Christmas 2021 will be one that I never, ever forget!

It was our first Christmas with G! We brought her home on Monday, only five days earlier, to a home that was already bedecked with garlands, Christmas twinkly lights, and my nostalgic holiday heirlooms like Mitford and my It’s a Wonderful Life collection. Christmas 2021 held a different festive feeling, but it was magical in its quiet and wonder as we stared in amazement at our baby girl. I will admit, I missed the traditions and the feeling of being “home” with family. Despite missing the extended family, we enjoyed the days of Christmas getting accustomed to our newest family member, who truly happened to be the very best Christmas gift I could have ever asked for.

These pictures are surely ones I will look back on with nostalgia and joy, because I know they are fleeting moments. Baby G even looks different now (as I write this three weeks later) from these pictures of her in the hospital. Look at that milk mustache! Look at how Rosie looks at her with such wonder and curiosity! Look at how S is such a proud, proud papa. And most humorously - look at how sparse that Christmas tree is! HAHA!

I really do think that Christmas embodies a feeling, especially for me. And looking ahead, I know that the magic is about to begin. Next year, G will be one year old, and maybe walking! I can’t wait to help create so many happy memories with her. Baking cookies for Santa, wrapping presents, listening to Charlie Brown Christmas, watching our favorite movies, and admiring all of our decorations will be the things I look forward to most. I always had such magical Christmases as a child, and I know that the thrills of delight and wonder will only continue through the eyes of my little girl.

Ciao, and Buon Natale! Xo