Essential Estrogen

There were just a few flakes of snow blowing around when I got in the Jeep and began the drive from the Cedar Rapids area to Solon in Johnson County. The purpose of the drive was to cover a Clinton campaign stop featuring Pres. Bill Clinton.

I made good time on my way there (despite having to drop the teenage daughter off at a friend's home for a slumber party on my way out of town). But it was clear by the time I arrived that the weather was going to be a factor going home.

As with most campaign events, the entry ways into the high school parking lot were lined with campaign signs. Snow remained on the ground from the dumping we received a few days ago, but, by and large, the sidewalks were clear when I walked inside. Here's the scene when I left the parking lot a few hours later:

Author's note: I realize this photo does little to up my sympathy factor with fellow Iowans; however, when it comes to my southern family, I'm going to be able to milk this for weeks.

Even with the long and stressful drive home, it was worth it to see and hear Bill Clinton again. The first time I ever saw him speak was back when he was running for governor of Arkansas. His charisma and ability to connect individually regardless of the size of the crowd were evident then and have only improved as he has aged.