Sharing an event with a million or so people is thrilling, exciting and, of course, up close and personal. Talk about rubbing elbows! Susan and I had a wonderful time at Obama's inauguration. We headed out by train at Oh-dark hundred and were delighted to arrive in Washington D.C. by 6:30. We had been invited to a breakfast hosted by an Alaskan group and thought we'd have plenty of time to walk the six blocks and enjoy it before stolling over to the inauruation. That was before we saw the thousands of people who had made it there before us! 
Inching our way through the crowds, we finally made it to our viewing spot by 9:45. But by then we were pretty jazzed - not to mention stylishly adorned by many layers of winter clothing (not to mention fashionable headgear and hair styles) to ward off the 23 degree morning.
We were really impressed with masses of humanity. The numbers of people who had come out through the throngs and cold and made the journey to share this momentous occasion was truly awe-inspiring. And so was the mood. Everyone was happy, friendly and full of good will - no kidding!
At long last the moment arrived and the 44th President took the oath of office. Hearing hundreds of thousands of people all cheering at once is something I'll never forget! But then, just as quickly, the crowd grew quiet to listen to President Obama make his inaugural address.
He spoke of the challenges that face this nation and how we can overcome them, just as we have overcome so many adversities, including segregation. He noted that he took his oath to this highest national office in a city in which, just 60 years ago, his father could not have eaten at a restaurant. He said our hand will be open to all countries, but first they must open their fist. It was inspiring and encouraging. It was a spectacular day! More photos to be posted soon.
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