The beginning of a very fond farewell

As Bush’s replacement has finally been chosen it feels appropriate for my private celebrations to begin after a long and infuriating 8-year wait. And upon what I like to envision as the American public’s giant boot pushing forcefully on his backside, the nicest thing I can think to say about W The Nincumpoop is that there will not likely be another president in my lifetime who makes me laugh so hard so often. Because when the options are laughing or crying in shame, I most often try to go with laughter.

So, without further ado, heretofore are some of my personal favorites from the total jeanyus who coined the ever-classic, “STRATEGERY.”

"I didn't grow up in the ocean—as a matter of fact—near the ocean—I grew up in the desert. Therefore, it was a pleasant contrast to see the ocean. And I particularly like it when I'm fishing." —Washington, D.C., Sept. 26, 2008

“I am here to make an announcement that this Thursday, ticket counters and airplanes will fly out of Ronald Reagan Airport.” —Washington, D.C., Oct. 3, 2001

“Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs aren’t able to practice their love with women all across this country.” —Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sept. 6, 2004

“Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we.” —Washington, D.C., Aug. 5, 2004

“There’s no doubt in my mind that we should allow the world's worst leaders to hold America hostage, to threaten our peace, to threaten our friends and allies with the world’s worst weapons.” —South Bend, Indiana, Sept. 5, 2002

“There’s an old…saying in Tennessee…I know it’s in Texas, probably in Tennessee... that says Fool me once…(3 second pause)… Shame on…(4 second pause)…Shame on you….(6 second pause)…Fool me…Can’t get fooled again.” —Nashville, Tennessee, Sept. 17, 2002

“The ambassador and the general were briefing me on the — the vast majority of Iraqis want to live in a peaceful, free world. And we will find these people and we will bring them to justice.” —Washington, D.C., Oct. 27, 2003

“Wow! Brazil is big.” after being shown a map of Brazil by Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brasilia, Brazil, Nov. 6, 2005

"Then you wake up at the high school level and find out that the illiteracy level of our children are appalling." —Washington, D.C., Jan. 23, 2004

“Rarely is the question asked, ‘Is our children learning’?” —Florence, S.C. Jan 11, 2000


And drumroll please for the long-awaited answer… "As yesterday's positive report card shows, CHILDRENS DO LEARN when standards are high and results are measured." —New York, NY Sept. 26, 2007