“The things we hold sacred unite us and transcend distance, time, and even the constraints of a pandemic: faith, family, and friendship; a love of the arts, learning, and nature; gratitude, service, and community; unity and peace. These are the gifts that tie together the heart strings of our lives. These are the Gifts from the Heart,”Jill Biden, first lady and President Joe Biden sent a welcoming letter to mark the beginning of the commemorative 2021 White House Holiday Guide.
The letter continued: “We wish you a happy, healthy, and joyous holiday season. As we look to a new year full of possibility, may gifts from the heart light our path forward.”
The unveiling Monday featured holiday music by the US Marine Band as stars were projected onto the ceiling.
One of these trees is found in the Red Room.
The tree is decorated using doves and a banner featuring the words “The Banner of the Virgin” Names for every US state or territory
The windows open onto the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden.
Shooting stars and doves are representative “peace and light brought to us all by the service of frontline workers and first responders during the pandemic,”According to the White House Holiday Guide.
The ornaments with the gold stars feature the names, ranks, and dates of death of fallen soldiers.
The Library decorations are for educators. “found ways to connect with students in new and innovative ways, pushing through the challenges of the pandemic,”According to the White House Holiday Guide.
The Vermeil Room features portraits of Jacqueline Kennedy (first lady) and Lou Henry Hoover (first lady).
The China Room features china and tableware used by former presidents.
“This holiday, as you gather hand-in-hand and heart-to-heart around the dinner table, we hope the China Room inspires you to share healing laughs, comforting meals, and warm memories with loved ones, extending the Gift of Friendship and Sharing,”The White House Holiday Guide.
Michelle Obama, the former first lady, chose an alternative in 2015. ocean-inspired “Kailua Blue”ColorTheir state china is a nod towards former President Barack Obama’s native state of Hawaii.
The White House’s East Room is the largest, and hosts many public receptions or ceremonies.
“Dear President Biden,”One letter says, “I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers continually.”
One card features a drawing by Biden (“age 78″An American flag is also included.
An image of the Bidens is displayed next to one of Obamas.
FDR is seen holding his grandchildren in 1930s.
The Trumps are seen welcoming the White House Christmas tree.
Morrison is the first White House female pastry chef Built the gingerbread White HouseWith 55 sheets of gingerbread, 120 lb pastillage, 35 lb chocolate and 25 lbs of royal icing.
The display features a gingerbread police station and fire station, as well as a school, post office and grocery store.
“The hallway alcoves and tree displays depict wintry scenes of life within our towns and cities, reflecting the solace of faith, the lasting bonds of community, and the perseverance of the American spirit,”The White House Holiday Guide.