I'm feeling chatty today, and also kind of pushy.

So I'm posting a reading list.

First up: Language and Politics! The Dems need to learn to frame their issues the way the Republicans have. I've been saying this for a while, mom has been saying it even longer. "Why the Democrats Need to Stop Thinking About Elephants"

This warmed my heart and gave me a little hope for the world. This family, every Christmas, gives the three kids $100 to donate to the charity of their choice. "A Family That Pays Together." I don't particularly want or plan on having kids, but if I do, I will do this.

Right of Center is enamored of Tammy Bruce after staying up until three a.m. watching her on CSPAN Saturday night. Since I spent Saturday night at a theater with friends, I feel that my position as family nerd is threatened. I shall retaliate, perhaps with obscure Latin references.

NJ emailed me but moments ago to comment on Colin Powell's resignation. You know, part of the justification for re-electing Bush was that the country oughtn't change leaders in the middle of a war in Iraq. Keep the same leaders throughout the fight. (As arguments go, it's pretty crap, especially considering the fact that he hasn't done so hot a job in Iraq anyway, but still the argument was made) We've also heard, for years now, that it doesn't matter that W has a rep for being a sack of hammers because he's surrounded himself with good, smart people. Condoleeza Rice. Donald Rumsfeld. Colin Powell.

But . . . Ashcroft just quit. Powell's leaving. Apparently most of the cabinet is on the way out. So all these smart people that are supposed to reassure us that the president won't act like a moron are moving on. What happened to keeping our leadership the same through a time of war? We've kept the same horse and changed the entire rest of the stable. And the new guys? Going to be picked and approved by James Dobson and his ilk. I know a couple of people who voted for Bush, and I'm not sure this is what they signed up for.