Country Livin'

Well, it's been a busy couple of weeks in the McGhee family. First of all, Hudson is still growing like a weed - he's into everything, and has added lots of new words to his almost-two-year-old vocabulary, like "Aww man!" and "I love you!" (I think). Every day is a new discovery for our little man - keep 'em coming, Hudson!

Hudson and I were lucky enough to attend a benefit for our friend Rylynn on Sunday. Her family and friends really outdid themselves with the auctions, raffles, BBQ, bake sale, and kid's games they put together to collect money for Ry and her new miracle heart. We had a great time - Hudson especially loved the bouncy house. He was NOT happy when we had to head home :)

So these days, we really are doing some country living. My dad just left for a three week Carnival cruise (don't get me started with the level of my jealousy), so the McGhee's have moved to the ranch for a while. I've gotta say, I'm loving it. Kelly and our precious Anna don't have to drive so much, and it's just nice to be out of town for a while - sort of a free vacation. Now if we can just keep Hudson out of the pool, the rodents out of the yard, and the wet Molly dog out of the house, we'll be batting a thousand.

So until next time, from me to you,
Judith Ann

New Milestones for The Hudster

I've got to start this update by bragging a bit about Hudson. He's growing so fast, I just know if I don't set it down in writing, I'll never remember all that he's doing these days...

So two weeks ago, we had a very big day. Hudson shared his first complete (verbal) thought with us! After his bath (his favorite part of the day, I might add), I laid him down on the bed to get dressed in his PJs and start our nighttime ritual. As soon as he was down, out pops, "Nite Nite, Daddy"! Kelly wasn't even in the room yet, but he got there fast! It was so precious.Kelly was absolutely elated about it. I love that the two men in my life already share a bond with one another. I think I'm going to be outnumbered for the next decade or so :)

Then two days ago, we got another addition to Hudson's ever-growing vocabulary. Not only did my dad (grandpa name = Bobbert) get a "Bye, bye Bob", but I finally got my very own good night from him. Yay! I think Robert was probably more excited that I was. It was so sweet.

I get questions sometimes about Hudson's feet. He was born with his feet facing each other, especially his left one. Technically, he was classified as having club feet. We were so worried when we first found this out, and when we were told that he'd have to have surgery and would need to wear special shoes until he was three years old...but I  must say, after the initial shock and efforts to figure things out, we have had no problems whatsoever. His feet look completely normal now, and he walks (and runs :) just like every other perfectly healthy toddler on the planet. Wearing his shoes with their connecting bar hasn't even been much of an issue - it's just part of our nightly routine.  Although, I must say, I'm a little worried about what we'll do when it's time to potty train our little monster....stay tuned!

In closing, I want to say a big shout-out to Rylynn, our very own little angel on this earth. This baby girl is two years old, and was in desperate need for a heart transplant - and she got one about a week ago! This gift is the answer to so many prayers out there, and proof that God hears us all. The McGhee's feel blessed to know her, her sweet parents, and her uplifting story, and we thank Him every day for the miracles he gives us. Go Rylynn Go!!!

From me to you...

Judith Ann