Momma Post: I'm trying to be equitable in my posting of the girls. Here are a few photos of Willa during her first Christmas down in Jacksonville, Oregon. Some of the photos are thanks to Cousin Tia, as I seem to have my hands full these days.
A couple of notes about the trip down south...driving with children takes about 1.5 to 2 hours longer and be prepared for surprises, like Ruby getting car sick twice. My grandparents recently moved into the Pioneer Village, a retirement community downtown Jacksonville. So it was important for the entire family to check out their new digs and we were fortunate to have everyone present (a gift in itself). Matt's immediate family (minus Wajma) also made the trip to stay and visit with Grandpa Doyle.
Christmas was definitely a whirlwind for us and the girls handled it as best they could. We split our time between the two families and the solace of our motel room. Ruby did struggle with sleeping and naps (what nap?), eating meals and finding her place amongst her older cousins. But, this was to be expected. Highlights of the trip included the snowfall Christmas evening; Grandma giving us all a photo during WWII of a very handsome Papa Jack; Cousin Michele's banana cream pie; my Grandma and aunts passing around Willa; and Ruby in her "birthday outfit" (thanks Aunt Cheryl) and her retro red outfit (see earlier post).
Willa was a super easy baby during the Christmas madness and simply enjoyed getting passed around to various family members. And, if they were lucky, she would offer them a series of smiles or a cooing conversation.
If anything, our girls are constantly offering us life lessons, for example the need to simplify. While this Christmas was significant and special for many reasons, Matt and I decided (even before the trip) the need for us to start our own family traditions/rituals and we will be spending Christmas next year in Portland. I'm writing it now to ensure that it will happen. Goals for next year will include baking cinnamon rolls for Christmas morning and taking the girls to the Cathedral sometime during the advent season.
Below are a couple of pictures of Willa in Portland prior and after Christmas.
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