Inauguration tales.

I skipped class to watch the inauguration of Barack Obama. Should be no surprise to anyone who knows me... this is the third time I've skipped this year for presidential reasons, lol. Definitely, definitely worth it though.

The Marshall Center was holding an inauguration party in the Ballroom, with big screens, food, etc. Me, Theresa, Cici, Kim, Heather S, Lauren A, and Leo all ended up watching it together. It was an amazing experience. I got there about an hour early, in time to watch everyone arriving on stage. It was really, really exciting. I was just in awe of it all. I had my camera (well, really it was Jordan's camera) and as soon as I can get my computer to read this stupid SD card, I'll post pics. I shot a movie of his swearing-in, too, and I'll post it as soon as possible.

Being there with so many people watching Obama's inauguration was almost as good as watching it in DC... maybe even better, since we weren't in a sea of 2 million people out in 20 degree weather, lol. All eyes in the room were fixed on the screen. Hundreds and hundreds of people were there, and every news station around (including Telemundo!) brought a news crew. Cameras were lined up around the perimeter of the room. We all stood when they asked everyone to please rise, we bowed our heads together to pray, everyone laughed after Rick Warren's pronounciation of "SASHA!" and Obama's stumbling of words as he took the oath... and as he was declared president, the room ERUPTED in cheers, yelling, jumping, and shouting. Watching the millions celebrating in DC over the giant screen gave us a second wind, and we cheered and cheered some more. I was so happy, and so proud to be a part of this moment in history. We were filled with hope and anticipation as we all listened attentively to his speech, and I'll never forget the feeling. I feel like I was a part of something very special.

Now, I'm not delusional. I know Obama does not hold the answer to all the problems of the world. I know that he is only human, and like any other human, he will have failures along with his successes. But I am so overjoyed at having even a tiny share in electing the first black president of the United States, and I am really in awe of the ability he has shown so far to inspire hope through his words. I pray that he and our other leaders will be kept safe, and that he will make wise, humble, and honest choices as he leads our country in a new direction.

But wait, there's more. I know what you're asking... on top of all this, what could have possibly made the day any better?

That's right. 20 cent tacos at Taco Bell. Me and Ryan waited a half hour for our 10 tacos, which cost a total of $2.14, because... well... we really had nothing better to do, and I love people-watching. The packed Taco Bell on the outskirts of Suitcase City is just something that I will always remember as the cherry on top of a simply wonderful day.

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