Getting to Know Hudson

I can't believe that my baby is almost a month old! In honor of our first few weeks with our second-born child, I have compiled a list of Ten Things You Need to Know About Hudson Kayo!

#1. Not only am I thrilled with his full head of dark hair, but he has an adorable cowlick in the back that never fails to make me smile. (No, I won't mention that he's also starting to bald; I'm still in denial about that.)

#2. He ABSOLUTELY LOVES ceiling fans. He could stare at them for hours.

#3. His favorite song is "Ponies" by The Wiggles. Ava and I sing it to him frequently, and it always soothes him. Personally, I think he enjoys the frequent onomatopoeia.

#4. I feel the need to report that he DOES NOT enjoy riding in the infant car seat. This dislike saves him from the pressure of perfection.

#5. So far, he is a GREAT SLEEPER! I'm crossing my fingers, toes, and eyes as I write this, because I know this tendency simply cannot last. But, boy, am I going to hope it does!

#6. He is starting to move like he thinks he's already six months old. Holding up his head? No problem. Rolling over? Can accomplish that feat in his Pack-n-Play, thank you very much. Successfully body wrestling with his three-year-old sister? Hmm, maybe not. But soon!

#7. He is starting to smile. ADORABLE! (Of course, if I'm honest, he has actually smiled at the ceiling fans more than at any one person. See #2 for an explanation on that one.)

#8. So far he has accumulated the following nicknames: Bubby (this one from Ava), Huddy, Little Man, and The Hudsonian. He has yet to show a preference for any single one. We'll let you know.

#9. Everyone agrees that he is MR. SNUGGLY. He just cuddles right in so sweetly. I suppose I could add that moniker to the list above, right?

#10. He has bonded individually with each of his family members. His hobby with Mom? EATING! His hobby with Dad? SLEEPING! His hobby with Ava? PLAYING!

First Bath

It's official: Hudson loves the water!

Although he wasn't quite sure at first, he quickly realized the joy of being wet. Just like Ava, he was relaxed and happy to be in the water. Let's just hope this tendency continues throughout his infancy; it makes bath time so much more enjoyable.

Big Sister Time

Going to Holiday World with Mamaw Karen

Running through the sprinker at Papaw and Mimi's house

Modeling my favorite outfit

Modeling my favorite expression!

As Ava struggles to adapt to life as a BIG SISTER, we have been trying to find fun things for her to do just for herself. Sadly, it's been difficult for me to accompany her on these trips, since I am nursing Hudson, but luckily she is surrounded by other relatives who adore her as much as I do. Thus, I am happy to report, her summer has not been ruined by this new little creature that has come to live with us.

These are just a few samplings of her enjoyable Big Sister Time.

Bliss

Bliss: n. a state of being in which all persons in the household fall asleep at the same time. AND STAY ASLEEP!

Siblings

Bonding at the hospital, shortly after Hudson's birth

Holding him back at home

Playtime on the floor!

Ava (upon meeting her baby brother in the hospital): Hello! I am a princess. I will save your life!

And thus began one of the most interesting relationships of her life....

Hudson Kayo Smith

Hudson Kayo Smith

Journey Photography

Introducing our newest addition to the world!

Born May 29, 2009, at 12:47 P.M.

7 lbs 10 oz

21 1/2 in

Well, it's been a long time since I've updated my blog, but as you can see, we've been quite busy in the Smith family. Hudson arrived a bit early, via a scheduled induction, and was born within four hours. He arrived healthy, happy, and as if he'd always been a part of the family.

Our transition has gone rather well. Hudson is calm, laid-back, and truly an enjoyment to have around. Ava, upon first meeting "her baby," slipped right into the big sister role. Which means she is a huge helper, for the most part, although there are times she does not exactly relish having a baby brother. Still, we're quite pleased with how well she's doing with this life changing event.

There are so many things I could write about here, but sadly I am pressed for time. Apparently this is going to be a new theme in my life now, but I'm sure I can handle it. Anyway, I'll try to update more photos and tidbits about life with our wonderful new baby. Until then, feel free to keep in touch.