Kelsie and I went to Springfield today for the Obama/Biden rally. We waited in line for about an hour, quickly made it through the Secret Service screening, and then waited in a mob of sweaty people for another hour. It was impressive to hear 20,000 people recite the Pledge of Allegiance, and then the complete silence during a prayer. Obama talked first, and then Biden came out. They talked for about 30-40 minutes total, and all the while Kelsie and I wormed our way closer and closer. By the end, we had gotten pretty close, maybe within 20-30 yards. While we only caught glimpses of them through a bush (it doesn't help that we are so short!), it was worth the trip and the heat. The pic attached is from when we were further back -- if you look closely, you can see Obama. Particularly if they win, this will go down as a day to remember for years to come.
Ang/Kelsie---Sounds like a lot of fun. I can remeber when I stood with you on my shoulders to get a fast "peak" at Pres. Ford!!! Great description of the order of events
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I'm glad you had the opportunity to go. One of the things that struck me most when I lived in Spain was how the entire family I lived with was so involved in the election process. Parents and children discussed and election day was a day off school. Our family walked to the polls, had a picnic at a park, talked about the candidates...it was a really a big deal to them. Good for you for getting Kelsie to be a part of it.
ReplyDeleteI bet it was a fun and exciting time for both of you. Our right to vote is something we should not take for granted and teaching our kids about it is important.
ReplyDeleteI remember when Sam went to see President Clinton in Urbana while in Med School and asked someone to get a picture of him shaking Bill's hand. After the event, when he looked that picture, that's what is was, a picture of Sam's hand and the President's hand, nothing else. It's great to hear Sam tell the story.
When I was a senior in college, Candidate Reagan came for a rally that all students attended. I had a seat near the side door so had an easy out. . .and when walking to class realized I was right by the door that Reagan and Nancy would be exiting from in a few minutes, and being one of the first out of the auditorium was in a great position to be at the front. I was late to class, but it was worth it - I got to shake both Reagan and Nancy's hands. As the others said, it's a good thing and makes great memories to be part of the political process.
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