I never seem to get video there, only audio. Not sure why because there’s no mention of a needed plug-in or anything. I’ve tried other BBC sites and there is only a message that it’s not available in USA.
I just wanted to be sure I’m not missing anything - I only see recorded video on the live feed showing earlier events. Are they on a break with the live broadcast?
Now dear Chips, do you remember you prepared us last night to not expect as good a coverage today on TOD as you were able to do yesterday as you kept us informed on the events in Ireland. Well,I do think you were mistaken. You rock!
THESE THINGS WOULD MAKE ME VERY NERVOUS…I WOULD BE THE ONE TO PUT A SLEEVE IN THE STEW! NO WIPING YOUR CHIN WITH YOUR SLEEVE HERE! AND…DON’T SMILE UNTIL YOU CHECK YOUR TEETH FIRST! DO NOT LEAVE THE RESTROOM WITHOUT CHECKING THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SHOE FOR CHARMIN! MARTHA STEWART WOULD EVEN HAVE TO CLEAN HERSELF UP. THE REPUBLICANS COULDN’T COME BECAUSE THEY WOULD NEED BIBS AND HIGHCHAIRS!
I’d like to have a look at the silverware ;) Lately I’ve been buying little pieces to a hundred year old set of silverPLATE (lol) that I’ve fallen in love with, I’m wondering how old the REAL SILVER is on Her Majesty’s dinner table.
I forgot that this will be a tails/tuxedo event, and royalty will be wearing tiaras! How exciting! Thank heavens for the White House feed, I clicked on BBC live, and it said “not available in your area”. I would have cried if not for WH.gov. This should be fun.
It looks like from another era to me, what with the tiaras and all the extreme elegance and pomp and circumstance. Michelle looks elegant. Tom Hanks sure gets around, doesn’t he? Just saw him on the Oprah Extravaganza. Recognized a few others. Didn’t know Hillary was going to be there. It looks like a tough gig to me though, very nice and all but not real enjoyable. The pub in Moneygall looked like a lot more fun.
NO PLASTIC FORKS IN THESE PLACE SETTINGS AND THOSE CHAIRS!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! REMEMBER THAT OLD TRICK WHERE YOU COULD FLIP THE PLATE OVER TO SEE WHERE IT WAS MADE?????…:)))) CORELLE IS OUT GIRLS!
and his father I think, his grandparents too.. all of them would be so amazed and so proud. I think of his mom a lot, as a mom myself of grown men.. I think of these milestones and how happy he would have made her with all his many worldly achievements.. all the good he is bringing to the world longterm.
Hi just got back from London. It was incredible!!! We were right at the front at Buckingham Palace when President Obama came out in the beast! My son and husband saw him get into the car but my friend and I were in a different place and got real close to the motorcade. It has been a dream come true. The atmosphere was incredible, everyone was so friendly and happy to see the Obama’s. The President was sitting on the side of the car facing where we were. Even though I was shaking so much I still managed to get a picture of the car on my phone but i have no idea how to upload it onto the computer. People were screaming and shouting ‘Obama’ or ‘I love you’ (I have to confess that last comment was me before bursting into tears of joy.)Lol! A DREAM COME TRUE!!!!
Thank you so much for all the incredible coverage on this site of both Ireland and London. This blog is a national treasure!! I must say one more time how much I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your great president. (Sorry for being so OTT, I am still so excited.)
We are united in that love. I am so thrilled for your experiences today, thank you for sharing them, I hope they are always important and pleasant memories for you into the future.
President Obama’s and FLOTUS capacity to inspire joy and hope is truly remarkable, and a gift to the world.
Your recap is exactly how I would have been if I was there - thanks for sharing your enthusiasm. It’s so wonderful to hear about all the excitement an positive energy being poured over President Obama and Michelle while they are in London. You are so lucky! And the weather looks amazing, too.
They sure are MTmarilyn they are so very special! Today has been so amazing. Although I am still buzzing with excitement I must go to bed as I am up at 3.00 am for my little boy’s school trip (beginning at 4 am!!!) My guess is that I will not sleep at all)
When I can get someone to show me how to upload pics I will post it. I am so dumb with technology!
How is it unbelievably formal and of course its pompous, this is the Royals. If there is ever an occasion for pomp and circumstance its amongst British Monarchy. :D I am enjoying it. Even though I too miss Moneygall. :(
I was wondering how one slyly and discreetly slides off those gloves to eat, and where do you put them. You don’t leave them on, do you? Awkward. This is way out of my league—-I have to go get the clothes out of the dryer.
I believe they loosen the fingers by pulling on them a bit, and then they slip right off. Not sure where they put them during dinner, though. Maybe a hat check type of affair?
WOW AND DOUBLE WOW…LOOK AT OUR ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS FIRST LADY MICHELLE AND HER MAN!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO! THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!…INSIDE TOO…WHICH IS MORE IMPORTANT!
I kind of liked the crowns. Camilla looked nice. But Michelle didn’t need a crown; the dress, gloves, earrings, hair and make-up made her look regal enough.
I think Pres. Obama made a little joke with her, pointing to his silverware, asking her to help him with which fork, or something similar. At least that’s what I picked up, or maybe what I’d be asking—-Help! Which fork?
side note: I love it when Michelle wears white. We don’t often see black women portrayed as pristine, delicate, royal…it is wonderful to see this dimension presented.
And to think, Obama used to drive a busted up car, wore shoes with holes in them, and used to have his mother-in-law bug him to cut his hair. Now look where he is.
Aaaaah now I see the pictures for myself….too funny to read all your comments and wonder what Michelle looks like today. Most beautiful woman in the room, by far.
I was thinking that the band blew it, didn’t wait till President Obama was finished with his toast to the Queen. As it played out, it gave a nice little background musical support to his excellent toast.
I just heard after the Queen gives her toast the band always plays the anthem. T was wondering about the odd looks of some of the people gave the President while he gave his toast. The President looked unfazed while the band played on. He is always as cool as a cucumber.
I can’t get over how amazing Mrs. O looks. That dress is simply perfect and so is her hair and makeup. Stunning. I dare to say this may be her most incredible formal look ever.
I watched the White House Live, and MSNBC at the same time. I liked the large picture on my TV….but the sound was better on the White House feed. Did not FLOTUS look absolutely gorgeous! I love the pomp once in a while…the Brits do this extremely well, it’s gorgeous. I feel like I’m watching a British novel. Most of the women’s dresses were beautiful too. When Brits go out in the evening they dress. I could feel the affection between the Queen and the President. Just lovely.
OMGahhhhhhhhhhhhh! Stunning beyond epic. My POTUS looks handsome and beautiful. Mrs. O well I have no words. she killing it….I love my president and fist lady.
I think just royals or those married into roaylty wear Tiaras. Sometimes it does seem silly to me; just like the hats.. some of them are just way too WEIRD.
I was glad to see Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson. A couple of months ago Tom was on Morning Joe and he’s a BIG Obama supporter. Joe asked him if he was disappointed with PBO. Tom came back with a strong defense of PBO. He talked about healthcare, financial reform, the auto bailout. Then Joe was like aren’t you angry that PBO is proposing going back to the Clinton tax rates.. so wealthier people pay more. Tom was like.. uh am i supposed to whine b/c I have to pay more?… there are middle class ppl shouldering too many of the burdens. The rich have to contribute their share. Am I supposed to be happy that I get a tax break while ppl are suffering? I was like Ha.. take that Joe. :D
Good for him. This is not rocket science. Why are some people so dense? Eric Cantor made a statement today that the people of Joplin, Missouri, won’t get disaster relief unless the President is willing to make more cuts from the budget. What kind of crazy idiocy is that? Holding people who just went through a horrendous tornado hostage? I tell you, these guys are very, very sick.
Well - these is the party that the Republican presidential candidates come from. Those who think they can vote in a “moderate” Republican and get government services after 2012, are deluding themselves. The Republican statements like those from Cantor are the realities of Republican rule. They are telling us what they will do, and they’re already doing it. I heard some union leader saying that the Dems shouldn’t take them for granted in 2012 - well, why not? We know what Republicans are doing to the unions, and they’d only get worse if the union members sit out the election. So, why shouldn’t their support be taken for granted?
Tom Hanks has always impressed me as being a decent, kind and balanced human being. Hard not to like him. I think I saw the same episode, although it has been a long, long time since I exorcised Morning Jackass from my daily routine. I really appreciated Hank’s expression of support for our President, which he did without hesitation and directly to Bully Joe’s face.
