Great start

I'm always astounded at how incredibly chipper and, honestly, hyper Jack is first thing in the morning. He definitely hits the ground running as soon as he wakes up.

He wakes up earlier than I do, and it's so nice that now he is old enough to do his entire morning routine by himself. I love waking up to a boy who has already brushed his teeth and dressed himself. On school days, I have told him to come and - gently - wake me up if I'm still asleep by 8:10.

This morning, he tiptoed in just as Violet was waking up as well. As soon as he sees that she's awake, all bets are off, and he immediately ramps up to 11.

"Bookee!" he yelled. "It's a cutie baby! Want a ball?" He handed her one of those little bouncy balls.

"Thanks," Violet said.

"Wow," Jack said admiringly, "good manners, Violet!"

He turned to me.

"I don't always say 'please' and 'thank you,' but she always does. And she's just a baby! Isn't that amazing?"

"Yes, Jack," I said, amused, "it is amazing."

But mostly I was thinking that the amazing thing is what an affectionate little guy he is. I can't think of many five-year-old boys who would be gushing about their baby sisters first thing in the morning.

It's a great way to start the day. Happy Monday, everyone!