25 weeks

It's crazy to think that Hudson is the same gestational age as the new Duggar baby was when she was born at 1 pound 6 ounces last weekend. From what I read, the baby is doing okay and should make a recovery, but she is so small and will need lots of medical attention. Though I am anxious to see Hudson and to see what he looks like and hold him, I would rather see him in at least 12 more weeks when he is full-term and healthy!

Even though I am past the "fragile" first trimester, I still get worried about certain things that might hurt the baby. For example, I don't really drink much caffeine at all, but when I have the occasional soda, within my daily caffeine intake, I get nervous. I also worry when I wake up in the middle of the night on my back. My doctor says that it will not hurt Hudson unless I lay flat on my back for a really long time and that I would start to feel the effects of the circulation problem, but I still worry. I can only imagine that these worries will only be intensified when he's actually in this big world and is exposed to germs, danger, etc. Thank goodness I have solace in a God that will take care of us and has a plan for us, and He reminds us not to worry.

I am officially on holiday vacation! I don't have to be back at work until Monday, January 4, 2010! I am enjoying this time off already. We attended Dani's graduation on Friday, had a lazy Saturday yesterday and the media Christmas party and lunch today. I'm excited about spending the day with Dani tomorrow, watching a movie or two and painting the letters in Hudson's name for his room. Tuesday, I am hanging out with Kristin and Connor, then watching some basketball as #2 Texas plays #12 Michigan State. Wednesday is go time, and I'll drop Travis off in the morning, pack for our holiday trip to Southeast Texas, get the dogs in the car and head back to San Marcos to pick Travis up from work and head out! Then the holiday fun with family begins! I'm excited about seeing family, letting them open the presents we got them and eating some delicious treats! This will be our last Christmas without kids, so I will be sure and enjoy this special time with the just the two of us. Rumor has it that Hudson will already receive Christmas gifts.

I'm going to try to post pics from Christmas parties, Dani's graduation and other recent events tomorrow. Until then, here's what's going on with Hudson at 25 weeks:

Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. His weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but he's beginning to exchange his long, lean look for some baby fat. As he does, his wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and he'll start to look more and more like a newborn. He's also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

Hmm... I wonder what color Hudson's hair will be? Red? Blonde? Brown? Strawberry-blonde? :) Such a fun thing to think about! Pack on that fat, Hudson. I'm doing everything I can to help out in this area! If you're anything like your momma, it won't be difficult to put on some padding, haha! :)

Lord, thank you for Hudson's health. As I hear of other babies born at this early stage, I rejoice in the fact that Hudson is content in remaining inside to bake for a while longer. Thank you for this miracle of human life. As he moves inside of me now, I am reminded that this little boy is already lively and energetic. Continue to preserve his and my health through this process. As this special season is among us, I am especially reminded of how Mary felt, carrying a child and worrying about caring for him. Though I cannot imagine carrying the King of Kings, I am so thankful that you chose me to carry this precious gift. Thank you for sending your son in such a way that we can relate. It wasn't a grand entrance or a sudden appearing, but a simple promise fulfilled. Thank you for that!