Joseph at 7

I love this face!

Joseph you are 7!!! I think being the eldest and as you approach these new ages first it always feels more shocking - do you know what I mean?! Seven whole years, one more year til you are baptised! You told me the other day as we were practising the songs for the Primary presentation, that there is one song you love - when I am baptised. You said 'I love this song, it makes me cry!' We had a chat about that and we talked about that feeling was the holy ghost telling you that baptism was so important and makes you feel clean. It was a gorgeous moment. You ask so many questions daily. Currently, lots of questions about big cats and Harry Potter. You also have questions about friendships and life. We've had deep discussions about death and resurrection brought on by things you've thought about. I love that you are so open about how you are feeling and things that have happened in your day. You give us opportunities to teach and most of the time you listen too! Sometimes I confess I get a bit worn out of you being so open about what you want to happen and when - food, films, birthday presents, food, films, Christmas presents, play dates etc. But I take it as I love that you are open as a book. I really hope that continues. 

You are thriving at school. Seriously thriving! You have a thirst to learn. You read books without being prompted or bribed! When Granne and Grandad gave you some lovely books about animals for your birthday you were genuinely thrilled. I have loved listening to you read to me about Big cats. Lions are you favourite. We went to the Yorkshire Wildlife Park for you Birthday at your request. It was surprisingly good - who knew that Doncaster is home to the liveliest loins I've ever seen and a sleeping polar bear.

You are also thriving in your class at church. Sister Stephenson is a blessing in our lives. You love her and she you. In her class you have learnt the first 6 articles of faith - seriously who knew a 6 year old could do that?! Sister Stephenson that is who. For the Primary Presentaion this year you had two large passages to learn. You had learnt them well, but when  it came to the first passage you froze on the stand and as you peered over the pulpit you whimpered 'I'm shy.' You shy??? The boy who will speak to anyone, as mentioned in your *school report, shy?! Sister Stephenson read it for you and you returned to your seat bashful. You obviously felt somewhat embarrassed and proceeded to play with her beads whilst the rest of primary sang. Dad gave you one of those looks , you know the one I mean and then you remembered you were 7 and actually not really shy! You read your next passage perfectly and clear - well done my boy.

You are still mad about lego. it is everywhere!! You can build sets designed for older boys following the instruction manual carefully. I love it when you create your own models. Your imagination is fantastic and the models you create are thoughtful and intricate. 

You are a kind hearted boy who loves to make friends, regardless of age. You school report also mentioned how cheerful and friendly you are. In fact when I read your report  couldn't help but well up because you've come on so well and it was clear as day that your teacher knew 'you' and loved the many qualities you have. It's nice to know that other people can see how great you are too.

Love you little man.

Mum x