Dear Max,
I can't believe that you are 7! The day you were born seems like another lifetime ago and like it was just yesterday at the same time. I am beyond proud of the young boy you are. I may smile and say 'thank you' when people compliment me on YOU, but I know I can't take credit for that. You are you, as you always have been. Always teaching me, being the quiet leader, and always having a clear cut view of right and wrong. You are an AMAZING big brother, despite the fights with your brother and tendency to irritate to your sister. You are constantly looking out for them.
You had an excellent first grade year and are looking forward to going into second grade. Your teacher was able to sum you up perfectly during our end of the year conference: "he's the only in kid class that really gets sarcasm! I love it, he gets it and uses it and the other kids in class don't even realize it! He's very mature that way for his age. He's a rule follower, but will try anything you ask him to. I can't push him to do anything or he won't do it. He does it in his own time, in his own way, and embraces it when he's in charge of things." Hit the nail right on the head.
You are currently obsessed with Lego's, Jurassic Park/World, Minecraft, The Magic Treehouse series, "Once Upon A Time," learning to cook by your self (so far I've only worked up the courage to let you use the microwave and toaster by yourself. I have no doubt that you'd confidently attempt to use the oven/stove, but I'm quite positive it would result in a visit to the ER, so we'll hold off another year for that), drawing, and creating things (paintings, drawings, building things, writing books with me, stories).
Thank you for being my helper. I know I can (almost) always count on you to help me out when I need it. You make this parenting thing seem easy because you are just an all around good kid. I'm privileged to be your mom and find myself astounded time and time again by your wisdom and sweet heart. I can't wait to see what this next year brings you and what you bring me.
Love,
Mom
P.S. I love that you still want to hold my hand and fought with your siblings about who got to hold mom's hand. It's a sweet reminder that you still need me for things because I know how independent and capable you really are.
