WELCOME BACK OHIO . . . Did you enjoy your trip? (I know, stupid questions)!
I found Andy Card's comments this morning particularly poignant and insightful:
SECRETARY CARD: Mr. President, Ecclesiastes reminds us that there are different seasons, and there is a new season. Working in the White House is a tremendous privilege. It's almost beyond description, the great privilege it is to work at the White House. But it is even a greater honor to serve as the President's Chief of Staff, especially to you, Mr. President.
I have watched as you have kept your oath to preserve, protect and defend our Constitution, and I know that there are a lot of people who help you do that, and it starts with the White House staff, goes through everybody who serves in the executive branch of government, and most especially those young men and women who wear uniforms and help defend us.
I've watched your leadership guide them during troubled times. I'm watched you comfort Americans, rally the world to meet real needs. I've watched as you've guided us from a recession to economic recovery. BUT MOST OF ALL, I'VE WATCHED YOU AS A PERSON. AND YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, MR. PRESIDENT, AND YOU DO GREAT THINGS.
I'm grateful for the friendship that you've shown me. I'm grateful for the love that Laura has shared with Kathi and with me. I'm grateful for the White House staff that has served you so well and helped me do a better job.
But it is a different season, and Josh Bolten is the right person for that season. I'm excited about the leadership that he will bring to the White House staff and to all of your government, and I'm grateful to the Cabinet that has helped to serve you, as well.
Mr. President, as a Chief of Staff, I know I was a staffer, and now I look forward to being your friend. Thank you, Mr. President.
END 8:37 A.M. EST
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/03/20060328.html
I love this comment
"Mr. President, as a Chief of Staff, I know I was a staffer, and now I look forward to being your friend. Thank you, Mr. President"
I'M AWED BY YOUR EXTRAORDINARY TALENT!
[I want a copy of this picture . . . pretty please!]
Did I tell you that to get more affordable tickets, we flew out of Pittsburg to NEWARK and then to CA??
I saw the Atlantic and Pacific on the same day. NYC and San Diego, and everything in between!
I LOVE this country!
What very nice parting remarks. Very touching. And I know they are heartfelt.
Thanks for posting.