It's dark outside.  Inside, too.  There's a crazy nick at'nite show on the television.  In the silence that is enveloping the rest of the house, it seems incredibly loud, even though I know it's not.  I would turn down the volume, but I can't find the remote control. 

Dad's home from Germany.  I'm glad he's back, but it doesn't feel much different somehow.  He put a beautiful clock together - one he bought in Black Forest - hung it on the wall, and went to bed without saying goodnight. 

So here I am.  I should be doing homework.  I know I'm tired, but I don't feel especially tired right this minute.  I suppose I will go to bed though, since it will most likely be the last time I get the opportunity this weekend.  Besides, my battery is almost dead, and the new and exquisite cuckoo clock is destined to sing again soon.