The MSM makes me weary, always the tail attempting to wag the dog. I have zero trust in them or their product.
“To her Majesty, the Queen, to the vitality of the special relationship between our peoples, and, in the words of Shakespeare, to this blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England.”
Folks a bit of history here with a tad touch of irony. Today May 24 used to be celebrated all over the British Empire as “Empire Day,” a public holiday, during which school children and all “colonial subjects” of Her/His Majesty would march in parades and sing songs in praise of the British Crown. I am originally from a former British colony and my parents told me about Empire Day when they would pledge allegiance to their colonial masters.
The irony here is that President Barack Obama’s father and grandfather in Kenya likely had to participate in similarly honor parades tot he British Crown. And now here we are on May 24th 2011, when their progeny is standing shoulder to shoulder with and being honored BY the same British monarch. History is truly funny sometimes. We’ve come full circle. I bet the irony is not lost on Royal historians.
Nice info Zizi, thank you. I’ll bet its not lost on President Obama either.. he takes so much in stride, I’m thinking this is one of those things… I like that it landed on this date, very fitting that our man is the most powerful human on earth ;)
Zizi, you always drop these bombshells of knowledge. Interesting bit of-irony? Serendipity? Maybe synchronicity? We’re definitely in an interesting time in history.
Love your perspectives zizi. Always timely, and I feel only authentic Africans such as yourself can educate the rest of us about the history of the continent, in way better form than any media, or even transplants. Thus your educated take on the Libya situation. Oh, happy birthday (from over at WSY). Hope you are enjoying your vacation.
Thanks for the compliments. I did enjoy my day very much. my nephew cooked me some fufu with goat soup. I’m still waddling about feeling full. He did really good with the cooking. I’m impressed. :)
From looking at the photos and from the Queen’s speech, I feel that she is genuinely fond of Pres Obama and First Lady Michelle. In the photo’s she has the widest smile and her eyes give him direct contact. It is no pretend or protocol affection - it’s real! He’s charmed another nation with his wife as his secret weapon. Thanks Chipsticks for the heads up for I was able to see and hear all. Why did they cut us out of the eatin’?
I think she adores him too. Her face lights up when she looks at him. I think his “irresistible charm” has won her over, just like it did with the good folks in Moneygall.
Zizi…I love that bit of history and irony. I kept thinking about that little girl from Chicago’s South Side, the little boy from Hawaii, looking totally at ease in one of the grandest rooms in the world. As the Irish Prime Minister said yesterday, “He is the American Dream.” I have to admit, I teared up.
Mrs. Obama looks a little like Audry Hepburn in Roman Holiday.I am so proud of her!
I’d also like to thank the Queen Elizabeth for giving them such a wonderful welcome. You can really see how much affection she has for President and Mrs. Obama.
P.S. Is it just me, or did the Queen let out a dignified little giggle during the President’s speech?
WOW!!!!! First Lady Michelle Obama showed up and showed out today. I absolutely LOVE her grown. She’s so BEAUTIFUL… The President look nice as well. This couple is simply smashing. LOL
So glad that I can call this couple President and First Lady of the United States.
I am still in shock!! Did yall see Mrs Obama? OH my word that woman looked A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!!! She blowed everyone at that dinner away it was like she alone was in the palace!!!!! I kept on saying to myself ‘camera man show Michelle!! Show Michelle!!’ I could just look at her forever…DAMNNNNN she looked fly!!!! Wooh Mr. President huh you got a Queen on your arms there!!!!!! Michelle……Michelle….Michelle!!!! This is definitely gonna get some talks for fashionistas around the globe!!!
Yes, now that you mention Roman Holiday and Audrey Hepburn’s dress, it is ringing a bell. Not everyone will be old enough to know what we’re talking about, but, sigh, I’m old enough to remember. It’s a beautiful dress, and Michelle looked regal in it, which was as appropriate as you can get for tonight’s festivities.
When I shopped for my wedding dress, the saleswoman said she absolutely loves how ivory looks on black women, it brings out the bronze undertones. Then someone else I know had a friend that is a gown designer and she said that by far ivory is the more popular color than white.
Oh, I didn’t realize the designer was Irish…no offense Chips, but that was a grand mistake of a hat IMO. I was really pleased though to see in the Bea auctioned the hat on EBay to benefit a charity! Kudos to Bea!
Chipsticks … this is why I love your website… You are always ahead of everyone else. Great pictures as usual.
I absolutely love Mrs. Obama’s gown. It is really gorgeous.
I am so in awe of our President and Michelle. They are worthy of all the praise they get and to all those people who are so jealous. You could never be as gracious and beautiful as these 2 people are. God bless our POTUS and FLOTUS!!!
Went to get a nap, so I miss the start of everything. I’m getting my first look at POTUS and FLOTUS. What can I say that haven’t already been said? Our First Lady looks wonderful,lovely, fantastic, dam good, no, dam great! Who could ever have imagine? I know Michelle’s Mom see her daughter and is beaming with proud. And I know Michelle’s Dad would have been so proud of his princess too. Just like Barack’s Mom, and Grandparents would have been so proud of him too. Man, I don’t know what to say, I am so proud of Mr. and Mrs. Barack H. Obama. Our President and First Lady.
Yes, when they first sat down, and President Obama was talking to Camilla, the Queen looked a little jealous, and then he paid her some attention and she was happy again. Just my observation… ;)
I’m sitting in a meeting reading these while the subject under discussion is outside my area. I nearly spit out my tea when I read the comment about her being a cougar. Priceless! :D
As I said before, can you just imagine Barack and Michelle conversation as they get ready for bed tonight, in Buckingham Palace. A black girl from the south side of Chicago, and a black guy from Hawaii, the product of a young white girl from Kansas and a black guy from Kenyan. Could you have ever imagine this? Who could have ever imagine?
Yes - this must be totally surreal for them, because they are essentially just normal people. Although, I loved the President’s comment and side glance to David Cameron that their elected positions are fleeting, while the queen’s been there longer than either PBO or Cameron have been alive!
Absolutely. I bet they pinch themselves and giggle silly about the improbable journey they’ve been on. She once said in an interview that before this senatorial and Presidential gig, her hubby said that he could not promise her riches but he would guarantee her “an interesting life”. Well I guess that now qualifies officially as a humongous understatement. :)
oh lawd Hopefruit you’ve got me holding my side with tears running down my face with my mom looking at me funny;unable to speak I am laughing so much :lol:
Today was such a joy to be able to watch our first Family as they represent Our Country. Thank you for all the work you do to provide us with this coverage, thank you so much.
I have been searching everywhere to see the back of this dress but can’t find any pictures. When she turned her back it’s when I gasped for air and cheered so loud.
After seeing the President in white tie and tails…..I think they were made just for him! He looks spectacular in that formal wear. JFK looked good in white tie, but PBO puts him in the shade! Michelle, is absolutely a goddess in that dress…she is all the time, but that dress is the most outstanding I’ve seen on anyone!
I have thought of a line from Rudyard Kipling which describes PBO and MO very well: “Can walk with kings, nor lose the common touch.”
Actually, MOST of the poem describes the POTUS! Wonder if Rudyard knew him? ;)
Rudyard Kipling
If
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise;
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build ’em up with wornout tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on”;
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And - which is more - you’ll be a Man my son!
Love this poem and I agree that it totally fits President Obama. He looks like he’s having a wonderful time, and I am so glad that his spirits are being lifted up by the Irish and British people. It’s too bad he gets such lousy treatment here in his own home country. I hope he learns about this blog and BWD’s site, so he can know how much we love and support he and his wonderful family.
I’m not a royalist at all but I must say I’ve never been more proud of the Queen than I am today. She is displaying great class in her affectionate admiration for the President and Michelle. From all accounts it’s genuine and I can fully understand why. I just hope the republicans who do nothing but shower negativity and hatred on the first family will take note. I don’t expect them to because they haven’t the class to recognize class. Anyway, one thing is for sure; the fact that the Obamas are personal guests of the Queen is likely to make them mad!
Chipsticks thanks for displining me for my bad behavior in my earlier comment, I got carried away by the goddess in this magnificent first lady. Please don’t put me in timeout I will behave good from now on. Pleaassseeeeee!
