Inauguration Day and Other Activities - January 21, 2013

 The long awaited day finally arrived!  First, we were allowed into the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall before inaugural events began.  What a great location to hang out with new friends while waiting to walk to our location for the Inauguration.  And although it was early, suddenly no one seemed tired at all when we arrived at our viewing location.  I, along with the many other people from around the world who traveled to Washington, DC, witnessed the Inauguration, Oath of Office, and Inaugural Address of our 44th President, Barack Obama! This is certainly one of the most significant and memorable events in my life so far.  

And yes, jumbotrons were set up so that no matter where we were on the route, we could not only be present among the excitement but also see this historical event.  One day, I hope to be even closer on this 'world stage!'  After leaving the National Mall, we attended a special viewing party where Presidential trivia and prizes we awarded; at the same time, we watched the President and Vice President's motorcade travel from the United States Capitol Building down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House.  In the warmth!  

And in case anyone thinks I am not learning, we had group meetings to discuss the inauguration and the different roles that each member of the President's Cabinet play, including the Press Secretary, Social Media Director, Finance Director, Speech Writer, and Policy Advisor.  Each member's role is incredibly important to the President's success, but of course, everyone has a different opinion as to which on is most important.  I personally think that a solid team is those who possess expertise in their specific area and work together to support their boss, the President, is overall the most important.  But lively discussions with others from around the country is what makes these events special and unique!

It seemed that only a couple of hours after lunch, we were having dinner. After dinner was a private concert with Allstar Weekend, a band currently touring in the United States and the United Kingdom.  And though there was a karaoke lounge, anyone who knows me, especially my sister, will be happy to know that I chose to watch and did not attempt to sing.  Today, we hear from Keynote Speaker General Wesley Clark and later, a black tie/gown celebration at the National Air and Space Museum.  Good luck on finals DHS students!