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.

Mr. President

I am too overwhelmed with emotion to write a coherent blogpost tonight. All I can say is I can tell my African American son that he can be anything he wants to be and I will know it is true. Congratulations President Elect Barack Obama.

The Truth Is?

Well, we have one more week until we know who our next President of the United States is going to be. As a supporter of Barack Obama, I like the position we are in. We are leading nationally as well as in the states that matter. But these are assumed votes. People, we still have to vote either now if you have early voting or on election day. Don't follow the polls! We still have so much work to do. If you have not done one thing for the candidate, I am going to say it, you should be ashamed! If you are a supporter I know you are voting and quite honestly that is your duty as an american to vote, no matter who it is for. But if you have made your choice, get out their and make a few calls, canvass, talk to your friends and donate your money. Go up to your local Obama office and ask, "What do you need?" We have not won this thing yet, but we have one more week so get going!

Now, let me switch gears for a moment. Did African Americans all get the memo that the media and the public has decided to use affirmative action in reference to the Presidency? Did you all know that? The new talking point is the media has helped him and he would not be here if it were not for the media. I am not so sure that Obama knew that. Did we forget about Rezco, Ayers, plagiarism, bitter and of course Wright. I mean really, apparently the media feels that they maybe they have not been as fair to McCain as they have been to Obama. Or not been as fair to Palin as they have been to Biden. Okay, let me break this down for you.

The bottom line is that both of the old guys are boring! McCain is boring. He sounds boring, looks boring and really he is just wrong on the issues this year. It is not the Republican year! They are on the wrong side of the issues. McCain sounds crazy and I think he believes it is 1988 when words like liberal, taxes, redistribution of wealth and socialist mean anything. I really believe that almost more than race, but age has been the real elephant in the room. The young guy sounds vibrant, fresh and new and honestly he is talking to the country, not a select few. I mean, is it coincidence that Obama can draw 100,000 and McCain is happy to get 5,000? The young guy is speaking to everyone! All people can find something to follow in Obama's words. That is why the media covers it. Also, that is partly why the media covers Sarah Palin. (I will have another post about her after the election.) She is young, new and has energized the base, but her problem is that she is not prepared,that is why the media covers it. When she speaks nothing substantive comes out. So for all the Republicans who read this, this is one reason you are losing. Your candidate is too old and he chose a young running mate who just crystallizes that point. Get use to it.

Black is Back Baby!!!

Well, I am witnessing a truly awesome time in our history. People are excited, thrilled and hopeful of the future. Finally change is coming. What am I talking about? Of course the surge of African Americans in baseball once again!

This is America's pastime, no matter what the NFL says. African Americans were apart of the history of this great sport. Blacks spent Sunday's attending and or playing baseball. When you think of the greateat African American atheletes, who is at the top of your list, but none other than Jackie Robinson.

Tonight, I just witnessed the Tampa Bay Rays win the American League Champship led by BJ Upton, Carl Crawford and new star David Price (last year's first pick in the draft.) Their opponent in the World Series are National League Champions Philadephia Phillies led by Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins, the last two National League MVPs. This is a major turning point for African Americans in the sport of baseball. African Americans will be showcased in the World Series and that has not happened in a long, long time.

African Americans have been preoccupied with basketball and football, both of which we dominate, but baseball will be coming back after this World Series is completed. Young black boys can find new stars to emulate because of these young stars in baseball.

I am hopeful that baseball finds it way back into the lives and history of African Americans. I could go into why I feel that baseball lost it luster, but that is another posting. Congratulations to both of these teams and I look forward to a great World Series.

Thirty Days and Counting....

Wow, so much time has passed since Feb 12, 2007 when Barack Obama announced his run for President. Now we are thirty days from election day and the finish line is in sight for us. I have been apart of this movement from day one. I have made calls, donated, registered, canvassed, blogged, emailed supporters and just all in all had a big mouth. Every time I can mention Obama's name or bring him into the conversation I try to do that. I have worked my but off for not just Obama ,but for this country. This country needs Barack Obama!

Now thirty days from election day and we are looking pretty good, but it does not mean I will stop working and get comfortable. We have much work to do because the attacks are coming. So much has changed in two weeks. The economy is falling, we have had one Presidential debate and the only Vice-Presidential debate. Neither was a major game changer, but Obama passed the Presidential threshold test for those who were wondering. McCain was angry and had complete disdain for Obama, which explains why he wouldn't even give a fellow US Senator the respect of looking at him. Palin did not look like a total idiot, but we know now for sure she has NO substance and Biden, as we already knew is, keenly aware of the issues and ready to be President if necessary. Palin, not so much.

So we have two more Presidential debates left, will they be game changers? I don't think so. The next one is a town hall style format, which is supposed to be good for McCain, but Obama is good in those as well, but we will soon see. The McCain camp has to do something to change the story. They will talk about Ayers, no connection to Obama, Rev. Wright and anything else they can think of. They don't want to talk about the economy because they have no answers. Now is the time when we have to buckle down, and just charge our way to the finish line. They are going to throw everything they can think of at us. So let's hold on tight. Think of a roller coaster and thus far we have been riding up the hill before the big drop. Well, now is the time for the big drop. The next 30 days will fly by. But we must keep calling, donating, canvassing, emailing and anything else we can do to get the word out. Barack Obama must be our next President. I am going to do everything I can to make that happen. What are you going to do?