:lol: I had exactly the same thoughts as you M4O, but I thought it better if we both behave and keep them to ourselves! Hope you don’t mind - you will never ever ever be put on ‘timeout’ on this blog, you’re my buddy! ;-)
I just did a Google search for articles about Moneygall back home and discovered nothing. Is it me or is there a concerted organized effort by the medias stateside to IGNORE the feel good narrative of this president touching his extended family and the world positively?
I am Europe and the coverage is everywhere, every move. What’s up USA?
I saw about a 20 second clip on CBS last night about the Obamas’ visit to Ireland - and about 10 seconds of that was about the ‘Beast’ getting stuck at the Embassy, They didn’t show a single clip from the speech in Dublin, and there was no mention of the size of the crowd. I don’t know if they did better in later bulletins, but it was incredible.
There was no more than 10 seconds of coverage on network/cable news and mostly about the Stuck Beast and Michelle’s hair blowing in the wind. It’s almost like they’re trying to “protect” us from any positive Obama news. Pretty astonishing. And demented.
NO, it wasn’t any better. If if wasn’t for you and our community here, we wouldn’t have experienced any of it. Not event he OFA site connected us to these events. Infuriates me beyond words.
Really, I just did it (moneygall ireland) and got this stuff, actually there are over 3.000 articles. ignore the limpbag article title that one came up first the rest were positive.
Search Results
Limbaugh: ‘Paddy’ Obama’s Ireland trip a ploy for the Irish …
Daily Caller - Jeff Poor - 4 hours ago
A boy stands near US President Barack Obama t-shirts in a shop in Moneygall, Ireland, Saturday, May 21, 2011. …
Video: Obama now in London after successful visit to Ireland
YouTube euronews
Obama makes Celtic connection in Moneygall, Ireland - USA Today
Obama makes jubilant visit to his Irish roots - Boston Globe
Christian Science Monitor - TIME
all 3554 news articles »
It is no conspiracy theory, There is a concerted effort to media blackout President Obama. Afterall the corporate plutocrats want to get rid of him. Heck Roger Ailes is mad that none of the wingnuts he groomed on his Fox station over the past 2.5 years has come close to becoming a serious presidential contender. He and his minions in the other media houses will do everything to to “muzzle’ this president and blunt the positive approval coming out of the bin Laden operation.
Hey all. Totally late to the party. Just watched a repeat of the Queen and PBO’s speech. I think the musicians are going to get a stern talking to. They started playing while he was talking which is apparently not appropriate because all you’re supposed to do while that song is going on is stand still and be quiet. Wow. I think the musicians were a bit trigger happy. Yikes. PBO was super cool though, didn’t blink just went on with the show. How much do you bet the Queen will apologize to him. She seems as though she’s just that nice and respectful and she’ll also probably laughed it off, saying the formality is all stuff and nonsense.
VCPrez, thank you. I remeber bits of that poem, but it was great to see all of it.
I watched quite a bit on daytime cable shows. I watched the entire Dublin speech yesterday afternoon, and the first part of the State dinner today. Also, newspapers are giving good coverage. Not enough, but there is some. However, I think so many people get all their news via the internet now, that this is the best way to reach people. Also, the only audiences for regular evening news are those over 55 for the most part. Check out the commercials and you’ll see that: denture products, Viagra, digestive products, all sorts of medicines….My children, who are 40 & 42, never watch network news. They get everything via the internet, and this is all over the internet.
People like the news when they want it, not when the network says they should watch it. We watch it, but we’re of that older generation.
I have never, in my long life, seen a more spectacular couple than our President and First Lady! No one….not even JFK and Jackie.
My pleasure! I’ve always loved this poem (met it first in high school decades ago)and your quote reminded me of it so I just googled it for a refresher. Most of it applies to our President, but I was touched anew at the way he DAILY exemplifies the first 4 lines and the last. Off the top of my head I cannot think of one republican, presidential contender or otherwise, that these lines describe. Not one!
Netanyahu is an ass. He knows that on his own he cannot sizzle up the media, so he waits and plans his DC junket to coincide with PBO’s high profile trip abroad, so he can get international media split screen coverage.
I thought I would be free of his nonsense while here outside the US listening to BBC world radio. But no, today of all days Nut n yahoo had to be given the lead headline while President Obama’s state banquet was the 3rd news item all this evening. I am livid.
Nut n yahoo…….hahahahah. How about Know Nothin’ Yahoo? I think we should have an ongoing contest about who can come up with the best play on names for all our political nemesis(es????) What’s the plural for nemesis?
Wow………How Beautiful and Regal are Our First Family:-) They make me so proud….
I read somewhere…that First Lady Michelle and the Queen have a very close relationship…they keep in touch often.
Is quite evident that the Queen adores our President…she’s smiling..and if she had it her way..she would probably squeeze his cheeks like the lady in Ireland…:-) in the most loving way…
It just warms my heart…when I think that a community organizer and girl from south side Chicago…. And to be invited to spend 2 nights at the Buckingham Palace..must be so awesome :-)
I bet The President….. just before they getting ready to lay to bed…He might be telling Michelle…
“I told you honey this would be our second honeymoon” since we couldn’t effort it the first time…LOL
I am just joking out loud…..tehee :-)
I believe that President Obama is the Queens favorite person in the world. Just the way she looks at him eye to eye is amazing. She is such a sober person and at the wedding she didn’t lift her eyes or smile except when William and Kate presented themselves before her at the end of the ceremony and that was a small smile although I know she loves Will. It warms my heart to watch her response to our President. Considering her age she is a very alert smart woman. She respects his wisdom, intelligence and balanced demeanor and warmth. When she is around our First Couple she reminds me of a schoolgirl. I have no doubt she has an immense crush on him. He makes her heart flutter. This makes me happy because she can be a tough cookie to crack and he has the charm as no other.
I have been just taking it all in. I didn’t think I would enjoy this part of the trip as much as Ireland, my first love, but seeing Michelle and our Pres in that tux is just amazing.
I have many interests and history is one of them, esp Russian history. The Queen is wearing the Vladimar Crown which was snuck out of Russia as the Revolution began in 1917. It is made of pearls and diamonds and my favorite. I don’t care for the one she allows Camilla to wear and why is she so sober sitting next to our man?
Barb, such a wonderful comment. Thank you for sharing all of that! SO INTERESTING about the crown being snuck out of Russia! As I was just looking at the pics of such a bubbling/happy Queen I thought how these images show a side of QE that is completely unfamiliar to the world. I do think she is taking PBO under her wing and that she is ecstatic to do so. I am really impressed that at this time/stage in her life she has chosen to do this. The Queen has certainly caught onto the spirit of the “Yes We Can” attitude!
Yes she is…as stated before, you can see it in her eyes…the way she looks at PBO (and Michelle). It really is quite lovely to watch. I quess as the repubs has accused us of, the Queen has been drinking the kool-aide!
I think we may just need to send the dear Queen Elizabeth a link to The Obama Diary blog so she can come here to celebrate, respect, support and love PBO along with us all! She is most definitely drinking the kool-aide. No doubt about it Puddin’! By the way, pass me another glass!
Wow - such a learned crowd on this blog. Why does the Queen of England have the crown? Should it not be returned to Russia and her people? It just seems odd. It reminds me of the time I was watching the Antique Road Show and a family who were the descendants of slave owners had a large vase made by a slave. The piece was appraised at $10-$15K and they cheered like YAY for us, we’re so lucky. I found that appallingly disgusting. Surely, the proceeds should have been donated to charity. They had absolutely no control over what their ancestors did but to be so brazen in the face of an opportunity to change course was quite disturbing.
I felt the same way when I lived in London and spent an afternoon visiting the Tower of London and the jewels on display. I was furious to see the diamonds from Africa and the Star of India. I felt like shouting that they should give them back… But, I guess that’s history.
Just want to add that FLOTUS is absolutely ravishing and wearing those gloves is smart since
the queen always wears gloves. In my day I had a pair of them which is basically a thing of the past. I think they had small buttons on the wrist side.
I am just enjoying myself tonight. You all are so beautiful on this site. This is my home. And to our beautiful Chipsticks, You are just wonderful to us. Thank you for all of this beauty on this site. I am just crying with joy and love. Our First Lady is just plain beautiful. Our President, well we all know, he is just plain fine. Our SOS is looking lovely as well. Bill should be trembling in his booths.
