tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89390415182050300562011-12-31T12:18:42.781-05:00Remaining connected to those we love...Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.comBlogger641100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-45510372734988057112011-12-23T23:33:00.002-05:002011-12-23T23:49:45.230-05:00

These are fun memories...

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-60598892377312718212011-11-18T22:07:00.010-05:002011-11-18T22:39:37.773-05:00

Not sure whether this is a new start with updates for this blog or just a random splash of motivation. Likely it's been too long for anyone to care! It's hard to know what to update in this age of superfluous social media. At least one blog entry for 2011 isn't overdoing it. That's one way to look at it. Short preface to our year: Kelly and I had a sweet time of prayer on New Year's Eve

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-16875664433518598982010-12-26T21:14:00.002-05:002010-12-26T21:39:18.246-05:00

Proof of our calm, relaxing time at my Dad's house....

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-59271661437145573602010-12-26T20:50:00.003-05:002010-12-26T21:10:50.418-05:00

Taking full advantage of the long Christmas breaks afforded to educators, Kelly, Will, and I are galavanting across VA visiting family and enjoying some peaceful, feast-full, family-full days. We've also felt drawn to the Lord on many occasions, being grateful for Emmanuel, hope, and joy. We love teaching Will about Jesus' birthday and hearing him sing the carols with gusto. He's been a gem.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-49159261232001576562010-11-24T22:50:00.004-05:002010-11-24T23:09:02.711-05:00

Autumn run-down for Kelly and me: Parenting, Teaching, Counseling, Coaching, Event Planning, Hosting/leading home-group. Life is full and mostly good. It's too much (and too boring?) to share in detail, combined with not enough picture taking. Sorry - we know you're just here for the pictures. :) On of my runners' parents got about 10 fantastic shots of Will at a meet in October. After

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-76619029699792305992010-09-06T22:05:00.005-04:002010-09-06T23:15:43.478-04:00

The slow summertime pace feels like a distant memory for me as it's been full-throttle at work since 8/16. The three months from mid-Aug to mid-Nov are an especially full time in our lives with the start of the school year, the cross-country season, and the new patterns each year brings - part of the wax and wane of life. That said, we never did August justice on the blog, so here are a

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-45834656769587811872010-07-16T17:39:00.012-04:002010-07-16T20:22:31.242-04:00

We've experienced a summer of travel and family adventure so far. Through mid-July, we've gone to Massachusetts, Wisconsin, and Virginia Beach. Then, most recently, Kelly and I managed to scoot away for 24 hours (first time ever w/o Will!) for our ten year anniversary.How sweet to see some old friends, to share the joy of CCA's first graduating class, to reconnect with extended family at a

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-1538109463230833352010-05-28T12:03:00.003-04:002010-05-28T13:09:45.352-04:00

True giggles often elude the camera.... they're not infrequent in our home, but so spontaneous that they mostly exist in our memories or in our present experiences. But yesterday we captured some true giggles on camera. I thought I was just going to capture Kelly and Will being silly before bedtime, but a "snort (look for it halfway through!) turned into just sweet, unplanned laughter.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-29632390145866984122010-05-19T22:53:00.006-04:002010-05-19T23:13:09.820-04:00

No, the beach trip wasn't recent. But, yes, they're still precious to us - and so we share. May has seen a flurry of end-of-the-year activities at my school, and lots of sweet outdoor playtime for Will and his friends. He graciously invites Kelly along.We've seen Pops and Nana a few times, much to everyone's delight. That's a face of focus, not of boredom, on Will below... :)And Will's verbal

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-21069268153642274592010-04-16T22:45:00.007-04:002010-04-16T23:25:53.806-04:00

Egads, we've gone far too long without new pictures. No real reason... some busy times in the last 6 weeks, some slow times - just didn't prioritize the blog.A few highlights of March and April: a visit by Kelly's sister and her kids, a trip to Papa and Grammy's lakehouse at Smith Mountain Lake, a Uva baseball game with friends, A visit from Busia, Easter memories, a week at the Outer Banks (NC

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-26138299056137390862010-02-24T22:06:00.003-05:002010-02-24T22:22:19.430-05:00

