Here's our next First Lady, Michelle Obama!
Michelle Obama spoke in Madison, WI this morning and I was there! Jealous yet? A friend and I met at 8am, grabbed some coffee and went to the GAR Memorial Park near Camp Randall stadium where she was scheduled to speak at 10am. When we arrived there were around 50 people in line so we were near the front! A political doodad company was there selling t-shirts and buttons. Volunteers everywhere!
A steady stream of folks lined up down the block. By the time the "doors" were opened the line stretched about 4 blocks up to University street. It was quite a diverse crowd for Madison. Because Michelle was kicking off Women's Week in Action, many of the folks lining up were women. Don't worry guys, you were well represented too!
This picture was taken about 20 minutes after we arrived.
Here's a crowd shot taken while holding my camera high above my head so forgive if it's not the best composition. I'm only 5'2" and had to stand on my tippy toes and stretch just to get the camera above the heads of those around me.
We were 3 people back from the barrier, directly in front of the podium. This next shot is to my right (Michelle's left as she spoke).
We had the usual warm-up speakers. The Provost of the University welcomed us and made sure we understood that GAR Memorial Park, while on campus, isn't actually ON campus. Our mayor spoke (big Democrat/progressive), our Dane County executive and our wonderful Congresswoman, Tammy Baldwin!
Finally, after being introduced by a young UW student who has been a tireless volunteer for the campaign, here comes Michelle!
Isn't she beautiful!! She did look a bit tired (who wouldn't be??) but her speaking style is so intimate. It feels as if she's talking just to you.
Her speech was some of what we've heard before, but she mostly focused on what we all need to do in the remaining days before the election. She spoke of the importance of talking with our neighbors, getting out there and meeting folks.
She directed many of her comments to the women, eliciting a big laugh and applause when she said that "women get it done"!
One of the most important things that stood out for me was that NOT ONCE did she mention Johnah McPalin! NOT ONCE! For about five minutes she began every sentence with "Only one candidate can........" and hit all the issues. It was a very positive message and so indicative of the entire Obama campaign. It's in OUR hands, it's up to us to change this country.
A very touching and funny moment came when she mentioned that are less than 50 days until the election. She said that sometimes when she thinks about that she raises her arms and yells "YES", and other times she's amazed that it's almost over.
At one point someone directly behind us yelled the question "how do we bridge the racial divide". Now she must get this question a million times a week, but her answer was so impressive! Without missing a beat, she spoke directly to the person who asked and said (paraphrased) "YOU must bridge the divide by talking with your neighbors, by respecting their beliefs and letting them know what your values are and how Barack shares those values". It was inspiring!
Of course we stayed for the rope line, hoping for a handshake and some close up pictures. I was amazed at the diligence of the secret service guys--they certainly take their job seriously.
These next shots are my favorites! She was so close and so personable. Hugging folks, looking right at people, shaking hands and smiling that beautiful smile.
What a day! I was able to shake her hand!
Folks, if you haven't yet been able to see Michelle or Barack in person, you really should try. It's an amazing experience! They are the real deal and you can feel their love for us and this country.
Now get out there and make sure this beautiful woman and her fantastic husband end up in the White House!
Update: Requisite WOO HOO for first time on the rec list!