A Visit to the Oval Office

Today we paid a visit to the Oval Office. Actually, it was a replica of the Oval Office, which we saw during a tour of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. The library sprawls over 100 acres and features thousands of artifacts as well as the memorial site of our nation's 40th president.



This Bible belonged to Ronald Reagan's mother, Nellie, and was used for both swearing-in ceremonies at the presidential inaugurations.



We also saw the famous presidential podium known as the Blue Goose.



This Air Force One flew seven presidents during its years in service. The boys were excited to view the famed 707, inside and out. (Photography inside the aircraft was not allowed.)



We also gawked at the executive motorcade, including the presidential limousine.



The highlight of the tour, for me, was seeing a piece of the Berlin wall. The kids may be too young to remember the historic speech in which President Reagan challenged Mikhail Gorbachev, "Tear down this wall!" but one day they will appreciate the significance of the part he played in ending the Cold War.



We saw many other fascinating documents, artifacts, memorabilia, and videos. Elizabeth, our horse lover, enjoyed looking at the equine exhibit and the photos of Reagan on horseback. She also giggled when she discovered that she had something in common with President Reagan. "Mom, he liked jelly beans, too!

Ronald Reagan ran for office during the first election in which I was old enough to vote. Today, I was reminded of the privilege of casting that vote, and inspired by the influence he wielded and the legacy he left behind.

God, bless America.

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. 1 Timothy 2:1-2