The President and First Lady of the United States are beautiful, I love the pictures, keep up the wonderful works we truly appreciate you for recognizing our President and our First Lady.
*sits*
Thank you Chipsticks for the heads up and the connection!
Okay.. me again ;) I am at the BBC link.. and getting only the recorded video.. am I missing a live connection thats ongoing?
There’s no coverage yet sherijr, it’s not starting for an hour. Not sure how much we’ll see.
I never seem to get video there, only audio. Not sure why because there’s no mention of a needed plug-in or anything. I’ve tried other BBC sites and there is only a message that it’s not available in USA.
BBC special attention REQUIRED for LIVE feed..
For example if you are online now there is only one block at bottom of video it is recorded…. It reads ‘LIVE Reports covering Obama’s UK visit.’
WHEN BBC goes live another block appears beside it.
THUS you must keep an eye out for that second LIVE block, normally itprecedes the RECORDED block.
:)
PS I missed some lives today because I did not know what was going on.
Thank you, Team!
Thanks for that TO.
I just wanted to be sure I’m not missing anything - I only see recorded video on the live feed showing earlier events. Are they on a break with the live broadcast?
Theo, you and I posted the same thing, lol. Me too, only video.
I think it doesn’t begin for another hour still.. 3:30 ET
Thanks Sherijr and Chipsticks. I was hoping to hear some commentary - I’m just being greedy, I guess… :)
Now dear Chips, do you remember you prepared us last night to not expect as good a coverage today on TOD as you were able to do yesterday as you kept us informed on the events in Ireland. Well,I do think you were mistaken. You rock!
Yep, outstanding Chips. More than I expected!!!! Just a lovely day and week.
:lol: I decided posting pics was a whole lot more fun than getting my work done, M!
I’d have to agree with your assessment! ;) Thank you!
I cannot wait :D
Can’t wait to watch it with all these friends.
It’s also going to be shown at the WH livestream:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/live/
thank you Meta !
I know this is crazy but I always try to have 2 or 3 livestreams open because one always surely fails right as things get exciting.
You’re not alone Meta, I know the feeling! :lol:
Yep- not crazy- wise meta :)
You’re a star Meta, I completely forgot to check the WH site - just added the link to the post. Thank you again ;-)
XOXO
THANKS FOR THE HEADS UP CHIPS…MY BRAIN IS A SIEVE…I FORGET EVERYTHING….:)))))))
:lol: Your brain must be related to mine, Sue - same problem here!
THE ABBEY IS BEAUTIFUL…CAN’T WAIT TO SEE OUR FIRST COUPLE! WHAT’S FOR DINNER?I KNOW IT’S NOT BEANS AND WEENIES!LOLLLLL!
THESE THINGS WOULD MAKE ME VERY NERVOUS…I WOULD BE THE ONE TO PUT A SLEEVE IN THE STEW! NO WIPING YOUR CHIN WITH YOUR SLEEVE HERE! AND…DON’T SMILE UNTIL YOU CHECK YOUR TEETH FIRST! DO NOT LEAVE THE RESTROOM WITHOUT CHECKING THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SHOE FOR CHARMIN! MARTHA STEWART WOULD EVEN HAVE TO CLEAN HERSELF UP. THE REPUBLICANS COULDN’T COME BECAUSE THEY WOULD NEED BIBS AND HIGHCHAIRS!
“I WOULD BE THE ONE TO PUT A SLEEVE IN THE STEW!”
:lol: :lol: :lol: You’re a hoooooot!
TIS TRUE…WHEN I AM AT A FANCY DINNER…SOMETHING ALWAYS HAPPENS! I WEAR MULTI-COLORED CLOTHING SO AT LEAST SOMETHING WILL MATCH THE ENTREE! DAH!
I’d be the one to have a speck of mayonnaise near the corner of my mouth…
P.S.,,,DON’T DRIBBLE GRAVY ON THE TABLECLOTH AND MOST OF ALL…DON’T PULL OUT THOSE BAGGIES AND TRY TO TAKE AN EXTRA CHICKEN WING HOME IN YOUR PURSE!
LOL!
Whitehouse.gov is up!!!
Woohoo its all so beautiful~
I SEE MR. ‘VIRGIN AIRLINES’ IS THERE. CAN’T WAIT TO SEE THE FIRST LADY!…:)
:lol: It always amuses me that Mr Virgin Airlines’ first business (when he was very young) was selling condoms. :lol:
LOL!!!
He is still very edgy and still pushes the envelope and goes for shock value!!!
I’d like to have a look at the silverware ;) Lately I’ve been buying little pieces to a hundred year old set of silverPLATE (lol) that I’ve fallen in love with, I’m wondering how old the REAL SILVER is on Her Majesty’s dinner table.
mind you, I’m buying them two & three forks/knives at a time :)
They said this particular dinner set is from 1805.
oh well only TWO HUNDRED YEARS.. lol :)
Was that Tracy Ullman?!
Helena Bonham Carter, Tim Burton and Kevin Spacey.
Another “The Usual Suspects” actor. Cool.
This is really thrilling!! I’m so excited for them.
whew! just caught it.
I forgot that this will be a tails/tuxedo event, and royalty will be wearing tiaras! How exciting! Thank heavens for the White House feed, I clicked on BBC live, and it said “not available in your area”. I would have cried if not for WH.gov. This should be fun.
Fun indeed, my first State Dinner ! Look at those Candlabras~ wowzer.
It looks like from another era to me, what with the tiaras and all the extreme elegance and pomp and circumstance. Michelle looks elegant. Tom Hanks sure gets around, doesn’t he? Just saw him on the Oprah Extravaganza. Recognized a few others. Didn’t know Hillary was going to be there. It looks like a tough gig to me though, very nice and all but not real enjoyable. The pub in Moneygall looked like a lot more fun.
Oh yes to the pub, but you know, just one time at something like this would be fun too.
NO PLASTIC FORKS IN THESE PLACE SETTINGS AND THOSE CHAIRS!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! REMEMBER THAT OLD TRICK WHERE YOU COULD FLIP THE PLATE OVER TO SEE WHERE IT WAS MADE?????…:)))) CORELLE IS OUT GIRLS!
I wish Barack’s ;) mom and dad could be here to witness him being honored by the Queen ~ how nice would that be~
Oh, you just brought a tear to my eye. If only his mother and his grandparents could see him now, what pride they would feel.
and his father I think, his grandparents too.. all of them would be so amazed and so proud. I think of his mom a lot, as a mom myself of grown men.. I think of these milestones and how happy he would have made her with all his many worldly achievements.. all the good he is bringing to the world longterm.
I’ve got the White House feed up and running. Woot.
I find British jibber jabber more tolerable.
Anyone ever seen a show called Keeping Up Appearances?
Hyacinth would just die over this dinner.
Hyacinth!LOL She would just die right after she did something stupid.
Not before making Richard look foolish first.
Mrs Bucket! :lol: She’d think she’d died and gone to heaven!
ah ah ah…..its Bouquet.
that woman was something else.
lol at the bucket woman!!! I watch her everyday. I can’t get enough of her
I beg your pardon!!!
That’s Bouquet to you maam!!!
Bwwwahahahaaa!
Mrs. Bucket would be in a tizzy! I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hyacinth would barge in so she could invite them to her candlelight supper.
So true!
I cant wait to see what Michelle is wearing. It all looks so beautiful
White tie??? Ugh. I hope the President is ready for this and how much attention is FLOTUS going to get for her dress? Ugh again.
Oh POTUS & FLOTUS will be the stars of this show I’m sure.. methinks folks will have a hard time looking anywhere but at them.
Mrs Obama looks absolutely STUNNING!!!
She ROCKS!!!
I don’t know why but I’ve got the butterflies! I’m nervous!
the guy with the blond hair reminded me a bit of Trump.. sorry sir.
It can’t be easy to be on camera for all of this too.. that would be even more disconcerting.
omg one young lady is wearing some thing on her left shoulder :o wtf is THAT? :o :o :o
lawdy lawd :lol:
Hi just got back from London. It was incredible!!! We were right at the front at Buckingham Palace when President Obama came out in the beast! My son and husband saw him get into the car but my friend and I were in a different place and got real close to the motorcade. It has been a dream come true. The atmosphere was incredible, everyone was so friendly and happy to see the Obama’s. The President was sitting on the side of the car facing where we were. Even though I was shaking so much I still managed to get a picture of the car on my phone but i have no idea how to upload it onto the computer. People were screaming and shouting ‘Obama’ or ‘I love you’ (I have to confess that last comment was me before bursting into tears of joy.)Lol! A DREAM COME TRUE!!!!
