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
10 1/2 years (72.2 lbs)
Hudson is in the 5th grade and has Mr Kostohris again as his teacher which means little to no homework except for reading. He is learning about decimals in Math, ecosystems in Science, and free writing in English. His classroom is in a portable and he swaps rooms for reading which is taught by Ms McKutchen (Sam's teacher). His parent/teacher conference is this week so we hope to learn more and get a good report.
Hudson took a week long Robotics camp the first week of summer break w Sam. After going through an interesting Summer and hardly seeing Sam at all, they seem to be back on track and spending more time together. It's too bad they're not in the same grade. He (and Beckett) did a sleepover a couple weeks ago so mommy/daddy could enjoy a date night.
We did several fun activities over the Summer/Fall:
We raced in three different 5K races, went to a Strawberry Festival, geocaching, emerald downs, swimming at the pool, drive-in movie, disc golf, museum tour, wild waves (twice), franklin falls, the fair, and the pumpkin patch. Hudson's birthday was a soccer party at the park!
Hudson has been reading Cameron's book "Chasing Rumor" and seems to be enjoying it. This is a good thing as we can't seem to find any series that he's open to and willing to invest time to read.
I'm fine w this since he finished reading Lord of the Rings this Summer which was over 1000 pages.
He still goes through stages of semi-enjoying reading and feeling like a slave to it.
This Fall, Hudson played down in soccer (13th season) in order to be with the usual suspects and coach Corey. They had an amazing season (undefeated w only one tie until the final tournament) and Hudson has improved SO MUCH. It seemed like every piece of the game came together for him. From dribbling, passing, shooting, and looking for opportunities to set up assists to strong defense and team leadership. He was the best player on the team and so much fun to watch. I'm glad I didn't press pause this season like I thought I might given Skyler's transition. This season his jersey was Black and their team name was the Shadow Ninja's. He played w Chase S, Matthew, and Dylan.
We took a couple trips to Bellingham this Fall as a family and had a really nice time all in all. The boys did lots of swimming, walked all around the WWU campus and the arboretum and the historic district of Fairhaven. We visited several breweries, played disc golf and visited a farmer's market. One night after dinner we had a dance off and watched a scary Halloween movie w the lights out. Hudson's costume for Halloween this year was Tony Hawk. More a factor of what we had lying around than his level of interest in skateboarding. (Beckett was a Parisian painter)
This Winter, we hope to get Hudson back on the ski hill at Crystal Mountain. He left last season looking really good and feeling pretty confident so I look forward to seeing what this year brings.
We hope to ski at Great Divide in Helena this Xmas so optimistic he'll be open to it.
Hudson has a strong personality. He is opinionated and stubborn, decisive and strong willed. At the same time he is also still sensitive and sweet. He definitely has a love/hate relationship w his brother but when they are getting along it is the sweetest thing to watch. I love that they have each other and that they're close in age.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson Gray! It's hard to believe you'll be in junior high next year!
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Orange
Book: Chasing Rumor (Cameron's book)
Song: 5 Seconds of Summer
Breakfast Food: Pancakes
Dinner Food: Sushi
Number: 8
Best Friend: Sam
10 years (66.8 lbs)
Hudson is on the final stretch of 4th grade. He's had a good year and developed several relationships, particularly with a new neighbor Sam. Sam's parents have become good friends as well so it's a win/win. He was unsuccessful attempting sleepovers @ Colton and Aiden's homes but has slept over @ Sam's multiple times. There was a strange incident that happened on the bus and then on the school grounds where Hudson and another kid were called into the principal's office. He was a bit emotional at school the next day. After talking w him and exchanging emails w his teacher I think we dissolved the issue and moved past it. In Math he is learning fractions and decimals. He has 4 days of assessments coming up at the end of the month and we're optimistic he'll do really well.
