The following story was submitted by Dr. Judith B. Fischer of East Rockaway.
It was several days before the Inaugural Ball that I decided I was going. Doug, my grandson would be there, and I would never have an opportunity to do this again.
Amtrak had three trains going to Washington that afternoon. Do not ask me how I made the train, since the LIRR was on a limited weekend schedule. But I did, carrying my gown in a Macy's shopping bag.
When the Amtrak train arrived in Baltimore, I headed to the ladies' room to make the transformation from bag lady to Inaugural Ball guest. By the time the train pulled into D.C., I was put together. The train pulled into the station 6:10, just in time to meet my escort. The ball started at 6:30 p.m. When my grandson saw me, he gave his thumbs-up of approval, but when I saw him my eyes filled with tears. He was so handsome in his full regalia.
The gala was held at Union Station in Washington, D.C. Three bands were playing. A room dedicated to past presidents was intriguing to me. I took my picture with my favorite, who was ahead of his time, an environmentalist and a trust-buster. He was also my neighbor, Teddy Roosevelt.
The trays of finger food did not stop coming, and I must say the liquor did not stop flowing. I spoke to everyone. Around 8:30 p.m., the President and first lady arrived. Everyone tried to get a glimpse of them, and Laura's red gown. I got a peek.
They danced to the music of the Marine band for about two minutes. As soon as I saw President Bush dance, I knew I had found a new soul mate: He dances worse than I do, and I thought that was an impossibility. He graciously thanked the crowd, and they were whisked away.
The hour was getting late. I found my handsome prince, and like Cinderella, I bid him adieu. He informed me he just met a girl (is she lucky). I picked up our souvenirs and disappeared into the night.
It was obvious by the formal attire of the passengers on the train back to New York that most had attended the ball. The festive mood continued as the train chugged onward toward New York and snow lightly fell outside, transforming the night into a winter wonderland. Several hours later, the train safely pulled into Penn Station. I quickly disembarked and transferred to the LIRR. To my astonishment, the train was filled to capacity. It was three in the morning!
When I arrived home I kissed my husband and told him where I'd been. Was it worth it? I would do it again in a minute.
