My kiddo is eight years old today. As with all of my kids, Lucas remains who he has been from the first, but more refined.
Rough edges are smoothing out. There are fewer outbursts over school…in fact, there are even days he chooses to get ahead. His propensity to fight tooth and nail for his preferences has now often gives way to preferring someone else. He more often does his chores with a good attitude, and he listens to and processes correction (somewhat) more readily.
Lucas loves to laugh and be silly. He is a practical joker at heart, though his siblings aren’t *always* fans of being in the receiving end of his antics. He is creative and ambitious, and will often work diligently on an idea to see it come to fruition.

Lucas’s verbal communication skills are exemplary. He excels at explaining clearly, and at understanding fairly complex explanations. He has also finally started to accept that books can sometimes be enjoyable, though not so much that he will choose reading instead of other activities very often.

Lucas loves playing outside. He loves having dogs. He loves music. He loves his big brothers.

Lucas has a strong understanding of the gospel, and is growing in his fledgling faith. He is learning repentance and grace and forgiveness and compassion.

Lucas, thankfully, still loves to snuggle. He gives me hugs if I’m sad. He goes for walks with me. He jumps into my arms when he says goodbye. He his full of energy and excitement and emotion. I am so thankful for Lucas and he brings so much joy to our lives. It is a privilege to celebrate his eight years today.