Hudson spent the Spring playing soccer (12th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. This season may have been the end of an era as I think coach Skyler will hang up his coaching cleats and move Chase into Select. Initially, the thought was that Hudson would take a break from soccer this Fall but he seems to want to play again and have his new buddy Sam join his team. This season his jersey was Kelly Green and perhaps the best color yet. Their team name was the Thunderbirds.
This Winter, Hudson went up to the Pass and had a great day skiing with Dad. It started out a little rough but he worked it out and they ended up having a great day. A couple months ago, while in the Methow Valley, Hudson went to the Loup Loup and skied with Mom. He started out on the poma and eventually went to the top of the mountain skiing both the Loop and the Ridge. He had a big crash at the bottom so got really frustrated. After a little cocoa break, he pulled himself out of it and got back on the junior poma. Mommy was really proud of him for pulling himself up and getting out of his funk to try again.
Hudson has been working on reading Lord of the Rings. It's a huge 1000+ page book so it's been a work in progress. He goes through stages of enjoying it and feeling like a slave to it which is totally understandable. Mommy got some alternative books at the library but he refuses to read them. go figure.
Hudson continues to enjoy his friendship w Sam. They are at each other's house probably once a week (oftentimes including Beckett) and have done sleepovers at each others homes as well. It's so great to have a friend nearby and someone whose family is so much fun!
We did a couple fun activities over the past couple months. We went up to the Pass and went inner tubing, to the Seattle waterfront for Wings Over Washington, and then to Pacific Raceways last weekend to watch drag races. Upon coming home, Hudson "decided" that this is what he wants to do as a profession and started sketching out designs to build his own dragster. Good thing his main gift from mom/dad this year is a drill. He also got a light up skateboard from Beckett!
Hudson is coming into his own and becoming more opinionated and inquisitive. He has a strong sense of justice and is frustrated by lack of fairness. He is incredibly inclusive of his brother which is really sweet and always wants Beckett to come along to Sam's house. He even shared his Captain Crunch birthday cereal with B this morning! He had a dentist appt this week and had no cavities which makes mommy really happy.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 10 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Pink
Book:Harry Potter series; Swindle Series; Lord of the Rings
Song: I Like to Move it Move it
Breakfast Food: Pancakes
Dinner Food: Sushi
Number: 5
Best Friend: Sam
Hudson spent the Spring playing soccer (12th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. This season may have been the end of an era as I think coach Skyler will hang up his coaching cleats and move Chase into Select. Initially, the thought was that Hudson would take a break from soccer this Fall but he seems to want to play again and have his new buddy Sam join his team. This season his jersey was Kelly Green and perhaps the best color yet. Their team name was the Thunderbirds.
This Winter, Hudson went up to the Pass and had a great day skiing with Dad. It started out a little rough but he worked it out and they ended up having a great day. A couple months ago, while in the Methow Valley, Hudson went to the Loup Loup and skied with Mom. He started out on the poma and eventually went to the top of the mountain skiing both the Loop and the Ridge. He had a big crash at the bottom so got really frustrated. After a little cocoa break, he pulled himself out of it and got back on the junior poma. Mommy was really proud of him for pulling himself up and getting out of his funk to try again.
Hudson has been working on reading Lord of the Rings. It's a huge 1000+ page book so it's been a work in progress. He goes through stages of enjoying it and feeling like a slave to it which is totally understandable. Mommy got some alternative books at the library but he refuses to read them. go figure.
Hudson continues to enjoy his friendship w Sam. They are at each other's house probably once a week (oftentimes including Beckett) and have done sleepovers at each others homes as well. It's so great to have a friend nearby and someone whose family is so much fun!
We did a couple fun activities over the past couple months. We went up to the Pass and went inner tubing, to the Seattle waterfront for Wings Over Washington, and then to Pacific Raceways last weekend to watch drag races. Upon coming home, Hudson "decided" that this is what he wants to do as a profession and started sketching out designs to build his own dragster. Good thing his main gift from mom/dad this year is a drill. He also got a light up skateboard from Beckett!
