An Ode to Hyrum

Hyrum really is such a good kid. He is growing into a self-aware, responsible, helpful, and interesting young man. He knows what is expected of him and almost never needs reminding or prodding to get his stuff done. He works well independently and is good at focusing on the task at hand. I can almost always trust that he's done what he says he's done. He's quick to respond when given a job, and is usually the first to volunteer when help is needed. 

Hyrum loves to read. He has become more interested in really learning and asks intelligent, thoughtful questions. He's getting good at useful research and can usually find the information he's looking for with minimal guidance. He's like his dad and wants to learn all kinds of skills and have lots of hobbies. While his follow through is still developing, he's definitely getting broad exposure to a wide variety of experiences.

He loves animals and babies, and is great with both. While he still spends a lot of time playing with his younger siblings, if older kids or adults are around, he's prone to gravitate towards them. He listens intently to grown up conversations, for the most part converses intelligently with them, and is always very polite. He's most awkward with his peers, and can still be mean and selfish around those his own age, but he is becoming more self-aware and wants to be kind. His genuine desire to behave appropriately and help others be happy speaks volumes about the man he can become.

I fear Hyrum sometimes gets taken advantage of and can be overlooked because he is so often well behaved and responsible. He's not really one for hugs and cuddles like his siblings, and he rarely asks for special treats or one on one time like they do. I do really appreciate him though, and am so grateful for his position in our family. He is intrinsically good, like his dad, and while he has his shortcomings, he is working hard to improve. He is definitely a bright spot in my life and I hope I can show him how deeply he is loved.