The Defense Department will cut drastically the number of days their civilians need to be furloughed under the sequester.
From 22 days to 14 days.
Now, with just 3% of the $500 million the State Department will give the Palestinians this week, the White House could provide tours for about five years. Yes, five years. Amazing, isn't it?
Mr Hagel has already surprised me with his ability to make decisions quietly, effectively, and efficiently. Good for him.
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A Note To The Granddaughters
I really, really enjoy Boston, but I feel so much more at home in Texas. I've spent a lot of time, off and on, during the past four years taking care of you, and loving every minute it. There is so much to do in Boston. I refer to Los Angeles and San Antonio as "destination cities." If one has a free weekend, there is an infinite number of things to do in either of those cities, but they sprawl so much that one needs to pick a destination and then go there for the day. Boston, on the other hand, is what I refer to as a "exploration city." If one has a free half day, one doesn't need to plan. Just jump on the bus or the subway and go downtown or to Harvard Square and just explore. No destination.
But, having said that, there's something about San Antonio that makes me feel so much more at home. First, the people are incredibly friendly. And the weather -- except for the hottest days of summer (July, August, September, maybe October) -- is wonderful. And Whataburger. In Los Angeles it's In 'N Out.