I think I cracked the code on what helped Alice learn the word momma.

It was the Llama Llama Red Pajama book.

I’ve always loved reading that one to her, and she lights up every time we do. But here’s the thing… I can’t just read a book. Oh no. I’ve got to bring the drama, the flair, the full performance. It’s the extra in me. I can’t help it.

And that book? It’s made for it. The rhythm, the repetition, the drama of little llama calling out for his momma, it hooks Alice every time. Before I knew it, she started chiming in at the right moment with her sweet little “momma!” It’s like she knew that was her part in the story. Like we were reading it together.

Now when she says it, I melt. Every. Single. Time.

It’s one of those little joys I didn’t even know to look forward to. A bedtime story that turned into a milestone.

And I love every bit of it.

Stay tuned for a cute video of us reading it together.