Saturday, July 12, 2008

My Baby is 12!

12 years ago today, Eric Thomas Shaffer entered this world as a content, cheerful baby. From the beginning, he was easy. He was never a demanding baby or toddler, and has been eager to please us from a very early age. His conscience is tender, and to this day, he can't stand it if he has lied or deceived us...it's not long before he is confessing (you may remember the "I smell smoke" story).

Because he doesn't get a "real" party this year (we only give friend-parties every other year), I have no celebration pictures to show. Instead, I'll show you the latest expression of his creativity. The following project was his from beginning to end. The idea, the materials, the creative process, the work, etc. All his. He only solicited our help in finding the tools and materials he needed to complete it.

He began with a huge dowel rod that he found in the garage.

He whittled and sanded until he achieved the desired shape and size.

Next, he stained it, then wrapped the handle in suede with leather strapping. Cool.

His motivation came from a Harry Potter catalog he received in the mail and which was selling replicas of each character's wand. Being the intelligent, frugal child of his mother, he wasn't about to pay $150 for one! Instead of regretting that he couldn't have it, he set out to create his own. That's my boy. I'm proud of him and I'm SO glad he was born!!

Happy Birthday, Buddy.

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