So last night I took the kids to see the White House Christmas tree. Haven't been there in several years, so have no idea whether the following is new or something they changed recently -- in addition to the Christmas tree (which is a huge natural tree planted several decades ago) there was
- a Menora of about the same height, with electric lights powered by a very noisy generator;
- a manger scene/creche, with almost life-sized statues of Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, at least one angel, and some animals, under a shed;
- a huge fire pit full of burning logs, with a sign explaining that it's Yule logs, and the historical significance thereof;
- and the usual 50 plus smaller decorated trees, one for each state, territory and possession (Guam, yes, Mariannas, I think not).
Oh, and toy trains. The only sign was for the Yule logs. Which, by the way, was my favorite thing. I love fireplaces, and miss the bonfires we used to have in the old days. |