Hudson is coming into his own and becoming more opinionated and inquisitive. He has a strong sense of justice and is frustrated by lack of fairness. He is incredibly inclusive of his brother which is really sweet and always wants Beckett to come along to Sam's house. He even shared his Captain Crunch birthday cereal with B this morning! He had a dentist appt this week and had no cavities which makes mommy really happy.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 10 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Pink
Book:
Song: I Like to Move it Move it
Breakfast Food: Pancakes
Dinner Food: Sushi
Number: 5
Best Friend: Sam
9 1/2 years (63.6 lbs)
Hudson recently started 4th grade and his teacher is Mrs. Dye. She's new to Shadow Lake but we really like her and it seems like Hudson does too. We were very proud to learn that he was selected as the FIRST Student of the Month in September. Way to go Hudson!
In Math he is learning multi-digit addition, subtraction, and multiplication and how to apply those skills to real world problem solving scenarios. In Writing they are working on fictional narratives where they are focused on writing powerful leads and endings and developing meaningful characters through the use of dialogue, feelings, thoughts, and actions. We're going to work on elaboration strategies for Hudson to move his grade from 2 to 3. In terms of "Future Ready" skills he is excelling in being a community contributor, collaborative teammate and conscientious worker.
Hudson spent the Fall playing soccer (11th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. The overall dynamics have changed a bit and I think Skyler might be willing to coach one more season (fingers crossed). After Spring '18 we may give soccer a break for awhile. This season his jersey was a mustard yellow...AGAIN (as was his brother's) and they're team name was the SuperSounders.
We went to a Sounders game as a family and the boys had a good time watching Professionals real time.
Daddy got the boys outfitted for the ski season this year and we anticipate getting them on the hill to work on some basic ski skills this year. Mommy is jealous that they'll be on the mountain mainly when she's at work :( We hope that adding skiing into the mix will add some dimensionality to their activity repertoire. Especially now that both boys have graduated from swim lessons!!! Hudson is a strong swimmer and can do all the main strokes gracefully. I have no apprehension of him near water. Yah!
Hudson is growing a bit weary of Harry Potter and is newly into the Swindle Series. He is reading them in his classroom. Ironically, he finished the 5th Harry Potter book and only has two more to go to wrap up the series but I'm not pushing it. Since we don't have the Swindle Series at home he has been reading Old Yeller. *This makes mommy very happy*
Hudson is continuing to develop new friendships and this year it's Sam. Sam is our neighbor and his dad is an anesthesiologist at Valley Medical and a colleague of Dr Ichiro. We did a fun "play date" with Sam and took him up to the city to Discovery Park, the Troll and the Aboretum. It was the perfect day and the boys had a lot of fun. I think they were worn out by the time we got home.
Hudson is asking about having Sam and Graham over for a sleepover in the loft.
Hudson is becoming more articulate and independent. He no longer likes mommy to put her arm around him, hold his hand or smother him with kisses. Mommy is adjusting...slowly.
We can't figure out if he's more left or right brain as he seems to do well in both science and math but also enjoys writing, drawing and creating games and stories.
Hudson recently started practicing the electric guitar and learned how to play Happy Birthday by heart just in time for mommy's birthday. What a treat!
He has adopted the family iPad and enjoys playing Minecraft and some old school games like Mario Brothers, PacMan, and Qbert. He is a typical first child and loves to provoke his little brother but never with deviant or ill intent. He's also extremely kind and doesn't let his brother stay mad very long before he reaches out to bring him back into the fold. He is stubborn, opinionated, generous, and funny.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 9 1/2 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue
Book:Harry Potter series "Swindle Series" by Gordon Korman
Song: Learnin' to Fly (Tom Petty)
Breakfast Food: Vegan Pancakes
Dinner Food: BLT's
Number: 50
Best Friend: Graham & Sam
In Math he is learning multi-digit addition, subtraction, and multiplication and how to apply those skills to real world problem solving scenarios. In Writing they are working on fictional narratives where they are focused on writing powerful leads and endings and developing meaningful characters through the use of dialogue, feelings, thoughts, and actions. We're going to work on elaboration strategies for Hudson to move his grade from 2 to 3. In terms of "Future Ready" skills he is excelling in being a community contributor, collaborative teammate and conscientious worker.
