1.   Although both sides acknowledged the difficulty of resolving the dispute, the tone of the visit was positive.

2.   Although an overall agreement is within reach, both sides acknowledged that little progress was made over the weekend.

3.   And both sides acknowledged that the debate over guns was likely to be the most vigorous and could overshadow other elements of the legislation.

4.   And both sides effectively acknowledge that nothing can happen until Israel completes its withdrawal from Palestinian-controlled areas.

5.   Both Republicans and Democrats said that reaching a bipartisan balanced-budget agreement was still possible, although both sides acknowledged that substantial differences remain.

6.   Both sides acknowledge that the existence of roads determines whether natural places will remain wild or be developed.

7.   Both sides acknowledge that they may miss their deadline.

8.   Both sides acknowledged that they could be damaged by the impasse.

9.   Both sides have acknowledged reaching an impasse.