National Christmas Tree Lighting in DC

We were delighted and surprised to be invited to the National Christmas Tree lighting in DC, which is not only about the tree, but 90 minutes of music from top performers, a speech from President Obama, and of course, Miss Piggy. We sat only about 10 rows behind the first family!

: My VIP date for the evening. It was quite chilly, but I’ve got my love to keep me warm.

: The tree is there year-round on the Ellipse, just south of the White House.

: Security was tight. We were kept firmly in our seats under the watchful eye of the Secret Service, while the first family made the 10 minute walk from the White House.

: Reese Witherspoon, America’s sweetheart, was emcee. She even sang with Santa!

: Poignant and thoughtful remarks about the joys of Christmas at the same time of the agony of the San Bernadino terrorist attack the day before.

: The Coast Guard band accompanied every performer, no small task! Each branch of service rotates every 5 years.

: Crosby, Stills and Nash with an out of tune Silent Night. Hmmm, would’ve been better silent. Maybe they’ll dub it for the TV special.

: Louisiana’s Trombone Shorty with a jazzy Jingle Bells.

: First Lady Michelle Obama reads The Night Before Christmas with “help” from Miss Piggy.

: The grand finale was a sing a long with the crowd.

: President Obama’s opportunity to tell Santa what he wants for Christmas. The guy to his left with the glasses is Eric Jacobson, Muppeteer for Miss Piggy.