Feeling connected to the new administration

Two vignettes regarding our "connection" of sorts to President Obama's second term.

#1. If you've been following the news of President Obama's nominee for Treasury Secretary, Jack Lew, you know that he held various positions during the Clinton administration and returned to Washington D.C. when Barak Obama was elected, serving in various positions during his first term. During the Bush II years Jack and his family lived in Riverdale, and although I rather doubt they remember this, we actually had them at our house for a Sabbath meal shortly after they moved in, and saw them frequently at synagogue before we became grandparents and started spending many weekends and virtually all Jewish holidays in Sharon. I have to say, looking back, that I probably never quite realized just how high up he was, even then, because what I primarily recall is that he was a really nice and down-to-earth guy. I'm sure he has many fans like us everywhere he's lived and worked.

#2. Also in the news has been a lot of discussion about Michelle Obama's new hairstyle. Part of me finds this rather demeaning: she is, after all, a very bright and accomplished woman in her own right, and I find it a bit disconcerting that so much attention is being given to how she wears her hair (I might make the same comment about Hilary Clinton). But perhaps what is really bugging me are those bangs. I've worn bangs for most of my life because I have a rather high forehead. But for reasons I don't quite understand, the front part of my hair is not growing back very well, so my "bangs," such as they are, are very short. So I want to say to all those who are making a big deal about our First Lady's new hair style that we should all be grateful that she is healthy and can wear her hair however she likes!

Have a good week, all!

Love,

Rebecca