Following yearly tradition, First Lady Michelle Obama unveiled a White House transformed by Christmas finery Wednesday.
This year’s theme is “Gather Around,” and a small army of volunteers chosen from across the country helped to deck the famous halls, porticos and notable White House rooms.
First dogs Bo and Sunny feature prominently into the aesthetic. The dogs make an appearance scampering across the official 3D White House Christmas card and can be spotted standing in front of the famous gingerbread White House. The gingerbread house took several weeks to create, weighs 300 pounds, and boasts a working fountain.
The first dogs also delighted small children when they made an appearance in the fur Wednesday, as Mrs. Obama welcomed Gold Star families to a Christmas celebration. The children, who have each lost a family member who served in war, made holiday crafts with the first lady and enjoyed iced sugar cookies.
In the hubbub, one small girl took a tumble as she was greeted by the Obamas’ exuberant new puppy, Sunny. The dog jumped up to meet the girl, who stepped back and tripped.
The girl seemed undaunted and got up to chat with the First Lady, and later walked around proudly carrying a red paper rose. As Mrs. Obama left, the girl gave her a hug and waved an enthusiastic goodbye.
