Here we are getting ready. Left picture: Jody & JoAnn, right: Paula Walters – owner/ founder together with her husband Johnny Walters of The Victorian Carolers.
When we got to the White House we went through three security checks and then were ushered by a very nice young man named Steven into a green room of sorts. On the walls were pictures of famous musicians who had recently used the room: Yo-Yo Ma, Rascal Flatts, Neil Diamond… So exciting to be grouped with such wonderful musicians.
JoAnn and I
I hope JoAnn won’t mind me incorporating this picture… She wanted to make sure to use a White House restroom!
After we sang we were able to take the same tour that we had been providing entertainment for. On this hall were pictures of previous Presidents celebrating Christmas.
Throughout the tour there were different replicas of Bo the Presidential dog. The replicas varied in size and what they were made of.
Here is a picture of the real Bo.
The presidential library. All the Christmas trees had a banner on them saying: “Shine Give Share”
This is the China Room. “The George W. Bush State China is displayed in the Chine Room, set for a wonderful holiday gathering in celebration of the time-honored tradition of sharing meals with our families and friends.” (from the tour program)
Here is a picture of the whole group: The Victorian Carolers. Visit our website at: http://www.raleighcarolers.com/ Pictured from left to right: Rich King, Matt Lewis, Laura Cashwell, Jody Rollins, Brian Ferguson, Jo Ann Fish, Hannah-Joy Bowden (me), Paula Walters & Johnny Walters.
“The centerpiece of the Blue Room is the official White House Christmas tree-a breathtaking 18-foot-6-inch balsam fir from Neshkoro, Wisconsin-which features holiday cards from military children. Collected from United States military installations around the world, these thoughtful and poignant cards honor their parents serving in uniform. Medals, badges, and patches from all of the military branches are displayed on ornaments, and ribbons inspired by the Armed Forces colors represent the brave women and men who protect our Nation and defend our freedom.” (excerpt from the tour program: Shine Give Share : Holidays at the White House 2011)
In the State Dining room is a replica of the White House. Guess what it’s made of? Gingerbread! “Displayed on the eagele-pedestal side table, the White House gingerbread house has been a favorite holiday tradition since the 1960s. Weighting 300 pounds, this accurate replica of the White House took six weeks to make.” (from the above mentioned program)
A celebratory cupcake from the DC Cupcake company was in order when I had donned my comfy clothes – out of my “gay apparel” – FaLaLa what a wonderful experience! As my readers may or may not know, I am a Christian. It was a great joy to me to sing about my Savior, Jesus Christ in our nations capital. My spirit soared when I proclaimed, “He (meaning Jesus) rules the world with truth and grace and makes the nations prove. The glories of His righteousness…” This country and world may seem to be out of control, but Jesus is still and ever will be on the throne, ruling in His truth and grace!
