We decided that it would be just wrong to live in the DC Metro area and not go and witness history today, so we made our way to the Mall for Ronald Reagan's funeral procession. It was so hot that poor servicemen in wool uniforms were fainting before the procession even started, as they stood at attention awaiting the former president's arrival. Mike was close enough to catch a glimpse of Nancy Reagan waving from the limo, acknowledging the support of the crowd. The horse without a rider was also quite poignant.

I wasn't a big Reagan fan, and I certainly don't support putting his face on every denomination of money, but I am still quite glad that we went. A ten year descent into Alzheimer's can't be an easy way to die (or an easy way to be the loved ones left behind), so I was proud to lend my solemnity to help the man go out with dignity.