Thank you so much for all the incredible coverage on this site of both Ireland and London. This blog is a national treasure!! I must say one more time how much I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your great president. (Sorry for being so OTT, I am still so excited.)
OMG I feel your excitement. Just fabulous.
LOL SAm, how wonderful, so glad for you- I know you sent him love from us all.. thanks so much for representing :)
We are united in that love. I am so thrilled for your experiences today, thank you for sharing them, I hope they are always important and pleasant memories for you into the future.
President Obama’s and FLOTUS capacity to inspire joy and hope is truly remarkable, and a gift to the world.
Tres cool! I can feel your excitement—-and understand it completely!
How wonderful for you! My hands would have been shaking too much to take pics.
Your recap is exactly how I would have been if I was there - thanks for sharing your enthusiasm. It’s so wonderful to hear about all the excitement an positive energy being poured over President Obama and Michelle while they are in London. You are so lucky! And the weather looks amazing, too.
Theo67 it was hot and sunny, I even managed to get sunburned (Ouch!) but so worth it.
Ah Sam, what a fantastic report - thank you sooooooooooooooooooo much! :lol:
Absolutely thrilled you got so close and had such a great day, thank YOU again!
You are so welcome. Just watching the State Banquet and loving it.
Whoooooooooo!!!!!!!!! Way to go Sam…I get excited just hearing your beautiful encounter:-)
WOW!!!!!!!! I am so excited for you. I can feel it thru the computer!!!!!!!!! If you ever get the picture uploaded we would love to see it.
Our Obamas are very special. We do love them!!!!
They sure are MTmarilyn they are so very special! Today has been so amazing. Although I am still buzzing with excitement I must go to bed as I am up at 3.00 am for my little boy’s school trip (beginning at 4 am!!!) My guess is that I will not sleep at all)
When I can get someone to show me how to upload pics I will post it. I am so dumb with technology!
Fantastic, sam!! What a wonderful memory for you. Hope to see your photos!!
YOU KNOW…IF THEY STARTED PLAYING ‘MUSICAL CHAIRS’…THIS COULD TAKE DAYS!!!!
I see Doris Kearns (sp?). The author who wrote that Team of Rivals.
Some woman walked in with a really ugly dress. I looked like it was made with two sets of curtains.
I know that little blonde is an actress, but can’t place her.. anybody know?
Kristin Chenoweth I believe.
GLEEK!
Thats right, from Glee, thanks again meta :)
I miss the Irish folks from yesterday :-).
Me to. This is unbelievably formal and dare I say pompous. Ugh.
How is it unbelievably formal and of course its pompous, this is the Royals. If there is ever an occasion for pomp and circumstance its amongst British Monarchy. :D I am enjoying it. Even though I too miss Moneygall. :(
Lots of fashion crimes and victims. Heavens to Betsey.
Just saw Tom Hanks!! Woot!
What an interesting mix of people. Lots of Americans. Lots of Hollywood.
MY GOODNESS…TOM HANKS AND HIS WIFE…WE’VE GOT SOME HOLLYWOOD HERE!
AHHHHHHHHHHHH HERE THEY COME….GORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!
OH MY, here comes the Queen, all bejeweled!!
PBO looks so handsome!!
OH, MICHELLE OBAMA!
Michelle’s dress…. oh my god a work of art!
ya’ll see the dress?
she looks lovely. check her out in gloves.
I was wondering how one slyly and discreetly slides off those gloves to eat, and where do you put them. You don’t leave them on, do you? Awkward. This is way out of my league—-I have to go get the clothes out of the dryer.
I have no idea.
I believe they loosen the fingers by pulling on them a bit, and then they slip right off. Not sure where they put them during dinner, though. Maybe a hat check type of affair?
WOW AND DOUBLE WOW…LOOK AT OUR ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS FIRST LADY MICHELLE AND HER MAN!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO! THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!…INSIDE TOO…WHICH IS MORE IMPORTANT!
I knew she’d show those arms.
I AM TEARING UP. MICHELLE LOOKS SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL. THAT’S *REAL* ROYALTY!
WOW! WOW! Just WOW!
Wow!!!!!!! They look fabulous!!!!!!!
Flotus is gorgious.
I’ve seen a dress like that before I just can’t remember.
Oh Michelle, OMG GORGEOUS!!
I hope there’s nothing on the menu to potentially soil her white. Dreamy :-).
*faints*
I am so proud of our POTUS and FLOTUS … so proud!
*back up*
Hillary looks lovely, too.
*sigh*
Oh my, our President is soooooooooooooooooooo handsome. I’m soooooooooooooo PROUD of him.
I need a drink the President and the First Lady looks so A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! :D
I’m fetching you a quart of guiness…
thanks a bunch :D
cheers!
I think Michelle should also have a crown.:)
No crown please.
agree—pardon, but the crowns look silly. Beyond silly really.
I kind of liked the crowns. Camilla looked nice. But Michelle didn’t need a crown; the dress, gloves, earrings, hair and make-up made her look regal enough.
Am I the only one scared to death of the Queen? I would be soooo scared sitting up there next to her. LOL
LOLLAPALOOZA, what a gorgeous moment. Secretary Clinton also chose a beautiful look.
I haven’t seen my SOS yet - where is she sitted?
Next to Charles. Just one seat over from FLOTUS.
Too bad PBO has to sit next to Camilla.
I think Pres. Obama made a little joke with her, pointing to his silverware, asking her to help him with which fork, or something similar. At least that’s what I picked up, or maybe what I’d be asking—-Help! Which fork?
I’m being very objective here when I say FLOTUS is the best looking woman there. who’s with me?
Absolutely NO CONTEST. She is so stunning.
Wherever you gobrooklyn, I’m right there with ya!!
Hands down. No contest!
I’m with ya!!!!
absolutely, I keep checking back for more pictures. She is stunning today.
Oh, wonderful - David Plouffe is there!!
Just saw him. He looked great.
really? awesome.
Michelle’s make-up is flawless.
side note: I love it when Michelle wears white. We don’t often see black women portrayed as pristine, delicate, royal…it is wonderful to see this dimension presented.
love it, love it, love it.
I agree!
Michelle looks amazing! Sigh. Look at her hair, I love it!
She is riveting……all eyes go immediately to her, even past our handsome President.
And to think, Obama used to drive a busted up car, wore shoes with holes in them, and used to have his mother-in-law bug him to cut his hair. Now look where he is.
That’s the American Dream - our President Obama!
PLEASE NOTE…OUR AWESOME FIRST LADY DOESN’T HAVE TO WEAR ALL SORTS OF JEWELS BECAUSE SHE’S A DIAMOND HERSELF!
true dat.
AGreed.
She’s got on quite a stunning and sparkling pair of earrings though. Some real wowzers!
Amen!
mte
Oh man that whitehouse feed is threatening to stop
Lovely speech by the Queen
Hillary looks pretty as well.
Aaaaah now I see the pictures for myself….too funny to read all your comments and wonder what Michelle looks like today. Most beautiful woman in the room, by far.
The sound just got better (I’m wathcing from Whitehouse stream).
I have never seen him in a suit with tails and a vest. He looks cute
Camilla’s crown is like bling! bling! bling!
fantastic speech by the President :D :D :D
Oops. Was he talking during their National Anthem?
He was making a toast to the queen and the music was “God Save the Queen.”
oops why’d they play music while he was still talking, yikes.
Oh darn thats all for us I guess
The band began playing at the wrong time. But I think they felt that if they had stopped it would have been WAY awkward. :)
Why did they start playing the the anthem while PBO was speaking?
Wasn’t that part of the toast to the Queen?
It was confusing
I was thinking that the band blew it, didn’t wait till President Obama was finished with his toast to the Queen. As it played out, it gave a nice little background musical support to his excellent toast.
Well, the commentators haven’t even mentioned anything about them playing the music so….
For some reason it didn’t strike me as odd - I thought it was part of the protocol.
Think so.
The reporter at the BBC website wrote the timing was bad to start the music while he was speaking
Oh, they are going to get a talking to.
