You can't always get what you want...

Howie has a snaggletooth. It's not much of a problem just yet, as I feel pageants are a breeding ground for self-esteem issues. However, I have started thinking about the impact this could potentially have on his future career as a dental hygienist. I don't want to dash his dreams and tell him that he should rethink his career choice on account of his dental imperfections, but I also don't want him to face rejection after rejection from area dentists due to his appearance. I can only imagine that dentists (at least good ones) try to hire assistants with impeccable teeth. While his snaggletooth is endearing to me, I fear the DDS may see it differently. 

I'm trying to nudge him in the direction of the paralegal. I think this field will not only be more intellectually stimulating for him, but sitting behind a desk might be more his style. He could keep M&Ms in his desk and find joy in operating the paper shredder on a daily basis--not to mention the headset he could wear for telephone operation convenience. I just have to find a way to make him think this is his idea. Perhaps I could pretend to have some legal issues come up, and I could seek his assistance with the paperwork. I'll praise his skills and say, "Oh if only there was a way you could do this for a living!" Now where do I find a template for fake legal documents...?

Patrick is starting to display some definite potential in track and field. He seems well-disciplined, waking up for 6am runs around the apartment and late-night high jumping practice. Howie seems very supportive of his talents as well, offering himself as a temporary hurdle until we can remodel the apartment to better suit his athletic needs. I'm very proud of him, but I do hope that if he starts competing on a regular basis, Howie won't feel over-shadowed by his younger brother. I think we'll have to find him a sport in which he can excel equally. Perhaps croquet or curling. 

OK, if you haven't had a chance to see this viral video yet, I'll post the link. As always, Howie and Patrick send their best.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtX8nswnUKU