My Daughter Knows the Presidents

President Obama is already fudging the numbers.

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you've bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential Oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the Oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents... (Inauguration Speech of Pres. Obama)

My daughter pointed out to me that Grover Cleveland is counted twice. He is the 22nd President (1885-1889) and the 24th President (1893-1897). Therefore, only 43 Americans have taken the Presidential Oath.

Is this a sign of things to come?

"I need one billion for my Civil Defense Force..., Uh... wait, maybe that is one trillion... let's see... carrying the zero...? Oh, let's just round it up to ten trillion."