I think they started playing before they should have and couldn’t just stop since it was the national anthem.
Right.
FLOTUS looks GORGEOUS!!!!!!
What happened at the end?
PBO gave a toast to the Queen and the British Anthem kicked in. Afterwards I guess they sat down to eat.
I just heard after the Queen gives her toast the band always plays the anthem. T was wondering about the odd looks of some of the people gave the President while he gave his toast. The President looked unfazed while the band played on. He is always as cool as a cucumber.
I can’t get over how amazing Mrs. O looks. That dress is simply perfect and so is her hair and makeup. Stunning. I dare to say this may be her most incredible formal look ever.
Yes, yes, yes, simple beautiful! She takes my breath away.
She was absolutely gorgeous!!!!. Seeing it in real time was GREAT.. but then looking at the pictures.. I was like WOW.. She is STUNNING.
I gasped when I saw Michelle in that dress. Dammm.
Me too!! She’s finnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnneeeeeeee!!
I watched the White House Live, and MSNBC at the same time. I liked the large picture on my TV….but the sound was better on the White House feed. Did not FLOTUS look absolutely gorgeous! I love the pomp once in a while…the Brits do this extremely well, it’s gorgeous. I feel like I’m watching a British novel. Most of the women’s dresses were beautiful too. When Brits go out in the evening they dress. I could feel the affection between the Queen and the President. Just lovely.
I also felt like I was watching a British novel or Gosford Park or something. Such an intriguing setting.
OMGahhhhhhhhhhhhh! Stunning beyond epic. My POTUS looks handsome and beautiful. Mrs. O well I have no words. she killing it….I love my president and fist lady.
*first
Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful - PRESIDENT AND FIRST LADY ( S O S not bad either.)
Hillary does look beautiful. Nice to see her be able to let her “girlie flag fly”.
Anyone know what the protocol with tiarra’s is….can anyone wear one? They seem so over the top to me.
I think just royals or those married into roaylty wear Tiaras. Sometimes it does seem silly to me; just like the hats.. some of them are just way too WEIRD.
I was glad to see Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson. A couple of months ago Tom was on Morning Joe and he’s a BIG Obama supporter. Joe asked him if he was disappointed with PBO. Tom came back with a strong defense of PBO. He talked about healthcare, financial reform, the auto bailout. Then Joe was like aren’t you angry that PBO is proposing going back to the Clinton tax rates.. so wealthier people pay more. Tom was like.. uh am i supposed to whine b/c I have to pay more?… there are middle class ppl shouldering too many of the burdens. The rich have to contribute their share. Am I supposed to be happy that I get a tax break while ppl are suffering? I was like Ha.. take that Joe. :D
Good for him. This is not rocket science. Why are some people so dense? Eric Cantor made a statement today that the people of Joplin, Missouri, won’t get disaster relief unless the President is willing to make more cuts from the budget. What kind of crazy idiocy is that? Holding people who just went through a horrendous tornado hostage? I tell you, these guys are very, very sick.
Well - these is the party that the Republican presidential candidates come from. Those who think they can vote in a “moderate” Republican and get government services after 2012, are deluding themselves. The Republican statements like those from Cantor are the realities of Republican rule. They are telling us what they will do, and they’re already doing it. I heard some union leader saying that the Dems shouldn’t take them for granted in 2012 - well, why not? We know what Republicans are doing to the unions, and they’d only get worse if the union members sit out the election. So, why shouldn’t their support be taken for granted?
Let Cantor and the Republicans keep playing games like that. Then not only can we keep the White House, we can get the House back.
Tom Hanks has always impressed me as being a decent, kind and balanced human being. Hard not to like him. I think I saw the same episode, although it has been a long, long time since I exorcised Morning Jackass from my daily routine. I really appreciated Hank’s expression of support for our President, which he did without hesitation and directly to Bully Joe’s face.
The MSM makes me weary, always the tail attempting to wag the dog. I have zero trust in them or their product.
Love the president when he said:
“To her Majesty, the Queen, to the vitality of the special relationship between our peoples, and, in the words of Shakespeare, to this blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England.”
Folks a bit of history here with a tad touch of irony. Today May 24 used to be celebrated all over the British Empire as “Empire Day,” a public holiday, during which school children and all “colonial subjects” of Her/His Majesty would march in parades and sing songs in praise of the British Crown. I am originally from a former British colony and my parents told me about Empire Day when they would pledge allegiance to their colonial masters.
The irony here is that President Barack Obama’s father and grandfather in Kenya likely had to participate in similarly honor parades tot he British Crown. And now here we are on May 24th 2011, when their progeny is standing shoulder to shoulder with and being honored BY the same British monarch. History is truly funny sometimes. We’ve come full circle. I bet the irony is not lost on Royal historians.
Amazing!
yep
You are so right zizi - thanks for that tidbit! I hope his family in Kenya is able to view his visit.
Oh I hope so too, how nice for his father’s side of the family.
wow. thanks for that. I always think about his parents when he does things like this.
love ur pic
tee hee
Thanks zizi, what a fascinating bit of history and irony.
Nice info Zizi, thank you. I’ll bet its not lost on President Obama either.. he takes so much in stride, I’m thinking this is one of those things… I like that it landed on this date, very fitting that our man is the most powerful human on earth ;)
Zizi, you always drop these bombshells of knowledge. Interesting bit of-irony? Serendipity? Maybe synchronicity? We’re definitely in an interesting time in history.
Thanks.
Zizi, is it okay if I use your information for other blogs. I think the irony is amazing.
Go right ahead. I saw that you reposted at BWD. ;)
Love your perspectives zizi. Always timely, and I feel only authentic Africans such as yourself can educate the rest of us about the history of the continent, in way better form than any media, or even transplants. Thus your educated take on the Libya situation. Oh, happy birthday (from over at WSY). Hope you are enjoying your vacation.
Thanks for the compliments. I did enjoy my day very much. my nephew cooked me some fufu with goat soup. I’m still waddling about feeling full. He did really good with the cooking. I’m impressed. :)
Mrs. Obama was the belle of the ball. It’s not even up for debate. She killed it!
Yes she did!!!!!! GORGEOUS! As she walked in, I thought about her mother and her girls…they must be so proud of her!
From looking at the photos and from the Queen’s speech, I feel that she is genuinely fond of Pres Obama and First Lady Michelle. In the photo’s she has the widest smile and her eyes give him direct contact. It is no pretend or protocol affection - it’s real! He’s charmed another nation with his wife as his secret weapon. Thanks Chipsticks for the heads up for I was able to see and hear all. Why did they cut us out of the eatin’?
I think she adores him too. Her face lights up when she looks at him. I think his “irresistible charm” has won her over, just like it did with the good folks in Moneygall.
Zizi…I love that bit of history and irony. I kept thinking about that little girl from Chicago’s South Side, the little boy from Hawaii, looking totally at ease in one of the grandest rooms in the world. As the Irish Prime Minister said yesterday, “He is the American Dream.” I have to admit, I teared up.
You are absolutely on point.
Our SOS is looking good as well!
She is. Very beautiful. I just love her.
Oh good. The BBC is blaming the band for starting to early.
It was definitely the band’s fault. They were to have waited until the end of the toast. I applaud PBO for carrying this off despite the blunder.
Mrs. Obama looks a little like Audry Hepburn in Roman Holiday.I am so proud of her!
I’d also like to thank the Queen Elizabeth for giving them such a wonderful welcome. You can really see how much affection she has for President and Mrs. Obama.
P.S. Is it just me, or did the Queen let out a dignified little giggle during the President’s speech?
I saw that, too. I think it was when he mentioned Malia and Sasha being given a ride in the carriage on the Palace grounds. She giggled!
That is why that dress looks familiar. I just watched that movie recently.
WOW!!!!! First Lady Michelle Obama showed up and showed out today. I absolutely LOVE her grown. She’s so BEAUTIFUL… The President look nice as well. This couple is simply smashing. LOL
So glad that I can call this couple President and First Lady of the United States.
I am still in shock!! Did yall see Mrs Obama? OH my word that woman looked A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!!! She blowed everyone at that dinner away it was like she alone was in the palace!!!!! I kept on saying to myself ‘camera man show Michelle!! Show Michelle!!’ I could just look at her forever…DAMNNNNN she looked fly!!!! Wooh Mr. President huh you got a Queen on your arms there!!!!!! Michelle……Michelle….Michelle!!!! This is definitely gonna get some talks for fashionistas around the globe!!!