[transcript from tonight's dinner]Dad: Will, please eat a piece of carrotWill: NoDad: Will, please eat the carrot before you have any bread or chickenWill: No, NO, NO!Dad: Will, you must try the carrot.Will: Why?Dad: It will help you grow up big and strongWill: I'm already strongDad: Um, yes, well, you can be bigger and healthier when you eat vegetablesWill: No, I don't want toDad: Do

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-12969234568098134272010-02-21T21:33:00.003-05:002010-02-21T22:26:35.073-05:00

Will tried sledding, but it didn't take. He'd much prefer to "work". Take a look for yourself!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-42423721855622730482010-01-31T21:48:00.006-05:002010-01-31T22:34:06.404-05:00

In the last few weeks, our hearts have ached in response to Haiti's overwhelming losses, particularly as our church family has a long-standing relationship with a church there - a church family that has lost many lives, including a whole generation of pastoral leadership. More locally, we also attended the funeral of the child of some close friends. Such suffering, regardless the scope, reminds

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-11959509445869279502010-01-10T15:33:00.007-05:002010-01-10T16:27:08.339-05:00

We traveled from my Dad's house to Roanoke to visit Kelly's family - Will's cousins, Auntie, uncles, and grandparents.Will and his cousin Nathan are only 11 months apart, and have more fun together every time they see each other.After returning to Charlottesville, we spent a glorious week together with just the three of us.Last Sunday, we celebrated Will's 2nd birthday with a small party. He's

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-22496775876028212912010-01-02T10:00:00.007-05:002010-01-02T16:42:48.757-05:00

Our Christmas adventure almost came to a snow-induced halt before it began. Friday Dec 19th we left Charlottesville just as it began to snow, and snow hard. 3 hours later (normally 75 minute trip) we rolled into my Dad's house, our CRV acting like the little engine that could, plowing through 6-8 inches up their 3/4 mile, unpaved driveway.The next morning we woke to 28 inches of snow. A

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-75041701175973547432009-12-06T22:17:00.003-05:002009-12-06T23:30:17.582-05:00

[great video at the end :) ]No doubt December fills the Blogsphere with Christmas pictures, and so we wanted to add our pictures. Kelly and I were excited to bring home our first live tree this year. It's our 10th Christmas together, but the first one where it made sense (to us) to put away the "$10 special" artificial tree we'd been using and treat Will (and us too!) to the real tree

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-67783375430198690652009-11-22T21:56:00.002-05:002009-11-22T22:07:31.931-05:00

This afternoon as we were walking off a muddy soccer field after a church fellowship pick-up game, Will paused and was looking toward the sky (which was in the beginning stages of a beautiful sunset) and pointing. I said, "What are you looking at, Will"?Will: "The Sky"Daddy: "It's beautiful, huh? Did you know God made the sky?"Will: "Thank you God!"He possessed genuine and self-initiated

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-74252116324749103692009-11-09T20:26:00.004-05:002009-11-09T20:54:40.891-05:00

We've slowed down in the picture-taking department - at least until the holidays. Hence, the irregular blog updates.One highlight of October was a birthday/retirement party for Will's Busia mid-month. My Dad and Liz opened their place to us so that we could "meet in the middle" between Charlottesville and Roanoke during a bad-weather Saturday. Will enjoyed his time with his cousins, and of

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-41031562159136220292009-10-09T22:02:00.005-04:002009-10-11T21:23:30.396-04:00

In brief:Kelly enjoyed some time in Roanoke with Will's cousins in mid-SeptemberThe church plant (Rivanna Community Church) launches on Oct 18th, Scott Knight is our pastor;I'm coaching Cross-country, and the season is in full swing as races and practices fill out my schedule till mid-November;We finally got to Carter's Mountain to go apple-picking!Kelly's organizing and leading the Nursery

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-91944082502655987252009-09-06T22:38:00.003-04:002009-09-06T22:46:43.221-04:00

Cute video. Will started saying his name (last name too) in the bath tonight... enjoy!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-58994473143768338982009-09-06T22:10:00.006-04:002009-09-06T22:38:12.925-04:00

Life felt paused for a month or so in August - not that the days were idle or boring, but the process of moving to a new place, settling into our home, not working, etc... brought a distinctly phase-like feeling to everyday activities. It was a sweet - mostly - and temporary phase, grace of God to enable us to transition to VA.Pause has now turned to play or fast-forward... work, schedules,

