Happy Holidays! Doro and Sam LeBlond Reminisce on Celebrations at the White House Pt. 1

In this episode of Health Gig, Doro sits down with her eldest son, Sam Bush LeBlond, to talk about holiday celebrations and traditions. Sam shared memories of the fun he had as a boy growing up in the White House, and Doro shared her memories of growing up in Texas and the traditions she carried to the White House. Together, they talk about the warm memories they have of Christmas, reflecting on traditions, the joy of togetherness, and the legacy of their family.

This is the first of a two-part episode.

MORE ON GUEST:

Bio: https://societyofpresidentialdescendants.org/board-of-trustees/samuel-bush-leblond/

Podcast: https://georgeandbarbarabush.org/podcasts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_leblond/?hl=en


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qUOTES:

The first Christmas theme I remember was the Nutcracker Ballet, and they had huge Nutcrackers all over. I remember going up and saluting them, and running around, having fun with that set up. –Sam LeBlond

Ganny (Barbara), myself and Ellie piled into a cherry picker, and everyone gathered around. We put the star on the national tree and lit it, starting the Christmas season in Washington. It was an honor. –Sam LeBlond

Mom (Barbara) loved to needle point and she was inspired to have a needlepoint-themed Christmas. She was a part of the Saintly Stitchers who, with volunteers, made 1,370 needlepoint ornaments. –Doro Bush Koch

Show Notes:

  • Christmas at the White House was a magical experience for the Bush family.

  • The first Christmas theme was focused on literacy and storybook characters.

  • Barbara Bush, Sam’s grandmother, was the first First Lady to highlight literacy through the Christmas theme.

  • Barbara and George Bush, Sam’s grandparents, broke tradition by mixing staff and press at Christmas parties.

  • Fun Bush family traditions included special Christmas cookies, snowball fights and tobogganing during the holiday season.

  • Traditions, family legacy, and cherished memories are important to carry on for future generations.

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