When I think about the things in life that I always wanted to do I think I have kept that list pretty realistic and hopefully attainable. I always wanted to have kids (I have 2), go to Ireland (and I went!!), I still want to go to Australia, New Zealand and Scotland one day and I would like to go whale watching. Beyond that any opportunities that come up have just been grand surprise adventures to experience and appreciate but recently, an opportunity came up that gave me reason to pause. I can honestly say that I am not a real political person, I have strong views 
and I believe I have a very strong moral compass but I am not one to enter into heated conversations or debates. I do my best to make an impact at the polls and I never share political things to social media. So in this past year imagine my surprise when I had the opportunity not only to tour the White House and West Wing but also to be invited to the annual White House Christmas party.
When I found out that I was invited to go I had many mixed emotions. On the one end I was excited by the opportunity to see such an important and historic place decorated for the holidays, excited for the time with my son, and just excited to have the opportunity to attend such a unique event. On the other hand I struggled with all that is happening in our country, in DC, what it represents and of course my own political views that I am trying hard to not bring into this blog. I mentioned to parents at the preschool and some friends that I would be out of town for a couple of days and where I was going to be. 
I found that the reactions were very interesting and somehow I found myself in the midst of some political conversations. There were those who shared how envious they were of the opportunity, how much they would like to be able to go and then there were those who were simply appalled at the idea that I would willingly attend. I even experienced a few conversations from parents wanting to know if they had their child in the school of a Trump supporter. As I already mentioned I am not bringing my political views into this post but I definitely had some really good conversations with people on both ends of the spectrum. In the end, after much thought, discussions and prayer I decided to go and be a part of our own moment in time with my Z.
Going to such an important event was way out of my comfort zone. Let’s face it, I direct a preschool and rarely need to dress in “grown up” clothes. But I googled pictures from past parties and felt ready to go. The party was on a Sunday evening which meant flying out Friday afternoon and flying back early Monday morning, it was going to be one quick weekend but as unsure as I was, I was also looking forward to this next grand adventure.
When we arrived at the White House we waited outside in line for our turn to weave in and out through security. Once through the White House gates we headed towards the main entrance and the place was beautiful on the outside with the lights and decorations. As we approached the entrance one of two Marine Corp bands greeted us with festive songs. Entering the White House we walked down a long hallway with stars and 
snowflakes hanging from the ceiling. Everyone looked so nice and it was fun to watch the faces on many of the children and adults. As we progressed forward we approached the movie theater where our coats were collected and drinks were offered. It turns out the movie theater was originally a cloakroom known as the “Hat Box” until it was turned into the theater in 1942. I can only imagine the people who sat in that room over the years and the movies they had shown. Knowing the history I thought it was quite cool that they used the room for it’s original purpose that night. Once our things had been taken care of we continued on to simply wander through the many open rooms 
including the library, Red Room and Green Room amongst others. We wandered the halls and marveled at the beautiful trees and decorations in addition to the many fascinating people who were present. Two buffets were set up many rooms apart and we simply wandered, took pics and nibbled.
When we first arrived we were given a ticket and ours was red. That meant we were in the first group to head downstairs and meet President Trump. We stood waiting with our group in the main foyer checking out the pictures of past presidents until our group was called. At the moment they called us to move forward I had to chuckle as the Marine Corp band, which was set up on the State Floor, begin playing a well known, Children’s animated movie Christmas song, “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” We proceeded down the stairs and went into the map room which was fascinating. The map room was 
used during World War II to track the war’s progress. Our next stop was the diplomatic room next door which is where the President and First Lady were situated for a photo op. It was a bit surreal to be standing and talking to the President, not because of who he is as a person but because of the office that he represents. What I wanted to say was not said, what I would have liked to give an opinion on was not shared, but instead I took in the moment for what it was. It was a moment in our own family history that will one day be shared, a moment when I stood beside my son and watched him be literally patted on the back while having a conversation with the President of the United States. This moment was not about me, my views, my feelings or my wishes. This moment was one of those parent moments when we take a step back and let our children shine. This is a moment that we will talk about for many many years to come.
So though I have had some interesting feedback since I shared that I was going and I have had some interesting looks when I have admitted to taking a picture, I am glad I went and had this opportunity and adventure with one of my most favorite people. Going to the White House whether for a tour or for a Christmas Party is not about who I voted for or 
whether or not I agree with the current president. For me it is about seeing and experiencing a historic place that has shaped not only our country but so much that is and has happened around the world. More importantly this adventure was about doing what I do best, supporting my kids in all that they do and showing through not just my words but my actions how much they mean to me.