iowa caucuses

i'm watching with a bit of a detached humor, after just getting back into sf post-a couple of weeks in seattle, and finishing a half day at work.
can someone tell me why iowa is so important and one of the first caucuses?

a little note that tickled my fancy. obama's campaign organized babysitters and childcare so that would-be caucusers with kids could get out. i like that. don't think i'm sold on obama, but i do like childcare.

i know i've been a delinquent blogger, but more soon. i promise.
xox.