Michelle Obama explains iconic Inauguration Day 'side-eye' Melania Trump moment

Former first lady Michelle Obama made waves on Inauguration Day as social media erupted over the facial expression she made while receiving a present from incoming first lady Melania Trump.

The internet had a field day analyzing her face in that moment -- with many speculating that Michelle Obama's reactions were the equivalent "side-eye" insult to the Trumps or pained reaction to the incoming first family.

But it turns out she was not trying to throw any shade at the Trump family.

The former first lady opened up about the day during an appearance at the American Institute of Architects convention last week -- explaining that she was overwhelmed by the momentous occasion of seeing her daughters' time growing up in the White House come to an end.

She said that whatever emotions viewers might have seen on her face were an effort to hold back tears.

"So that moment of transition, right before the doors opened and we welcomed in the new family, our kids were leaving out the back door in tears, saying goodbye to people," she said.

"I didn't want to have tears in my eyes because people would swear I was crying because of the new president," she added.

But she also reiterated once again during the appearance that she has no plans to run for president or any other office -- and she explained why.

"Politics is tough, and it's hard on a family," she continued. "I wouldn't ask my children to do this again because, when you run for higher office, it's not just you, it's your whole family."