The U.S. Senate finally came through with a vote for Marilyn Tavenner to take the helm at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, ending a series of administrators who have never won a Senate vote for the job. Tavenner's ascension gives CMS a more distinct voice in policy circles than she would have enjoyed as an interim administrator, but it also ensures she will be on the hot seat in any congressional hearings related to the Affordable Care Act.

OK, I admit it, I love to sleep! If I need any more reminders that I am getting old – thinning hairline, constant aches and pains, the imminent arrival of reading glasses – the fact that I really enjoy going to bed early should be a sign. To me, nothing is more relaxing than a good book and some peace and quiet before nodding off; 10:00 is usually about right. Accompanying me on the bedside table is a sound machine which creates soothing background noise to help drown out the...