perfect end to the day

last night, we went out to dinner and came home later that usual. i got ani ready for bed, read her the "how many fish" book and tried to keep her on my lap for a snuggle. this used to be our routine, but for the last few weeks, i can hardly keep her on my lap (she usually gets down to sit on the other rocking chair), much less get any huggy time before bed. 

 but last night, she laid on my chest just like old times. then after a few minutes, turned to me to give me a kiss; a real kiss too, not just the open mouth monster kiss she usually offers. then she laid back down for a few more minutes. i could have sat there forever, but i had another kiddo to get ready and read to, so i had to put her in her crib.

then nissa and i started reading james and the giant peach. it's one of many things that i have fond memories of from my childhood, but encountering it again as a parent is almost a nightmare. the first two chapters are totally depressing and nissa almost started crying. i promised her it would get better, and i hope it does quickly! on the up side, nissa is listening well, despite the infrequency of illustrations and miserable content thus far. fingers crossed that the attention continues!