To Ohio We Go

The Lee Family Three packed up everything but the kitchen sink and made our way to Ohio for Christmas. Traveling with a one year old that solely enjoys perfecting her walking skills is truly challenging, let alone hauling about all the gear we must bring onboard to keep her entertained and stationary.

We were equipped with one carry-on suitcase, two backpacks, and the gate-checked stroller, of course. As we went through security, the suitcase got flagged for review. The TSA agent asked me if there was anything questionable in the bag and my reply was that the only things in all the bags that were mine or my husband’s was a laptop, lip balm, and our state IDs. Everything else was for our sweet little girl . The TSA agent smiled as she discovered the items in question --- three matchbox cars (we don’t go anywhere without them).

The flights to Ohio went surprisingly well. The flights back home to CA … not so much (but let’s not focus on the negative as we have happy photos to share).



You know those seat pockets in front of you in the plane where you would put a book or magazine? Well, gone are the days of this couple reading on a plane anytime soon again. As you can see, our little princess ruled the roost when it came to stowing her necessities for the flights ...



The anxiously awaiting grandparents met us at the airport and had eyes only for Lauren as we arrived. Oh, they were so excited to see their granddaughter! In typical fashion, my mother came prepared with a winter coat for Lauren as it was 20 degrees Fahrenheit the night we flew in.



A unanimous decision regarding a much needed haircut for Lauren was made upon arrival. Though I have cut her hair four times since her birth, I realized we needed to call upon a professional to take control of Lauren's wild locks.



The Walters (Stacey, Kevin and daughters Lucy & Lola) came to Ohio from Austin, TX for Christmas to visit family and stopped by the Goias household to say hello.









Due to the chilly weather, our California baby had to get used to wearing a hat … she was not very agreeable. She stopped tugging on it for a moment to pose for a photo with Daddy.



Christine, Ryan, and Russell came down and spent time with us on and off during our stay at my parents. It gave my sister and me a chance to catch up and some time for the cousins to play. My mother and father were in heaven to have both of their grandchildren under one roof at the same time ... really!



Though they spent some time quietly checking each other out at first, Russell and Lauren were instant playmates. Lauren followed her cousin everywhere and constantly wanted to be near him. In turn, Russell gave many kisses and hugs to Lauren and took it upon himself to teach her the lay of the land at Grandma & Grandpa's. It was all so very sweet.

















On Christmas Eve, we went to church. Lauren was very excited to be all dolled up in her pretty red dress.











With all the excitement of presents on Christmas Day, Lauren needed to take a rest on Mommy’s knee.



Last, but not least, I want to share a photo from the ping pong obsession that Dad and Henry had. They were down in the basement for hours!



We hope you had a fantastic holiday season and are enjoying your start of the new year!