaw and PaPaw's house! Happy Birthday Angie and Amy!!!

Motorboat

2008-07-10T18:54:00.005-05:00

Landry took and passed his first class - swimming!

Landry's favorite trick is KICKING, both in the water and out!

This June, Mommy enrolled Landry in his first class. Landry LOVED the water and didn't cry once! He was even submerged on two different occasions and didn't get scared. Daddy got to attend the last class where they administered the final exam, handed out grades and held the graduation ceremony, where Landry was honored with the highest distinction of Summa Cum Laude. Okay, so it wasn't THAT big of a deal, but by all accounts, Landry passed the class with flying colors! He's already a much better swimmer than Daddy is. :)

Happy Memorial Day

2008-05-26T20:44:00.004-05:00

Thank you Grandpa Rodriguez, Grandaddy Mills, Uncle Eddy, Great Uncle Don, Uncle Carlos, Uncle Roy, and Uncle Ray for fighting in WWII and the Korean War to secure our freedom. We thank you for your service and sacrifice! We appreciate the countless others that have served our country and those currently fighting for our freedom. God Bless You!

one little boy...one little man...funny how...TIME FLIES!

2008-05-22T22:53:00.004-05:00

Ah yes, it's the end of that famous Tears for Fears song called "Head over Heels." A lot has happened over the past several weeks. Papaw's 64th birthday, Daddy's 35th birthday, Joshua's 7th birthday, Mother's Day, our 3rd Anniversary. Landry is turning into a little man. Some month 6/7 milestones include: catching his first cold, putting his foot in his mouth (just like Daddy! jk), eating cereal, turning over ALL THE TIME, and jumping in his new "Jumperoo". He is a HANDFUL. The doctor says he doesn't sleep quite as much as most six-month olds...but that it's nothing to be too concerned about. Still trying to get him on a consistent night schedule. His cold threw a wrench is some of the progress that was being made. We'll get there! LCR is already in the 50% percentile in length and 20% percentile in weight. We are encouraged by that! Anyway, tootles for now! I've got to WASH BOTTLES!!!!

Landry's 1/2 Birthday

2008-04-19T00:48:00.003-05:00

Landry at 6 Months: 14 lbs 3 1/2 oz

It came without fanfare, but Landry is six months old! We look forward to a weekend with Angie's family tomorrow and my family on Sunday (except for Sis and Ben - we miss you guys!!). This weekend's festivities aren't to celebrate Landry's 1/2 birthday :) but to celebrate a couple of April birthdays. :) I can already tell that I'm just days away from turning 35. Just in the past several weeks, I've noticed that it's taking longer to complete my neighborhood jogs. Yikes! Oh well. We can't remain at our physical best forever. But we can get smarter and wiser in other areas. Or so I've been told. Maybe I'll wake up in a few days and find out.

Landry's first Easter!

2008-03-23T21:16:00.008-05:00

Do you remember going on Easter egg hunts when you were a kid? This weekend we got to recount those memories by watching our nephews and nieces journey around bushes and trees to find their little treasures. Both Saturday and Sunday included superb weather - and AMAZING dinners by both Nanaw and Gran. THANK YOU!!!!! Nanaw made a pound cake that is to die for (I snuck home a few extra pieces!) and Gran made me an ENTIRE pecan pie! WOW!!! Landry got his first easter egg basket from Gran. And if you watch the slide show closely, you'll see that he actually ended up with several eggs! Hmmm. I wonder how those got there?!

Month Five Discoveries

2008-03-19T08:48:00.005-05:00

Landry's new friend, Mr. Caterpillar

5 Months: 13 lbs 7 1/2 oz

As Landry becomes more aware of himself and his surroundings, his personality is starting to shine - and it's so exciting to see! He's responding and interacting more every day and every week. Here are a few firsts that we think have occurred within the last month: rolling over, blowing spit bubbles with his lips, noticing his feet, grasping onto toys, transferring toys from one hand to the other and laughing out loud in response to tickling. :) His cooing is more frequent and he's learned to inflect his voice and make a variety of noises (sometimes very loud ones!). The above pictures were taken yesterday. Notice that he's wearing GREEN. Thank you David and Jessica for the outfit! And thanks to you, Landry didn't get pinched on St. Patrick's Day. Only tickled. :)

Eventually is now...

