I have a list of places I desire to visit in my lifetime. The White House has long been on that list.
A few days ago, to start 2024, my husband and I visited and toured the White House!
Interestingly enough, I walked away from the tour with some surprising epiphanies that dawned on me our tour.
Here are some of my take away thoughts after our visit…
1. Big things are smaller in real life.
The most shocking thing I noticed during our tour was that everything was a little bit smaller than I thought it was.
In my mind, the White House was filled with ginormous rooms.
Don’t get me wrong. The White House was a beautiful sight to see. This residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue actually felt like a home. It is stunning, yes. It is colorful and vibrant and has an elevated feel when you’re inside.
But before I saw it in person last week, I was always convinced that perhaps the White House would be this looming, huge mansion that felt way too big. Larger than life.
It dawned on me when I was inside the White House: maybe the things and the places and the dreams I have, and I think are too big, or grand, or large for me, are just right for me.
What if the very things I’m afraid to pursue are just the right size?
The White House is a beautiful place to visit. It’s not an intimidating mansion, though.
And maybe
similarly
my dreams are beautiful
and not intimidating.
2. Make time for friends
The state dining room was a great reminder to make time for friendship. It’s stunning and beautiful and makes me want to throw a party (or a wedding) simply due to its opulence.
If the President of the United States can make time to eat dinner, and break bread, and laugh with people, so can I.
This weekend, my husband and I had a fantastic dinner with friends in their home.
As an adult, living far from family and where I grew up, I am leaning into community. I am leaning into friends. I am leaning into making time to engage.
Because it’s essential.
3. Get excited
I had zero chill visiting the White House!
I was incredibly excited to visit, and I wasn’t going to hide it.
My smile was wide,
I read all the little signs on the tour,
and I took all the pictures.
I let myself be a happy, excited tourist.
Every chance in 2024 that I get to not be “cool”, not hold back my excitement, I want to embrace more of that.
We didn’t meet the Commander in Chief or anyone else who was at work that day, but my heart is more than full from the memories we’re already creating in 2024.
Love & Joy,
Vimbo
