David's Broken Wing

Saturday night, David learned a hard lesson. It didn't involve eating or crawling. He didn't learn it from a book or from either of his parents. Experience was his teacher. And, in a matter of seconds, David discovered that he was not a bird and he could not fly. While Daddy Chris (who is still feeling VERY guilty) turned to get a book to read, David dove off the couch and landed on his left arm. When Daddy Chris turned around, he heard a sound he would never forget. A cracking that broke not only David's left forearm, but his parents hearts!

He went to the Emergency Room, where we were given VIP treatment by a doctor who is a member of our congregation. Instead of tears, David was laughing, playing peek-a-boo, and flirting with all the nurses. He was finally sedated and the doctor came and reset his arm. He received a little temporary caste and will get a more permanent one later this week. Needless to say, it was a HARD night...especially for Mom and Dad.

In the picture, you can see David is still sleeping well. He is also smiling lots. But, sadly, can't crawl right now, just sorta scoot along the floor....The doctor says it will be healed completely in 3-4 weeks. Thanks for your prayers for our little one!

More Fun at the Science Center

John Hawkins was with us for our adventures at the McWane Science Center in Birmingham. We had a BLAST! You can see David enjoyed looking at himself in the mirrors, learning about science, letting a butterfly sit on his shadow, and riding on the shoulders of a new friend!

David LOVES Water

Whether at the Science Center in Birmingham or the Fountain at the Zoo...

David Visits Birmingham Zoo

On Thursday, March 27, David took his Mom and Dad on a trip to the Birmingham Zoo. We were surrounded by lions, tigers, and bears. As well as (Jen would be quick to note), a few Florida gators as well. David LOVED every minute. He spent most of the day riding on Daddy's shoulders, but also put on the hard hat for some serious work with the animals as well.

As you can see, David's encounter with the goats at the petting zoo was short and sweet. He liked to look at them, but had very little interest in actually petting! He did, on the other hand, enjoy his rides on the train and carousel...

David Does the Elberta Sausage Festival!

Elberta, Alabama is a town located essentially in the middle of nowhere with a population of less than 500. Townspeople are largely descendents of German immigrants, but have since embraced a new culture, namely the Southern Redneck. However, twice each year, the town celebrates its heritage with an event that rivals any other in our nation. New York has New Year's Eve, Boston has St. Patrick's Day, and Elberta has the Suasage Festival!

As you can see, David has a little German in him as well! (Actually, he does, Jen is apparently about 1/8 German) And, the George family contributes some of his Southern roots.

If anyone wants to make a reservation for next year's festival, letus know...Rooms are going quick!

David at GMAC Bowl "Mardi Gras" Parade

Mama Jen was off to work, caring for sick with her healing hands at the hospital. Meanwhile, Daddy Chris was ready to introduce Baby David to a Mobile Tradition, the GMAC Mardi Gras Parade.

Once again, David was the center of attention. Revelers on all the floats showered David with bead necklaces, stuffed animals, and of course, Moon Pies. Police smiled and waved at our little one. One of the band members for Ball State University, stopped and gave David a little salute!

After we returned home, David was ready to pose for some pictures with the spoils of his first Mardi Gras Parade.

A Holy Family?--Baby David become Baby Jesus

Hanging of the Greens Service is an opportunity to learn about the meaning of the symbols of Christmas. Soon after our arrival at First Baptist Church of Mobile, we learned that the church traditionally has a family with a young baby dress up like the Holy Family during this special service.

I am not certain we looked much like the Holy Family. My Joseph costume looked more like a Hispanic Pirate than an Mediteranean Carpenter. As always, Jen looked radiant, but maybe more like a gypsy than Mother Mary. Of course, David stole the show.

In the carol "Away in the Manger," the text says, "the cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus no crying he makes." I doubt the writer was present to verify this account. In fact, in the service, I wondered aloud if the writer had any children. Regardless, Baby David couldn't quite stay still, looking angelic. He wanted a bit more action. So, the swaddling clothes feel off quickly to reveal a cute Christmas onesie.

And, although we were far from the first Holy Family, it was a wonderful celebration for our family and our church family. And, I hope, even with all our errors, God looked down at our little Baby David and remembered a moment long ago, when another little baby was born and laid in a manger...

Merry Christmas