2008-03-08T09:40:00.008-06:00

Learning to Fly

Exhausted after a long day at the office

Great Grandma with her three Great Grandchildren!

NaNaw helping Landry with his hand and foot prints!

Not on Christmas day, but on March 6th? Only in Texas.

The morning is my sanctuary. Angie generally sleeps in with Landry (usually after an early morning feeding or two) and I have "free time" to eat breakfast, read the news or work. Well, my inclination this morning is to download and send pictures to family. Here are a few of my favorites. Mr. Landry is over 13 lbs now and bursting with energy! He changes daily and it's just incredible to witness. Like watching a flower bloom before your very eyes - only over protracted period of time. And if you blink, you might miss something! It's easy to get distracted. There is always so much to do. Never enough time for everything. But that's the lesson, I guess. Knowing that. Accepting that. And then priortizing for the things that are most important. "Eventually is now" in life. There is no tomorrow. Who was it that said, "Compared to what we ought to be we are only half awake." William James? Anyway, we just want to soak up these happy moments and store them forever to remember and experience over and over again.

Catching up

2008-02-19T00:06:00.004-06:00

The paparazzi was after Landry again - this time for his four-month birthday celebration...which consisted of toggling between CNN's election coverage and Jay Leno's interview of a quirky Reese Witherspoon. What can we say? We're old parents now :) and we love it...fast forward one day to the 19th. Landry had his "4 Month" round of shots. Not fun for Mr. Landry or for mom. But he's gradually catching up to his peers in terms of height (45%) and weight (10%). What an adventure it is to be a parent and watch a child grow before your very eyes. What a miracle!

I Love Me Some Landry!

2008-02-17T19:26:00.003-06:00

Terrell Owens has made famous the phrase, "I Love Me Some Me." Well, this Valentine's Day, "We Love Us Some Landry!" Saying goodbye to Grandpa, while sad, was a blessing in that we were able to visit with so many family members. And Grandma got to spend time with Mr. Landry, her second of now THREE grandchildren - thanks to Delia's second child and first girl! Congratulations Delia & Orlando!!! Our good friends Tanya and Jason stayed with us this past weekend. They are such wonderful friends to us and we had a nice visit together. Here are a few snapshots from the past few weeks. Landry will be four months old tomorrow! WOW!!

A few more memories of Grandpa

2008-02-02T12:55:00.000-06:00

There are countless other memories and pictures. But here are a few snapshots through the years. We love you Grandpa!

Saying Goodbye to Grandpa

2008-01-21T20:25:00.000-06:00

Gregory Rodriguez Senior

1915 - 2008

This morning, we said goodbye to my grandfather, Gregory Rodriguez Senior. He was such an amazing man and he leaves us with many fond memories. Grandpa was a World War II veteran, a commited husband and father and an incredible grandfather. This picture was taken in 1944. Grandpa had just turned 29. He was writing love letters to my grandmother, who he would eventually marry. Grandpa leaves behind his wife Esther, three children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. We love him and his legacy will live on forever.

Growing Landry - Three Month Birthday :)

2008-01-18T23:54:00.000-06:00

The year of your first child's life is like your first year of marriage. You celebrate every month! And so we're celebrating Landry's birthday each month. :) We went out for BBQ tonight! Here are some snapshots of Landry's progress: from being born one month early due to a condition called "Inter-Uterine Growth Retardation" (IUGR) to where he is today three months later. Fortunately, despite the lower levels of blood and nutrition he received from the placenta towards the end of Angie's pregnancy, Landry appears to be completely healthy and normal. Most IUGR babies do fine and eventually catch up to their peers in weight and growth. So far so good! Great job Landry! He is a remarkable little boy and we feel so blessed.

