The Inauguration...

...has finally happened. For much of Bush's presidency I didn't think it would. From very early on in our last president's first term, or at least, following 9/11, I was convinced that he would find some way to halt the ordered transition of power, up to and including declaring martial law. Even after the election, I waited, hopeful, but still nervous. That Bush had the grace, finally, to let the will of the American public stand, is perhaps the only one of his acts I can truly approve and applaud without hesitation. I am ecstatic to have a new president in office, especially one for whom I have respect and who inspires hope, not just in me but in the vast majority of Americans. As mmegaera says: "I can say, with pride, 'I voted for him.'" Someday, my husband and I, as well as our adult sons, will be able to say that to our grandchildren. There are very few moments when we know that we stand at a cusp between the past and the future. This was one of them.