The past Presidents. It’s always neat to see all the living Presidents together.

The lowlight of the day was certainly Rick Warren. The man is just creepy. His “prayer” was more about himself than anything else – are you that self-centered, Rick? It’s supposed to be a day to think about the new President and the nation as a whole. And, of course, as is par for his course – he chose to exclude non-Christians in his prayer. The prayers by Rev. Lowry and Gene Robinson were much more impressive. I can forget Warren, though – he’s just a tiny, tiny smudge on an otherwise wonderful event, and I do understand the value of reaching out in some ways to those we disagree strongly with on some important issues.

The music was truly beautiful. I listened to the instrumental piece called "Air and Simple Gifts," by John Williams, and performed by Yo-Yo Ma, Anthony McGill, Gabriela Montero and Itzhak Perlman. That piece is just amazing – it showcases each instrument very nicely and its tone was perfect for this grave yet very hopeful moment in our nation’s history. You can get the MP3 right here.

The oaths were as usual, except for Roberts’ little flub – no biggie, it was his first time.

The speech Obama gave was really perfect for the times. He laid out the much needed departure from neo-conservatism and re-outlined bits of the agenda he hopes to implement. He remarked beautifully on the meaning of the moment. The man writes a mean speech and delivers it with the perfect tone for the times.

The parade was huge! It was really fun to watch. Parker liked seeing some of the dancing and horses – and, he really loved the NASA bit with the cool space vehicle.

Loved Michelle’s wardrobe for the day and evening. Not quite sure what Jill Biden was thinking with those boots and that bright red coat that made it look like she was naked underneath – maybe it was just me, but someone really needed to step in and tell her to change her clothing selection.

Points of particular interest –

• It was so nice to hear Obama once again mention the importance of science to our nation. Even more important than words are his actions in regard to this; nominating Chu for Sec. of Energy, embracing “greener” policies all-around, etc.
• It was nice to hear the President embracing those of all religions and including non-believers as well – every bit patriotic, upstanding citizens as anyone else.
• His reaching out to other nations, both old allies forgotten and new allies to be made, was so refreshing. We can do so much more together than we can on our own. His firm warning to our enemies, couched in an outstretched hand to dictators and oppressive governments around the world, was brilliant.

On his first day he put a stop on Bush’s executive orders and will review them before any are implemented. In addition, he has frozen upper level staff salaries and limited lobbyist donations. He has frozen detainee trials to ensure that they meet the high standard of American justice. A new day, a better day for America. As promised, he is also meeting with out top military leaders today about Iraq and Afghanistan. Former Senator Mitchell has been named as special envoy to the middle east, a great selection I think.