Cousin Lucas' First Birthday

2008-01-17T22:58:00.000-06:00

Cousin Lucas had his very first birthday this past weekend - and it was Landry's first "cousin" birthday party! :) However, the next day, the Cows didn't show up against a very good Giants football team - and so a promising season has very suddenly ended. So the weekend was both wonderful and a bit of a bummer. Whenever the Cows lose, I tend to "make up for it" by spending more time being productive and less time following the season / playoffs. That way, there is always some good that comes out of a disappointing loss. My attention now is on continuing to build Plano Life into the company I know it can be while doing some marketing consulting work on the side. Angie is on point with Landry, and she is so amazing with him! I've got Landry duty tomorrow, however - his 3-month birthday!

Daddy's Chores / Landry's Progress

2008-01-11T22:54:00.000-06:00

House Rule #1: When Landry gets a bottle, Daddy gets a bottle too

Landry's "after meal" sleeping position (notice "unbuckling" of pants)

Looking at Mommy tonight after late dinner

I have bottle duty every night. It's one of my "baby chores." Angie might argue that it's my ONLY "baby chore," :) - but hey - it's a very important one! Of course, I welcome bottle duty because when Landry gets a bottle, Daddy gets a bottle too. It's a house rule that I instituted way back when Angie declared, "Greg, I'm going to teach you how to do the bottles." And so we negotiated, and this rule was the outcome. While the "bottle for bottle" rule works out quite well during the evening hours, Shiner Bock doesn't taste as good at 3:30 in the morning, or just before heading to the office. And I've never been one for beer at lunchtime either. Nevertheless, it's a rule I can live with - and so I'm not complaining too much. Of course, I'm KIDDING about all of this (most of it). :) Landry is doing quite well. He turned 12 weeks old yesterday and has BALLOONED to a healthy 10 lbs 6 oz - a full six pounds heavier than his birth weight. That's eight ounces per week - or slightly more than one ounce per day! Of course, it WAS the Holidays. And Landry wasn't the only one that gained six pounds during that time period. :) And no, I'm not talking about Angie! Thanks to mom's Christmas cookies, pralines, pecan pie and all of my bottles with Landry :) I've also put on about six pounds since Landry was born. But nobody's oooing and ahhhing while praising me for that accomplishment. As dad said last time we had dinner at their place, "Greg, it's not all about you anymore." You know dad - you're absolutely right. It's not about me. If ever there is an event that makes you realize that, it's having a child.

The Best of Christmas, 2007

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

These moments are so precious! The most wonderful thing about the Holidays is everyone coming together to celebrate God's gift of love to us and our love for each other. Landry got to meet Aunt Lizzy for the first time along with Grandma and cousins Heli, Ben, Adrian and Sheri. Other memorable moments included: Mom opening her 8x10 of Landry (which she carries with her everywhere she goes...Mom - we gave you a wallet size too!), Angie unwrapping her opal pendant necklace (Landry's October birthstone) and seeing the flood of kids' presents under Uncle David & Aunt Amy's Christmas tree! It was even more fun to watch everyone OPEN their presents! What special times! Oh - and it was Christy's birthday yesterday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY CJ!!! Now, and almost as importantly, :) we can turn our attention to the NFL playoffs. The Cows haven't looked too good over these past few weeks. Hopefully, they can TURN IT ON when it counts next weekend! With Landry cheering them on, I have high hopes for Tony Romo and the Cows this year! GO COWS - and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!

Landry Claus says Merry Christmas!!

2007-12-24T13:51:00.000-06:00

Where has the year gone? Especially since Landry was born, it seems that time marches on faster than ever. Any other parents out there feel the same way? May you and yours have a wonderful Holiday! Love - Greg, Angie & Landry

Let's do brunch!

2007-12-09T18:14:00.000-06:00

Angie and Landry were fashionably late to Mom's Christmas brunch. Daddy came too - so he could eat some food and lay on the couch. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday! Today has been a pajama day with Landry. We watched the Cows come back to stun the Lions. GO COWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Giving Thanks - Twice!

