The inauguration was a blast.

I have never been with so many people in my entire life and, though slightly overwhelming, you could almost feel the excitement in the air. There were souvenirs on every street corner, banners and signs on buildings all throughout the district and lots and lots of people.

We found it difficult to navigate as a result of the many barricades dividing off the parade route and ended up walking from Union Station to just south of the Washington Monument, where we watched Obama’s speech from a Jumbotron.

Everyone was deeply engrossed in the moment.

When the speech ended, everyone began to exit the area, which created a huge traffic jam of people on the nearby streets. Despite standing shoulder to shoulder with an unbelievable number of people, it was surprisingly calm and I was amazed at everyone’s patience as we shuffled along at a snail’s pace. The wind was unbelievably cold, but seemed barely noticeable when surrounded by so many people. The police and military were extremely helpful and organized, which seemed to make everything seem safer and run more smoothly.

I am truly honored to have been able to witness the events of this day firsthand and I know it will be something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

Liz Gall is a 2000 Bothell High graduate who lives in Maryland.