Hudson spent the Fall playing soccer (11th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. The overall dynamics have changed a bit and I think Skyler might be willing to coach one more season (fingers crossed). After Spring '18 we may give soccer a break for awhile. This season his jersey was a mustard yellow...AGAIN (as was his brother's) and they're team name was the SuperSounders.
We went to a Sounders game as a family and the boys had a good time watching Professionals real time.
Daddy got the boys outfitted for the ski season this year and we anticipate getting them on the hill to work on some basic ski skills this year. Mommy is jealous that they'll be on the mountain mainly when she's at work :( We hope that adding skiing into the mix will add some dimensionality to their activity repertoire. Especially now that both boys have graduated from swim lessons!!! Hudson is a strong swimmer and can do all the main strokes gracefully. I have no apprehension of him near water. Yah!
Hudson is growing a bit weary of Harry Potter and is newly into the Swindle Series. He is reading them in his classroom. Ironically, he finished the 5th Harry Potter book and only has two more to go to wrap up the series but I'm not pushing it. Since we don't have the Swindle Series at home he has been reading Old Yeller. *This makes mommy very happy*
Hudson is continuing to develop new friendships and this year it's Sam. Sam is our neighbor and his dad is an anesthesiologist at Valley Medical and a colleague of Dr Ichiro. We did a fun "play date" with Sam and took him up to the city to Discovery Park, the Troll and the Aboretum. It was the perfect day and the boys had a lot of fun. I think they were worn out by the time we got home.
Hudson is asking about having Sam and Graham over for a sleepover in the loft.
Hudson is becoming more articulate and independent. He no longer likes mommy to put her arm around him, hold his hand or smother him with kisses. Mommy is adjusting...slowly.
We can't figure out if he's more left or right brain as he seems to do well in both science and math but also enjoys writing, drawing and creating games and stories.
Hudson recently started practicing the electric guitar and learned how to play Happy Birthday by heart just in time for mommy's birthday. What a treat!
He has adopted the family iPad and enjoys playing Minecraft and some old school games like Mario Brothers, PacMan, and Qbert. He is a typical first child and loves to provoke his little brother but never with deviant or ill intent. He's also extremely kind and doesn't let his brother stay mad very long before he reaches out to bring him back into the fold. He is stubborn, opinionated, generous, and funny.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 9 1/2 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue
Book:
Song: Learnin' to Fly (Tom Petty)
Breakfast Food: Vegan Pancakes
Dinner Food: BLT's
Number: 50
Best Friend: Graham & Sam
9 years (61.6 lbs)
Hudson is on the home stretch of 3rd grade and has a field trip to the Pacific Science Ctr on June 1. His school year was extended by a couple days due to snow closures so his last day is June 16.
Hudson wrapped up Spring soccer (his 10th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. There were a couple new kids on the team who had never played before which changed some of the dynamics. They didn't have a winning season but I think the kids had fun overall which is what it's all about. His jersey color was teal and his team name was the Sounders.
Hudson transitioned from Soccer right into Swimming. He is in level 5 for the month of May and June after which we'll see if he graduates to level 6 (last level). If he passes we may stop. He's in the deep end of the pool working on all 4 strokes for 100 meters plus deep angle dives.
We will take July/August off from sports. We are going on a 2 week road trip to Utah in July and the boys will be in the Methow for a week in August and at Montana Man Days for another week.
He continues to read Harry Potter and is currently reading book #5 "The Order of the Phoenix". He enjoys writing, drawing, and doing creative things like building lego mazes.
Mommy decided to expose everyone to a variety of experiences including watching classic movies,
going on several hikes (Rattlesnake Ledge, Poo Poo Point, Cougar Mtn - we hope to go to Rainier next month), doing crafts at Michaels, Family Fun Center for mini golf, bumper boats, and go-karts, Trampoline Nation, Ice skating, Roller skating, Peter Pan Ballet, Museum of flight, and a movie.
