When did 7 happen?

(These are the latest fashion in Carson's life, 3-D movies theater glasses!)

I am often amazed at how quickly time passes. It seems as a result of having children time increases in speed, and consequently with each additional child time lapses with ever increasing haste. Once again time has knocked me over and I find myself looking into the eyes of my boy and wondering "When did 7 happen?"

Carson has always been the child where his age is never a surprise. He naturally fits into his new year of growth and it all makes sense that he should be that age. Even as 7 has hit me out of left field, I find myself naturally accepting that he is now one more year older. I truly believe that reason is because he is an old soul. I remember holding my baby boy at one week old and he would stare deep into my eyes. His eyes immoveable, it was if he was digesting all there was to learn and know about this woman that was going to call herself his mom.

Carson is quite a surprising little boy. Although I know this about him, he tends to hide it really well from others. He dawdles along being as boyish as he can possibly be, which means being dirty, loud and rough. And just as I am about to feel as though Carson is just your average boy, he surprises me with doing something completely abnormal. Usually something completely terrific, sweet, wonderful and sincere. Carson has more love in his little body than I do believe this whole nation contains. He cares deeply and considers others so thoroughly. That old soul comes out with such a sincere desire to understand and care for those around him.

An example, his teacher called me up earlier this school year to explain to me that Carson had been bitten by a boy with mental handicaps. She proceeded to tell me that although he was hurt and caught off guard Carson continued to love this boy. Being the child that was unafraid of such differences he continually shoulders these types of children with learning disabilities and serves them on a daily basis without being instructed to do so. This teacher was so touched by his strong desire to help that her voice caught multiple times as she expressed her impressions of my son. How could a mother not beam with pride?

Carson is the boy that makes sure others are steady. He is the boy that takes time to ensure the underdog that all is well. He is the boy that will often be found with his arm around the shoulder of someone needing that extra care for the day. He is the boy that will be found taking the toddling babies by the hand and ensuring their safety. He is the boy with a strong desire to be good and make good choices. Although there are times we feel all is lost as we see pure enjoyment and satisfaction emanate from his face as he tortures one sister to the next we have to realize he is still a boy, an old soul, but also a 7 year old boy.

I love you Carson and Happy 7th birthday buddy! We are so grateful you have been born into this family to bless our lives and especially all those sister's lives!