Yes, now that you mention Roman Holiday and Audrey Hepburn’s dress, it is ringing a bell. Not everyone will be old enough to know what we’re talking about, but, sigh, I’m old enough to remember. It’s a beautiful dress, and Michelle looked regal in it, which was as appropriate as you can get for tonight’s festivities.
I was thinking it looked like a Princess Grace (Kelly) dress, from one of her royal appearances.
Oh really? Hmm, let’s look for some pics.
FYI: Just heard on the BBC that the gown is by Tom Ford.
WHOA. Didn’t see that one coming.
Well Mr. Ford has out done himself. Just breath taking.
Tom is gonna *die* happy tonight :D
:lol: :lol:
He sure is because it’s the talk of the town.
I just saw Tom Ford’s name at the BBC web site. The dress is ivory but it looks white. Any way it looks fabulous on FLOTUS.
When I shopped for my wedding dress, the saleswoman said she absolutely loves how ivory looks on black women, it brings out the bronze undertones. Then someone else I know had a friend that is a gown designer and she said that by far ivory is the more popular color than white.
Three words. Tom Ford yall!!
This is a joke, but I am guessing Tom Ford is NOT the same designer who made Princess Bea’s hat for the royal wedding last month….right? ;)
FLOTUS looks amazing!!!!!!!!!
No, that was Philip Treacy, an Irish hat designer …. so you can blame him!
Must have designed it at the pub.
Oh, I didn’t realize the designer was Irish…no offense Chips, but that was a grand mistake of a hat IMO. I was really pleased though to see in the Bea auctioned the hat on EBay to benefit a charity! Kudos to Bea!
in the end Bea….
Oh man, my constant typos are crazy! I’m sorry! I always spot them just AFTER I click “post comment!”
No offense taken M! He’s designed some silly hats in his time, but that one took the biscuit!
Chipsticks … this is why I love your website… You are always ahead of everyone else. Great pictures as usual.
I absolutely love Mrs. Obama’s gown. It is really gorgeous.
You can get a good look at the dress on the Mrs-O.org website.
I watched the arrival and toasts on MSNBC with Martin Bashir. I was surprised that they showed it. FLOTUS and POTUS looked great.
I am so in awe of our President and Michelle. They are worthy of all the praise they get and to all those people who are so jealous. You could never be as gracious and beautiful as these 2 people are. God bless our POTUS and FLOTUS!!!
Went to get a nap, so I miss the start of everything. I’m getting my first look at POTUS and FLOTUS. What can I say that haven’t already been said? Our First Lady looks wonderful,lovely, fantastic, dam good, no, dam great! Who could ever have imagine? I know Michelle’s Mom see her daughter and is beaming with proud. And I know Michelle’s Dad would have been so proud of his princess too. Just like Barack’s Mom, and Grandparents would have been so proud of him too. Man, I don’t know what to say, I am so proud of Mr. and Mrs. Barack H. Obama. Our President and First Lady.
they look FABULOUS :)
Last photo, Elizabeth R looks like she has a crush.
Yes, when they first sat down, and President Obama was talking to Camilla, the Queen looked a little jealous, and then he paid her some attention and she was happy again. Just my observation… ;)
LOL! Are you implying that the Queen is cougar?
You guys are so crazy. The Queen a cougar. LOL !!!!
I think the Queen just can’t stand Camilla! LOL!
I’m sitting in a meeting reading these while the subject under discussion is outside my area. I nearly spit out my tea when I read the comment about her being a cougar. Priceless! :D
As I said before, can you just imagine Barack and Michelle conversation as they get ready for bed tonight, in Buckingham Palace. A black girl from the south side of Chicago, and a black guy from Hawaii, the product of a young white girl from Kansas and a black guy from Kenyan. Could you have ever imagine this? Who could have ever imagine?
Yes - this must be totally surreal for them, because they are essentially just normal people. Although, I loved the President’s comment and side glance to David Cameron that their elected positions are fleeting, while the queen’s been there longer than either PBO or Cameron have been alive!
Absolutely. I bet they pinch themselves and giggle silly about the improbable journey they’ve been on. She once said in an interview that before this senatorial and Presidential gig, her hubby said that he could not promise her riches but he would guarantee her “an interesting life”. Well I guess that now qualifies officially as a humongous understatement. :)
zizi, how true.
Is anyone more beautiful than our First Lady? (Rhetorical question)
Is NJ Governor Christ Christie a superior ballet dancer? (Rhetorical question)
LMAO bwahahahahahah. Poor christi.
oh lawd Hopefruit you’ve got me holding my side with tears running down my face with my mom looking at me funny;unable to speak I am laughing so much :lol:
bwahahahahaha *dead*
Today was such a joy to be able to watch our first Family as they represent Our Country. Thank you for all the work you do to provide us with this coverage, thank you so much.
They just take my breath away! True Royalty indeed. The Flotus is absolute perfection in that gorgeous gown!
I have been searching everywhere to see the back of this dress but can’t find any pictures. When she turned her back it’s when I gasped for air and cheered so loud.
After seeing the President in white tie and tails…..I think they were made just for him! He looks spectacular in that formal wear. JFK looked good in white tie, but PBO puts him in the shade! Michelle, is absolutely a goddess in that dress…she is all the time, but that dress is the most outstanding I’ve seen on anyone!
I have thought of a line from Rudyard Kipling which describes PBO and MO very well: “Can walk with kings, nor lose the common touch.”
Perfect line - it describes them exactly! Especially over this last 24 hours. Well done!
Actually, MOST of the poem describes the POTUS! Wonder if Rudyard knew him? ;)
Rudyard Kipling
If
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise;
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build ’em up with wornout tools;
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on”;
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And - which is more - you’ll be a Man my son!
Love this poem and I agree that it totally fits President Obama. He looks like he’s having a wonderful time, and I am so glad that his spirits are being lifted up by the Irish and British people. It’s too bad he gets such lousy treatment here in his own home country. I hope he learns about this blog and BWD’s site, so he can know how much we love and support he and his wonderful family.
I love this poem…thanks for sharing.
I just saw the video of President Obama trying to toast to he Queen. Did anyone else see it?
Sorry guys came in kinda late. Now making the rounds around the web.
President Obama looks gorgeously handsome and the first lady looks absolutely beautiful.
I’m not a royalist at all but I must say I’ve never been more proud of the Queen than I am today. She is displaying great class in her affectionate admiration for the President and Michelle. From all accounts it’s genuine and I can fully understand why. I just hope the republicans who do nothing but shower negativity and hatred on the first family will take note. I don’t expect them to because they haven’t the class to recognize class. Anyway, one thing is for sure; the fact that the Obamas are personal guests of the Queen is likely to make them mad!
true
The republicans are so mad, they can’t stand themselves…especially after losing 26 in New York.
2012 IS FEIDIR LINN!
HOLY CRAP WAS THAT KEVIN SPACEY?
Yes! Tom Hanks was there too.
Chipsticks thanks for displining me for my bad behavior in my earlier comment, I got carried away by the goddess in this magnificent first lady. Please don’t put me in timeout I will behave good from now on. Pleaassseeeeee!
:lol: I had exactly the same thoughts as you M4O, but I thought it better if we both behave and keep them to ourselves! Hope you don’t mind - you will never ever ever be put on ‘timeout’ on this blog, you’re my buddy! ;-)
OT:
I just did a Google search for articles about Moneygall back home and discovered nothing. Is it me or is there a concerted organized effort by the medias stateside to IGNORE the feel good narrative of this president touching his extended family and the world positively?
I am Europe and the coverage is everywhere, every move. What’s up USA?
I saw about a 20 second clip on CBS last night about the Obamas’ visit to Ireland - and about 10 seconds of that was about the ‘Beast’ getting stuck at the Embassy, They didn’t show a single clip from the speech in Dublin, and there was no mention of the size of the crowd. I don’t know if they did better in later bulletins, but it was incredible.
Truly sad and for this I as an American am ashamed.
There was no more than 10 seconds of coverage on network/cable news and mostly about the Stuck Beast and Michelle’s hair blowing in the wind. It’s almost like they’re trying to “protect” us from any positive Obama news. Pretty astonishing. And demented.
NO, it wasn’t any better. If if wasn’t for you and our community here, we wouldn’t have experienced any of it. Not event he OFA site connected us to these events. Infuriates me beyond words.
