Vote for Obillara?

2008 marks the first year I will vote in a Democratic primary election.

I am going to vote for either Hillary or Obama. But which?On the one hand, I really like Obama's website better than Hillary's. He gives much more extensive explanations of where he stands on what issues, and what his plans are to address them. And I have to agree his is a more rousing speaker. Hillary got sort of defensive and petty in the New Hampshire debates. Blaaarg.

But I also agree with those who argue that there something to be said for Hillary's more extensive experience. I found this article by Gloria Steinem incredibly compelling, which opens by asking readers whether a female with Obama's social and racial profile, and his limited political experience, would ever really stand a chance getting elected as president. Hillary's preparedness in debate and list of accomplishments impress me. When people criticize her for lacking a human touch, it reminds me of how schoolkids hate the smartest, most prepared kid in the class. That kid was certainly annoying, but I also hope the person running my country was that kid. I am sure Hillary would be far more than competent as president.

Also in Hillary's favor, as far as I'm concerned: SHE IS A WOMAN. That's right, I said it. I would be truly moved by seeing a woman in the role of Commander in Chief of the leader of the free world. That would be a huge deal to me. I was surprised by this article, which suggests that feminist pride is a more relevant factor for women my mother's age than mine. Female friends and readers, what do you think? If I am being honest with myself, I have to admit that her gender is a huge push for me to vote her way.

So who will I vote for? I am still undecided. As an Arizona voter, I have until February 5th to hem and haw, watch more debates on YouTube, and come to a decision.

Brewing Update!

While I was visiting my family in Massachusetts for the holidays, and Coley was back at home in Tucson, he bottled our beer! Here it is the the closet, with our cleaning supplies and recycling.

Then last night, we popped on in the fridge. In preparation for the Patriots' game, we made fake BBQ chicken sandwiches and tried our first bit of our Alaskan amber.....

It was WICKED AWESOME!!!!!! Totally delicious and deserving of this pint glass. Even our playah-hatin' brewer friend Andy said, "yeah, this is good beer." Score! Only thing is it could use a little more fizz. But the beer gurus tell us that it will only get more delicious as it ages in the closet, and maybe a little fizzier too. Wahooo!