2007-11-23T20:11:00.000-06:00

We were able to visit both sides of the family for Turkey Day yesterday. Uncle Jesse, Victor, Elena, Jason M, Isabelle, Emma, Jason D, Katie, Carissa, Anika and Lucas all got to meet Landry for the first time! We all have so much to be thankful for this year. And after two turkey dinners, I was especially thankful for some Rolaids and a good night's sleep.

1 Month & Almost 2 Pounds Later

2007-11-18T22:47:00.001-06:00

Landry Looking at Mommy (and wearing his pants like Grandpa!)

We still haven't figured out where Landry got his ears?

Angie's nose and Greg's lips! Wow!!

Landry turned ONE MONTH old today! He's 6 pounds, 3 ounces and he has brought immeasurable joy to our lives. It is so exciting to see him grow - he literally changes daily. The Cowboys won today. They are 3-0 with Landry cheering them on! GO COWS!!!!

Mr. Sleepy, Mr. Stretchy, Mr. Yawny & Mr. Fussy

2007-11-14T20:11:00.000-06:00

It is SO FUN to hear and watch Landry wake up! It's not so fun at 2:00 a.m., which Angie can attest to more than I can. But he cracks us up! It's amazing how instinctual little babies are, and how they communicate with us. Landry will be four weeks old tomorrow!! "T" minus zero days...tomorrow is the day Landry was scheduled to arrive. :)

Landry's Visitors - First Three Weeks

2007-11-10T11:04:00.000-06:00

Thank you all for visiting Landry! Unfortunately, we don't have pictures of everyone that has stopped by - but we have most of you! Thank you all for your love and for your blessings. We appreciate you! Landry is 3 weeks, 2 days old today. He's doing very well and is steadily gaining weight. Landry is now 5 pounds, 7 ounces! WAY TO GO LANDRY!!!

Rookie Parents Take Landry for a Walk

2007-11-02T21:20:00.000-05:00

Landry (half asleep) was excited about his first walk!

I haven't seen Angie light up like this since...we were married?

Fortunately (or unfortunately) the Fashion Police didn't confiscate Angie's sunglasses :)

G-Rod and L-Rod in front of Casa Rodriguez

Finishing it all up with a little nap and a big laugh :)

It was such a beautiful day today, that we decided to break open the stroller that NaNaw gave us. What a wonderful gift - thank you NaNaw! It took Daddy less than an hour to put it together (because he's a "Handy Man") and we proceeded to look the part of "Rookie Parents" by gingerly negotiating the smallest of curbs - and by taking approximately 1,164 pictures during the 20-minute walk. We took so many pictures, that Angie and I laughed - harder than perhaps we have in weeks. We were just imagining what others might be saying to themselves if they saw us - "Rookie Parents" so in love with their newborn that they were compelled to snap multiple pictures at every corner. But it was so much fun! More fun for Landry's parents than anything. Our son slept through the entire walk! Hmmm...perhaps he pretended to sleep out of embarrasment for his "Picture Happy Rookie Parents." How dare I be seen with them! Oh wait - that's fifteen years from now. :)

Landry's First Two Weeks

2007-11-01T19:15:00.000-05:00

Soon after coming home, Landry slept through his first bath!

Well, he pouted through some of it :)

I love these moments - looking at Daddy with extreme curiosity

For a little guy, Landry has a strong appetite

Most of the time after feeding, he sleeps like this :)

Wow, these first two weeks have been something special. I've been under the weather, but thankfully, Angie and Landry have avoided any "Daddy germs" that might be floating around. Angie has been amazing - handling night duty while I've been trying to get over this lingering cold. I've been helping in the morning and during the day to provide much needed breaks. Overall, Landry has adapted very well to life outside the womb and inside our home. We have fallen in love with Landry more than we could have ever imagined we would. We know that he won't always be this innocent, and we know that he won't always be this cute! It's sometimes scary to think about the inevitable challenges ahead. But we're just enjoying the moment and loving him the best that we know how. It's wonderful. Tiring, but wonderful - and 100% worth it.

Coming Home

2007-10-21T10:23:00.000-05:00

Looking handsome for the drive home!

