11 years (75 lbs; 56 3/4" tall)

Hudson is in his last 6 weeks of 5th grade and his career at Shadow Lake Elementary School.
In math he is focusing on area/volume, in science they're learning about stars/space and in history he is learning about the Oregon Trail. He recently had a field trip to the middle school and has another field trip to the high school in a couple weeks. There was a parent info night at the middle school so we had the opportunity to walk around the campus and learn about the block schedule that will dictate his schedule. We even picked his electives already. It's definitely going to be a new chapter for him with exciting opportunities to explore.

Last month in school was particularly busy for Hudson as he went to Camp Casey for a school sponsored sleep-away camp. He was gone for three days and two nights. He met several boys from neighboring elementary schools and all in all had a good time. He also had to create, present, and showcase a science project. After a little suggestion from his dad he chose to do his on concussions. He was initially intimidated by the thought of speaking to adults about his project and practiced on his family members. I think he was definitely glad to have it behind him but learned a necessary and valuable skill through the process.

We did several fun activities over the Winter/Spring:
We skied 5 different times at Snoqualmie (West & Central), Loup Loup, and Crystal (twice). Hudson is not afraid to go to the top and work on his turns. It's so fun to ski all together as a family! We also had another day in the city and started by touring the Int'l District and enjoying Chinese food (dimsum was the original plan but long lines prohibited us). We did a stadium tour of Century link, toured the downtown library and explored the Olympic Sculpture Park. We also went to a Buddhist Temple and plan to visit a Jewish Synagogue and St James Catholic church later this year.
We just celebrated Hudson's 11th birthday with a flag football game at CCP. This may be the last birthday where we have a bunch of friends with balloons, cake and favors. Moving into junior high may bring with it an evolution of what future birthday parties look like.

Hudson really enjoys Diary of a Wimpy Kid as far as casual reading goes. In terms of serious books he recently finished Treasure Island.

This Spring in soccer, Hudson played down again in order to play with the Shadow Ninja's again. Hudson is definitely emerging as the clear leader and dominant player. It was so exciting to watch him score the only goal to tie the game against a select team in the season ending tournament. We could NOT be prouder of the progress he has made over the last several years. Not only with regard to his skill but also as a leader and team player.  The Shadow Ninja's donned the black jersey's again!

Hudson's independence continues to emerge as well as the influence of his peers. He oftentimes "knows more" than mom/dad and walks the line in understanding the equity of his relationship with his parents. He is getting braver and more inclined to try things with less trepidation. He is a typical big brother and likes to tell his brother what to do, but is also very helpful in teaching him new things. He is currently really into his yo-yo and has learned a variety of tricks. He spends a lot of time playing catch and flag football in the yard now that the weather is getting warmer.

We love you SO MUCH Hudson Gray! It's hard to believe you'll be in junior high THIS Fall!


Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: No
Book: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Song: No
Breakfast Food: Crunchberries
Dinner Food: Sushi
Number: No
Best Friend: Sam