The sweetest words I ever heard

They weren't from a movie or a book. They weren't even from a Valentine's Day card or a handwritten note.

The sweetest words I ever heard were spoken last week.

Rushing around trying to get out the door and to work one morning, Frank and I were doing our usual morning things. I put on my shoes and coat and went to find everyone for goodbyes and kisses.

"Goodbye, Honey. [Kiss.] I love you. Have a good day!"

Where is Maddie? I see her running away from me. I finally catch her.

"Goodbye, Maddie. I love you."

I lean in for my morning kiss and I hear "I love you, Mommy."

"Oh my gosh. Frank did you hear her?? She said 'I love you, Mommy.'"

We both heard her alright. I leaned in again and cupped her little face in my hands. I told her how sweet she was and how much I loved her -- again.

Tonight, as we were putting her to bed, she said it again. My heart melted all over again.

Much better than a Valentine's Day card...