How long do I have to wear this?

I was asked that question several times last night and this evening. Zachary now has an expander in the top of his mouth and we added what the Orthodontist calls a reverse head gear or face mask on Wednesday. He will have to wear the face mask for approximately ten months if he wears it 12 hours a day. That is going to be tough, but Zachary is such a trooper. He does fuss about some about things, but what child wouldn't if he had been made to do so much as he has for the past six years. Here is a pic for your humor...

Poor guy, however I promised him he would not have to wear it to school, but mainly when he sleeps. Say it isn't so...I've lost the baby boy face and am directly headed to that awkward stage of growth. Alas, I still think he is just as cute!

Wild Horseman

My Wild Horseman finally allowed me to record him. It was with much aggravation, and while I believe he can play it better, I told him I would only record him one time. So here it is...

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

This was a very difficult song for Zachary. He enjoyed watching his piano teacher play and point out her mistakes rather than play it himself. I showed him on You Tube how it normally sounds. He liked that too, but not enough to keep practicing. Still I feel he played great considering his enthusiasm for the piece.

P.S. If you are wondering why the video starts in a different shirt, it is simply because I am computer challenged. Don't ask, just enjoy!

A new found friend

After eight years, Zachary has decided Pete is a nice accessory to have around the house. As a matter of fact, he talks to him and follows him around. He has started commanding him and thinks it is hysterical when Pete gets in trouble. He likes to pat him on the back and say "bad dog"..."I spanked Pete." Ridiculous, but Zachary keeps us laughing! Here are a few photos of him
interacting and imitating Pete.

Trying to be sweet

Yawning like Pete

Sitting like Pete (notice Zachary's hands)

And still no piano video yet. I tried to bribe Zachary to play in exchange for swimming tonight, but he said no. And then of course, John asked Zachary if he wanted to go play golf. I knew I was out of luck at that point.

Scout Camp

Piano video no, but I did get a few pictures from Scout camp this week. I’ve been real impressed with Zachary. He has tried everything and not complained much. Granted we are not in the same Den, but we are in the same rotation, so I get see him participate. Now, I’m not saying he is like Scout of the year, but he is complying with the Scout motto...‘Do your best’.

Archery

Den play (they had to make and wear masks)

Rifles (scary)

He did happen to wonder away from his den yesterday. We found him pretty quickly. When asked where his den and buddy were, he responded, “They are lost.” Today is our last day and we are all tired, but have had fun!

Family Affair

Before I start, I know I am a lame blogger. I can't seem to get it done, but I sure try.

So my cousin Leah married Scott. They've courted since I think their sophomore year in college and were ready to tie the knot. Aunt Ruth and Uncle Steve sure know how to have a celebration. We had a great time with all the family and cousins. We did miss Jessica and Jeff though. I can't believe Scott and Leah will be a married for a month this weekend. Time flies! Here are a few photos from the wedding and family at the reception. I didn't get as many as I would have liked.

I know! I didn't get one of the happy couple, but that is what my mom is for. She is the master of photos, and combines all photos taken and kindly distributes Cd's from family functions. Love her for that. Besides, I was busy with Zachary, making sure he was kept clear of the dance floor and not overloading at the candy bar. I tell you the one picture I wish I had taken was of him dancing. It was hilarious! He definitely got his moves from his dad.

Stay tuned for the next post. I am working hard on getting a video of Zachary playing the piano, and it is not nearly as long as Moonlight Sonata.

Summer has begun

We started our summer and have not stopped for the last three weeks. First in South Padre where Aunt Traci and her three kids joined us.

From there, we rode to Austin with Traci for a baby shower for Micki and Nicole. Of course, we made time to stop off and see Lauren.

And then we headed to the Sansing grassroots to support Burt and Rebekah as they tied the knot on June 13th.

Pretty good looking family, if I say so myself.

Does it really matter?

I was visiting with my cousin's wife this past weekend at a family affair (more on that another time). She is expecting in August. We were speaking about staying at home or going back to work after the baby arrived. She mentioned being torn and what others would think. Later several of us were discussing ill-behaved children and again what others would think of our kids. I mentioned it didn't matter. Try as we will, no one is a perfect parent and our kids are certain to misbehave. All you can do is put your best foot forward for you and your family, and the rest is life!

I was thinking about that conversation yesterday. It dawned on me that I need to take my own advice. I need to try my best and not worry what others think of me or my Zachary. It seems I worry most what my family & friends thinks of Zachary, when those are the ones that love us the most. As every other parent, I need to fix my eyes on being a godly parent and let the rest fall into place.

P.S. Nicole, I think you and Adam are going to be great parents. All you can do is try your best, and the rest will happen. Micki, ditto for you guys too. Love you both!