i wanted to use a hemlock for a solstice tree since the hemlocks might not be part of the forest much longer. sadie's grandpa said it looked like an adult version of a charlie brown tree. sadie mae received some super nice gifts from lots of family; sadie's own kitchen with a sink, oven, stove, and lots of storage space and a set of carhartts so she can help with the tough winter chores. she also got lots of new clothes and toys and books. she is drawing a lot with some nice wooden colored pencils; we've read 'duck on a bike' a couple times every day it seems; she is also sleeping well and staying warms under a nice cozy blanket. thanks for all the presents, and the quality visits with family and friends. the photo of the three includes walker avery, sadie mae, and hayden elizabeth taken during our recent and long overdue visit to friends in newport news.

Sadie finally made a visit to Aunt Jessica's a week before Christmas. She is well prepared for the winter with her down suit. Now all we need is snow! But she had to be happy with riding on Molly, who almost seemed to enjoy it.