Clearly, yesterday was amazing. Though our vantage allll the way back at the Washington Monument was hardly brag-worthy among Mall revelers, we’re certainly not complaining. (Except about the cold. Seriously.)
Near us, the sentiment was sheer giddiness (in equal parts for Obama and to giving W. the boot). I know countless tears of joy were undoubtedly shed around the world, but in our little pocket, the tone was big smiles and euphoric cheers.
A couple of highlights:A guy from Atlanta standing near us could barely contain his thrill: Every other minute he started chanting something new—mostly aimed at Bush—from “Five More Minutes” to “Lock Him Up.” And even better, he was doing so in a giggly, non-hostile way. Because really, what was there to be hostile about right then? Bush was moments from fleeing to Texas, his ability to wreak havoc stripped.
During Rick Warren’s invocation, a little boy (4 or 5, tops) propped up in his father’s arms beside me quietly recited the Lord’s Prayer, each line right before Warren said the words. He was adorable and angelic, seeming so proud to know the prayer. For me, listening to him was a million-times more profound than anything Warren could ever say.
Also, a quick shout-out: Apparently my very talented long-time friend and opera singer Claire Kuttler sang a solo during “This Little Light of Mine” at the church where the Obamas worshiped pre-inauguration yesterday, St. John’s (a.k.a. the President’s Church). So awesome!
Whoa. Really, you need to stop following me around. Looks like you were standing really close to where I was…only to the right a little more. Same jumbotron next to the Washington Monument on the left side facing east. My picture looks almost exactly like yours. 1.8 million people and we chose the same spot? Weird.
I also overheard some fun comments. From a woman on a cell phone telling someone where to meet her: “Yeah, um, we’re right next to this tall, thin thing, it’s pointy at the top…”
And from an observer behind us when the Clintons were shown walking together. “Lord, you can just tell they hate each other.”
and I guess I know Claire now, since you also followed me to her party (although technically you got there first)…so neat!
Thanks for the shout out Katie!!! And also for your recollections of the day! I tell you, when the Obamas walked into the church, I teared up…immediately. Talk about presence! How quickly can a couple become iconic? I’m betting they beat the previous record. Here’s to the next 8!
it was most definitely a day to remember. i loved how bonded we all felt. i had the most wonderful encounters with everyone i met along the way!
pictures here :) http://www.flickr.com/photos/anne_ditty/sets/72157612759611823/
anne