White House decks its halls for the holidays

by Donna M Owens |

The White House has decked its halls with boughs of holly and plenty of shiny, sparkly bling for Christmas 2011 — including 37 trees, a 400-pound gingerbread house and other artsy, creative touches meant to evoke the spirit of the season.

On Wednesday, dozens of guests (including media outlets like theGrio) were among those invited to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for its annual holiday preview, hosted by first lady Michelle Obama and volunteers from across the country.

With all manner of real and artificial trees, topiary and flowers, it all made for a stunning display. The trees were decorated with star motifs, quartz and metallics like copper, aluminum and mirrored paper, set amidst the backdrop of grand, colorful rooms with antiques, china, books and portraits of past American leaders and first ladies.

The scene also included handmade decorations made of felt, paper and even recycled cans. Homemade cookies decorated like snowflakes, Rudolph the Red Nosed reindeer and more were set out on silver platters, as servicemembers in uniform escorted guests around, and another plucked out holiday tunes on a piano.

About 85,000 visitors are expected to descend upon the White House this holiday season. This year’s theme is “Shine, Give, Share,” which officials said is meant to evoke the countless ways Americans can “lift up those around us,” while sharing joy, blessings and more.

Looking chic in a black ensemble with a shimmering collar, Mrs. Obama warmly welcomed guests seated in the ornate East Room, most of them military families. She also referenced the White House official tree — a 19 foot balsam fir from Wisconsin situated in the Blue Room — that is decorated with cards collected from some of the nation’s military children.

“I have spoken with so many military spouses who are raising their kids alone while their loved one is stationed overseas for months at a time,” said Mrs. Obama, who launched the “Joining Forces” with Dr. Jill Biden earlier this year to raise awareness about military families and their sacrifices. “I have heard from so many wonderful military children who pick up extra chores, and just step up and keep their grades going while mom or dad is away. And I’ve been inspired by the survivors of our fallen who keep giving back to the community day after day.”

The tone turned upbeat when the first lady took a posse of kids to the State Dining Room, decorated with stunning trees, and coral and tangerine beaded fruit, to make and eat cookie treats with the White House chefs.

The president wasn’t in the house (he was headed to Pa. via chopper). But the day ended with an appearance by Bo the first dog — whose image has been cheekily replicated as part of the holiday décor.

“All right, so it’s sort of a “where’s Bo?” said Mrs. Obama laughing. “You’ve got to find the Bo in every room, because he’s hidden everywhere. So in one room, he’s 4-and-a-half feet tall and he’s made of felt — you know, that soft material. And in another room, he’s nine and a half inches tall, and he’s made of buttons. Yeah, yeah, so you’ve got to look for him. So, trust me, our dog has been a little confused walking around the house for the last couple of weeks, seeing himself in gigantic form.”

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