A Kodak moment before loading the car

Forgive me for the slideshow - I love candid shots

Daddy gets to do the honors

It took awhile, but I got the seat to "click twice!"

Lovely Angie who thought she'd be here for an hour on Wednesday!

We actually had to turn around and come back, and so we did this all over again (except for loading Landry) because we forgot Angie's prescription papers! Can't forget the pain meds! YIKES! What an incredible moment. I've never driven so carefully in my life! We have the "Arriving Home" moment on video. I'll try adding that footage later. Now, we're just resting at home as a very happy family. Landry is feeding, sleeping and pooping well. The doctors and nurses called Landry a "remarkable baby." They were impressed at how well he reacted to his premature birth. Most babies of this age and size stay longer than the standard two-day stay. I've come down with a little something and so Angie is doing the bulk of the baby work right now. Landry will be around to watch his first Dallas Cowboy game this afternoon! Go Cows!!!

All in the Family

2007-10-21T09:58:00.000-05:00

I love this picture! Aunt Guero loving on Landry.

Aunt Laura's family stopped by to meet Landry!

Proud Mills Grandparents (NaNaw & PaPaw)

Proud Rodriguez Grandparents (Gran & Pop)

My beautiful wife and our son

As unexpected as the timing was, we had several visitors - mostly family that were able to come by to meet Baby Landry. The last few days have been like a dream. I know that it won't always be this way. But happy moments like these are what we live for. This is why we love. And this is why we give thanks in every circumstance. For the hope of experiencing the highest of highs in this world with each other. May God bless Landry and may He strengthen us to be the best parents we can be for him! We love you, Landry!

The Story Behind the Name

2007-10-21T09:20:00.000-05:00

Tom Landry coached the Dallas Cowboys during their first 29 seasons

Christopher Rodriguez was my Great Grandfather - with Dad and me!

Landry Christopher resting on my Cowboys blanket!

We had so much fun thinking about names for Landry! I'm Gregory III, and so it was tempting to have a Gregory IV. But we fell in love with "Landry" while driving home from my parents' home one day several months ago. I'm the one that ALWAYS initiated the "name game" with Angie. :) But as we talked in the car this time, Angie noticed that we were driving on "Tom Landry Highway," and then said, "What about 'Landry'?" I initially liked it very much, but it still took some time for me to fall in love with it. But I did. And of course now, I love it more than ever. Incidentally, the friend that married us has a daughter named "Landri." She was a junior bridesmaid in our wedding 2 1/2 years ago! They are a neat family and they are very special to us. It will be fun to tell them Landry's name - we haven't called them yet! :)

Introducing Landry Christopher

2007-10-18T22:09:00.000-05:00

Landry sleeping after a hectic first 10 hours

Proud Daddy

Proud Mommy

Well, he arrived much sooner than we ever anticipated. Landry entered the world today about four weeks ahead of schedule. With his growth slowing and Angie's amniotic fluid borderline low, the doctors felt that the best and safest course of action was to induce labor within 12 hours of yesterday's regular check-up appointment. The news initially shocked and scared both of us. We were not prepared to stay at the hospital - and we were of course concerned about Baby Cinnamon's health! But the nurses and doctors were great, Angie was courageous and Baby Cinnamon was strong. Despite his size, he's breathing normally and is doing phenomenally well. More to come...

***

Landry Christopher Rodriguez
October 18, 2007
12:47 p.m.
4 pounds, 6 ounces
17 3/4 inches

The Cinnamon Chapel

2007-10-14T20:53:00.000-05:00

Michelangelo at work

Magnifique!

So it wasn't the Sistine Chapel, but it will be "Cinnamon's Chapel" - and so Dad was kind enough to drive to Plano after a long day at work. We asked Dad to help out with Cinnamon's accent wall for three reasons: 1) An excuse for him to come over, 2) A chance to watch the Cowboy game together and 3) I was too lazy to paint the room myself. And so it worked out just like I had hoped...with Dad painting and me watching and taking pictures. :) THANK YOU POP! Angie and I are glad that you came over today. There will be many more visits like these once Cinnamon arrives on the scene!!

