Aidric's First Christmas
Istanbul, Turkey

Material excess isn't something that I wish to instill as a recurring theme in this family, and as such, Aidric's first Christmas was a humble one. There are plenty of things we want, but few things we need—and even fewer that we're capable of carrying.

Aidric's two presents under our "Turkish Christmas tree", twigs with berries that are a traditional Turkish symbol of the New Year

So, what do you get a nomadic baby that's just over two weeks away from his first birthday? Something he loves, and something he needs: Bread and socks.

Aidric's favorite food for the past few months has been bread—he loves the stuff. So, this Christmas morning, I presented him with a big loaf of bread, baked just down the street at our local bakery. Slippers and socks are a bit of a tradition in Tatiana's household, and as such she got him a pair with leather soles (so that he's got something to wear on his feet with some grip as he practices his walking).

Tatiana and I didn't exchange any gifts, as there's nothing I desire but their company on this day (although I did pick her/us up a yummy roasted chicken for dinner). Such is the way of holidays on the road.

This is my fifth consecutive Christmas abroad—each in a different home and country, perpetually surrounded by different people from different cultures. Aside from the presence of Aidric and Tatiana, all this is quite normal.

I loved the sight of Aidric passed out on the couch from the morning's activity; quite a memorable morning.

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