Brookey's Cafe Blog

Happy Election Day!

I know it's late, but hey, better late than never right? :-)

My sister and I got up bright and early this morning to vote. I went with her to vote before we took Kyce to school. I had my camera in my hand, she had on her "Barack the Vote" t-shirt and I took a picture of her as she came out and flashed it to me :-)

And then as she got back in the car, she cried. "I really hope he wins" she said, choking back tears. I cried with her. What a powerful moment.

Then after we dropped Kyce off, it was my turn. We went to pick up my mother so we could all go together. Like my sister and I, my mom also had on her "Barack the Vote" t-shirt. We had them covered up in case someone would give us problems, but to my surprise, almost ALL of the volunteers outside of our polling pace had on Obama buttons. I guess they didn't care :-)

My mother and I got in line behind an African American man who was probably in his early 60's. He was smiling from ear to ear. He turned and said good morning to me and then practically yelled "I'm so excited!" My heart overflowed. We took a picture together and exchanged email addresses so we can share photos. A complete stranger.

What a day, a day that will change the world.

I only waited for about 10 minutes in line. We got there early, but the line was forming. Everything was running smoothly, everyone was smiling and happy. When there were only 2 people in front of me as I approached the booths, I got butterflies in my stomach. I felt giddy - like I was going on a first date with a man I was REALLY excited about. I stepped into the booth and tears welled up in my eyes again. I had a moment when I saw Barack's name there. I felt privileged to press the button next to his name. It was an honor to cast my vote for this man.

Another powerful moment.

I've never seen so many people out there EXCITED to vote. I've never seen so many people SO PROUD. Today should have been a national holiday. It was magic.

I hope everyone has voted by now and I hope you all experienced what I experienced today. Moments in history like this don't come along everyday - seize the moment, bask in it, be joyful in it.

Since I'm posting this late, you all may not be around so we can comment on this historical day - but I'll be up all night, driving back to NY in the morning so I can experience the announcement of Barack's victory with my family tonight. So if you all are still around, let me know of your experiences today and I can't wait to celebrate with you all tomorrow!

Obama '08!