Showered with Love, Part II

2007-10-12T07:29:00.000-05:00

"The Cantu Sisters" are always a happy bunch!

Angie, her sisters & Mom with little Carissa & Jadon

Elizabeth & Angie

Nina, Aunt Guero & Elena - a classic photo!

Adorable Jadon

The Cantu / Rodriguez family loved on Angie and Baby Cinnamon last weekend. Thank you to Aunt Helen for hosting and the many others who helped host the event. You overwhelm us with you love - and we can't wait to share this little life with each of you. It's always fun for our familes to come together. All of Angie's sisters were able to attend, as well as two of our beautiful little neices! As you can see above, Jadon had the right idea and quickly grabbed a plate of food. That's exactly what I would have done! :)

Happy Birthday Mom!!!

2007-10-10T18:18:00.000-05:00

Mom, circa 1972

Mom, 2007

The Rodriguez clan (minus Ben & with Mom in Big Hat)

From "Big Hair" to a "Big Hat," it was Mom's birthday last week! The big 62! The first picture above was taken about 35 years ago, just after Mom married Dad. The amazing thing is - and I think you'll agree - she's more beautiful today than ever. We had a great time at Pappasitos celebrating Mom's special day! Elizabeth was in town for the event and Angie's "Rodriguez Shower," and so we got to take a few family photographs. WE LOVE YOU MOM!!!!!!!!

Cinnamon Roll Update

2007-10-03T13:10:00.001-05:00

Angie's little nose is visible! :)

This picture is a little "spooky," but an even better "nose" picture! WOW!

Angie and Baby Cinnamon went in for a measurement check-up yesterday - and so we brought home a few pictures. Up to this point, the only recent pictures we had of Baby Cinnamon was of his little privates - so it was a relief to see that his face and other body parts were also developing normally! :) From personal experience (just being honest) I know that these pictures only mean something to parents and family. To everyone else, they are just a flashback to those silly Rorschach inkblot tests you read about in introductory psychology. But I have to point out that Baby Cinnamon's nose looks JUST like Angie's! Which is frankly a big relief to me. My nose is (again, just being honest) on the LARGE side. It's beautiful (I like my nose and the extra ventilation is a plus, especially with my allergies) but it is LARGE. And so I'm happy that Cinnamon will likely have Angie's perfect little nose. That provides me with some comfort.

Showered with Love

2007-10-03T12:42:00.000-05:00

We have a clothes dryer at home - really, we do!

The shower cake before Greg arrived

All of the lovely hostesses!

My sweetheart and her beautiful smile

Aunt Betty, Angie and Mom

Teresa, Angie & Jenitta

Tanya stayed at "Casa Rodriguez" for the weekend!

Angie's friends hosted a lovely shower for her this past Sunday. Tanya, a dear college friend of Angie's came in town to help host the event - along with other family and friends. What a blessing it is to have such wonderful friends - thank you so much! We had a great time together. I came for the very end of the event and everyone gatherered around and prayed for Angie and Baby Cinnamon. They even prayed for the daddy! :) It was a very special moment. The "Rodriguez Family Shower" is coming up this weekend! So more pictures to come.

32 Weeks and Counting!

2007-09-23T19:18:00.000-05:00

Greg, Angie & Baby Cinnamon!

Greg & Hollie, my Frito-Lay friend!

We completed the second session of our Baby Cinnamon birthing class today. Today included a hospital tour, and we got to check everything out. It was really cool to see the nursery. There was a 2-hour old baby boy there - and it was exciting to think about our baby being in that very room in a matter of weeks! Wow!! Yesterday, my friend from Frito-Lay, Hollie came over for a visit. We had a picture party - and these are a couple of them. We're watching the Dallas Cowboy game at the moment. We'll see if they can beat da Bears!

Cinnamon Roll in the Oven for 29 weeks!!

2007-08-30T11:48:00.000-05:00

I love this picture!

