I was noting how Chloe has developed a bit of a stammer at times. It doesn’t appear to be linked to stress, rather she’s simply trying to understand a number of new words, phrases and their meanings and spit them back out in a sentence. I remember her older sisters going through this stage so I’m not terribly worried.

What I have noticed is how many new words she’s been throwing at me as of late and I’m kind of excited to hear what might come out next.

For example, at night, when we’re rocking in her chair, I like to tell her things like, “Do you know I think you’re wonderful.” So it didn’t come as a complete surprise, although I must admit I was pretty elated when she grabbed my face yesterday morning and said, “Best ever friend.” My heart melted.

Such clarity, such honesty in her words, she listens, she understands, she repeats when appropriate.

As if that wasn’t enough, lightning struck twice yesterday.

I giggled along with Chloe at the soapy beard she had stuck to her chin in the bath last night. Even through the laughter as clearly as I’ve ever heard another human enunciate their words I heard, “Surprise Fucker!”

Pinch me.