Inauguration Day-20 Jan 2009...A Note To Pierce

Our dear, sweet, and precious son, Pierce,

Today is the Inauguration of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States.

I want to capture this day for you, along with the hope and promise it brings. I know if I don't write it down right now, I may lose some of the details, but never the feeling today holds. You watched President Obama's speech with me (you were still in your PJs because I ran in as soon as I heard you make a noise...too bad you weren't really finished with your morning nap). You smiled as soon as you saw him on the screen; his charisma and genuine character captured your attention immediately. Trust me, I know how that feels. You sat quietly (for awhile), just watching the TV.

I remember asking your dad last fall, in the most annoying tone I'm sure, "How many more days until the election? I'm already tired of all this campaigning." He smiled and said, "A while." I had no idea that the next few months would impact our lives, my life...your life. You see, it's amazing and historic to see an African American, a bi-racial man in the White House. Many swore they would never see the day a black man would take the Oath of Office as the President of the United States. I believe you have a lot in common with Mr. Obama, Pierce. When I see and think of him, I see you and I dream of all the possibilities that lie before you. Anything is possible in this great, great land that we live in and I pray you take full advantage of all that it has to offer you.

Yes, son, today is a great day. The feeling in Washington D.C. was felt across the country and the airwaves. It was contagious and exciting! Smiles and tears were seen on many, many faces, mine included. They say there were over 1 million people in D.C. How 'bout that for turn out?

I took a few pictures of the day from our TV. There were moments I wanted to capture and not have to wait to find them online. They are a little grainy, but you get the idea.

Today means hope and possibility, freedom and patriotism, love and peace...change we can believe in. This is what being an American is all about.

I want you to know how much your Dad and I love you. You have made all of our dreams come true and we look forward to many more historic moments with you. We thank God for you!Thanks for sharing your life with us!

We love you,

Mom & Dad