Wow - so we're 29 weeks along now. Cinnamon is learning how to DANCE. His movements are becoming much more pronounced - and it is SO AMAZING to feel and see his gyrations. With each passing week, Cinnamon's impending arrival is becoming more real. While Cinnamon's room isn't quite ready for him, we know that we are. We are ready to love this baby and to share this little life with you - our family and friends whom we love so much. More to come.

NaNaw & Uncle D's Birthday Celebration!

2007-08-19T11:43:00.000-05:00

The Mills Family - a very happy moment!

Our wonderful nephews & nieces!

Proud Mr. & Mrs. Mills (Mom & Dad!)

What a special time had by all last night at Casa Rodriguez! Cinnamon helped celebrate NaNaw and Uncle D's birthday with his six awesome cousins running around and having FUN! The most hilarious moment of the night had to be when in the midst of all of the happy noise, Uncle D exclaimed, "Quiet down - y'all sound like a bunch of birds chirping!" Well, that did it! The kids were ROLLING on the carpet - laughing uncontrollably at Uncle D's funny remark. Wow. The joy of children is a wonderful reminder of how we all used to be - and how we can still sometimes be if we allow life's funny moments to entertain our heart of hearts. Laughter is sweet music.

Cinnamon goes to the Beach!!!!!!

2007-08-11T10:19:00.000-05:00

"Vanilla" taking in some sun

"Chocolate" avoiding the sun

The Tiki lives!

They say that babies become familiar with sounds while in the womb. Though he could only hear the seagulls and the ocean waves, Cinnamon got his first exposure to the beach. It's exciting to know that he's not too far away from testing his courage where the water meets the shore, or being mesmorized while playing in the sand. It was a relaxing couple of days. We didn't stay at "The Tiki," but we drove by for good measure. That's the hotel we stayed at when Grandma and Grandpa took all six of us cousins to the beach - many times and many years ago. It was amazing to me, but not a whole lot has changed about South Padre Island.

Cinnamon visits Grandma & Grandpa!

2007-08-11T09:55:00.001-05:00

Angie & Grandma Rodriguez

Greg Sr. (my awesome Grandpa) & Greg III

Cinnamon got to visit Grandma and Grandpa while 25 weeks in the oven. It was such a special weekend to visit with them. Being in Harlingen brings back so many memories - and it was neat to get to share those memories with my wife. It was her second visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house. Highlights were: 1) Eating at the Oyster Bar - a long-standing tradition! 2) Having Aunt Olivia over for a steak dinner at Grandma's - yummy! :) and 3) Stocking up on Mexican sweetbread at the corner bakery. We also just had a wonderful time visiting with Grandma - talking about her childhood and our family history. We love you Grandma & Grandpa! - Love, Greg, Angie and Cinnamon half-baked.

Cinnamon Celebrates Dad's 59th Birthday!

2007-07-28T22:22:00.000-05:00

Cinnamon's first minor-league game! :)

Greg Jr. (my awesome Dad!) & Greg III

What a fun ballpark picture!

Tonight's Frisco RoughRiders game was actually Cinnamon's third baseball game in the last eight days! We enjoyed a night with the future "Pop" and "Gran" as we celebrated Dad's upcoming 59th birthday. WOW! He doesn't look a day over 58! And doesn't Angie look GREAT? :) She is 24 weeks along now. A couple of weeks ago, Angie signed up for a water aerobics class. That has given her a chance to get some extra exercise while socializing with other suburban locals - a few of whom are also expecting. Given Cinnamon's recent experiences, we expect him to be a natural on the baseball diamond - and an excellent swimmer! :)

Cinnamon's First Wedding Was A KICK!

2007-07-02T22:09:00.000-05:00

The beautiful bride & Angie with Cinnamon!

Proud parents-to-be

If Baby Cinnamon's little ears are working now, he experienced quite a PARTY this past Saturday night. Tracy married Brian in The Woodlands, TX. Tracy and Angie have known each other since high school when they went to Russia together. We are so happy for Tracy and Brian. They are perfect for each other - and what a beautiful bride Tracy was that night! Thanks to The Cryers for letting us stay at their home during the weekend - and for Dr. Cryer for saving the day with a pair of his cufflinks! :) We met so many fun people - several who know and attend church with The Cryers (my sister's in-laws). As for Baby Cinnamon, he must have enjoyed the music. Daddy felt his first baby KICKS the next day!

