Teeth, and magic tricks...

In late December, we all went to the dentist for cleanings. I had a filling that needed to be done, so the dentist decided he could do that and the cleaning together. The only problem with the idea is that it is really hard to swish with a numb mouth. When they were all done with the cleaning, I was to swish some water around and then they would use the "sucker"...well, that didn't quite go according to plan. I tried so hard to swish carefully, only to feel water gushing down my face and neck. Evidently, my lips did not close as I thought they had, and I made a big mess. The hygienist and dentist got a big laugh. I didn't think it was too funny at the time.


This was the first time that Hunter has had x-rays done, and I am surely glad they did them. One of Hunter's molars can't erupt because it is growing into the "premolar" beside it. His tooth is being eroded, leaving it open for infection. We also learned that his permanent teeth are just too big for his little mouth. This really doesn't come as a surprise, since Brian and I both had to have some permanent teeth removed before we got braces. On the bottom, his next two teeth to come in are the size of the 4 teeth that are currently there. So, we were referred to an orthodontist (at 6 this seemed crazy). He recommended that when we have his eroded tooth extracted (which has to happen, soon) that we also remove the 4 teeth on the bottom to at least make some room for the next teeth to come in. I now have to consult with the dentist to see if he can remove the teeth without sedation or if we need to see a "pediatric" dentist who can sedate Hunter. I do not like the idea of a pediatric dentist or sedation, so I am hopeful that our dentist (whom I trust and the boys love) will be able to pull Hunter's teeth.

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Last week, while meeting some friends at Burger King, Garrett gave me quite a shock. We were getting ready to leave when he came to the play are door, sans clothes. Yes, he had taken off his clothes (except his underwear, thank goodness). I was so mortified, but I had to get his clothes back on him quickly. Hunter was standing in the play area with all of Garrett's clothes in his hands. He said, "I don't know why Garrett took off his clothes!" I didn't know either, and it didn't matter in that moment. But later, when I had my wits about me again, I asked why he took his clothes off. He said, "Well, I was trying to do a magic trick!" (in his innocent little voice). I was unaware that he knew magic, and apparently the trick didn't quite work. His clothes disappeared, but he didn't! Maybe next time...but I hope there is not a next time!

Basketball

Early in January, we got to see Sydney play basketball at Timberlake. It was Hunter's school homecoming, and they were hosting Westover Christian Academy (Sydney's school). Sadly, WCA did not put up much of a fight against the TCS Tornados, but Sydney was a star. She scored half of her team's 10 points, and we were all so proud!



Here she is demonstrating some dribbling skills...

Her free-throw form was beautiful!

Garrett and Cassidy had a great time cheering for Sydney.
We love to be able to see Sydney play ball here in Lynchburg. One day, maybe we will get to see Hunter or Garrett playing ball

My sincere apologies..

I had no idea it has been so long since I last posted. I can't believe it.....

Well, a lot has happened in the last 6 weeks or so. Let me see if I can recap for everyone!
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Christmas lasted for the month of December and into January. We celebrated with Christmas plays/programs, family gatherings and more family gatherings. The boys had a wonderful Christmas...

Hunter was a caroller...

...and Garrett was a wise man.

Battleship and Hulk Hands were just a couple of the favorite presents.

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Christmas day we went to Richmond to attend Uncle Dave's annual Christmas gathering. This was the first time in many years that we have attended the party. We stayed in Richmond for a couple of days, as the Saturday after Christmas was Brian's Uncle Johnny's memorial service. He passed away just weeks after being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. The service was very nice, and we were able to spend time with family we hadn't seen in a while. The boys also got to play with David, Emily and Erin! They just love to be with their cousins!

On the way back to Lynchburg, we stopped at Uncle Jim's house and were able to get a family picture...

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The following weekend we were back in Richmond to celebrate with the Perrin side of the family. Again, the boys had such a great time with their cousins. On the way home, Garrett said, "I love playing with James, Laurel and Ethan. Can we go see them at Granny and Pop's again soon?"

Jennifer tried to get some pictures of the grandchildren...notice Garrett turning away from the camera...And I just loved this one of Garrett and Laurel...they look so sweet!

We had a few family pictures...this one was one of my favorites of the 4 of us...
This picture of the whole family (minus Marcia who wasn't feeling well) turned out really well... *************************************************************************************

January started out well...Hunter back in school, Garrett back in school, Brian back to work, and Meredith just trying to get back into a routine. My routine has changed slightly, becuase now I am training to run in a 10K race with Jennifer in March. I have had to add the training into my already crazy schedule, but I am really enjoying the exercise!

Hunter got his second report card...and again, all A's! I am so proud of his effort, and he is just flourishing! I am so thankful for his teacher and his school! I have to go now...but will continue the update in a bit.