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-9040869541884525862009-08-11T13:23:00.005-04:002009-08-11T15:38:36.714-04:00

We've taken about 24,567 pictures over the last month, but of course none have made it to the blog yet. What a [sweet, tiring] whirlwind! We arrived, with all our parts in place, to Charlottesville on Saturday evening, July 18th. A host of sacrificial friends from Mass helped make the move manageable from start to finish - loading the truck, cleaning, traveling, unpacking, etc... Thank you!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-11867776255203788942009-06-29T22:24:00.004-04:002009-06-29T22:49:27.114-04:00

June has rushed by with the swiftness of an afternoon with dear friends. It's been a month of transition for us as we prepare to move southward... onto, back-to Virginia. There have been lots of "lasts" recently, with more on the way. We will miss New England, and Massachusetts. We will miss the friends we've made and the particular style of living. We've spent most of our married life, by

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-11392868081740550022009-05-31T22:18:00.004-04:002009-05-31T22:38:02.231-04:00

If you haven't yet seen Will walk... here's proof. Sorry's it's a bit long (50 seconds). Make sure to catch the little "jig" he dances near the end, at about 40 sec.... :)

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-49984353486636793452009-05-31T21:42:00.007-04:002009-06-01T21:20:10.157-04:00

The time is right to "out with it" on our blog - we're moving to Charlottesville in July! Kelly and I are excited for the adventure and grateful for the Lord's clear leading and provision along the way. We're experiencing some sadness now as we face the transition - leaving people who we've gotten to know well over the past 7 years is not easy, and neither is unraveling from CCA (where I work)

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-80598911054664831802009-05-23T22:09:00.002-04:002009-05-23T22:23:22.165-04:00

Papa and Grammy came for a visit the last weekend of April (but we're just getting a chance to update now!). Will immediately took to them again, even though they hadn't spent time together since Christmas. Though it was a short weekend, we managed to the visit the city together, shared a LOT of Thai food, and enjoy each others' presence.Taking Will to the park is a sure way to the young boy's

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-72637859316752745442009-05-05T21:19:00.004-04:002009-05-05T21:34:38.012-04:00

Over the week of April 18, Kelly Will and I went to the Berkshires in Western MA for a little R&R. We didn't know quite what to expect in that it was our first vacation with Will. It turned out to be very refreshing and renewing. Aside from some sleep disturbances, Will loved the new surroundings. And Kelly and I enjoyed the sweet hours together. God providentially showed us his goodness and

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-23586745642610341802009-04-16T22:15:00.003-04:002009-04-16T22:18:21.157-04:00

Easter.... one year later. Perhaps only Kelly and I will find this interesting... but man... has it been a year? My how time flies.20082009

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-15828772789546802772009-04-13T22:28:00.003-04:002009-04-13T22:45:48.844-04:00

Several have asked what Will's current mode of transportation looks like.... And so, below, for your viewing pleasure, we're proudly present - "the knee walk" by Will Maurer: We had to catch him when he wasn't looking because he always wants to stop and play with the camera if he sees that he's being filmed. He's really a gadget guy - phones, remote controls, brooms (??).Will's also

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-64526197360673416822009-04-08T22:30:00.003-04:002009-04-08T22:35:18.218-04:00

All is normal here.... hope you are well too.Will's close to learning how to walk - we'll have to post video soon. Some very cute picture's recently that we've not yet uploaded.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-86537043263618240372009-03-21T23:03:00.003-04:002009-03-21T23:11:16.912-04:00

We've been offline for awhile, thus the delay in posting. Will continues to develop in terms of communication and mobility - almost daily! Today he successfully identified the right color three times in a row! (before he got bored with "school" and went back to the firetruck)Could you help me over this gate?Earlier this month, we had a delightful visit from "Busia and Gramps," and Will had

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-6355334391516510712009-02-14T14:50:00.004-05:002009-03-21T23:12:26.306-04:00

We've had quite a bit of snow this winter. While much of this creates a cooped up "trapped" feeling for Kelly and Will (limited walks and outdoor activities), we've had a few snowy adventures too. Will doesn't seem to mind the cold, and enjoys new experiences. Here are a few shots from a walk we took after a fresh foot of snow a few weeks ago.Update: After several days of plus 40 degree

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-47010638755940940052009-01-27T22:29:00.002-05:002009-01-27T22:37:13.299-05:00

