INAUGURATION DAY!!!

Here we go, the post you've been waiting for...


Ricardo, Jen, Lisa & Tony, all bundled up and filled with excitement, leave the house early in the morning.

After all the planning and worrying, we got downtown with no problem. Tony expresses his joy... we're all feeling the incredible energy.

The crowds start to build... everyone is headed in one direction, with a smile on their face.

Vendors line the street, but don't get distracted...

... we have to get through these crowds!

Military is everywhere... this might be the safest place in the world.

We made it! We get excellent spots in that stands, and we're psyched -- we have a breathtaking view of the Capitol and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Directly across the street from our spot is the Mayor's reviewing stand -- sweet!

Lots of people on TV say that this isn't a political event, but it sure is for Jen.

Signs on a building welcoming Obama and thanking Bush... and we're about to see both of them drive by us.

The President and President-elect, round the corner on their way to make history.

Wow -- all those vehicles to protect 2 of the most important people in the world.

Jen & Ricardo, overjoyed with excitement... it's only a few minutes, now!

It's happening!!! Loudspeakers broadcast the ceremony from the Capitol for all of us to hear.

Everyone stands, facing the Capitol, and listens.

Finally, we have a new President!! We hear the chants of "O-BAM-A" from the Mall, and join in.

Ricardo is thrilled.

Jen still can't believe it really happened!

Now we have time to kill. Luckily, behind us are cell phone towers.

Everyone has the same idea.

Meanwhile, the sharpshooters get ready....

...the hotel rooms fill with people (including lots of housekeepers)...

...and the roofs fill with people.
A couple of local photographers join us in the stands.

We're all really cold... it's time to start the parade already!

Woo-hoo! Here we go!

Navy...

Air Force...

Fife & Drum...

Guys with muskets...

Lots and lots of vehicles, until finally the limo we've been waiting for...

President Obama and his family! We can see Barack, Michelle, and Malia waving.

The crowd goes crazy, waving, chanting, and screaming.

We did it! We survived the 20-something degree weather for 7 hours, to be a part of history. For the rest of our lives, we can each say "I was there."