I was just anxiety-ridden last night. I walked Kona, then Brian went to his class, and I stayed home watching “The Queen” on DVD and eating dinner. I avoided the internet. I couldn’t stomach another heartbreak. I wasn’t sure when I would peek.

At 8:30, the movie nearly finished, Brian came home. He was smiling, and said “Congratulations, Kona!” as she greeted him with her usual jumping and wiggling. “What? What happened??” I said.

“McCain seceded!” he said.

“Conceded!”

“Yeah!”

“WHAT”

It was over, and the good guys won. I jumped off the sofa and ran to my husband to hug him, and I wept a little too. I stopped the DVD and turned on CNN right on time for President-Elect Obama’s arrival at Grant Park.

I feel like I am waking up from an eight-year nightmare. There has been a heaviness in my heart this entire time.

I feel like I can be proud to be American for the first time in a long time.

I am excited for the future instead of filled with dread.

The world is on our side again.

This morning as I went to work I was surrounded by happy faces. I love my blue state.