Really, I just did it (moneygall ireland) and got this stuff, actually there are over 3.000 articles. ignore the limpbag article title that one came up first the rest were positive.
Search Results
Limbaugh: ‘Paddy’ Obama’s Ireland trip a ploy for the Irish …
Daily Caller - Jeff Poor - 4 hours ago
A boy stands near US President Barack Obama t-shirts in a shop in Moneygall, Ireland, Saturday, May 21, 2011. …
Video: Obama now in London after successful visit to Ireland
YouTube euronews
Obama makes Celtic connection in Moneygall, Ireland - USA Today
Obama makes jubilant visit to his Irish roots - Boston Globe
Christian Science Monitor - TIME
all 3554 news articles »
It is no conspiracy theory, There is a concerted effort to media blackout President Obama. Afterall the corporate plutocrats want to get rid of him. Heck Roger Ailes is mad that none of the wingnuts he groomed on his Fox station over the past 2.5 years has come close to becoming a serious presidential contender. He and his minions in the other media houses will do everything to to “muzzle’ this president and blunt the positive approval coming out of the bin Laden operation.
They are not coy about their hit jobs any more.
The First Lady’s gown is on point! That gown is the absolute business. Thanks a million for these photos chipsticks.
Hey all. Totally late to the party. Just watched a repeat of the Queen and PBO’s speech. I think the musicians are going to get a stern talking to. They started playing while he was talking which is apparently not appropriate because all you’re supposed to do while that song is going on is stand still and be quiet. Wow. I think the musicians were a bit trigger happy. Yikes. PBO was super cool though, didn’t blink just went on with the show. How much do you bet the Queen will apologize to him. She seems as though she’s just that nice and respectful and she’ll also probably laughed it off, saying the formality is all stuff and nonsense.
VCPrez, thank you. I remeber bits of that poem, but it was great to see all of it.
I watched quite a bit on daytime cable shows. I watched the entire Dublin speech yesterday afternoon, and the first part of the State dinner today. Also, newspapers are giving good coverage. Not enough, but there is some. However, I think so many people get all their news via the internet now, that this is the best way to reach people. Also, the only audiences for regular evening news are those over 55 for the most part. Check out the commercials and you’ll see that: denture products, Viagra, digestive products, all sorts of medicines….My children, who are 40 & 42, never watch network news. They get everything via the internet, and this is all over the internet.
People like the news when they want it, not when the network says they should watch it. We watch it, but we’re of that older generation.
I have never, in my long life, seen a more spectacular couple than our President and First Lady! No one….not even JFK and Jackie.
My pleasure! I’ve always loved this poem (met it first in high school decades ago)and your quote reminded me of it so I just googled it for a refresher. Most of it applies to our President, but I was touched anew at the way he DAILY exemplifies the first 4 lines and the last. Off the top of my head I cannot think of one republican, presidential contender or otherwise, that these lines describe. Not one!
Netanyahu is an ass. He knows that on his own he cannot sizzle up the media, so he waits and plans his DC junket to coincide with PBO’s high profile trip abroad, so he can get international media split screen coverage.
I thought I would be free of his nonsense while here outside the US listening to BBC world radio. But no, today of all days Nut n yahoo had to be given the lead headline while President Obama’s state banquet was the 3rd news item all this evening. I am livid.
Nut n yahoo…….hahahahah. How about Know Nothin’ Yahoo? I think we should have an ongoing contest about who can come up with the best play on names for all our political nemesis(es????) What’s the plural for nemesis?
Alright, after looking at all of these amazing photographs from today I must say I think Queen Elizabeth and President Obama are BFF’s!
Wow………How Beautiful and Regal are Our First Family:-) They make me so proud….
I read somewhere…that First Lady Michelle and the Queen have a very close relationship…they keep in touch often.
Is quite evident that the Queen adores our President…she’s smiling..and if she had it her way..she would probably squeeze his cheeks like the lady in Ireland…:-) in the most loving way…
It just warms my heart…when I think that a community organizer and girl from south side Chicago…. And to be invited to spend 2 nights at the Buckingham Palace..must be so awesome :-)
I bet The President….. just before they getting ready to lay to bed…He might be telling Michelle…
“I told you honey this would be our second honeymoon” since we couldn’t effort it the first time…LOL
I am just joking out loud…..tehee :-)
Whohoooooo…keeping fingers crossed N-26 NY
Dem -48
Rep -42
This would be a huge upset!!
I just saw that the democrat won! I had a pop up news update from the new York times.
SWEET VICTORY!
I believe that President Obama is the Queens favorite person in the world. Just the way she looks at him eye to eye is amazing. She is such a sober person and at the wedding she didn’t lift her eyes or smile except when William and Kate presented themselves before her at the end of the ceremony and that was a small smile although I know she loves Will. It warms my heart to watch her response to our President. Considering her age she is a very alert smart woman. She respects his wisdom, intelligence and balanced demeanor and warmth. When she is around our First Couple she reminds me of a schoolgirl. I have no doubt she has an immense crush on him. He makes her heart flutter. This makes me happy because she can be a tough cookie to crack and he has the charm as no other.
I have been just taking it all in. I didn’t think I would enjoy this part of the trip as much as Ireland, my first love, but seeing Michelle and our Pres in that tux is just amazing.
I have many interests and history is one of them, esp Russian history. The Queen is wearing the Vladimar Crown which was snuck out of Russia as the Revolution began in 1917. It is made of pearls and diamonds and my favorite. I don’t care for the one she allows Camilla to wear and why is she so sober sitting next to our man?
hahahahahaha. I love it.
ps- I love history too, but wow, you have a keen eye and wit. Nice spotting of the crown.
Barb, such a wonderful comment. Thank you for sharing all of that! SO INTERESTING about the crown being snuck out of Russia! As I was just looking at the pics of such a bubbling/happy Queen I thought how these images show a side of QE that is completely unfamiliar to the world. I do think she is taking PBO under her wing and that she is ecstatic to do so. I am really impressed that at this time/stage in her life she has chosen to do this. The Queen has certainly caught onto the spirit of the “Yes We Can” attitude!
Yes she is…as stated before, you can see it in her eyes…the way she looks at PBO (and Michelle). It really is quite lovely to watch. I quess as the repubs has accused us of, the Queen has been drinking the kool-aide!
I think we may just need to send the dear Queen Elizabeth a link to The Obama Diary blog so she can come here to celebrate, respect, support and love PBO along with us all! She is most definitely drinking the kool-aide. No doubt about it Puddin’! By the way, pass me another glass!
Wow - such a learned crowd on this blog. Why does the Queen of England have the crown? Should it not be returned to Russia and her people? It just seems odd. It reminds me of the time I was watching the Antique Road Show and a family who were the descendants of slave owners had a large vase made by a slave. The piece was appraised at $10-$15K and they cheered like YAY for us, we’re so lucky. I found that appallingly disgusting. Surely, the proceeds should have been donated to charity. They had absolutely no control over what their ancestors did but to be so brazen in the face of an opportunity to change course was quite disturbing.
I felt the same way when I lived in London and spent an afternoon visiting the Tower of London and the jewels on display. I was furious to see the diamonds from Africa and the Star of India. I felt like shouting that they should give them back… But, I guess that’s history.
Just want to add that FLOTUS is absolutely ravishing and wearing those gloves is smart since
the queen always wears gloves. In my day I had a pair of them which is basically a thing of the past. I think they had small buttons on the wrist side.
I am just enjoying myself tonight. You all are so beautiful on this site. This is my home. And to our beautiful Chipsticks, You are just wonderful to us. Thank you for all of this beauty on this site. I am just crying with joy and love. Our First Lady is just plain beautiful. Our President, well we all know, he is just plain fine. Our SOS is looking lovely as well. Bill should be trembling in his booths.
This is one of my favorite videos of the queen. It shows that she too is normal.
FLOTUS looks divine and the Prez aint bad either. I really admire the Queen and Prince Phillip the best representative the UK could ever ask for.
MY FIRST LADY IS G.D. GORGEOUS!! AND of course My President is Fine!! But when I first saw the pictures….my fist thougt was Do Ya Thang Michelle!!
The President and First Lady of the United States are beautiful, I love the pictures, keep up the wonderful works we truly appreciate you for recognizing our President and our First Lady.