WASHINGTON — The White House is celebrating Christmas with recycled ornaments, natural materials and, of course, a gingerbread White House. The 390-pound work of culinary art is covered in white chocolate and has a marzipan replica of family dog Bo.
“Reflect, Rejoice, Renew” is the theme for the Obama family’s first Christmas in the White House.
Previewing the decorations Wednesday, first lady Michelle Obama said the theme was chosen because her family spends the holidays reflecting on its blessings, rejoicing in the company of friends and family, and renewing their commitments to one another and causes they believe in.
“I wanted to continue that part of the tradition during our first holiday season at the White House,” she said at an event where she also thanked more than 90 volunteers from 24 states who since last weekend logged some 3,400 hours transforming the mansion into a Christmas wonderland.
She said White House staffers will collect toys for the Marine Corps Reserve’s annual Toys for Tots drive. She also announced the launch of the United We Serve “Feed a Neighbor” initiative, a government effort to help communities fight hunger.
Visitors to the website can find volunteer opportunities.
![[prison 19] Caption: This is Cellhouse 1, Pod A, from ground level inside the Sterling Correctional Facility which is located outside of Sterling, Colorado Thursday afternoon. Photographer: LEW SHERMAN Title: FREELANCE Credit: SPECIAL TO THE POST City: Sterling State: CO Country: USA Date: 19990617 ObjectName: prison 19 Keyword: PUBDATE____1999_06_22](/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/20151207__denverpostp1.jpg?w=538 "20151207__denverpost~p1.jpg")
