Inauguration Day

It is President Barack Obama's second term in office and today is the big debut of his second term in office. Even if I'm not American, I feel somehow connected to this event since I've been seeing the personnel of the U.S. Secret Service make preparations on my way to school and home for the past week. I actually considered going to DC for the big event but since no one was going with me, plus its just too cold, I accepted my supervisor's invitation to watch tv at his place. (This sounds funny but I do not have a television set at my place. Avoiding distractions...)



It was a solemn ceremony compared to the Philippines' inauguration. Particularly touching points in Pres. Obama's speech:

1. This generation of Americans has been tested by crises that steeled our resolve and proved our resilience.  A decade of war is now ending.  An economic recovery has begun.  America’s possibilities are limitless, for we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands:  youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention.   My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it – so long as we seize it together.

2. We, the people, still believe that our obligations as Americans are not just to ourselves, but to all posterity.  We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations.  Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires, and crippling drought, and more powerful storms.  The path towards sustainable energy sources will be long and sometimes difficult.  But America cannot resist this transition; we must lead it.  We cannot cede to other nations the technology that will power new jobs and new industries – we must claim its promise.  That is how we will maintain our economic vitality and our national treasure – our forests and waterways; our croplands and snowcapped peaks.  That is how we will preserve our planet, commanded to our care by God.  That’s what will lend meaning to the creed our fathers once declared.

3. My fellow Americans, the oath I have sworn before you today, like the one recited by others who serve in this Capitol, was an oath to God and country, not party or faction – and we must faithfully execute that pledge during the duration of our service.  But the words I spoke today are not so different from the oath that is taken each time a soldier signs up for duty, or an immigrant realizes her dream.  My oath is not so different from the pledge we all make to the flag that waves above and that fills our hearts with pride.

4. With common effort and common purpose, with passion and dedication, let us answer the call of history, and carry into an uncertain future that precious light of freedom.

In my opinion, his speech is amazing and touching and can be summarized in one word: Unity. His strong leadership has carried the country through some terrible storms, both natural and financial. But a united nation is the key to weathering such troubles.

I love how he picked Kelly Clarkson and Beyonce to perform. They indeed rendered powerful songs for the programme. 

Our version of the inauguration feast: Seafood Pasta and Strawberry Salad. Way healthier than what was served in the inaugural luncheon at the U.S. Capitol which was said to be a 3000 calorie meal!

Photos from the TV:

I love Michelle's coat by Thom Brown accented with a J. Crew belt and Malia's by J. Crew coat. But not Sasha's Kate Spade coat. Just goes to show that brands are not really that important. 

J. Crew > Kate Spade. 

Kelly Clarkson

Swearing in

The trip from the Capitol to the White House was quite interesting. POTUS and FLOTUS went down for their walk. pretty normal. I was particularly interested with VP Biden running around hugging kids (typical politician) but his wife Dr. Biden was no where to be seen until they almost reached the White House. hmmm...

To end the day's activities, they have an Inauguration Ball but I could not watch this anymore since I have an extra early morning class tomorrow. I hope I get up in time. Let's see how fast and efficient Americans cleanup when I get to school tomorrow :D