Half a year ago on this day, I was sitting in bed staring at the most adorable newborn I'd ever laid eyes on. He was perfect--wispy brown hair, a puffy face and squishy hands. Six months later I'm staring at a bright-eyed, sitting-up, bundle of laughs and giggles with two teeth! How is it possible that a baby can change so much in six short months?
John Hudson is six months old today! I missed our five month update, so we've got lots of catching up to do. Our big boy is one of the greatest joys of our lives. He seems to always be happy. Well, for the most part. One of my favorite things these days is to watch John Hudson when Michael comes home from work. He gets the biggest grin on his face and begins to kick his feet and flap his arms like he can fly. He knows his playmate is home! Michael is enjoying getting to tussle on the bed and play some serious games of peek-a-boo. Both parties end up erupting in contagious laughter. Be still my heart.
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| Play Mates |
As of last week, John Hudson can officially sit up. It wasn't a slow process where I'd sit him up for a few seconds until he fell. Nope. One day I just tried sitting him up and he stayed. He thinks he's the biggest kid on the block with all this sitting up business! Our sweet little cradle (aka fisher price rock-n-play) is now a thing of the past. I used to be able to sit him in the cradle and walk away for a few moments. Not anymore. (see below photo). John Hudson is mortally offended if anyone treats him like (gasp) a baby!
Our months of drool, gnawing, sleeplessness, and fussies have finally paid off. Our little guy has two bottom teeth! The first pearly white popped up about three weeks ago and the second showed up a week later. I'm relieved that they're finally here, but I know this is just the beginning. I do miss that toothless grin already! Proof that my baby is growing up! I haven't been able to capture photos of his teethies yet though!
On August 18, John Hudson and I started a new job! This probably deserves a post of its own because God has been ever faithful to provide this position. In short, we are working with a non profit called Mommy & Me. Mommy & Me is located in Clarkston, GA which is now one of the most diverse cities in America because so many refugee families are placed there after escaping their home countries. Mommy & Me is a school where mothers of young children (ages 0-5) can come to learn English while their little ones receive quality care. I am the lead "teacher" of the infant classroom, meaning that John Hudson can come to work with me. I can't tell you what a blessing that is. We are making so many new friends from all over the world. It has been stretching, sanctifying, and challenging--but oh so sweet. Thank you, Father, for this opportunity to literally be among nations and love your little children!
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| John Hudson and Mung playing |
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| John Hudson and Afra |
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| Beautiful baby girl |
John Hudson still is not sleeping well at night (see previous post), but we are surviving somehow. God gives grace to his weary ones. I was reminded by a sweet friend today that "He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his armus; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young (Isaiah 40:11). He knows that I am fragile and exhausted. He has been tender and His compassion never fails.
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| Not sleeping at night can make a baby very sleepy at suppertime! |
During playtime, John Hudson particularly enjoys sucking on his toes. I don't know what it is, but they sure seem to taste yummy! He also love sitting in his baby einstein play bouncer. This thing entertains him for at least 30 minute stretches! It has a little piano that plays classical tunes and lights up. He loves to hit the piano and then wait for us to clap and enthusiastically shout, "Yay John Hudson!!!" And now that he can roll wherever he pleases, he quite enjoys tummy time on the floor!
John Hudson also loves to pull hair! Its very fun to make mommy squeal!!
These six months have flown by. Each day more sweeter than the last. Thank you, Jesus, for our precious boy. You were so very kind to entrust him to our care. May we always offer him back to you. Amen.
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| Stone Mountain |
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| First non-family babysitters! Our sweet Marissa and her mom |
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| Big boy! |
