Fall-ing for Obama

I love the fall for many reasons. The colors, comfort food, cozy clothes, better running weather, the calmness, pretty sunsets, and more. Despite my proclaimed love for the aforementioned, I would have to say that I don't love the bone-chilling coldness. Today it was freeeezing outside. The reason for my dislike of cold is that I was born with an underdeveloped internal thermostat (self-diagnosed). I'm almost always cold. I'm working on a new attitude though. This year I vow to become a bit tougher, as we're "roughing it" on Ranch Road. We have the heat set on 64 degrees...brrrr. Secretly, I've turned it up to 66 a couple of times, but we're trying really hard to cut down on home energy consumption. We've even seen results. Our gas bill was 1/2 what it was last year, when the thermostat was set between 68 and 70 degrees. John likes to point out that the fall has been quite temperate, but I like to think that I'm acclimating to the alpine desert climate. We are wearing ski hats around the house, always extra sweaters and trying to be creative. Tonight we danced to warm up (see below).

Another reason to love this fall would be...Barack Obama. Teehee (I googled "Barack Obama pictures" and this was the first website I clicked on.) Last night John and I got a babysitter to celebrate the victory of our new leader. I'm still surfing on the post-presidential euphoria. The energy around this election had such a significant draw for me. I felt like I was part of a process that finally came to fruition. I saw Obama speak months ago in Boise. Excited by Obama's vision, I decided to participate in my first (not last) caucus. I tried to spread the word. And now...dudududu (drum roll) Introducing our new president. I finally feel proud of our president and hopeful for our country's future. I was a bit emotional last night, but today I feel even more affected. After reading newspaper articles, listening to the news and having time to process the historical event, I dance. The boys and I put in a little Josh Ritter (a favorite) and Baracked around the house for at least a half-hour. Charlie was such a fantastic dance partner helping me release all of my built-up energy. Cole even wiggled his hips a little. Meanwhile John tended the manly fire that he made and played with Gloria. Today is what memories are made of.