All Smiles for Baby Boy Cinnamon!

2007-06-23T13:23:00.000-05:00

After the big "reveal"

John & Greg

Our homemade card with "BOY" circled!!

Well, the doctor not only provides indisputable evidence, he's also good at following directions. As requested, he circled one of two options - and we were all smiles with the outcome. Reaction from the peanut gallery was also positive. First-time grandparents (Mr. & Mrs. Rodriguez) were aglow with approval. The Rodriguez name will continue in our family. Soon-to-be seven-time grandparents (Mr. & Mrs. Mills) were hoping for a girl to break a 3-3 tie. This will be their third BOY grandchild in a row! John, my buddy from Tennessee was in town, so he also got to share this moment with us. We all just feel blessed that Angie and Baby Cinnamon appear to be healthy and normal as we continue this journey. We are so grateful to God for the joy that we are experienceing right now. And it was so wonderful to share that joy with our parents last night.

Baby Boy Evidence

2007-06-23T13:21:00.000-05:00

My, that's a nice penis you've got there!

Well, I suppose this makes it pretty clear. We're having a BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish we had a picture of the ENTIRE baby to post - oh well. At least we know that this part of the baby appears to be developing normally. We'll have to count fingers and toes upon arrival in November.

Christy Opens The Envelope!

2007-06-23T13:15:00.000-05:00

Following the drum roll

The first thing Christy said after being asked to open the "Baby Cinnamon Reveal" envelope was, "Here's my camera - somebody take my picture!" Fifteen minutes later, we all finally knew the result. :) Ha!! All kidding aside, CJ did a great job revealing the news. And she will always be the first to have known (except for our doctor with all of his pictures of Cinnamon's privates - see next entry).

Tummy is Growing

2007-06-18T23:38:00.000-05:00

Cinnamon beginning to swell!

Here I am after a long day at work. 18 1/2 weeks along. Starting to really grow each week. I'm wearing maternity pants with a regular shirt in this picture :) I have started feeling better over the past few weeks, but still have about one bad day a week. Looking forward to finding out if Cinnamon is a boy or a girl.

Baby's first sonogram, 9 1/2 weeks

2007-06-18T23:24:00.000-05:00

Our precious little baby! Oh my!

This is Cinnamon at 9 1/2 weeks, taken on April 19th. I like this picture, because unlike the others that were taken that day, I can tell which end is which! I think that it looks like a BOY. :) We'll get a new set of sonogram pictures this Thursday...ones that may offer a little more insight into the sex of little Cinnamon Rodriguez. Putting it in our niece's words, maybe there will be a little carrot between it's legs! Ha!!

Is it a boy or girl? Vanilla, chocolate or swirl?

2007-06-18T00:06:00.000-05:00

We Love Cinnamon!

Angie is 18 weeks pregnant and we are thrilled about becoming parents! By the end of this week, we will know the sex of our future bundle of joy. But we won't know the hue of the baby's skin until it's born! :) Chances are, it will be somewhere between Angie's "Casper the Friendly Ghost" stark white glow and my "Speedy Gonzalez" (or Slow-Poke Rodriguez?) beach bronze skin tone. That is to say, it will be "Cinnamon," of sorts. As you can see, we have already fallen in love with "Cinnamon," our code name for Baby Rodriguez. Stay tuned over the next 22 weeks as we count down the days to Baby Cinnamon's arrival in November. This "We Love Cinnamon" blogspot is our opportunity to journal our thoughts and preparations towards becoming parents - and to share those entries and images with you - our family and friends whom we love so much.

So go ahead! Sit back and indulge in a cup of hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon - or a slice of cinnamon toast sprinkled with some sugar love. You'll find as we have that life is always a little sweeter with cinnamon.