Dear Elijah,

Holy Cow, seven years old? The years truly are flying by, it's hard to believe you've been with us for seven years, and yet it's hard to imagine life before you came. You've been a ball of sunshine and energy from the get go. I still remember your sweet baby smiles and happy demeanor, and you are still like that and so much more. Let's see what you are like at seven.

This year you started first grade and were able to stay in the same classroom as many of your friends, with some new ones too! It seems you really like your teacher and class this year. Sadly it will be your last year at your school in California and it's kind of sad. You really enjoyed all this school has to offer. But I'm sure you will jump right in and adapt at your old school back in San Antonio. You do really well with reading (your favorite book is the fourth Harry Potter book) and math, (already doing division). 

You also started Kung Fu! It's been a year since you first joined and I really see awesome progress. Perhaps you are not as enthusiastic as when you first started, but you still show up and do your best. Your cartwheels were non existent a year ago and now you are able to do them (not perfect but the progress was awesome to see). You said you want to continue when we move back to Texas and I really want you to. Earlier this year you begged to join the local cub scout den with some of your friends. It's fun to see you in that cute little uniform. It was pricy but you have enjoyed all the little activities. 

You are sprouting up, I'm about to pass the clothes Joseph just got out of to you! Mr. Tall and Skinny. No lost teeth yet, those baby teeth are really hanging in there. I feel like you are eating more and willing to try new things, but there are still things you are not keen on eating. You say you are allergic to peanut butter so you don't have to eat any. Not a fan of oranges or bananas either. You do like berries and apples, though, as well as salad and carrots. That's about it for the healthy stuff though. You are my chocolate guy, and requested a nice chocolate cake (in the shape of a Mario star). As far as physical capabilities, you have become a monkey, always finding new things to climb: trees, the mantel, the garage door...

Some of your favorite activities are video games and Legos. You do really well at video games, and your favorite is probably Minecraft. But you do love Pokemon, anything Mario, and Wario Ware. Another thing you like to do is build with Legos. All you asked for Christmas and your birthday this year were new Lego sets. Those don't come cheap! But you managed to get at least five big Lego sets and a couple smaller ones. You are super proud of yourself when you finish one, mentioning how smart you are (and that you are!) You do get bored easily and like a thrill. If there's one kid we can count on to go on amusement park rides, it's you. Maybe Noah will join you as he likes to be thrilled as well.

Speaking of Noah and your siblings, you seem to be the favorite in the family. You do really well learning along with Joseph on all his interests. Eden says you are the only brother she likes, and Noah loves loves loves his "Ya-Ya". You are so patient with them (although there are days where you like to push buttons, but regardless you still manage to be on everyone's good side). You are very friendly to everyone and make new friends fast. Just a fun person to be around in general.

Well, I guess that's about it. There's always more to say about you Eli, but I just want to make sure you know how much we love you and appreciate your fun and free spirit. I don't worry too much about you as you are responsible and work hard. I can see you do so many wonderful things in your life and look forward to continue to see you grow even more. We'll have to prepare you for your next birthday when you turn eight. We always hope you will choose the right, and I know you will. We love you, Elijah!

Love, 

Mom