Will brought tears to my eyes Sunday morning as Kelly, he and I sat around the kitchen table enjoying breakfast. Amid laughing and cheerios, I was reaching across the table and holding Will's hand. I said, "I love you, Will" - and Will replied in kind. He signed "I love you" to me, a sign I hadn't seen him do independently to that point.Now, I'm not sure what goes on in his mind or what

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-67884269386249050152009-01-11T20:49:00.007-05:002009-01-15T14:24:24.657-05:00

Since our last blog, Will has:- been on a through-the-night road trip to and from VA (While there, he enjoyed playing with all the extended family, as well as Pops & Nana's dogs - & quickly learned the sign for "dog;" he met his new cousin, Nathan;he got tons of new presents, and much more.)- started to crawl faster and greater distances- celebrated his 1st birthday three times (He's not a first

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-21065587663658916292008-12-17T18:57:00.003-05:002008-12-17T19:22:53.673-05:00

It's the moment "we've all been waiting for!" (Although now it's REALLY time to get our place baby-proofed!) Please check out our little man - starting to get on the move. Sorry it's dark!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-53480004609503416012008-12-12T17:59:00.003-05:002008-12-12T18:10:32.037-05:00

Will was having so much fun playing with his dad tonight that I had to capture it. He's funny when he lays on his back and spins.... Check it out!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-59373490106987365492008-12-06T15:59:00.003-05:002008-12-06T16:23:00.056-05:00

Here's a short clip of our little guy giving some giggles. We were enjoying our Saturday morning as a family. It's a little dark, but still too precious not to share. Enjoy! :)

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-2150457066786754862008-11-18T17:53:00.002-05:002008-11-18T18:13:01.045-05:00

My little man is having a great time these days talking and babbling. He is also experimenting with his new signs. Here's a clip of him talking to me; at the end, he starts to make the sign for light, just before the camera runs out of memory space! Enjoy!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-18291041577215267132008-11-16T16:28:00.004-05:002008-11-16T16:50:27.192-05:00

He's so cute, I can hardly stand it. Here's a little clip to see the latest... a little high 5 action after he knocks down his favorite toy, his stacking cups!!! (ps Next time we'll know to hold the camera the right way...)

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-11177158453408497672008-11-01T18:53:00.004-04:002008-11-01T19:11:37.295-04:00

For nearly 10 months, Will has communicated to us with cries, screeches, grunts, and other nondescript sounds (okay, he's saying "mama" but I'm not convinced he knows what it means). But he's unspecific no longer, for one word at least. Will started using his new sign language skills to "talk" to us regularly this weekend... can you guess what his first word was? Mom? No - but good try. Dad?

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-61294940813899858282008-10-31T07:40:00.006-04:002008-10-31T07:53:25.733-04:00

So, I broke down and bought Will a little tiger costume for Halloween. And, oh my goodness, was he the cutest thing you've ever seen? Before I put it on him, I let him play with it and "decide if he liked it." He did. :) He went to his signing class as a tiger; as you can see, all his little friends were adorable little animals (and pumpkins) as well.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-10918688134589791652008-10-19T15:08:00.008-04:002008-10-19T15:21:59.187-04:00

Will has continued to love being outside.The weather has been beautiful and the leaves have brought us brilliant colors. Last week, Will and I were able to meet with one of my high school friends, Reine, and her son, Hayden. We went for a long walk around a lake, and Will had one of his first experiences of playing with leaves.Later in the week, as the weather got colder, Will bundled up and

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-34700825050115543172008-10-11T21:57:00.002-04:002008-10-11T22:23:56.667-04:00

We've really enjoyed the last few weeks with Will as his mobility and personality continue to emerge. He's recognizing words (Mama and light, for instance) and babbling often New syllables show up fairly regularly at this point. Still waiting for the "dada" though - "mama...mum" was an early favorite. :)Will's often pensive and serious-looking in groups, but full of laughs and vocal displays

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-31695929724001615402008-09-14T15:36:00.011-04:002008-09-14T16:21:04.327-04:00

The last month has been a bit of a whirlwind in the Maurer household, primarily because Geoff has returned to school hours (and cross-country after school), bringing a swift end to our spoiled summer days. Kelly's beginning another professional development class at the seminary, and Will has also started "school" - kinder-music once a week. They say that by Christmas he could know up to 50

