HUGE turnout to vote in

[Shanti Mama]

Kathmandu Nepal!

God it felt good to put my ballot envelope in the box to leave by US Diplomatic pouch on Tuesday. Andy, yes, I trus that the pouch system will get my ballet there. The process was thoroughly explained to me. The table to handle write-in ballots for those who have not received their regular absentee ballets was mobbed. I don't know a single person who got their absentee ballot... hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

This time, perhaps for the first time since I began voting in the 70s, did it feel like my vote was important. I totally get what Michelle Obama says about being proud to be an American for the first time. And, WHY IS THAT AN ANTI-AMERICAN thing to say???????

I live in the midst of a UN microcosm, in addition to all the Nepalis. My kids attend a school in which children from over 40 countries are enrolled. Not one other country that I know of speaks about "anti" ness the way Americans do. Nor do they campaign on their patriotism.

Still, it felt good to be an American today. And to see so many Americans voting. I hope we break all records for voter turnout this year. Wish I could be there to help.