Inspired nostalgia… My Presidential Inauguration experience: scenes from an earlier Ball

I mused in my last post about the amazing energy we are all feeling today and how I could only “imagine how even more incredible it must feel for all those who are there and involved in this defining moment in history.” How wonderful it would be to take part in the events of this day and carry that memory with us always!

That thought brought back memories for me of an earlier Inauguration that I did have the pleasure to take part in. I’ve mentioned before that I’ve been a professional vocalist for many years…
the SSP orchestra, one I performed with for many years as a lead vocalist, was one of the lucky bands chosen to play for President Clinton’s Inaugural Ball at the Kennedy Center. I remember what an honor it was for us to be there and how much we all enjoyed being a part of the event. Given how much more deeply this President’s inauguration is resonating for me, I have been wistfully thinking how amazing it would be to experience it tonight!!

Armed with that nostalgic energy, I just went searching around in my photo stash and found some of the pictures from the event!
(Thank god I am somewhat organized in my clutter *lol*)

This was before I got bit by the photography bug, so I did not have a camera with me (unheard of these days ;)

I am forever grateful to one of my band members who did bring his camera and shared the pictures with us afterward. The evening was a lot of fun and we got a bit giddy with it (as you’ll see ;)

I thought it would be fun to share them with you…

Note… In case it’s not apparent, I’m the one with the blonde hair…
(looks like I went a bit nuts with the waving iron, too *lol*)

We started off the evening
in formal wear…

Then switched to something a bit more fun…

We even had our own personal “bodyguard”…
hanging with one of the rangers.

2 babes loose in the Kennedy Center…
glamming it up.

Mugging for the camera.
(when I smile too hard I look like a chipmunk! *lol* )

Want some bubbly?
(I love the devious look in D’s eye. *lol* )

My turn to tempt you with the bubbly…
(with a bit of a maniacal gleem )

Winding down…
(and more than a little tired from an incredible evening. )

Given how momentous this particular Inauguration is, I’m feeling a little good-naturedly envious of those musicians who are going to take part in tonight’s Inaugural festivities.
Enjoy it and remember it always!

Luna