In the words of Gaius Giulius Caesar, I say to Barack Obama, Veni, Vedi, Vinci.

While in London I treated myself to a magnificent show about Hadrian at the outstanding British Museum. One of the greatest men to ever have lived, it did not disappoint. And despite the somewhat boring audioguide, I did learn a bit about this great poet Emperor of ours whose immense burial tomb is now Castel Sant’Angelo.

There are a couple of financial scandals going on in America (just a couple?!) that have piqued my interest these days. I'm talking about American-born Angelo Mozilo, former head of the largest home lending Company, Countrywide Financial, and Italian Raffaello Follieri, better known as Anne Hathaway’s ex.

What is it about the Brits?  They are supposedly super-efficient, once Masters of the Universe, organizing fleets of ships and bringing the world tea with clotted cream and all with an outstanding sense of humour.  But, when it comes to simple plumbing they are seriously in the dark ages.

A few people have asked me to weigh in on the Olympics, although I must say, I was so proud of the Italians that I really didn’t have a barb ready and waiting to put fingertips to keyboard.  Proud, first because our athletes were so awesome.  And I didn’t care about the medals.  The coverage of their stamina, their training and dedication was very awe-inspiring, especially the women.