Kade and Emree Update

Tom Kerr, Jr. (4:56 pm EST, Sunday, 1/9/22)

Within the amount of time it takes to drive from Ashton, Idaho to St. George Utah, during a winter storm, Emree and Kade's uncle Skyler (Whitney's older brother) arrived at Shay's home. He loaded Kade, Emree and their dog Hazel, who had been found the night before, and they headed off for Ashton Idaho that morning. I can't begin to tell you the feelings of relief and gratitude I felt when my son sent this picture of Emree, Kade and Hazel sleeping soundly in the back seat of his truck.

It was a long drive back home, so they needed a pitstop. They were able to stop at a friendly home in Herriman, Utah, where they found a hot dinner, baths, beds, toothbrushes, pajamas and hugs from Bill and Diane Pappa. 

They left the next morning and were able to make a stop to see their aunt Danielle and aunt Courtney and their cousins from Stansbury Park. 

Then it was off to Ashton, where their Aunt Millie was waiting for them. They have beds, dressers, clothes and cousins. This is an attempt to summarize how they are and what they are up to.

Both Kade and Emree escaped the bus without injury, excepting a few minor burns on the tips of Kade's ears.

It has worked out super well. Emree and her cousin Pennie Jo are practically sisters and love doing everything together. Kade and Rosie have been best of pals for years. Not only was Ashton a safe home, but it was family.  

Working with the school and a close family friend who also happens to be a teacher, Emree and Kade were quickly enrolled, befriended and are currently attending Ashton Elementary. 

Emree told her mother, regarding her first days at school, "I was really scared my first day. The second day I decided to stay the whole day. It was so long! I couldn't even eat lunch. I was so sad. But I stayed the whole day and it ended up being really fun!"

Kade's report to his mom was, "In math, they are doing long division. One problem takes up an entire page! It took everyone in the class two weeks to get it down. It took me 2-1/2 days!"

Last night, both Kade and Emree were able to speak with their daddy for the first time since December 28th. They still haven't seen him. It's been decided it is best to wait a while for that.

 

So, in summary, Kade and Emree are safe and sound. They are doing well but remain ever anxious for the day they can be back with Mom, Dad, Pepper and Krew.