you gotta believe

today is another one of those days that we'll look back on in the future and reminisce.

"what were you doing when barack obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the united states?"

i sat on the bed with the hub and the bean this morning, so excited, joyful, and full of hope. we watched the news coverage, listened to the commentary, marveled at the hordes of exhilarated spectators who crowded in the space between the capitol and washington monument in 20ish degree weather. i literally got goosebumps at the sight of our new president, walking calmly through the hallways on his way to make his first appearance before the crowds.

and i totally smiled as his daughters were introduced and waved as they took their seats. they're just so cute, and i think it'll be great for the children of the country to have those two to look up to. it's always good to have role models who are polite, smart, and respectful, and that's exactly how they come across.

i listened to his inaugural speech, and as always was captivated by his warm smile and charisma. i'm in awe of how he's inspired people to believe in him and in their country again, and amazed at the difference he's already made in our outlook for the future. we've got one hell of a mess to deal with, but with the right leadership and the right attitude, in time, i just know we can pull ourselves out and make things right.

today, more than ever, i am so proud to be an american.

yes, we can. and yes, we will!

much like the challenger tragedy, the day princess diana died, and 9/11, the announcement that barack obama was elected the 44th president of the united states will always remain with me.

i was clearing the table from our fabulous all-american dinner (which turned out pretty well, let me tell you), when the graphic was displayed on the screen. and as a huge grin broke out on my face, brian williams came on and announced the news. the goosebumps came, and didn't leave until way after obama had already left the stage after his acceptance speech.

and that was one hell of a speech, let me say. the tears just rolled down my face as i listened, and just remembering it brings chills. i loved every word. as he said this:

"and to those americans whose support i have yet to earn, i may not have won your vote tonight, but i hear your voices. i need your help. and i will be your president, too."

i glanced over at the hub, a lifelong republican, and was excited and pleased to see that he, too, was transfixed. our votes may have cancelled each others' out, but i have hope that he'll be won over in the months and years to come.

i hear that mccain's concession speech was excellent as well, but i was giving the bean a bath and missed it. after the ugliness of the last few weeks leading up to the election, i really want to see/hear what he had to say, so i'm off to search for it.

such an amazing, historic time for our country. i'm so excited and hopeful for our future. obama's got one hell of a job in front of him, but i have faith.

yes, we will!