Remembering a President

Sunday, December 29, 2013 – Santa Maria to Anaheim

Our day began with a visit to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, an impressively curated tribute to his life and presidency. One of the highlights was the Air Force One display, which perfectly fed into my love of aircraft. Reagan is buried at the library, and the inscription behind his headstone reads: “I know in my heart that man is good, that what is right will always eventually triumph, and there is purpose and worth to each and every life.” Powerful words from a great man and a great president.

After the library, we made our way to Beverly Hills and Hollywood. We strolled up and down Rodeo Drive and a few side streets, then did the same on Hollywood Blvd. None of us are particularly star-struck, so a quick walk was enough to check the box—“been there, done that.” No T-shirt needed.

We ended the day in Anaheim with dinner at El Torito. We have a rule against eating at chain restaurants when we travel—unless it’s a chain we don’t have at home. Thus, In-N-Out and El Torito make the “OK” list, and I’m glad they do. The tableside guacamole at El Torito is amazing. The other food is great too, but let’s be honest—it’s all about the guac.

With bellies full of avocado goodness, we checked into our hotel to rest up for the next day in the Happiest Place on Earth.

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