So much to write about this trip, which was a surprise to you and a bit of a lark for us. Pitched as an in-and out one night at Disney World for their Holiday Celebration (12/18), we had the great luck to meet up with our great friends John and Kevin (Disney nerds and veteran parkers!) and your friend Holden, son of Tim and Suzanne. In a single night we barnstormed the park, seeing It’s a Small World, the Dumbo ride, and even starring in a a skit with the REAL Belle. Hard to believe about 48 hours of time—and really only about five in the park itself, could have so much packed into it, but you were thrilled and truly worn out. We surprised you with this the day before we left, and while you didn’t really know what Disney World was before you left, you certainly did after. Truly an amazing trip. Our favorite part: when we asked you about your favorite part, you thought a bit, then said: “Spending time with my friends and family.” Sigh.

There were multiple costume changes when your friend Harriet (Von Hoose? Hadley?) came to visit. From princess outfits to shuttle commanders, you guys ran the gamut.

We were lucky to get a visit from Nana just before Christmas. It was great to see you two get to spend so much time together catching up.

You mastered the monkeys awhile back, but these rings have been a bit more…elusive. Here’s you making some decent progress, though tentatively:

And here’s you nailing it:

You asked for—and got—a Barbie Camper Van, though we held the line at a Dream House, too. Your family sent amazingly thoughtful gifts too, including an invention kit from the Adams, and another spectacular creation from Aunt Nancy (a real life Velveteen Rabbit, with the book!). It was our first Christmas at home in many years, and a good and relaxing day. Later in the day we made Minestrone soup and foccacia bread from scratch from a recipe for kids. Great day all around.

You were the FIRST girl across the line for the Kindergarten class, and about the 15th kid overall. SO FAST at the Lee Fun Run, you. You helped raise money to rehab the running track behind Lee in coming years.

You and mom took a trip out to Alpine and Marfa with Gigi and Papa just before Thanksgiving.