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In Vaaler Household, 'Pinky Baby' Makes Four

By Kim Barry (MALD '00)


Proud Father
Professor Paul Vaaler

Known for being one of the most alert individuals at Fletcher at 8:30 a.m., Professor Paul Vaaler may not exude that same energy for the rest of the term, and with good reason. His newborn son, at 8 pounds, 12 ounces and 21 inches long, will be demanding his fair share of his father’s enthusiasm.

Born Feb. 5 at Boston's Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, John Martin Vaaler has "more hair than his Dad already," according to Vaaler, and is reportedly just as "vigorous."  "He's a real sweetheart," Vaaler gushed. "But I'm biased."  

Vaaler said his older son, Benjamin, 3, has been “a big help” in caring for John, whom Benjamin refers to as “pinky baby” for his unique handholding habits.

Vaaler and his wife Kathy are thrilled with their family’s new addition. Although Kathy took a sabbatical from her job as budget director of CVS Pharmacies in Woonsocket, Rhode Island to care for her children, Vaaler said they couldn’t be happier that Kathy’s parents are in town to help out.

Despite his added responsibility, Vaaler doesn’t foresee John detracting too much from his work at Fletcher.  After all, with John awakening two or three times a night, “I don’t have to rush home early to see him before he goes to bed,” Vaaler explained.

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