Hudson is celebrating his birthday this year with a "Camping" theme. Since we'll be at Dash Point over Memorial Day weekend we thought it made sense to celebrate his birthday while there.
We sent out cute camping invitations and asked his friends to bring their bikes. We have nylon camouflage bags for each kid that will have glow sticks, mini flash lights, compasses, and trail mix.
We did a small family birthday celebration on his actual birthday and he got a remote control boat (which he'll use @ Blue Lake in a few weeks), a Star Wars ship and some Pokemon cards. Nana got him a drone, Gma gave him $60 and Nana Nan gave him $40.
Hudson is doing much better with his anxiety. He went tubing at the Pass all day w his friend Graham. We were so proud of him and couldn't believe he did this on his own. He walks over to his swim lane and onto the soccer field on his own and seems to be fine with his picture being taken.
Hudson is getting taller and smarter every month. He continues to enjoy creative endeavors and is doing well in all subjects in school. He's been spending a lot of time in the new garage loft daddy made him and his brother. He is gentle and kind, stubborn and opinionated. A chip off the old block.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 9 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue
Book: Harry Potter series
Song: Wip and Nay Nay
Breakfast Food: Pancakes
Dinner Food: Ribs
Number: 5
Best Friend: Quinn
Hudson wrapped up Spring soccer (his 10th season) with coach Skyler and the usual suspects. There were a couple new kids on the team who had never played before which changed some of the dynamics. They didn't have a winning season but I think the kids had fun overall which is what it's all about. His jersey color was teal and his team name was the Sounders.
Hudson transitioned from Soccer right into Swimming. He is in level 5 for the month of May and June after which we'll see if he graduates to level 6 (last level). If he passes we may stop. He's in the deep end of the pool working on all 4 strokes for 100 meters plus deep angle dives.
We will take July/August off from sports. We are going on a 2 week road trip to Utah in July and the boys will be in the Methow for a week in August and at Montana Man Days for another week.
He continues to read Harry Potter and is currently reading book #5 "The Order of the Phoenix". He enjoys writing, drawing, and doing creative things like building lego mazes.
Mommy decided to expose everyone to a variety of experiences including watching classic movies,
going on several hikes (Rattlesnake Ledge, Poo Poo Point, Cougar Mtn - we hope to go to Rainier next month), doing crafts at Michaels, Family Fun Center for mini golf, bumper boats, and go-karts, Trampoline Nation, Ice skating, Roller skating, Peter Pan Ballet, Museum of flight, and a movie.
Hudson is celebrating his birthday this year with a "Camping" theme. Since we'll be at Dash Point over Memorial Day weekend we thought it made sense to celebrate his birthday while there.
We sent out cute camping invitations and asked his friends to bring their bikes. We have nylon camouflage bags for each kid that will have glow sticks, mini flash lights, compasses, and trail mix.
We did a small family birthday celebration on his actual birthday and he got a remote control boat (which he'll use @ Blue Lake in a few weeks), a Star Wars ship and some Pokemon cards. Nana got him a drone, Gma gave him $60 and Nana Nan gave him $40.
Hudson is doing much better with his anxiety. He went tubing at the Pass all day w his friend Graham. We were so proud of him and couldn't believe he did this on his own. He walks over to his swim lane and onto the soccer field on his own and seems to be fine with his picture being taken.
Hudson is getting taller and smarter every month. He continues to enjoy creative endeavors and is doing well in all subjects in school. He's been spending a lot of time in the new garage loft daddy made him and his brother. He is gentle and kind, stubborn and opinionated. A chip off the old block.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 9 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue
Book: Harry Potter series
Song: Wip and Nay Nay
Breakfast Food: Pancakes
Dinner Food: Ribs
Number: 5
Best Friend: Quinn
8 1/2 years (59.4 lbs)
Hudson has started 3rd grade and has a male teacher (Mr Kostohris) for the first time.
