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!