Alex the eleven year old

It's hard to believe Alex is almost done with elementary school. His 6th grade year has flown by. He has made wonderful friends, participated in many activities, learned a lot, and enjoyed having great teachers. His favorite subject this year has been social studies (history). In particular, he enjoyed learning about ancient humans and Egypt. It's the first time he has been so interested in history so that was fun to see. His favorite event of the school year was going to science camp for a week in March. The entire 6th grade went to a camp near Lake Arrowhead where there was snow on the ground the entire time. While they were there, they did archery, launched rockets, learned about turtles and skinks, and did a high ropes course. What special memories he will have!

Some of his activities this year have included swimming year round (in an outdoor pool even during the winter), chess, and piano. He has also become a big fan of origami and has a great friend that enjoys it as well. Chess highlights include playing weekly after school and on Thursday evenings and going to his first rated tournament, the State Chess Championships in March. His school won first place so that was very exciting.
In piano, he passed his level 3 music theory Certificate of Merit. This exam included playing 3 pieces from memory, ear training, a written test, playing several scales and sight reading. Wow! We had no idea it would be this involved, but he passed with flying colors. We thoroughly enjoy listening to him play piano and he continues to amaze us with his progression. He plays very smoothly which is something I always struggled with during my organ playing years. If you want to listen to him, here are 2 links to videos of his playing. He hopes to add another soon...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Mo3itZ2kYc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdgxD6iToPY&NR=1

He also participated on the Math Field Day team in March (yes, it was a very busy month). His 6th grade team placed second on one part and third on two parts. He was disappointed because they didn't get first. Geez!

In case you think he's too serious...here's one of his latest adventures...he ran the Down and Dirty Mud Run in April. It was a one mile run with several obstacles including a very large mud pit at the end. He even managed to stop up the washing machine after this one...

Recently, we attended a mother son dance at his school. The theme was A Night at the Movies, so we got to walk the red carpet when we arrived and had our pictures taken by the paparazzi. Alex danced with me several times which was very special.