Let the inauguration begin… Live with Rael from Wash DC

I’ll be writing updates from two former students of mine today—Rael and Casey—who are in Washington DC.  Casey is there to watch, Rael lives and works there.  This morning from Rael:

s not even five in the morning. Nestled under a down blanket, I
mindlessly turn on Washington DC’s NBC affiliate and wait. Two well
groomed anchors stand in front of the cool morning shadow of the
Capitol and tell us what we already know: we all are witnessing
history.

Traffic is already backed up on Northbound I-95 as people make their
way into the city. Some have camped out overnight by leaning against
concrete construction barriers in freezing temperatures. No snow. Just
bone cutting cold and a desire for many to witness history first hand.

Yesterday, while visiting the Marine Base in Quantico, VA, a warm
hearted gas station clerk commented on the unprecedented security
presence in the District. Thousands of military and law enforcement.
She said she saw the subtle strain on the faces of the well groomed
Marines who have already worked long shifts on the Mall and have
stopped to gas up their cars at her store. But they are strong and
proud to be part of this.