Inauguration Thoughts

Well the inauguration weekend is over and honestly this blog will not truly express my feelings because this is an experience that I will reflect on for years to come. But I can say that the whole entire experience was electric and breathtaking. I just witnessed in person the first African American man become President of the United States. This is something that history books will discuss 100 years for now. Sadly, Americans have talked about where were you when 9/11 happened or where were you when you heard about Katrina, or the space shuttle, but as a friend reminded me ,we now have something positive to describe our whereabouts. I am glad I can say, I was there.


The weekend began when a friend gave me surprise tickets to attend an inaugural ball on Saturday, then my husband and my dad and I went to Lincoln Memorial concert on Sunday and of course all of us attended the inauguration. I was lucky enough to get two tickets because I worked extensively on the campaign, so a few friends had pity on me, much to my benefit. It is still a shock that I was so privileged to attend so many events during the inauguration weekend. I had never been to an inauguration before so it was totally cool.


The day began early, 2am to be exact, just to get to the Metro station and catch the first train. So needless to say, it was a long day. I was tired, cold, hungry, sore and excited, nervous, overwhelmed and thrilled at the same time. I was taking pictures the entire time, but only of the Jumbo tron. I had tickets, so I was close to the Capitol, but my tickets had me seated to President's Obama far left. I could not see him at all, therefore we had to use the Jumbrotron. My tickets were beneficial in that I saw several celebrities going to their seats. It was pretty cool, but I wish had a direct view of the inauguration.


In my section there people of all ages, different races, but I must admit, to see so many large numbers of African Americans was awesome. People were just so happy and enthusiastic even though it was so cold. I saw waving flags, tears and smiles. I shared my ticket with my mom. That was cool as well because we were able to witness such a historical moment together.

It took me along time to finish this post because I just couldn't wrap my brain around my emotions. I went days and just cried for no apparent reason. I couldn't believe I was living in a time such as this, but then I remembered what I have know forever. The only thing I can think of to justify my privilege can be summed up in one word, blessed. I am truly blessed to be able to witness this.

Inauguration Woes

So I am gearing up to attend the inauguration. I plan on attending the concert on Sunday evening and of course the swearing in ceremony on Tuesday. I am really bummed that I can't go to ball, but we just can't afford it. The Obama team has done a remarkable job trying to make this an inauguration that average folks can attend, but we just can't swing the balls. There is a Neighborhood ball that went public today and they are even distributing tickets to the Youth Ball to local area Boys and Girls clubs. So really folks will have an opportunity to attend the events. But oh well, the concert and the swearing in are just enough for me.

However ,I am really disappointed at some of the people that live in this area. My husband and I can't find anyone that plans on attending. Everyone has an excuse. It will be too long, too cold, no bathrooms, too many people. Come on, are you kidding me? Do you really want to say you watched this moment on tv? I just don't understand it. But hey, to each is own. But I will be there, husband and 5 year old son. We can handle a little discomfort to be a part of this moment. We live in the DC area. I am too close to stay home. Six days and counting!

History cont...

Well I have not written in almost 2 months. I let the holidays pass and I decided to wait until before inauguration day to write. So much has happened. I still tingle whenever I hear President-elect Barack Obama, or if I see another appointment he has made or simply see him in a news conference. I still have to pinch myself. I can't believe we did it. Like right now he is on t.v. saying "my administration". I can't wrap my brain around it. But that doesn't even make sense because I have continued since he announced saying that he could win, but I still can not believe it. I can't believe this country. We made a decision based on issues. We did not hold his race against him.

As we know, Barack Obama has a lot of work to do. He has an economy in shambles, 2 wars, an energy crisis, and just plain lack of confidence in the government. But I am glad he is in the drivers seat!

So, let me play catch.

1. Blagojevich is, well, let's just say bold. Roland Burris is a prime example of an old school black politician. Just seeking limelight with no substance. Why on earth would you want a seat that is simply tainted, but oh I forgot you are a washed up politician and you are a little jealous of all the love Obama receives. Roland Burris, I am sure you will become Senator now, but honestly, how much respect do you think you are going to get? You are allowing Blagojevich to use you. Does the limelight feel good, no matter how much people are laughing at you?

2. Obama Cabinet choices, B+. I would have liked to see a few more black men, I believe 2, Eric Holder for Attorney General, and someone as trade rep. Overall really good.

3. Governor Palin, go AWAY! Get over it. You are not smart and we all saw it. So don't be a sore loser and lash out at Couric and Tina Fey. Palin, just go away!

4. Republicans, take a breath. You lost. If you were smart you would really take some time to get it together. You will have 8 years to figure it out. Obama is not going anywhere.

5. Bush, you suck. Why won't you let the Obama's stay in the Blair house? Because one dude is staying there on the 12th you will not let the incoming first family stay there. Simply ridiculous.

6. Welcome to the Washington Metro area Obama family. Words can not express how happy we are to have you.

7. Congressional Democrats, please remember who the party leader is. Do the right thing.

8. Americans, don't miss the inauguration because you don't want to be bothered. Do you really want to say you stayed on for the "March on Washington" moment? I don't.

9. Inauguration committee, please stop scaring everyone to death. Do you want anyone to come? You are doing your best to deter folks and it is not right. You basically say kids are not welcome, you can't bring anything, you close VA off to the city, and you basically close the city. What gives? I am going and there is nothing you can do to stop me.

10. So, what will I do for the inauguration? My family plans to be on the Mall somewhere. If I can hear Obama I will be happy. I just want to be in the midst with the energy, the joy, the excitement and history. I will be cold, tired, funky, inritable but at the same time overjoyed. My son, 5 years old, will be with me. We will all get through it together but I will not let my family miss this event. We will be there and I can't wait. Obama, here we come.