Hello 2007!

Today is the LAST day of 2006...a year that started with much promise and seems to have lived up to it.

Over the past twelve months, we've seen changes on the national and state stage in political and social circles. Democrats will comprise the majorities of the US Senate and House of Representatives--something that hasn't been seen since 1994. A Democratic governor will sit in the Ohio statehouse for the first time since 1990. And, since December 7th, non-smokers are now able to visit public places in Ohio without the possibility of enduring other peoples' second-hand smoke for the first time since--well, since the founding of the state in 1803!

What can we expect in the new year? A realization by the White House that Iraq is an unwinnable situation and the development of plans to withdraw from that civil war-torn nation? Democrat-led investigations into the war and other Bush administration 'shenanigans' that previously escaped Congressional oversight measures that lead directly to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? A plethora of 2008 presidential candidates throwing their hats into the ring and visiting this electoral vote-rich state like flies hovering over road kill? I'm anticipating these and a whole lot more.

I believe my 'hiatus' is nearly over and I anticipate posting here on at least a weekly basis--more often if issues or events dictate. I've started another blog for my relatives and friends (not open to the public) to keep them up-to-date on what is going on with our family here in Fairborn. This blog (my first one) is an anonymous alter ego and, as Seinfeld's George Costanza will advocate, I will do my best to prevent these two distinct 'worlds from colliding'.

"If Family Blogger me walks through this door, he will kill Political Blogger me! A blogger divided against himself cannot stand!"

In a couple of hours, I will sit in front of the television with my wife and kids and enjoy a glass of wine at the stroke of midnight. As I anticipated our annual reflection upon what has transpired in the past 12 months and the promises of the coming dozen, I'd like to wish you all a happy and healthy new year!