He seems to really like him and has a lot less homework (so far) than last year. Go figure.
Mommy got to chaperone his Fall field trip to the Salmon Hatchery, bring treats into his Harvest party on 10/31 and attend their Open House to see their classroom, his desk and current projects.
He also had a "folk song" music performance lead by Ms. Tolliver.
Hudson just wrapped up Fall soccer with a new team and coach. It was a very tough start to the season transitioning onto a new team with kids he didn't know and a coach who wasn't familiar. The first practice was the roughest but we eased into it and before long he was friends with the kids on the team really enjoyed the coach and his wife (Jen). Needless to say, I'm sure Spring season will be much easier when he's back with the usual suspects. It's hard to believe he's played for 9 seasons already. His jersey color was burnt orange and their team name was the Onyx's.
We start swim lessons in a week and Hudson will be in Level 3 (2nd time) so we hope to advance by the end of repeating this class. He's leary of being in the deep end so looking forward to exposing him to this fear so he can conquer it and move forward.
We spent the whole Summer trying to find a book series that Hudson would gravitate toward. We weren't successful until school started when we encouraged/forced the first Harry Potter book. It was a little challenging for him for the first half of the book. But now he's really into the series and has started the 2nd book. He's actually such an advocate that he has encouraged Beckett to start reading them and Beckett is reading the first book. (crazy!) We incentivized him by saying he could watch the Harry Potter movies once he completed the book. So he's now watched "The Scorcerer's Stone?
He still enjoys writing and drawing which has been consistent with him. Hmmm....right brainer?
This year for Halloween we had to pull together some last minute costumes. Hudson ended up being a "bear'ista". He wore a green Starbucks apron and had a bear hat with bear slippers on his hands.
Beckett was a scuba diver named "Deep Sea B" and Beau made him little plastic tanks to wear.
Hudson watched "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" last night. I'm hopeful this drives interest in the Chronicles of Narnia series but we'll press pause until he's done with Harry Potter.
Hudson has some anxiety and we've identified ways of working through it. Casey encouraged us to talk about "what's the worst thing that could happen?" and then go from there. It sneaks up on us so we try to warm up to new things early by talking about expectations and being open to questions.
This ranges from fear of taking team/school pictures (sensitive eyes) to new kids/teams (Sounder soccer camp - getting separated from Chase; new Fall soccer team with unfamiliar kids/coach). It's a delicate balance of parental encouragement and realistic expectations we have of him at his age.
Hudson is up to mommy's chin and almost able to wear the same size shoe. He is gentle and considerate, sensitive and stubborn. He is creative, serious, and an introvert. He likes to ride his bike, ascend the new climbing wall in the garage, play in the creek and outside with his brother. He also likes to sit quietly and build lego's in the playroom, draw, and create little games/plays.
It is so interesting to watch the person he is becoming. There is so much to love about Hudson and we feel so blessed to have such a healthy, helpful, and conscientious member of our family.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 8 1/2 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue, Green, and Gray
Book: Harry Potter series
Song: Eminence Front (The Who)
Breakfast Food: Waffles
Dinner Food: Coconut Shrimp
Number: 5
Best Friend: Colton, Graham, Tyler, Sam, Juan
He seems to really like him and has a lot less homework (so far) than last year. Go figure.
Mommy got to chaperone his Fall field trip to the Salmon Hatchery, bring treats into his Harvest party on 10/31 and attend their Open House to see their classroom, his desk and current projects.
He also had a "folk song" music performance lead by Ms. Tolliver.
Hudson just wrapped up Fall soccer with a new team and coach. It was a very tough start to the season transitioning onto a new team with kids he didn't know and a coach who wasn't familiar. The first practice was the roughest but we eased into it and before long he was friends with the kids on the team really enjoyed the coach and his wife (Jen). Needless to say, I'm sure Spring season will be much easier when he's back with the usual suspects. It's hard to believe he's played for 9 seasons already. His jersey color was burnt orange and their team name was the Onyx's.
