Loading the Wagon

Once the weather clears up and the road becomes dry enough to support traveling on, it is time to depart.

I heft May up onto my hip, carrying her back and forth as we pack up the wagon.

It's early morning, so May doesn't put up any fuss about wanting to walk. Instead, she leans her head against my shoulder, barely awake, and absently sucks her thumb.

It's more accurate to say she just has her thumb in her mouth, but...it looks the same.

It's rather cute to see, and she still has her baby teeth, so I don't see much reason to tell her to stop.

It's just one more sign that the girl trusts and feels safe with us, and I like seeing her this way.

Roland gives a broad smile when he sees the sleepy girl half awake leaning against my shoulder. He strides over and gives her a kiss on the forehead.

She jerks and gasps, her eyes snapping open.