a few of things cross my mind ...

Jimmy Carter has remained so much fitter and youthful than George Bush senior.

George Bush junior appears to have the same kind of slightly blissfull and distantly dreamy expression on his face, as he slouches in his chair, as people who've had a few glasses of "Dutch courage".

They used the full names of all the dignitaries and Presidents (e.g. George Walker Bush), but only refer to Obama as Barack H Obama. Are they afraid of the name Hussain?

Aretha has added yet more pounds since I last saw her, but sounds as good as ever.

I was watching it on Fox TV live internet feed from Washington DC, then put on the BBC to find that they were a few seconds ahead of Fox, so the broadband feed wasn't quite live.

For some reason I'm drawn to the live coverage of this inauguration more than any of the others.

Good thread Al...

Laura Bush looks wonderfully elegant and I always really liked Barbara Bush.

Loved Obama forgetting the words one second after they had been given to him. Freudian slip? If he can't remember the words of the oath long enough to repeat them...

I can imagine his embarrassment at forgetting the words he must have rehearsed time after time. A moment much eased by the smile of his lovely wife standing beside him.

He's speaking very well. But once he's talked the talk ....

I hope he does a great job in office.

Spot on Al; Michelle's beautiful smile said it all. Who cares if it's not smooth as long as it gets there in the end.

Oh I do like his speech; very much the right one at this time.

I hope his actions fit his words.

The camera managed to catch George Bush juniors scowl as Barack Obama was talking about the rights and freedoms of all people.

Did I detect a difference of opinion?

The problem with making excellent speeches, like this one, is that you then have to live up to them.

He's set himself a mighty task.

Wonderful speech.

We all now have hope.

I pray that those in the World who want division and war somehow fail in their aims.

As LENNON said - lets Give PEACE a CHANCE.

I do hope OBAMA has a chance to improve life for many billions around the World as the leader of the "Free" World.

Inspirational. Superb orator. He makes Gordon Brown look like a fat slob. This guy could..COULD...change the world!

CNN explained last night that Obama did not forget his words. It was the guy swearing Obama in that said the words in the wrong order and this was why Obama hesitated. Then the words were said in the right order and the ceremony proceeded.

I enjoyed watching the inauguration parade last night. The was when quite portly drum major who reminded me a lot of Jeremy the Nowhere Man out of Yellow Submarine.

Barack Obama's expression of curiosity when he heard the bagpipes was amusing. Maybe he's never heard them before.