Big Day

I’ve been awake since 3:30 am. I blame that partially on the time switchover this weekend, and the other part on my nerves about today.

Election Day is here.

My things are packed and ready to go out to my car for the two block ride to the precinct where I register voters. It’s going to be a very busy day. In 2004, we registered over 100 voters on Election Day. I’m expecting the same type of numbers today. My head judge, in his wisdom, has assigned me a helper.

My nerves aren’t so much about what is going to happen today. This is my third presidential election that I have served as an election judge. November 2000 was my first election as a judge. I’ve worked every election since then. I know my job well. John and the girls drilled me for a 1/2 hour last night on “what if” scenarios — I had solid answers for everything. I know what I am doing.

I’m nervous because I don’t know how this will all come out. I know I would like a broad Democratic victory across the country, starting with Barack Obama. It would be the perfect birthday present (I turn 50 today).

I have a big bottle of Pepcid packed, along with an even bigger bottle of Advil. I bought for myself a huge bouquet of flowers: red, white, and blue with a pop of Autumn. The designer at Johnson’s did a wonderful job – the flowers are fragrant and triggering my allergies. Thank God for Claritin and Zyrtec! I have a book and a magazine to read at lunch break, cookies, towel paper, and my lunch. And my tiara. A birthday girl’s gotta celebrate as she can when she’ll be working at 17+ hour day.

Time to do a last check of the hair, put on the earrings and lipstick, and head to the rec center to set up.

P.S. – Sarah if you read this: happy belated birthday!!!!! Send me your address, would you?