Wednesday, January 20, 2021

For this woman, it’s been a long four years. For this child of immigrants, it’s been a long four years. For this lover of Mother Earth, it’s been a long four years. For this advocate of justice and equality and equity, it’s been a long four years.

And now a beloved family member is actively battling CoVid-19.

Whew! I have been tired and often despondent. And I have been waiting for today. I have been looking forward to feeling more hopeful and more optimistic that our democracy is not dying.

Since I am a political junkie and a life-long Democrat, I took the day off from work so I could watch the entire Inauguration Day unfold in real time. Today, I have cheered and I have cried. Today, I have felt grief and I have felt joy. The prayers, the music, the singing, the poetry, the ceremonies, the speeches, the parades–I watched it all. And the day has been surreal, compared to other inaugurations–everyone is wearing a mask, there are no crowds, and armed National Guard members line the streets.

President Biden has so much work to do, so many crises to solve. Vice President Harris has made history, and every move she makes will be scrutinized. Our nation needs them both to succeed in their new jobs. Our nation needs to allow them lead us to unity.

I just read President Biden’s tweet: “It’s a new day in America.” Best wishes to President 46, and to our beloved country.

I would be remiss if I did not use Marker’s Mark 46 today! This is my version of the Merry Berry Buck Cocktail, from the Maker’s Mark website.

In a shaker with ice, combine 1 1/2 ounces Maker’s Mark 46 Bourbon, 3/4 ounce lemon juice, and 1 1/2 ounces cranberry juice. Shake well and strain into a highball glass. Top with 3 ounces ginger beer. Add more ice, and a lemon wheel and frozen cranberries for garnish.