Last night was the inaugural ball at the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum, held at the same place as Lincoln’s second inaugural ball. The ability to eat, drink and be merry while strolling through the incredible galleries was amazing. The Hall of Presidents, the Women in History photography exhibit, the gallery with photos and amazing details of Lincoln’s second inaugural and assassination only four months later.

Anita Baker sang the national anthem and all 2,000 people sang along. It was a spiritual experience.

Pictured: Anita Baker onstage with Abraham Lincoln. Not something anyone expects to see in a lifetime, but then, this inaugural season has been full of slightly out-of-body experiences, hasn’t it?