Sharing election night with the kids

God love that Heather. She had the brilliant idea of getting together and watching the election returns together last night: a little pizza, a little bubbly. She welcomed us and a few friends into her home for dinner for what was unquestionably the best election night of our lives. And not just because we were drinking. Obama's victory and his inspiring speech were cheered by all of us, including the kids. One of the moms thoughtfully made a photo copy of her blank ballot and let the kids "vote" during the party. I was shocked to see that my 4-year old had selected McCain, then crossed him out and colored in the circle for Obama (What are you gonna do? Poor child can't read yet). The adults got to talking about whether or not our parents discussed politics while we were growing up. Most did not. Or else we don't remember. It was great to share the excitement of election night with the kids. The kids had a blast. They took advantage of the fact that we parents didn't pay much attention as they dug into the potato chip bowl well after their normal bedtime. And that we put the TV on so loud. We kept the kids up way too late, but it seemed worth it to listen to McCain's gracious concession, Obama's inspiring victory speech together as a family. At the very least, it was a sure-fire way to force the kids into adusting to the time change. I hope that they will always remember this important night. I know I will. God love that Heather. And yes, it's quite possible I'm still a little drunk.

Comments

[Heather]

Last night was fun, and I think the kids will always remember the night Obama was elected President. I keep reading stuff on the Internet about the significance, people's reactions, re-reading his speech, etc. and I'm constantly moved to tears. Or maybe I, too, am still a little drunk. I'm just so happy!

[lilah]

I sat on the floor in front of the TV and watched McCain speak and then Obama. My youngest climbed into my lap and watched me cry and felt me cry. I, too, have been in and out of tears today. This is the first time in my adult life that I have not been embarrassed by our government. I know he will do great things in time, if given enough time and support. I actually feel patriotic today. I am so glad that I got to share this with my kids. E has been calling me his Obamamama for weeks.

I just wish the media would stop talking about Camelot.....that did not end well for anyone......twice.

[jill]

I've been crying on and off all day, too. I've actually felt twinges of patriotism as well, which is definitely not normal for me.

[Zoe]

All of these sentiments resonate with me. I feel hope again. Obama stayed true to himself, his integrity and conviction is remarkable, throughout his campaign. Watching the election with our four boys was a magical event. We invited friends over and did the pizza/cocktail fun as well. It was a great night. We got a map of the US out and hung it on the wall, then with sticky notes the boys wrote down (taken from an Oregonian article) the electoral votes each state had to add to the pot and put them on the map. As the returns came in we tallied and discussed the odds. It was very fun. I think I actually understand the Electoral College now! They probably understand it better though since there was some wine consumption involved on my end.
It's funny. At our school auction recently my husband and I bid on and won an American flag mosaic that my son helped create. Usually, I have not been one to hang a flag, but this one is going up asap.

[ToniHines20]

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