In another one of those milestones that make you nostalgic for the way things used to be, Chloe has started to read by herself at bedtime, rather than having me read to her. This development makes me feel a little sad, actually.

On the one hand, it’s nice to be able to say, “Chloe, it’s time for bed,” give her a hug and a kiss goodnight and have the rest of the evening to myself. And it’s so exciting that she loves reading as much as she does. On the other hand, I miss the bonding we experienced every night as we discovered all sorts of wonderful books together.

All hope is not lost, however. Before this newfound independence of hers, we had started reading “The Secret Garden.” We’re about halfway through, and I’m just going to have to insist that we finish it. Our one last hurrah. Good thing there’s Sophie to pick up the slack!