Hey, look... changes!

First, Obama lifted restrictions on US funding for international pro-choice organizations, and restored pregnancy counseling services—and a little piece of America's compassion and dignity—to millions of women who can't afford it. Now, he's granted California and 13 other states autonomy over vehicle emissions and fuel efficiency standards, getting lead-footed federal control out of the way. It's only been a week, and already he's outworked and outsmarted 8 years of Bush/Cheney.

Beat it, kook.

  
There were many sweet, sweet moments in the inauguration ceremony this morning; Yo-Yo Ma on the cello, the Benediction by Joseph Lowery, and Aretha belting it out, of course. My favorite however, had to be watching Bush exit on 'Executive One'—not to be confused with Air Force One. Because AF1 is for The President.

UNpresidented

As Mark Morford points out here, there will be no shortage of watered down, benefit-of-the-doubt reviews of Dub's stolen presidential stint and the despicable conduct that defined his entire administration. Spineless journalists will say that he was misunderstood, smarter than appearances and/or just a good 'ole boy trying his best in tough times. I don't and won't buy any of it. But that's ok because tomorrow (Tuesday, actually) is a new day and we're moving on and America's healing and global makeover is already underway. 

Yes, George... my sentiments exactly.

Larry the President Guy

GWB (sounds like cheap beer, no?) announced in an interview today that he plans to write a book. On the topic... "You know, I'm not quite exactly sure what it's going to be, but I'm toying with the idea of maybe describing the toughest decisions I had to make as President..." On the timing... "Well, I'll say two years and it will be four. I don't know, I mean, yes, I'd like to get it done... you know, I require things to do, and I bet once I get going on this book, I'll be able to get 'er done."

Here's an idea, George: maybe you should READ a book. Children's books don't count.