On March 24, Derek turned 10 weeks old! He is getting SO big! We celebrated by having him explore a new Corvette! As you can see, he loved the experience! Doesn't he look handsome sitting behind the wheel of this beautiful car?

Last night we were able to make it to our Monday night dinner group right when everyone was just starting to eat! Right on! I was also able to make a meal for it AND take care of Derek at the same time! I suppose I'm learning how to multitask better! Derek took everything in and actually let people hold him! He must remember from within the womb the sounds of the evening. We all had a wonderful time. Here are some pictures from the event.

As of March 13, we are parents of a two month old! We celebrated this special day by taking Derek in to have 5 shots...poor baby. He cried harder than he's ever cried. I know it is important to have this done, but I should have scheduled it on a different day...We found out he is presently 10 lbs, 11 oz and nearly 24" long. He is in 3 mo. clothes and growing rapidly. Last night, he slept from 10:30 - 3:30, was fed, then 4:30 - 8:00. I couldn't believe it. Derek is a very independent boy. He prefers not to be held unless he is really tired. When put down, he smiles and coos galore! Each day we are SUPER thankful for our little guy. He is truly AMAZING!!!

Ric's mom, Sherry, got to spend a great deal of time with her grandson. It was nice having her see Derek go from looking like a newborn to a full fledge baby! She stayed much longer than expected because Ric's sister had to have brain surgery. She is doing well and recovering super fast! We are so happy for this! Derek doesn't want to see his Tante not feeling well!

Derek and I have been able to get out and about this last week. We cruise the beautiful North End in Tacoma. I am able to walk for about 45 minutes now, with my strength increasing daily.

Derek just showed us he can reach for objects. It is super exciting! Derek reached for his favorite dog puppet while Ric was playing with him today!

I did not mention how Derek Von Matthies received his name..."Derek" is Ric's middle name and "Von" means "of the family of." Therefore, "of the family of Matthies." Ric's brother (Jonathan) said "Derek" can be split up and mean "of Ric" in Spanish. I had never thought of it in this way! His other brother (Eric) said we are pronouncing our son's name incorrectly. He says the "D" is silent. Figure that one out! He is so hilarious!!!

All is going well, and we are much better at taking care of the little guy. It is neat to see how much he has grown and changed in such a short time. We adore him greatly!

Derek is growing out of his newborn clothes (as seen in the photo!)...I can't believe how big he is getting. He still spends a great deal of time at Dairy Queen. Derek is cooing to Katie in this picture. He makes the cutest sounds! He does a great deal of talking...I suppose he will talk for the both of us! This picture was taken last Friday, Feb. 24, on his sixth week birthday.