The Journal Times Online - Racine, Wisconsin

We stood on the steps of the west front of the U.S. Capitol; we looked out toward the Washington Monument and beyond to the Lincoln Memorial. I cannot imagine a million or more people crammed together.

We were alone on the steps that day. No one was around to take our family photo. I didn't have my tripod with me because it was too much to lug around in this city where metal detectors greet you inside every building.

I don't know how many people have ventured out onto the steps of the U.S. Capitol, or how many have even explored the building itself, with its Statuary Hall, Rotunda, and Frieze of American History.

The new Capitol Visitor Center just opened on Dec. 2 (not open for tours during these busy couple of days, though).

Prior to President Reagan, the outdoor ceremony took place on the east front of the building, which faces the U.S. Supreme Court and the Library of Congress.

The inaugural platform has been built on the west side during recent inaugurations because it accomodates more spectators.

It's hard to fathom the size and beauty of the open spaces at the foot of the Capitol and the Washington Monument.

If you could be in DC on Tuesday, where would you want to be watching the events unfold?

I'd want to be on the west steps of the Capitol, behind the scenes.