Dear Mia,

I hope you have been enjoying that red car. I heard you took it out in the rain on the second morning, which is exactly what I would have done, and I laughed when I heard about the puddle by the gate.

I know you were hoping for a puppy this year. Not this one. I am sorry about that.

I also know that this year you lost Rosie. Thirteen years is a long and good life for a dog, and she was a lucky one to have been yours. I am glad you were the person who looked after her.

Somebody told me you swam a whole length without stopping. A whole length, without putting your feet down once. That is the sort of thing I like to hear about, and I have written it down.

Be kind to your brother when you can manage it. Go back to the pool in the spring. And thank you for the carrot — the reindeer were very pleased.

With love,

Santa