Washington - After the formal inaugural events of the day drew to a close, it was time for visitors, residents and officials alike to party.

President Barack Obama (web | news | bio) and First Lady Michelle Obama kicked off their marathon night of ten inaugural ball appearances with a stop at the Neighborhood Ball, put on for and by D.C. residents.

Before a sea of digital cameras, the president got down to the serious business of the night, asking the ecstatic crowd, "First of all, how good looking is my wife?"

The First Lady was indeed resplendent in a white, one-shouldered Jason Wu gown as she glided across the floor at the Washington Convention Center with her husband. 

The couple got to share their first dance of the night to the Etta James classic "At Last," sung by Beyonce. The road to the presidency has been a long one not only for the Obamas but for all African-Americans, and "at last" was a common sentiment expressed by many on this momentous day.

The Obamas then cut loose, dancing the night away as performers like Shakira, Mary J. Blige, Faith Hill and Mariah Carey sang along with Stevie Wonder to his classic "Signed, Sealed, Delivered."

The first couple also made an appearance at the Commander-in-Chief Ball, where the new Commander-in-Chief spoke via satellite to troops stationed in Afghanistan: "It is wonderful to be surrounded by some of the very best and bravest Americans. Your courage, your grace, and your patriotism inspire us all."

And at this dance, the Obamas let members of the Armed Services cut in. Mrs. Obama danced with Marine Sgt. Elidio Guillen, and Sgt. Margaret Herrera took a turn on the dance floor with the President.

Sgt. Herrera responded to the question of whether she was nervous by smilingly noting, "No ma'am, I'm a soldier, we handle pressure."

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