Hudson Ruth Walter

Sometimes you get news you hope you never have to get. :(

Our dear friends lost their gorgeous baby girl Hudson Ruth three days after her birth (July 11, 2012).  We were in Dillingham, AK when we heard the news...

Sucker punched.  That's what news like that feels like.

Let me tell you about my friends...

Erica is all spunk, wit, laughter, and it seems joy is just ready to burst out of her at any given moment.  Hudson was born to an incredibly strong, dynamic woman. (I'll have to tell you how Erica broke her neck and then ran a marathon next time).  There is no question in my mind that Hudson would have been surrounded by love and joy from her Mommy continuously.  It is particularly difficult to see someone who chooses to life in such a profound way have something so important and precious taken from them.     

Zeb is the gentlest giant you'll ever meet.  He held Oliver days after he was born and it was awesome to see this burly manly man hold this little bitty baby.  Unsure at first, but careful, so very careful.  He even had this awesome wide-legged stance, just so he wouldn't tip over.  There is no question in my mind that Hudson would have been surrounded by strength and tenderness from her Daddy continuously.

Hudson's perfect little feet.  

I wish I could have seen Erica and Zeb raise Hudson.  It would have been a beautiful thing to watch.  Erica kept a blog throughout her pregnancy and has kept it up with posts about the "after".  Follow her blog here.

After you read Erica's blog and laugh and cry and marvel at this amazingly resilient couple, would you hold your loved ones a little closer and remember to tell them how much you love them...