With just 35 days left in office, President George W. Bush is showing all sides of his personality.
He's Agile:
The president was quick as a cat when an Iraqi journalist launched both shoes at him. Mr. Bush ducked and the shoes missed. He even "shooed" a Secret Service agent who ran to his aid, saying he was ok.
The president was not injured and joked about the incident: "All I can report is it is a size 10," he said. He called the incident a sign of democracy, saying, "That's what people do in a free society, draw attention to themselves."
He's Funny:
Standing before a crowd of 11,000 at Texas A&M University, President Bush's commencement address was filled with light-hearted moments.
President Bush quipped about the cost of college. "I am pleased to see so many of your families and loved ones here today," he said. "While you bled maroon, they bled a lot of green."
Texas A&M's mascot found her way into his speech. "I especially like the tradition around Reveille. Anytime she barks during a class lecture, everyone in the room is dismissed. I wish she'd been there for some of those press conferences."
He even thanked his mom for his gray hair.
And the jokes went on and on...
He's Sensitive:
During his graduation speech Friday, the president became emotional when talking about the "unconditional love" he received from his father. "Some of you will leave A&M with a degree that carries this good man's name, 'George Bush.' I have been blessed and honored to have carried it for 62 years."
He also shared inspirational stories of courage, including the "gift of love" given by a couple who care for foster children,
He's an emotional guy, and he's passionate about whatever he's involved in," White House spokesman Tony Fratto said.
He's a Proud Texan:
During his Aggieland speech, the president talked about his eagerness to return to the "place I love" once he leaves office.
"Texas is where I went to a backyard barbeque and met a beautiful teacher named Laura Welch. Texas is where our girls were born and our lifelong friends live. And next month, when our time in Washington is done, Texas is where we're coming home," he said to a roaring crowd.
As his eight-year tenure in the White House draws to a close, we may see more of Bush's kinder and gentler side. But if he talks about someone's "sole", let's just hope there are no shoes involved.