Nothing New at the New Hampshire Debate

Republican debates usually center around big government. Each try to convince you that they will make it smaller. Or at least suck less. Nothing new tonight. In case you missed it because you have a life, no worries. I’ll sum up each contender’s contribution to the debate.

Michele Bachmann

1. Obama sucks.
2. I want everyone to know I’m officially running, and Obama is a one-term President.
3. Yay fetuses! Boo gays!

Herman Cain

1. Obama sucks.
2. I liked TARP until TARP was implemented.
3. I am not comfortable with the “bad kind” of Muslims.

Newt Gingrich

1. Obama sucks.
2. I support Paul Ryan’s plan. I promise.
3. I sound angry because I am. At immigration, at space, and especially at those 16 traitors from my campaign.

Ron Paul

1. Obama sucks.
2. The government is the root of all evil.
3. I hate the government so much I want to be POTUS to get rid of it.

Tim Pawlenty

1. Obama sucks
2. “Obamney Care?” Dude, don’t ask me about that when Romney’s standing right next to me.
3. I know, shut up now. I’m not just boring, I’m long-winded.

Mitt Romney

1. Obama sucks.
2. Obamacare is nothing like mine and must die.
3. I have a great smile, more campaign money, and that’s all you really need to know.

Rick Santorum

1. Obama sucks.
2. Paul Ryan is dreamy.
3. I will bring balance, and the Tea Party rocks. Not so much that I am one of them, though.

The most interesting things I learned were:

1. Bachmann likes both Elvis and Johnny Cash.
2. Cain likes deep dish pizza, not thin crust.
3. Gingrich likes American Idol better than Dancing with the Stars.
4. Paul likes his Blackberry, iPhones suck.
5. Pawlenty says yes to Coke, no to Pepsi.
6. Romney prefers spicy vs. mild wings (yeah right).
7. Santorum likes Leno over Conan (but watches neither).

I know. I’m trying to get my two hours back.

Gabrielle Giffords: The Miraculous and the Optimistic

Aide: Time Nearing for Giffords’ Hospital Release

Representative Gabrielle Giffords is a walking miracle. She was the target of a deranged young man, Jared Loughner, who killed 6 people and injuring 13 others. Despite being shot on the left side of her head, she survived.

We have watched her progress from days after the shooting. Her husband, Captain Mark Kelly, an astronaut boarded the Space Shuttle Endeavour launch for his final flight on May 16. Gabrielle was well enough to watch the lift off in Houston.

Now, she may be released from the hospital in early July. Amazing considering the shooting happened on January 8th. The fact that she is alive is a miracle, but her speed of recovery may be even more so. Of course, she will continue rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy. The injury was to the part of the brain that controls speech and communication.

Looking at the photos that were released today was heart-warming. She is able to smile in spite of what happened to her. Doctors and therapists are concentrating on helping her “live with a new normal.” Whatever that is, I’m sure she’ll be fine. The optimism and happiness that is radiating from her will help tremendously in the days ahead.