Happy Birthday to Me!

Saturday, January 17th
8:00 am

Dear Diary,

Today is my birthday! Happy birthday to me! I can hardly believe that today I am getting on the train for Washington D.C on my 45th birthday. Ten years ago, I would never have imagined that I would be celebrating my big day by getting on a train to become the First Lady. In all honesty, I would have figured that I would be getting on to become the President. Though I suppose that day has still yet to come… Nevertheless, I’m certainly looking forward to all the festivities over the rest of the weekend.

We’re on our way to the Lincoln Memorial, taking the same route that Lincoln did in 1861. (Well, the final leg of the same journey.) It feels amazing to take the same historic journey that he once took. Once we get there, we’re going to make an unannounced stop at the Lincoln Memorial to look around and do some reflecting at such a historic monument. I know the girls want a chance to really take it in without so many people around.

This is the best birthday present anyone could ask for. Unless, of course, I was the president. But all things in due time… Barack and I celebrated my birthday on Thursday by going out to dinner at the Equinox restaurant, which was delicious. It was nice to take some time to be together and reflect on all that has happened over the past couple years. It seems like just yesterday Barack and I were going out to campaign for the democratic nomination, and then there was the whole campaign for the presidency. Though I’m still in a state of disbelief that we’re at this place in our lives, with the inauguration so soon upon us. Not only is Bush finally leaving office, but my husband is taking his place. I am truly proud of him and how much he has accomplished.

Yours always,
Michelle