Our Budding Political Cartoonist

After watching the presidential inauguration today, Jacob drew the above picture (with no prompting from his conservative parents). He then asked if we could hang it on the front door...you can guess why it ended up on the front of the refrigerator instead. Even though we don't agree with a majority of President Obama's views, we're still trying to instill in the kids respect for our leaders and the importance of praying for those in political office. I have to say though, that Jacob's drawing brought a smile to my face.

I voted, did you?

I count it a privilege to have the opportunity to vote. We take that for granted in most elections, and sadly, many countries around the world don't have that freedom. Because I value this great country that we live in, I try to keep up on key issues and vote responsibly in every election. This morning was no different. Nathan went to vote at 7:30 this morning, as soon as he got home from work. Our polling place isn't usually crowded, but he had to wait 30 minutes. When he got back, I went and voted without having to wait in line at all. I'm guessing that I missed the "vote before work" crowd.

Now, we wait. Not that it will make a difference, but I'll most likely stay up to see how the election plays out. I've gathered lots of stuff to keep me busy on the couch this evening so that I won't miss anything. Although, I may pop in a movie at the beginning so that I don't get bored. One can only take so much "electoral" talk.

Hopefully, this won't drag out for too long. Anyone remember 2000 and the hanging chads? I was teaching 2nd grade at the time and did a presidents/voting unit with my class. They were so excited to color in their electoral map the day after the election to show which states were won by each candidate. Gore's states were blue and Bush's states were red. And then there was poor Florida. We colored and re-colored that state so many times that it turned out purple instead or red or blue.

So, I voted today, how about you? Leave me and comment and share your story. I'm sure we'll have lots to talk about tomorrow.

Seeing Sarah Palin

I write the following to share what we did today, not to start a political discussion.

Today we were able to see Sarah Palin speak when she came to Troy, Ohio. A friend from our Down syndrome group got us tickets, so we dropped Jacob and Ellie off at Nathan's grandparents' house in the morning and headed to Hobart Arena with Emmaline. I've been a fan of Governor Palin's even before she was picked as McCain's running mate, partly because of her very conservative values, but also because she's the mother of a Down syndrome child, like me. It was neat to hear her speak and I think that she has the potential to do great things for children with special needs if she and Senator McCain are elected.

Emmaline and Daddy waiting in line

Emmy is excited to be in out of the cold

Emmaline snacks while Daddy texts to pass the time

Governor Palin gave a great speech

Waving to the crowd

The excitement really wore Emmy out