Sassy and Boots

That sounds like names of little pets, doesn't it. While Maggie, Chap and Whit each got a hamster for Christmas... no not a real ones... one of those crazed Zhu Zhu Pets that everyone was talking about this Christmas, there names are NOT Sassy and Boots.

First, we have Sassy.

Before we made the school switch with Maggie, she had bitten every one of her fingernails down to the cuticle. I told her back then, if she stopped biting her nails and I could see them growing out, then she could have a manicure. In the three weeks at her new school, her nails have all grown out. So, Bibs took she and her cousin Laci to have their nails done at Sweet and Sassy here in Pearland. Both girls loved every minute of it. Maggie had a smile on her face the entire time! They were pampered with lotion, filing, polish, glitter, rings, and a runway walk! What more could a girl ask for, right?

Now, for the Boots.

Whit received his braces/orthotics the week of Christmas. He wasn't too sure about it at first, but Maggie sat up beside him on the table and comforted him while watching every "medical" move.

We noticed an immediate difference in his gait with his new boots. They are a camo pattern (chosen by Chap), complete with a red strap (chosen by Whit).

And, of course, true to Whit's nature... he was playing with a car - putting it in his shoe while he waited for his new boots.

Please pray that he continues to tolerate his new boots. He is becoming a little skeptical of things, and realizing he has a little more difficulty keeping up with his brother and sister. I think it has affected his spirit for the last month or so, so I hope that can be turned around soon - and he'll realize what a sharp, bright little boy he is! He's not the jovial little fellow lately. However, he does still have little spurts of Whit that I like to see! I have just ordered him a new car seat that looks like the booster seats that "other" three year olds ride in, however it does still have the 5-point harness that is required for his weight. He is anxiously awaiting his "big boy seat." He also has a huge ulcer in the corner of his mouth that has been giving him fits as he keeps biting it... making eating quite painful. Ashley (his OT) has been working on his oral motor skills to help strengthen his jaw movements and cheek strength to prevent that from happening when he eats. We're kind of fighting a losing battle - as time will heal it, but he also needs to eat! Also, in the coming months, we will be deciding placement for next year for him... with Chap, without Chap - in a different class level, etc. Please pray for us as we begin that decision process, and that God will lead us in the best direction for both Chap and Whit.

But, for now - these boots were made for walking - and that's just what they'll do!!