In the Baldwin household there is a legend of epic proportions about the bear behind the couch and it began much like other legends do.

It has long been known within the family that when I doze off many magical things happen such as the walls begin to rattle, the cat runs and hides, and loud noises come from my room. Since I know that I do not snore, it became apparent that the noise must be caused by some large animal that had wandered into our house. The family decided that only a bear could create that kind of noise. The odd thing is, no matter how hard we would look, we could never find the bear. Just the other day, my wife said, "I think I heard that bear in the living room, did you hear it?" I said groggily, "Yes, but I think he must be behind the couch because I didn't see him anywhere." Needless to say, a quick glance behind the couch did not find the elusive animal and I was at a loss to explain what had happened. "He's vanished again, I don't understand how anything big enough to make that kind of racket could move that fast", I said. And so, the legend became complete and part of our family history.

Every family, in its sillier moments, creates its own legends. The sometimes sad thing about being a "responsible adult" is that we tend to suppress these fantasies because being silly is not the adult thing to do. But I think if you "back away" too many times, you miss one of the big joys of life...having a good laugh and sharing good times with people who are important to you...your family.

P.S. If you ever notice the same thing happening at your house, please let me know. He may be on the move!

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