… when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The coats, gloves, scarves, hats, and 7 other layers of clothing were hung by the door with care, with hopes that Barack Obama would soon be there. The children AND adults were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of change and progress danced in their heads.
Okay, I give up.
Today my sister and I decided to take this day off and enjoy ourselves before the BIG DAY. We went into the city and grabbed lunch at Chop’t … again. It’s a great place and I’m going to miss it when I leave. After that we walked on the streets for a while. I vowed to myself to never buy anything from a street vendor while in D.C. but I broke down and purchased an awesome scarf (no, it wasn’t an Obama scarf) for $8. Pretty sweet. After that we met up with Jonathan to hand over the lovely press pass for tomorrow’s swearing in. He’s going to take that on while I take photos at the parade. When we left the coffee shop, my sister showed me my route that I will be taking tomorrow. It was a straight shot today, but I’m pretty nervous that it will be PACKED with people tomorrow. We then decided to play tourist for a little bit and decided to go give Bush a visit at the White House. Not really, but I got to see it from across the street. Then we got yelled at by police. … That was pretty cool. We decided to take pictures with the Washington Monument and just relax on the National Mall before it became the National Zoo tomorrow. Many people were out there playing frisbee, flying kites, and just enjoying themselves before tomorrow. The general atmosphere of D.C. is pleasant. I have yet to see any arguments or confrontations except for an illegal street vendor that didn’t have a license…uh oh. But yes, everyone seems to be pretty easy going today, but let’s just wait until tomorrow morning at 4 am when the Metro opens up and lines start to form. This will be fun.
Today I saw a group of break dancers perform in front of porta potties. That was pretty exciting.
Well…I must wake up at 3 am, so I’m going to attempt to go to bed. It feels like tomorrow is the first day of school, but in reality it is the first day to a new beginning. Goodnight everyone! And enjoy tomorrow wherever you may be. It will be an exciting day we will never forget!
- Keri
PS. The snow thing makes me mad. I saw flurries this morning, but for Columbia to get actual snow makes me mad that I will be missing it. But hey … I’m in DC for Inauguration.
PSS. Thanks to Jonathan and all others who are enjoying the pictures.
PSSS. I will be wearing 4 shirts, 2 jackets,4 pairs of socks, and fake ugg boots tomorrow. Wish me luck that I don’t come down with hypothermia or lose a limb. Thanks!
One of many street vendors along the streets of D.C.
An Obama cookie at the Firehook Bakery and Coffee House.
Me ... with the cookie.
My generic shot of the white house. After the area had been cleared and while I was being yelled at by police.
Taking a break to eat a salad in the freezing cold...
Me in front of the White House ... being a tourist.
Father and son duo carry signs around D.C. stating "Arrest Bush."
Many visitors attempt this shot. Leaning on, squeezing, and holding the Washington Monument is very popular.
Keri!
All of us in the newsroom love you! We’re jealous you’re in D.C. and we love your pictures.
Amanda says you’re a hottie and that you’re amazing.