It would be easier for two grownups to do this, with one handing the bucket and one climbing the ladder. But it was exhausting for Estelle herself, especially when the gemstones were actually marbles that would roll around when the bucket was moved. She had no choice but to grip the handle with her teeth while climbing. But almost half of the marbles rolled outside when the bucket rocked back and forth.

Though Estelle finished the track, they obviously had fewer marbles than other families. They could get a stamp, but they couldn’t get the gift. Yvonne and Christina were a little disappointed. But they walked to Estelle to comfort...