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-36107104630278964652008-08-12T13:14:00.006-04:002008-08-12T13:29:44.637-04:00

We were blessed to have the opportunity to travel to Wisconsin to attend the wedding of Kelly's cousin, Danielle, and visit with lots of family that we don't get to see very often. Will met his great grandfather, Grandpa Liss.During our time, Will was able to enjoy time with his Busia and Gramps (Gramps is playing "Mousie" with Will and making him giggle),

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-64179919538560290712008-07-20T20:10:00.004-04:002008-12-12T03:10:49.761-05:00

In the stable weeks since our trip, Will's culinary repetoire has expanded to include barley, squash and sweet potatoes (baby varieties, of course). He's enjoying eating about as much as we're enjoying feeding him! He giggles and opens wide. After every bite of sweet potatoes (the newest fare), he squenches his face like we've just given him a tart lemon... and then wants more!Though they

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-60039044510085595672008-07-05T21:07:00.006-04:002008-12-12T03:10:52.407-05:00

In the last few weeks, the Maurer family had our first big travel adventures in our child-era. Kelly left on June 12 with Will for her brother's graduation, and we didn't pull back into our Danvers driveway until evening of June 30. I had joined her halfway through. Will met lots of relatives for the first time, reconnected with others, withstood longer car rides than he was used to,

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-66060672465725293032008-06-16T21:51:00.003-04:002008-12-12T03:10:52.885-05:00

Kelly and Will hop, skipped and jumped down to Virginia last Thursday, leaving me alone here to hold down the fort. Not that there's much to do when everyone's away, but I appreciate the responsibility. :) They've had lots of great experiences, which I'm sure we'll document later, but for me the highlight has been a few pictures Kelly just sent of Will. You just gotta see for yourself...I'll

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-88291195605183244422008-06-06T20:46:00.004-04:002008-12-12T03:10:53.792-05:00

We had a dear friend, Scott, visit with us for two weeks as he was taking a class at the Seminary. He's such a joyful, gentle spirit with a servant's heart that it was really not hard for us to host, even with a 5 month old baby. Scott and his wife Jennifer have been friends of ours for almost 10 years now: they were at our wedding, we've been with them to Honduras and Slovenia, we've lived in

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-30242075869581553712008-05-21T21:58:00.011-04:002008-12-12T03:10:54.626-05:00

After a long wrestling match, Will finally pinned the bear. He celebrated by gnawing on his nose.May has flown by and we have been remiss in updating the blog. Apologies to anyone who was in want.May 11 was a big day in our home as Will and I did our best to honor the wonderful mother that Kelly has so quickly and naturally become. We decided staying "in" and spending a whole weekend together

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-81533842192176154512008-05-04T21:18:00.004-04:002008-12-12T03:10:55.031-05:00

On Saturday, May 3rd, Will celebrated Four Months. We go for the check up this Tuesday for a second round of shots and other basic check-up details. From our perspective, Will seems like a healthy, growing boy. We can't be happier. We could be more rested, probably. But happier?Will's talking (cooing) more and more and turning into quite the giggler when hunger pangs or the weight of a

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-33321414779117313302008-04-21T21:27:00.007-04:002008-12-12T03:10:55.983-05:00

Kelly worked a full 8 hour shift today, so Will and I had our first full-day of just father and son time (I had off). He treated me mercifully, passing on the blow-out diapers and major melt-downs. In fact, we had a relatively "normal" day of play, sleep, feedings, and bouncing bouncing bouncing. Speaking of bouncing, Will just got a new toy - the bouncing

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-8495877188759188572008-04-13T07:54:00.002-04:002008-04-13T08:06:32.194-04:00

This morning as Will drifted off to sleep in my arms, he couldn't take his eyes off the Kitchen overhead light. As I've mentioned in the last post, this is nothing new for him - he loves lights of all kinds; his staring is not limited to similar looking fixtures. I wonder what draws him to lights? We only let him stare when they're off, but he must have realized what happens when they go on.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-25698561433495743182008-04-05T13:31:00.006-04:002008-12-12T03:10:57.214-05:00

Will celebrated three months of life on Thursday by sucking on his hand, blowing bubbles, sleeping 6 hours, playing the "look at the light" game, and other sundry age-appropriate activities. A few weeks ago, he got all dressed up for Easter with us (not like he had a choice). He's resting quietly in the swing as I write this, after having a fun morning with Mommy at

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-43524213632998189212008-03-26T17:28:00.005-04:002008-12-12T03:10:58.352-05:00

Will is still kind of conservative with his smiles, but when he gives them, oh...his mommy and daddy just melt!So, here is a sampling of what makes us go ga-ga!!Playing with Daddy on the bed (one of his favorite places!)and playing on his floor mat. Enjoy!

