Another warm welcome to the world's best website Jill! As you already saw, we post our ideas, opinions and experiences without malace. We are a band of buddies- at least that's what I think of my friends. And I value their thoughts highly and have learned plenty as a first time dog owner too!
As a coincidence, my friend just adopted a Brittany Spaniel and had the same crate problem. After a while, they just left the door open and now all is fine. "Lucy" comes and goes as she pleases and no mess (ok, the kitchen trash can is always tempting! LOL). Personally,I did not plan ahead when it came to a crate so by the time I bought one,Cody (GR/YL mix) had gotten used to freedom and despised it. We were extremely lucky there was always someone home. We gated the stairs and living room (rugs) but he was easily trained and after a while we just gave him the run of the house.Again, I cannot take all the credit, but he never destroyed anything, ever, no seperation anxiety, no fear of noises, no messes. (Phew!) Sounds like Sadie is turning into a wonderful, clever, amazing little girl!! May you have as much happiness as we at PetTalk, and please, pleasejoin our ranks and keep us advised (and chime in!) Photos, too, please!