For their first Christmas as the “First Family,” the Obamas opted to head to Hawaii for the second year in the row in lieu of celebrating the holidays at the White House (and the 26 Christmas trees). They left today at 10:30 AM to start their 10-day vacation.
Now on to the best part about writing about this vacay…the HOUSE they’re renting, aka “Winter White House.”
The 7,000 square foot five-bedroom beachfront estate is situated on a beach on the southeastern coast of Oahu. It’s on the market for $8.9 million. The Obamas are renting it for $4,000 a night in addition to renting two houses next door for family and friends.
“Good Morning America” reported the owner stocked the cabinets with sweet potato chips and taro chips, favorites of the President. A Christmas tree was also delivered to the home.
Couldn’t find any photos of the house but here’s the “Good Morning America” footage.
Via LA Times
Earlier this week, Michelle, Malia, and Sasha read Christmas stories to children at the Children’s Medical Center in Washington D.C. Before Michelle could even start “AVisit From St. Nicholas,” the First Dog, Bo, caused a comical distraction by barking at Santa Claus who ended up leaving the area so the dog could calm down.
The girls took turns reading “Snowmen at Night.” Afterwards (and surprisingly!), the audience was able to ask the well-guarded girls questions. The full transcript is posted here.
And lastly, here is the family’s official holiday card designed by American Greetings. The cards, featuring a gold foil-embossed presidential seal surrounded by a wreath, and a thin burgundy border around the edges, contains the message: “May your family have a joyous holiday season and a new year blessed with hope and happiness.”
Merry Christmas! Check back over the weekend for more holiday-related posts!