Back in August the plan was to take my son to see each of the candidates.  I grew up in NH and spent my childhood going to campaign events.  We live in Massachusetts and it's only a 2 hour drive to my parents' house.  My son is 11, has Asperger's Syndrome, and is obsessed with anything Presidential--except George Bush.

I had voted for John Edwards in the primary in 2004, over my own Senator, and well after it was obvious who the nominee would be.  At yearlyKos I signed up for the Edwards breakout and was not disappointed.  I had watched the debate carefully and thought most of the candidates did well for themselves.  I waited to be swept up in the Obama excitement because I'd liked him at the convention in 04.  But to say I was underwhelmed by his performance would be putting it mildly.

The first event we attended was in Merrimack, two towns away from the town in which I grew up.  It was on a Saturday night so we could combine a visit with Grandma and Grampa for the little guy as well as the event.

I just wanted to alert y'all to this very funny recommended diary on DailyKos, where you'll be treated to a different angle on last night's Republican debate. Click here to enjoy a 9-year old rendition of a fight between Sarge, Wrinkles, Bunny Ears, Oily, Beagle Eyes and Carrot Face.

This reminds me of my own childhood and interest in politics. The earliest election I remember is Carter v. Ford, and I was actively interested in elections after that. I remember with some chagrin supporting Bush Sr in 1980, until some family members discussed with me why they supported Carter. My elementary school population was mostly very conservative, and naturally my opinions were shaped by my friends. Over time, I developed my own strength of conviction, and I remember being the only one in my Government class to vote against a law one of the kids proposed, to outlaw the clubbing of baby harp seals in Canada. It's not that I didn't like harp seals, but I didn't think we could pass a law that affected only Canadians. I recall my teacher was quietly proud of me but highly amused by the whole discussion and how it played out.

My seven-year-old says she'd vote for Duck for President (which is a very funny sequel to Click Clack Moo). Are your kids taking an interest in the election?