New Photos

To make up for my long absence, I've posted new photos on the Picasa site. Click on "Pictures of Marley" on the right, to view.

Whoopsie

I really didn't mean to go so long without an update. I suppose that only the die-hard Marley fans remain. Ah well, here's what we've been up to anyway.

As Marley approaches his 6 month birthday (6 months, people!), we decided it was time to introduce him to "solids". His first meal consisted of less than a tablespoon of breast milk mixed with a minuscule amount of rice cereal. He seemed confused, not sure why I was putting this strange spoon-thing in his mouth. But after a few more attempts, he began to really enjoy himself. Not sure that he actually EATS any of the food, but luckily at this point it's about the experience rather than the nutrition.

Mars had his last dermatologist appointment. His doctor felt that his rash was cleared up enough - almost completely gone on his face - that we didn't need to come back. Yay! We're still putting medicine on some rashy parts, but we expect it to be totally gone in a few more weeks.

I had my first Mother's Day! I woke up to blueberry pancakes and coffee in bed. Then, we walked to the Farmer's Market to buy flowers. Afterward, we met up with Jeff's family and went to the Mac and Jack's Brewery in Redmond. All in all, a very fun day!

We went to Mazama (take Hwy 20 East through Washington and Rainy Passes) for Memorial Weekend. Troy's aunt and uncle welcomed us,
once again, into their lovely mountain home. Luckily Mars was on his best behavior, so I think we'll get invited back.

Marley is growing up so fast. He loves to read books and play with his toys - he especially loves holding and chewing on the soft ones. He loves to play with his hands. He drools like a maniac. His legs are so strong, he can stand if you hold onto his hands.

When he's on his tummy, he kicks against the ground to move forward and he pushes up onto his forearms. He sleeps great - between 7 and 10 hours at night. He takes three naps a day, one or two hours each. He's still very good natured - lots of things make his smile, few things make him cry. We couldn't be more proud.

Babies Rock!

In just one short week, we raised $200 for March of Dimes. Thanks to all who donated. We had a great time doing the walk on Sunday. It began with a bus ride to Qwest Field. We arrived early and had a pancake breakfast, then walked around collecting freebies.


Jeff and I got very emotional reading the "Wall of Remembrances", where people shared their Preemies' stories. Memories of our NICU experience just came flooding back. I wish I would have known about it ahead of time so I could have made a poster for Mars.






Walking on the Viaduct was pretty cool, especially surrounded by all those families. Marley slept the whole time. The weather was great. Afterward, we got on the West Seattle Water Taxi and headed home.




The Walk itself was 3.5 miles, but we probably doubled it with walking to and from the bus and Water Taxi. Overall I'd say it was a success. I can't wait until next year!