Kaiya’s First Year: Week 11

Phew, I’m pooped. We came down to California in part because I wanted Vibhu to experience all of the traditions that I grew up with during the holidays. And did he ever. Christmas caroling on the 23rd. Neighborhood open house on the 24th. Christmas morning and a full Christmas dinner on the 25th. REI Used Gear Sale and Christmas with Michelle and the kids on the 26th. And finally, an open house for friends to come meet Vibhu and Kaiya on the 27th. I think we spent the entire day on the 28th in our PJs. I loved everything about this Christmas and couldn’t have asked for a better first Christmas for Miss Kaiya. Although Vibhu was quite overwhelmed with the number of gifts we each opened on Christmas morning, he too loved the traditions of Christmas with caroling taking the top honors.

Kaiya’s Favorite Things:

• Falling asleep in the arms of her mausi (Emily) who sings an amazing version of Silent Night.
• Trying her hardest to grab things–the Elephant crinkle book (thanks Toni!) and Freddie the Firefly are the most fun. Kaiya’s sheer determination to succeed is already evident. I think she’s going to be a hard-headed, persistent little kid!
• Being vertical. She loves to stand and sit, and especially loves moving her head around from side to side while being held.
• Sleeping. From the very first day of this trip, Kaiya has settled into a nice little sleep routine. 1 hour nap at 10am. 2 hours at 1pm. And ready for bed by 8pm.  She’ll wake up to eat around 4am and then fall right back asleep until 7:30. This is definitely one of my favorite things! (Now lets just hope it lasts…)

We’ve only got 2 days left before we have to start the drive back to Victoria, so I’d better go utilize every minute we’ve got left. Hope everyone had a merry Christmas and looking forward to ringing in the new year with family and friends!

Christmas caroling! Vibhu was a great flashlight holder

Christmas Eve at the Davis Farmers Market

Vibhu’s first batch of Christmas cookies…India style–Hyderabad mixed fruit shortbread

Opening presents on Christmas morning

Emily’s present to my mom was definitely the best present of the year!

Christmas dinner

Kaiya’s other nani. We love you Toni!