Masie coos wake me at the buttcrack of dawn.

She's alert, happy, and cool.

Beyond her, Bella sleeps peacefully.

I used to love her long brown locks, all wild and crazy in the mornings.

But I like this short style just as much.

Her face is on beautiful display.

The blonde makes the spattering of freckles on her nose stand out more than they used to.

I haven't had an opportunity like this lately.

So I drink her in.

Plush, pink lips on a heart-shaped face.

Ivory skin.

Graceful neck.

Long, dark lashes.

Chestnut brown eyes.

That catches me ogling.