Orthodontist

This is very similar to what Wildcat got installed in his mouth today at the orthodontist. It is a palatal expander. Basically it widens his mouth. We turn a key once a day for twelve days and it expands a bone in the roof of his mouth. The expansion doesn't hurt, but Wildcat is having a hard time talking. He got a milkshake right after the appointment. At supper, he wanted a sandwich, but just couldn't manage, so he tried mashed potatoes, but couldn't manage those either. He ended up eating chicken noodle soup through a straw. He was convinced that he would starve, but we assured him that he would adjust after a few days. Already by bedtime his speech was more clear, and he managed to eat an ice cream sandwich. I did feel sorry for the poor guy though.

Tonight he had swimming lessons, and did fine. However, for some reason when he floats on his back and kicks, he doesn't go anywhere. It was pretty funny to see him just kicking as hard as he could and staying in one place. He does just fine on his stomach, so I am not sure what the mechanism is that is failing. Hopefully we can get it figured out at the next lesson on Thursday.

Paul had his first day at the warehouse today. It was long, and mostly in the classroom, but he did get to drive a forklift. He was really excited about that. The company provides free gatorade (as well as coffee, and hot chocolate) from vending machines. When it is hot, bottles of water are brought to the line. Paul is already gathering many real world math problems to share with his students next year.