Linus at 7

I can't believe this guy is 7 years old!  Where did the time go?  I know it sounds cliche, but seriously.  He doesn't look like a little baby or toddler anymore.

Linus is a complex human being, not easily pinned down.  He is passionate and driven.  I sometimes marvel at how grown up he is.  Last week he sat down at the desk and very methodically studied for his spelling test with no reminders or help from me.  He loves school and learning, although if you ask him he will probably tell you his favorite subject is recess.

He loves sports, especially cross country, football, and karate.  He enjoys playing soccer but it is not his passion.  He likes swimming, but is not the biggest fan of lessons.  Linus is bursting with energy and I am constantly trying to find ways to help him burn it.  He is happiest playing fliers and football with his friends at school.

Linus has an amazing mind.  Listening to him process mathematical ideas is fascinating.  He likes listening to NPR and trying to process the world around him.  It took a little while, but Linus loves reading.  His current favorites to read by himself are the Big Nate series and Tales from Maple Ridge series.

Linus responds well to personal challenges and structure.  He needs to feel in control of his life.  Karate has been a wonderful thing for him.  He recently passed the test for advance blue belt.  I didn't think Linus would get to test since he had only just restarted after a summer break.  Linus insisted on getting to class early to work on his karate and had me film his teacher so he could practice at home.

Other things Linus currently enjoys are: Minecraft, Legos, board games like Risk and Forbidden Island, Wild Kratts games on the computer, SlugTerra, the Hobbit, Harry Potter, riding his scooter, playing with his new snap circuits sets,  and doing holiday related things.

Linus dislikes being told what to do, not being the best, making mistakes, not having Daddy's full attention 24/7 on the weekends, sharing his parents with his siblings,  and tolerating Eileen's presence.

Linus has clear ideas about the way the world should be.  Sometimes this is awesome, sometimes not.  Usually it means a battle of wills and frustration that he is only 7.  Occasionally, it manifests in positive experiences for all.  For example, tonight Linus decided he wanted a cozy evening at home.  To make this happen, he earned his screen time, vacuumed the family room (so it would be completely clean he even moved furniture).  Then he bathed himself and his brother and put on jammies.  Finally, Linus helped select a movie for all of them to enjoy before bed.  I know, right?

Oh Linus, I love you so much even though you drive me crazy.