Even though most of the champagne and reflection flowed on the 5th anniversary of his 2006 election night win, it was five years ago tomorrow that Stephen Harper was sworn in as Prime Minister.

But today might be the more interesting milestone. Assuming he doesn’t quit to go form his own rock band by the end of the day, Harper will pass Lester B. Pearson to become the 11th longest serving Prime Minister in Canadian history. I’m not sure Harper’s legacy will ever be as great as Pearson’s – after all, you don’t get airports named after you for cutting the GST 2 points. But, still, it’s worth noting.

In another 78 days, Harper will pass fellow Calgarian RB Bennett for 10th place on the all-time list. If he lasts another year, he’ll move ahead of Dief to become the fourth longest serving conservative Prime Minister and the longest serving westerner (well, Etobicoke-born westerner).

Celebrating longevity without accomplishment is a bit hollow, but it’s still a lot more than we expected out of him. Remember 6, 7, 8 years ago? It was impossible to say “Prime Minister Stephen Harper” without laughing.

And now? He’s lasted longer than Mike Pearson. Not bad.