The Bidens are said to look forward to living close to their 38-year old son Hunter, a Washington lawyer, and his family.

The Bidens' 39-year old son, Beau, Delaware's attorney general, is on a yearlong tour of Iraq as part of the state's National Guard and is expected to run for his father's Senate seat when he returns. Daughter Ashley, 27, is a social worker in Delaware.

After Biden's career as his own boss, some of his friends have wondered how he will adjust to a supporting role. Aides say he's handling it well and has willingly relinquished the independence of his old life for the influence his new job confers.

"I think he's completely at peace and very enthusiastic about the possibilities," said John Marttila, a friend and political consultant who has worked with Biden since his first Senate race in 1972.

Marttila said he initially thought Biden was better suited to be secretary of state. But it didn't take long to change his mind.

"I wasn't one of the voices who said 'vice president's the right place for you.' But I was persuaded on the merits that this was a more important use of his skills," Marttila said. "What people don't fully get is what a good politician this guy is. It's going to be so important as we move into these colossally difficult times."

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Associated Press Writer Nancy Benac in Washington contributed to this report.