Historical Moments

So the awaited day, Jan. 20th of 2009, came with its crowds and all. The grand total on the number of outhouses was.... 5,000- whew! I admit, I gave up on counting them, even doing a running estimate as I quickly discovered that there were multiple layers on either side of the reflecting pool. Therefore, this information came from a written report on the inaugural accommodations.

Prerun PreparationThe bridge... Blocked off to Vehicles

Rather than cycling into the district, I ran in via Arlington Mem. Bridge with Randilyn. It was blocked off to everyone except pedestrians, which was pretty sweet. With about 4 layers and another wrapped around our waists for later use, we prepared for the low temps of the day. Honestly, the crowds were not as intense as I anticipated, but it was packed enough by the time we chose to arrive that we stayed near the Washington Monument rather than finding the long detour to make our way closer to the capitol... It would have potentially added on about 3 miles to an already lengthy run, considering the crowds.

Mega trons for viewing the happenings at the capitol... that's Pres. Bush on the screen That's the crowd forming at the Wash. Monu... about 1 1/2 mi. from the CapitolAbout 1 1/4 miles from the capitol... see the dome, a dot left of the flagWatching the former presidents arrive was pretty sweet, and standing in a crowd of pleasantly upbeat neighbors from across the nation was exciting. Disappointment came only as the majority of the audience booed at the departing President Bush. While there are arguable reasons for many to disagree with his choices and actions executed during his terms as president, I feel that we all owe him more respect and gratitude for what he has done for our country during some very difficult national challenges.

I look forward to what this new presidency will bring and hope that we can move forward with unity as a nation, appreciating what has been done in the past.