Monday was the first day of school for the 2008-2009 school year for our two kiddos. My son Caleb started 8th Grade today along with his 30+ pound backpack. I am still having a hard time knowing I am the father of a teenager. I am so proud of Caleb. He is maturing quickly (although he is still waiting on a good growth spurt) and he has a great head on his shoulders. Among the classes he is taking are; Algebra, Spanish, and Advanced Reading. He is also in the Band and will perform at his first football game soon. Where is that little guy who's first words were, "Moo!"Rachel started 6th Grade. She is switching classes for the first time and she was a little frustrated about it; but after the first day she said it wasn't as bad as she thought it would be. She has an African-American woman Social Studies teacher, who Rachel says she is worried about, because she is strict. I told he to look for the wonderful opportunity to hear the History of the world from a different perspective. She is also growing up quickly and she will be 20+ before I know it. At least she still "beeps" my nose at night before she goes to sleep.
On a different note: Our wiener dog, Schnitzel is having some problems. Apparently the little fella is hurting his back by jumping onto the furniture and other things. He is walking around making noises like he is pain, he is not eating well, and he has some very loose stools. We have already spent almost $200 on him and we are taking him back to the vet this morning. We were told that if he "blows a disk" in his back it may require some expensive surgery. I love this dog, and I want him to be healed, but I was also raised "old school" where if your animal is costing you more than the family budget allows, and the animal is in pain, then you "put the animal to sleep" and find another pet. I am torn on what exactly to do with Schnitzel, but for now we will let the vet attempt to work his magic. If that fails, then I may have to pull an "Old Yeller!" At that point I will cry for a few days and try to bond more with the cat. Do I sound blunt and mean? I hope not, I do love the dog.
