He refers to a painting of a house on the eastern side of a mountain: “The side to see the day that is coming, not the day that is gone. I like the sentiment in that statement.”

Translation: Look, you know as well as I do that I’ve been a crappy president. I’ll try not to do such a bad job if you re-elect me, but I can’t make any promises.

Schieffer says that all three of them have something in common: they’re all surrounded by powerful women. He asks “What have you learned from them?”

Bush is at his loosest and most appealling when he discusses his wife and daughters. The best thing we can do is “listen to them,” he says. Big laugh from the audience on tv and here. “I’ve learned to stand up straight and not to scowl.” Well, I suppose 1 out of 2 is not bad.

Kerry says that all three of them “married up.” Modest laugh. “Me more than others.” Big laugh.

Telling difference: Kerry smiles and laughs at Bush’s jokes. Bush keeps the same sour smirk on his face while Kerry jokes.

Seriously, Mr. President. That thump, thump, thump is not a good thing.

Complaints about partisanship in Washington are like complaints about dog poop in Paris. Both make me want to ask, “Are you new in town?”

Kerry: “Let me give the president a compliment. Sir, your butt looks great in that suit.”