The Seven Stages of Snoring

RAIN. We're getting lots of it now. Just think, one year ago to this day we were covered in white snow, the temperature cold enough to keep us all trapped in place for a few days longer. It was quite a storm of white - and if the temperatures were significantly cooler, we'd be seeing it much worse here. As it is though, we've been seeing springlike temperatures as of late. We had one patch of cold, where the temperature dipped into the twenties for a few days - otherwise, it's been just like spring around here. Even now, it's fifty-eight outside, with a lack of sunshine and nothing but rain, rain, rain.

Madison had school once again today, and things seem to be getting back to normal after the holidays - we seem to be finding our rhythm once more. At least, until something else comes along to shift things about. Madison is fairly adaptable in that regard.

The day being as it was, we spent much of it indoors. The playground at our community, however, is calling: we can't wait to go out and play some more. Still, this Kinect system gets us moving a bit - recent studies are showing you burn as many calories with some Kinect games as you would running. This is cool, because let's face it: running is boring. One of the big selling points of the Kinect was that it would keep Madison moving. But the fact that it keeps Mommy and Daddy doing the same can't be all bad either. In fact, between the exercise on the Kinect and the January fast, Daddy's lost five pounds this week. Not bad!

Madison had music class again today, which she attended with Mommy as usual. Things are moving along well in that department, for the most part. It is neat to see Madison advance in learning and ability though. For a short time, both Mommy and Madison were with Daddy at the office today: we had a nice lunch at the office (soup and salad, of course). Mommy got some of the costuming together for tomorrow night's service (Alice is hearing the story of The Walrus and the Carpenter). Meanwhile, Daddy and Madison watched a Phineas and Ferb episode that featured a "Sherlock Holmes" theme. Daddy calls this "research." Madison calls it "fun." She's really into Phineas and Ferb of late - we've got access to about three seasons of the show right now, so there's a lot to go through!

Once again, Madison has the sniffles. She's had them at night especially when she goes to bed. This morning, she actually woke up at 4 am and crawled into bed with us, snoring loudly because she has been so stuffy. Welcome to parenthood! That's the moment where you both sit there wide awake at 4:30 am, with your snoring child's feet resting comfortably on your face. Mommy actually carried her back into her bed, with her still sleeping the whole way.

Madison denies snoring, of course. This is a natural human reaction: everyone denies snoring for a time. I think there's seven stages of snoring, in fact:

THE SEVEN STAGES OF SNORING

1. Shock: What? You're telling me that I snore?

2. Denial: Me? I certainly do not snore! (This is where Madison is right now.)

3. Bargaining: Look, why do I have to snore? Let Daddy snore instead!

4. Guilt: I keep everyone awake. What calamity!

5. Anger: This is not fair! Snoring is stupid! I hate snoring!

6. Depression: Woe is me! I am ruined! I cut logs so loudly!

7. Acceptance: Okay. I snore. Deal with it, people.

As good parents, we'll work Madison through these stages as best we can. The poor thing!

I can't really relate to her though, because I of course do not snore!