Clinton had absolutely zero honeymoon, none whatsoever.

Obama has become too dependent on formal speeches and set town halls. His idea of mixing it up is taking off his jacket.

Palin was a political Hail Mary, a long bomb in the closing minutes of a game that John McCain and Co. were certain to lose. They didn't care if she had the policy or political or emotional capacity to serve as vice president, let alone president. They were willing to drive the country off a cliff, if that's what it took to win.

I'm a baseball freak.

A lot of people over time have had this kind of pattern in their relationship with Bill Clinton. You first meet him and you're overwhelmed by his talent. He's so energetic and articulate and full of ideas and he calls himself a congenital optimist and that optimism is contagious.

The exposed nature of life in the public square affects leaders' attitudes toward risk - and failure.

Obama has made America cool again - and more than that, he's made his own brand arguably the most powerful the world has ever known.