January 18

As one who prefers burning the midnight oil to rising with the sun, I'm straight-faced serious when I say that mornings can be tough around these parts. But despite the inevitable hustle and bustle, moments like this make the early-hour insanity decidedly more bearable.

I was deeply gratified this morning when, after loading everyone into the car for drop-off, Abby immediately grabbed a book and began reading to The Little Boys. No prompting from me, no threats, no near-noxious sibling nagging. She just did it.

She drives me completely nuts some days, but as a big sister, she can be completely amazing. And definitely a blessing from God.