William v.6.5

William turned 6 and a half on July 26th in the midst of our crazy travel until you drop month.  I didn't get an update then, but I did want to spend a few minutes talking about our big guy.

William:
-still loves to read.  Currently loving the Magic Tree House chapter books, Magic School Bus Chapter Books, Geronimo Stilton Chapter books and any book on dinosaurs he can get his hands on.  Although he is capable of reading the books on his own, he still loves (and prefers) to be read to.  I find him up many nights reading by the hall light at the end of his bed until 9:30.  This will have to come to an end when school starts, but until then I turn a blind eye.

-He is Amelia's best friend and she is his.  Or worst enemies.  There isn't any inbetween.  Most days after breakfast, these two will disappear into their rooms and play (almost) happily until lunchtime.  Until I go in and demand they put clothes on (remind me to tell you sometime about my pajama hypothesis).  Somehow after they are dressed, everything becomes more difficult.  Although they still play and play and play.  I think both of them have enjoyed reconnecting after the busy school year and having down time to set up their elaborate play schemes.

-He adores Gemma.  He is kind and gentle.  He tells complete strangers at the park proudly that she is his baby sister and she is CUTE.  Even strangers who clearly do not want to talk to a 6 year old about how cute his baby sister is.  William was so helpful with Gemma while John was in Korea.  Without his help, life would have been much more difficult.

-He adores dinosaurs.  Everything dinosaur.  He has long since left me in the dust (fine by me and I will say that I'm not trying very hard at this particular subject) with his breadth and depth of knowledge on the subject.

- We've become much more interested in trying new foods.  Maybe just a bite or two.  Even last year this was so difficult for him.  Now he enjoys trying something new.  He might not eat more than a bite, but at least he is trying some new things.

-Much of the time he is so easy going, it takes me by surprise when he digs his heels in about something.  He wears whatever clothes I put out, no arguing.  He eats what is on his plate with little to no interference from me.  Time to go to the library?  Sure mom.  Hand me some wipes?  Sure, do you need anything else mom?

He sure isn't perfect, but we do love him lots and lots.  This summer has been wonderful and I have enjoyed spending more time with his as company.  I've enjoyed listening to his ideas, thoughts and questions rather than being exhausted by the constant stream of thought that used to come from him.  We're currently working hard on learning that some words have big meaning and can lead you to big trouble.  Like a lot of kids, he talks first and thinks about the words much, much later.  And that mouth has been a source of trouble for him, but we're working on in!