Calling the Tooth Fairy. Literally.

*Tooth Fairy Update below*

Parenting can be challenging. It requires patience...and restraint. In ALL kinds of circumstances.

Garrett is unique in a lot of ways, but you might not know that at first glance (if you can look past the desperately needed haircut). Until now. His smile says it all...

take a closer look...

It's been WEEKS that his tooth has been dangling by a thread...wiggling easily but holding steadfast. And soliciting offers from everyone- parents, peers, teachers, strangers- to pull it out (or advice on the best way to do it). I can't blame them...I've had to exercise tremendous restraint myself. So I was really relieved when Garrett announced he finally lost his first front tooth!

Just not the one you would have thought.
(notice his right tooth is now missing)

Oddly enough, my self-conscious child is quite proud of his new snaggle-tooth status...fortunately he sees the humor in it. Especially since it's hard not to stare. Looks like the Tooth Fairy will be busy in the coming days.

Speaking of the Tooth Fairy...since she failed to show the first night Blake lost his last tooth (another story for another time...), Garrett was a little concerned she might not make it this time. Just in case, he wrote her a note asking for her phone number...smart kid. And thoughtful...he included a Valentine for her. And creative...he drew a "tooth saver" (a Star Wars lightsaber with teeth) and signed the note "may your teeth be clean" (a reference to Star Wars quote "may the force be with you").

Like I said, he's one of a kind. But now you can tell by his one-toothed smile.
(note: I intend to post the letter after I have a chance to scan it, so be sure to check back)

*Update: While I haven't had a chance to scan the letter, here is our new and improved Garrett having finally lost his snaggle-tooth (2 days laters) and got his much-needed haircut. Funny enough, he can't stop staring at himself in the mirror. Lookin' good, Garrett, lookin' good...