Dear Friends and Family,
As another year passes, we find ourselves grateful for each small adventure, every milestone, and the steady rhythm of everyday life.
Julan continues to spend an impressive nine months of the year in the pool, which keeps us happily close to home. He wrapped up his second water polo season with strong progress—scoring more goals and growing more confident at staying above water. Transitioning from summer recreation league to swimming for the high school team was a big change, but he embraced it. Longer races have become his new norm, and the 100m freestyle has emerged as his favorite. Over the summer he worked hard to drop his 50m freestyle time and placed in the top 10 at championships. A special highlight was attending a Cal Berkeley swim workshop, where he picked up new techniques and training strategies for next season. His love for the sport continues to grow, and he’s excited to keep swimming well into the future.
Now in the middle of his sophomore year, Julan is doing well academically and hopes to make varsity in swim this spring—and maybe water polo in the fall.
Gigi is midway through her third year as principal of an elementary school. The role keeps her challenged, inspired, and fully engaged, and she continues to pour her heart into her school community.
Jude stays busy discovering new recipes and keeping both Julan and Gigi well fed. In September, he traveled to Rochester to celebrate his mother’s 95th birthday! With her remarkable strength and spirit, we’re hopeful for many more birthdays to share with her.
In July, we enjoyed a wonderful trip to South Carolina to visit Gigi’s family. It was a treat to experience the other coast, savor barbecue and grits, and spend time with loved ones. We were happy to gather with members of the Georgia branch of the family as well—three of the seven siblings together made the visit especially meaningful.
Wishing you all a warm, joyful holiday season and a peaceful New Year.
With love,
Jude (Teddy), Gigi, and Julan