We start swim lessons in a week and Hudson will be in Level 3 (2nd time) so we hope to advance by the end of repeating this class. He's leary of being in the deep end so looking forward to exposing him to this fear so he can conquer it and move forward.
We spent the whole Summer trying to find a book series that Hudson would gravitate toward. We weren't successful until school started when we encouraged/forced the first Harry Potter book. It was a little challenging for him for the first half of the book. But now he's really into the series and has started the 2nd book. He's actually such an advocate that he has encouraged Beckett to start reading them and Beckett is reading the first book. (crazy!) We incentivized him by saying he could watch the Harry Potter movies once he completed the book. So he's now watched "The Scorcerer's Stone?
He still enjoys writing and drawing which has been consistent with him. Hmmm....right brainer?
This year for Halloween we had to pull together some last minute costumes. Hudson ended up being a "bear'ista". He wore a green Starbucks apron and had a bear hat with bear slippers on his hands.
Beckett was a scuba diver named "Deep Sea B" and Beau made him little plastic tanks to wear.
Hudson watched "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" last night. I'm hopeful this drives interest in the Chronicles of Narnia series but we'll press pause until he's done with Harry Potter.
Hudson has some anxiety and we've identified ways of working through it. Casey encouraged us to talk about "what's the worst thing that could happen?" and then go from there. It sneaks up on us so we try to warm up to new things early by talking about expectations and being open to questions.
This ranges from fear of taking team/school pictures (sensitive eyes) to new kids/teams (Sounder soccer camp - getting separated from Chase; new Fall soccer team with unfamiliar kids/coach). It's a delicate balance of parental encouragement and realistic expectations we have of him at his age.
Hudson is up to mommy's chin and almost able to wear the same size shoe. He is gentle and considerate, sensitive and stubborn. He is creative, serious, and an introvert. He likes to ride his bike, ascend the new climbing wall in the garage, play in the creek and outside with his brother. He also likes to sit quietly and build lego's in the playroom, draw, and create little games/plays.
It is so interesting to watch the person he is becoming. There is so much to love about Hudson and we feel so blessed to have such a healthy, helpful, and conscientious member of our family.
We love you SO MUCH Hudson! It's hard to believe you are 8 1/2 years old.
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Blue, Green, and Gray
Book: Harry Potter series
Song: Eminence Front (The Who)
Breakfast Food: Waffles
Dinner Food: Coconut Shrimp
Number: 5
Best Friend: Colton, Graham, Tyler, Sam, Juan
8 years (55.8 lbs)
Hudson is turning 8 this week!
We just celebrated Hudson's birthday a little early with a LegoCity theme. We hosted it at our home and got the Kent Fire Station bouncy house. Hudson welcomed kids from both school, soccer, and our closest friends. In keeping with tradition, daddy made him a cake in the shape of "Emmett" from the Lego Movie. We will have another simple celebration on his actual birthday but mommy/daddy leave for a 2 week trip to Europe the same day so Gma will take the reigns.
We recently attended a curriculum fair/art walk for his school and got to see the variety of projects they have made and what they're learning. Their current focus is on Central and South America. Hudson has a music program at the end of the month where they will perform folk songs indigenous to this part of the world.
Hudson just wrapped up Spring soccer and it was great to have him back with his usual crew. He really has fun playing with the same kids that he first started with. He had a couple amazing goals this year which was really exciting to see and confidence boosting for him at the same time.
We have started initial consultations with orthodontists for Hudson and learned something very interesting. He has 3 teeth that do not have a permanent tooth behind them. We need to schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon to have a couple teeth pulled and will start ortho work in a couple years.
This year for Spring Break we took a ferry to Victoria. The boys had fun riding the Black Ball ferry out of Port Angeles and exploring the city. We had our car so we spent one day in the city and one day venturing beyond. Interestingly enough, out of everything we saw, I think they enjoyed the beach the most. That, and eating at Spaghetti factory!
