Make It To DC...Yes We Did

Well , this Canuck's journey to the Inauguration certainly started with a couple of set backs. After a packed and early flight to Toronto, it was here that our (minor) troubles began. Going through American customs, it seems they are understandably flagging anyone headed to Washington DC. But after some extra, albeit thorough questioning, they determined that that we (my American girlfriend) and I were not really a threat to American security and wished us well on our way. From here we transfered to our smaller flight to Baltimore International. By smaller flight, I mean much smaller, a tiny Bombardier Dash 8 turbo prop. However, this flight became our first pre-Inauguration party. The 35 or so revellers that joined us were all headed to DC for the big show. Everyone started swapping stories and explaining their reasons for heading down. Most were like us, just excited to be a part of the swirrling mass of positive energy and hope that seems to follow the incoming President. Others had all the right connections were lucky to be headed to one of the official Inaugural Balls and might have a chance to actually see the man himself. One notable guest was the lovely and talented Ms. Jackie Richardson, the star of the hit musical "Cookin' and the Cookery". Even those in the terminal not bound for DC were excited, even thrilled for us. We were made to feel that just by going we had accomplished something. Having people congradulate you and be envious of you for simply going somewhere is a humbling feeling.

After a slight delay and extensive de-icing, our little party plane took off through Toronto snow and headed down below the 49th parallel. Upon arrival in Baltimore, the increased security presence was immediatly noticable. It seemed that law enforcement outnumbered passengers at Thurgood Marshall International Airport. It was at this point that exhaustion and travel started to overcome excitment. In true Air Canada tradition, our bags, which included clothing to help manage the -10 degree chill, did not make it. Furthermore, not a single representative of our national airline was on hand to address our problem. It seems their kiosk closes at 7PM. Because of our delayed flight, we arrived at 7:10Pm. Feeling cold a dejected we filed a report over the phone as we made our way into DC. However our spirits were revived when we met a pair of Canadians (who ironically enough worked for West Jet) whose excitement had yet to waiver; probably because they had their luggage and were dressed for the cold DC night. Or perhaps being from Ottawa and not the West Coast like us, they're just pre-disposed to the cold. We eventually made it through the DC metro to our friend's lovely apartment in the Cleveland Park district. Obamania is everywhere. But that would have to wait for another day as we settled into our inflated mattress and drifted into an deep deep sleep. Our own revelry would have to wait until morning.