mein kleines dorf

I have a tendency to overdo it at Christmas, so last year I put away some of the gifts for another day when they would be more useful. Anna -- either out of manipulation or sincerity -- complains about not having enough "beautiful things," especially when compared with cousin Ilona. I had set aside this gift for her at Christmas -- "Mein kleines dorf" -- "My little village." These are little wooden buildings and trees and people, made in Germany, I guess. I thought she wouldn't like it because it isn't "princess" (meaning pink, made out of plastic, and easily breakable) enough, but to my surprise she was very happy - she has told me 'thank you' several times and likes to play with it. Last night she sat next to me and explained everything that was going on in her little village.