Texas Christmas

Because we are crazy, we loaded up the Family Truckster and drove to Texas to spend the holidays with my family. Yes, drove. To Texas. With our 10-week-old baby. And our dog. Did I mention that we're crazy?


Here's my view for the entire 2,900 mile+ round trip:

Actually, the drive was not nearly as bad as you would imagine. Amelia appears to be a born traveler (for now anyway). She slept most of the drive and only lost her mind twice--first in Atlanta traffic and then in Houston traffic. And who could blame her? I wanted to be screaming my head off at that point too.

Here's our first family Christmas photo (taken at my sister Susan's house where we spent the holiday):

Amelia and Nana:

Amelia in her Christmas dress laughing at Nana (Nana is apparently the most amusing person on earth):

She is smiling all the time these days and we've even been graced with the occasional giggle. She thinks it's really funny when we dance for her and she's obsessed with ceiling fans. They're hilarious, apparently.

I had to include a shot of Amelia and the play mat because it was an absolute must-pack for our trip--she loves it and it buys us the occasional free moment. (Great big kiss to Katie for this awesome shower gift!):

Amelia and "The Oldest Cousin on Earth":

Amelia and Aunt Cindy:

Have I mentioned how nice it is to have so many people around who want to hold your baby?

Amelia and the super clever baby tent (that she didn't really want to sleep in. I'm hoping that will change soon.):

With her cousins on Christmas morning:

More Christmas morning:

The cousins:

Amelia was really not a fan of this family tradition:

After Christmas, we headed north for New Year's Eve. Here's Amelia meeting her Uncle Paul.

With her wacky cousin Dylan:

Yes, we obviously know how to ring in the new year:

Amelia was passed out before midnight.

And, a very serious face before we began the long trip home:

Overall, a very relaxing vacation, despite the long drive and challenges of traveling with an infant. Definitely a major confidence booster. We can take her anywhere!