My Vacations With Vladimir

I have to admit, once again, that I have a serious man-crush on Vladimir Putin. I felt I was watching Russia's answer to George Clooney (if George was an unmerciful killing machine) when he did his long power walk through those golden doors. The Kremlin was the setting for his swearing in ceremony as the new Russian President. It's the third time he has held the post, much to the chagrin of large sections of the Russian population. Like him or hate him, you have to admit that Putin gets things done and those type of leaders are rarely loved in their lifetime.

The ceremony was so typically Russian. No glad handing or even a smile from the guy at the center. Vlad understand symbolism and his whole attitude made it known to everyone that he was in charge and woe be to any of the bitches who don't get with the program.

We all should be happy that Russia is being led by someone with the balls to make the hard decisions. Russia has come out of the recent world wide economic recession stronger than anyone thought possible. Putin's leadership give Russia clout in a world that needs more than one decaying superpower to hold this planet together. Russia may take the wrong side in places like Syria and Iran but having someone powerful to reign in nuts like Assad is a better approach than anything the West has been able to do to affect change in Syria or most of the Middle East.

Survival is a delicate political balance and we need someone who is not afraid to put foot to ass when necessary.

I sent my buddy a musical e-card of congratulations. I hope it puts a smile on his face when he gets it.