A new year, and a new president

Well as you know, I've been ready for years to wish George W. adieu and I got my wish today. While I believe government is slow to change, I look forward to seeing where President Obama will lead our country and how much he's able to effect change.

I believe that he will bring a warmth and dignity to the office that has been missing in recent years. He's building a strong cabinet around him that hopefully will help him navigate the complicated Washington landscape.

I also have to admit that I'm excited to have a young family in the White House. I've been impressed with how openly demonstrative they are in public, and how they have been able to maintain a private family dynamic under the public eye.

During today's inauguration, I was impressed by how many Americans felt were compelled to turn out or tune in. Even more then that I was surprised by the celebrations all over the US (Times Square closed) and all over the world. I don't recall ever seeing this level of excitement over an election in my lifetime.