Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death...

Dear Readers,

The rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated. But yes, Lordy, I've been down, down so long... although never down for long enough to really give my parents a break.

I was a little loud for a while there. For those who would like to be here, you can simulate the effect by resting a nautical-quality air horn to your shoulder and pressing the button. Dad was about one day away from applying the "Cabernet cure" that I understand is popular in Europe. I personally think I would have enjoyed lolling around in a drunken haze for much of the day, but I'm settling for Zantac and getting drunk only on milk, as usual. It was something about stomach acid -- no more habaneros for me for a while.

So here is the undisputable proof that both Mom and I still exist:

Insert thought bubble: "Am I funny to you? Funny like a clown?"

Thanks to the increased quiet around the house, there has also been more of this:

Peace to my homeez,

Maddie