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-61207482691898328782008-03-14T19:47:00.016-04:002008-12-12T03:10:59.677-05:00

Will was excited to meet his Gramps a couple of weeks ago! He has heard Gramps' voice many times since he's been born, as Gramps regularly calls during the day to say hello to his little buddy. Busia was happy to get her hands back on little Will and to see in person just how much he had changed and grown since she'd seen him in January.The several days that Busia and Gramps were here were

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-57793358531462521872008-03-11T15:06:00.007-04:002008-12-12T03:11:00.329-05:00

Ok, so clearly Geoff is better about updating the blog.... But I will try to do my best to add my thoughts as well. (It's a little tough when your baby doesn't like to be put down. I am now blogging one-handed, since I have put Will down - asleep - 3 times and he keeps waking up!) So, to continue- with Will in my arms - where I left off: the next visitors.As you may recall, I had mentioned

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-25454063489058763722008-03-08T21:08:00.005-05:002008-12-12T03:11:01.552-05:00

Changes, changes, always changes (and I'm not just talking diapers here). Will has kept us guessing in his unpredictability. He does generally go to bed around the same time each night and wake up around the same time each morning, though (no, no, no - not sleeping all the way through! He still usually has at least two nighttime nursing sessions at this point). We're needing to rely on God

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-42590390357691451512008-02-20T20:48:00.007-05:002008-12-12T03:11:01.968-05:00

Perspectives from Geoff. I've titled This entry "Which Way Is Up" because we're experiencing some of those kind of days in these early weeks. As new parents, we are at the point of establishing patterns and finding our specific rhythm for the first time. Should we wake him? What does that cry mean? What does that sound mean? Are we making egregious errors? What "method" from the myriad of

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-41817588497825452162008-02-11T10:28:00.008-05:002008-12-12T03:11:03.454-05:00

Will is blessed to have so many people that love him. Geoff and I are grateful for all the family members who have traveled from Virginia to come and "adore" our little one.Busia (Kelly's mom, a.k.a. "Bu Bu" by Will's cousin, Michael) arrived the day Will was born and stayed with us throughout the 11 days Will was in Special Care, as well as the first few days after he came home. Thanks, Busia

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-77126666676092166122008-02-03T19:07:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:11:04.631-05:00

We've now been home for almost 3 weeks, and little Will is over 4 weeks old! He's doing GREAT! We are so enjoying parenthood. Will is continuing to eat "like a champ" (as his doc said) as evidenced by his recent weight check at his pedi appt. He is up to a healthy 10 lbs. 5 oz.For the most part, he is sleeping well between feedings, although Mom and Dad are still feeling pretty sleep-deprived.

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-17703419768090484602008-02-03T19:05:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:11:05.216-05:00

Will has wooed us all with the fantastic fish face, inspiring imitation:But Nothing Beats the Original:

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-53678828055156512632008-01-24T22:10:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:11:06.199-05:00

Though we drove through a blinding snowstorm, coming home on January 14th from the Special Care Nursery had Kelly and I on top of the world. Elated is an accurate term, I believe. Finally we were coming home and bringing Will with us!This is a picture of our SCN "Graduation," moments before leaving the hospital.The first week at home, we had the privilege of Kelly's mother and sister who came and

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8939041518205030056.post-43382373691423361202008-01-23T22:04:00.000-05:002008-12-12T03:11:07.419-05:00

Kelly and I had a lesson in trusting God with Will's life right away, as he turned a terribly shade of purple/blue within minutes of being born. One incident led to another, and our first son ended up in the Special Care Nursery at Beverly Hospital l (MA) for 11 full days.The adverse situation brought us emotionally to a place of dependence on the Father, experiencing right away that there was

Geoffreyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01399071908358918907noreply@blogger.com0