Hudson occasionally enjoys reading although he seems to be hot/cold. He found a new series at the library called the "Stink!" series. He has a pile of them in his room and when we can get him to pick one up, he'll enjoy the story and the time spent reading. Otherwise, it's a bit out of sight out of mind. He does seem to enjoy writing and drawing which has been a constant. He definitely lives in his imagination to a certain degree and enjoys the art of creating. I wonder where he gets that from?
We recently watched the original Star Wars movies and Hudson is all of sudden, REALLY into it. He sings the theme song, pretends to be an Ewok, and flies his ships around quoting the movie. His little brother is really into it too which makes it even more fun to pretend to be Luke and Han Solo.
Hudson is growing taller and will most likely eclipse mommy by the 4th or 5th grade. He is a compassionate, sensitive, stubborn, creative, curious and serious boy who seems to enjoy his friends, his time at school and his little brother. Well, they are BFFs at least 50% of the time.
We love you so much Hudson! It really is hard to believe you're turning 8 years old this week!
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Red, Blue and Green
Book: Stink! series
Song: Ghostbusters
Breakfast Food: Oatmeal & Cereal
Dinner Food: BLTS and hates Stir-Fry!
Number: 86 zillion
Best Friend: Colton
We just celebrated Hudson's birthday a little early with a LegoCity theme. We hosted it at our home and got the Kent Fire Station bouncy house. Hudson welcomed kids from both school, soccer, and our closest friends. In keeping with tradition, daddy made him a cake in the shape of "Emmett" from the Lego Movie. We will have another simple celebration on his actual birthday but mommy/daddy leave for a 2 week trip to Europe the same day so Gma will take the reigns.
We recently attended a curriculum fair/art walk for his school and got to see the variety of projects they have made and what they're learning. Their current focus is on Central and South America. Hudson has a music program at the end of the month where they will perform folk songs indigenous to this part of the world.
Hudson just wrapped up Spring soccer and it was great to have him back with his usual crew. He really has fun playing with the same kids that he first started with. He had a couple amazing goals this year which was really exciting to see and confidence boosting for him at the same time.
We have started initial consultations with orthodontists for Hudson and learned something very interesting. He has 3 teeth that do not have a permanent tooth behind them. We need to schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon to have a couple teeth pulled and will start ortho work in a couple years.
This year for Spring Break we took a ferry to Victoria. The boys had fun riding the Black Ball ferry out of Port Angeles and exploring the city. We had our car so we spent one day in the city and one day venturing beyond. Interestingly enough, out of everything we saw, I think they enjoyed the beach the most. That, and eating at Spaghetti factory!
Hudson occasionally enjoys reading although he seems to be hot/cold. He found a new series at the library called the "Stink!" series. He has a pile of them in his room and when we can get him to pick one up, he'll enjoy the story and the time spent reading. Otherwise, it's a bit out of sight out of mind. He does seem to enjoy writing and drawing which has been a constant. He definitely lives in his imagination to a certain degree and enjoys the art of creating. I wonder where he gets that from?
We recently watched the original Star Wars movies and Hudson is all of sudden, REALLY into it. He sings the theme song, pretends to be an Ewok, and flies his ships around quoting the movie. His little brother is really into it too which makes it even more fun to pretend to be Luke and Han Solo.
Hudson is growing taller and will most likely eclipse mommy by the 4th or 5th grade. He is a compassionate, sensitive, stubborn, creative, curious and serious boy who seems to enjoy his friends, his time at school and his little brother. Well, they are BFFs at least 50% of the time.
We love you so much Hudson! It really is hard to believe you're turning 8 years old this week!
Hudson's Current Favorites:
Colors: Red, Blue and Green
Book: Stink! series
Song: Ghostbusters
Breakfast Food: Oatmeal & Cereal
Dinner Food: BLTS and hates Stir-Fry!
Number: 86 zillion
Best Friend: Colton
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