13 1/2 years (103 lbs. 5'3" tall)

Hudson is in 8th grade and finally back to in person learning on Maple View's campus after remote learning for almost 18 months. He seems to be thriving both with his grades and social appetite. His electives for the first quarter include Spanish and Space & Flight. It's been fun to see him utilize some Spanish vocabulary as he explores the language and how to use it.

Hudson has started off the year doing a much better job at staying on top of his assignments although oversight is still needed to ensure the grades don't slip too much. He recently got an iPhone so part of the deal was that his grades need to stay up or he's in jeopardy of losing his phone.   

Hudson is playing Valor soccer (year round) and also did Track & Field this Fall where he placed well enough in all 3 events (400m, 800m and 1600m) to make the season end Invitational. He received an email from the HS XC coach inviting him to join the team next year if he's interested. I think this is a huge boost to his self confidence and a great compliment to a well deserved season. 

Hudson has also joined a school club called Band of Brothers. The club is lead by 2-3 male teachers who seek to provide an environment where young men learn about integrity, values and enjoy bonding over games and food before/after school. Hudson seems to really enjoy it which is all that matters!

Hudson is now fully vaccinated. We hope to get him the booster shot within the next few months when it's available for kids his age. 

We did several fun activities over the Spring/Summer: 

  • Traveling: Bellingham w Simons, Tulip Festival, Big Summer Road Trip through California, Costa Rica w Gma (Road Scholar), and Montana Man
  • Activities: Tennis Camp, Sounders Game, and Dude Perfect @ the Tacoma Dome

Hudson is fully in the middle of puberty and all that entails. The moods, the smells, the "exploration" is in full swing and we are just along for the ride. His voice continues to get lower, he's wearing the same size shoe as his dad, is taller than his mom and enjoys his sleep and 'alone' time!

He still has braces but was told in his last ortho visit that he doesn't have to wear rubber bands anymore (or at least until his next visit). He's now had braces for over a year so I'm sure he looks forward to the visit where they tell him he's ready to get them removed! 

Hudson recently arranged a meet up with friends to play football at Summit Park. I got the ball rolling via text and then once he got his phone he managed it from there. The fact that he has a phone will be a huge game changer and make logistics much easier on mom! 

Hudson Gray, you are continuously evolving into a kind young man. I think you may be the strong and silent type reserving your opinion and inserting it when necessary. I love watching you continue to grow into the person you are going to be and fully embrace any time you are willing to engage in conversation and let me get a peak into your world.  

We love you to the moon and back >3 


Hudson's Current Favorites:
What do you want to be when you grow up: Engineer or Architect
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Breakfast Food: Eggos
Dinner Food: Sushi
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Best Friend: Sam