What a Day!

The day began with Mars rolling over from tummy to back for the first time! Since I was unable to catch it on video, and he refused to repeat the trick, I've included a video of him playing with one of his favorite toys made especially for him by Auntie Liz.

Later, Mars had his 6 month check up. His weight was 13lbs 13oz (3rd percentile). His length was just under 25 inches (5th percentile). And his head circumference was 15.5 inches (0th percentile). If you adjust his age for prematurity: his weight would be 25%, length would be 50%, and head circ would be 10%. We were a little early for the 6 month vaccinations, so we have to go back next week to get them. His doctor is very pleased with his growth and development and thinks he is doing just great!

Later in the afternoon we visited 5th grade camp. Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos. But picture Jeff holding Marley - both wearing looks of panic - while surrounded by 15 or more 5th graders, reaching out grubby hands and cooing loudly, "Awwww! He's soooo cuuuute!"

It's been quite a day!

Like mother, like son

Here's me eating, what appears to be, peas out of a dog food dish. How old was I here, Mom?

Mmm...Sweet P'Taters

This week's food: Sweet Potatoes
Marley's rating: Yum!

Bigger than a breadbox?

Well, it's almost time for Marley's six month check up. This is the longest he has gone without being weighed and we are very curious to find out how much he has grown. Anyone want to hazard a guess as to his length, weight, or head circumference? I'll post the results after his appointment on Tuesday afternoon. For those of you who haven't seen Mars in person in a while, perhaps this photo will help you with your estimating (perhaps not). *Hint: He weighs more than the bread.

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!