He believes in giving elected representatives a great deal of respect. Even when it's inconvenient for his agenda.
I expect him to do more of what you're suggesting in the coming months, but he's not going to change his spots.
I don't disagree that it would be nice if he would push for his policies more. But he's playing the long game. Time will tell if he'll be more successful in 2012 in building a larger majority...
I hope you feel better soon. Don't worry about being grouchy. J will tell you that I deserve it much of the time. ;-)
Cheers,
Scott.