Matt, Christen, Derek & Rylie

Week 6
Derek continues to explore his world and make observations. We are beginning to see more of Derek's personality come out. He is strong willed and has a great smile! His eyes light up when he is happy. We love to listen to all the noises he makes. Our favorite noises are the cooing when he is playing the "gym" and the sweet sounds when he is asleep. This week was the final week of the Tour de France. Derek and I have watched it for the past 3 weeks. I have told him about the different riders, rules, and strategies of the Tour. Maybe he'll be a cyclist when he gets older. This week Matt went to a conference in Washington D.C., so for three days it was just Derek and me. It was challenging to watch him by myself for that time and I have no idea how single moms survive. I could not wait for Matt to come home and for us to be a family of three again. Derek also Skyped with his grandparents in Boston! They could not believe how big he has gotten.

SMILE!!!
Derek has begun to smile when he recognizes us or when he is happy. It is the cutest thing.

He continues to strengthen his neck muscles as he spends time on his stomach.

Derek continues to love tracking the sports balls on his mobile that hang over changing table. This week he began to smile, gurgle and coo as he watches them go round and round.

Derek and I have been having weekly playdates with my friends Janet (and her 2 boys) and Ellen (and her son). It is so fun to get together with other moms.

Bryce and Derek

Caleb (Janet's son) loves Derek and comments "Baby Derek is so cute. I love baby Derek.
It is so sweet.

Here are some other random cute pics from this week.

Look at my muscles.

Before Derek was born, Matt and I went on hikes most Sunday mornings. We decided to continue this family tradition once Derek was born. This week was Derek's second hike, along Skyline Road in an area called Windy Hill. Here are a few pictures from the hike. He does great in the Ergo!