"My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over."

I woke up this morning with the realization that it was 2009!  Like a child who awakens to Christmas morning, I had nearly forgotten the big day when it dawned on me that both Bush and Cheney would only soil the first few days of this year, but the rest would uplifting, open and productive.  It was better than a new toy under the tree.

Our friends and we toasted the New Year last evening and clinked our champagne glasses with an 'Obama!' cheer, and we felt a warm sensation flowing through us.  It was like the end of a nightmare or the end of a long and difficult death.  Cathartic for sure.

The realization that this year would be the beginning of a new, open, trustworthy and competent leadership in the White House lifted our souls with new hope for America. As Gerald Ford said on his first day in Office, 'My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over."

Several people at our party suggested that the White House needs to be fumigated before the Obama Family moves in.  It was further suggested that several shamans from Native American tribes be called in to cleanse the house of Evil Spirits and bad karma.  Excellent ideas for sure.

Two thousand nine will be fine. Tis the end of the swine.