Chandler loves zoos. (what kid doesn't, I know) But Chandler REALLY does. First thing upon entering any zoo, he requests a map from zoo workers, and then charts out our route. He knows facts about every single animal in the place. Doesn't matter if we're at the Portland zoo, Hoggle zoo, or our very own Alaska zoo, he knows the proper name for each animal, and can tell you what they eat, who their enemies are, and what color their poop is. (really, he can, but he'll use the word "dung" instead)
Chandler is very strong! Since he was a little guy, Chandler has continued to amaze me with both his physical, spiritual, and emotional strength. He is a very grounded young man, who is sure of himself, and what he wants out of life. 
Chandler takes after his dad in almost every aspect of his life. He LOVES star wars, and I am constantly amazed at his comprehension of the series. We once played Star Wars Trivial Pursuit, and he gave all of us a run for our money. (even Matt!)
Chandler Loves the outdoors, in all the seasons. He recently became a big fan of hiking, and is usually the first one up any mountain we decide to hike. This summer we went hiking with some friends, and when the mother (was was pregnant) got tired and we decided to head back down before reaching the top, Chandler was very disappointed. After parting with our friends at the parking lot, Chandler talked us into heading over to another trail, and we hiked up that mountain that same day. 
Chandler loves his relatives. Especially the Grandma's. And while he is almost as tall as his Grandma Stastny, and catching up to his Grandma Christensen, he is never too big, or too cool to give out hugs. 
Chandler has always loved books. But learning to read was a struggle for Chandler. K-2nd grade were stressful and emotional years for our family as we tried to encourage him not to give up. We knew that once he figured out the power reading gives an individual, there would be no stopping Chandler. About a month ago, Chandler came home with a thick book from the library. White Fang. I raised an eye brow, and wondered if he'd really finish it, or just skim through. I was pleasantly surprised as I watching him skip TV, playing, and even treats in order to finish his book in a 36 hour period. Now, instead of begging him to pick up a book, I have the opposite problem, and have to beg him to come in to eat dinner, or turn off the lights for bed.
Chandler is an amazingly good big brother. He was only 17 months old when Gabe joined our family, and only 4 when Morgan came along. I can always count on his help with his brother and sister, and he has also become a great help to some of the mothers in our ward with little ones. He entertains them, coos at them, and plays with them to keep them happy.
I just put this in, because Chandler hates taking pictures, and when he finally looks at the camera, I usually get a cheesy grin like the one above. 
Chandler has the most amazing blue eyes and long eye lashes. I am jealous of them often. I am also awed by the sweet spirit he is in our home, and how grateful I am to be entrusted to mother this wonderful spirit. I am sure Heavenly Father has a plan for him, and can't wait to see him continue to grow and mature into the wonderful young man he is soon becoming.
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