Rael may have meant this just for me, but I'm posting it because I love her observations...

"I am having left overs of the best pad thai I've ever had, but the experience is bittersweet if Casey is still freezing her derriere at Union Station with thousands of other spectators. Any new
developments?

I spoke to an individual who was on the Mall, who felt the multiple jumbotrons set up at regular intervals was a little "Big Brother," George Orwell style.

A young woman at the grocery store circumvented the Obama merchandise ("Obamerchandise?")  for less expensive mementos by collecting newspaper front page coverage of the inauguration, though the Washington Times was still an unobtained holy grail. I offered my suggestions of stores within walking distance, and she continued on
her quest.

You may have noticed something odd along the parade route: empty seats. Given the crowds, security could not screen ticket holders fast enough, and some lost their opportunity to see President Obama despite purchasing tickets. The same tickets which sold out in seconds at $25
a pop. To call that a bummer is an utter understatement. I wonder how they'll reconcile those costs?

A friend texted to say that train delays may lead her to stay in the District overnight, with wine pouring and people watching galore.  I am happy for her, but I also want her to be safe...and because I am acting like a total mom, I hope she's warm.

According to reports, the Obamas will attend 10 inaugural balls tonight. If they are not the human representations of the Energizer Bunny, I don't know what is."

---

---