WASHINGTON (DP) Rumors of an open clash between President George W. Bush and President-elect Barack Obama were confirmed this morning. The nation learned for the first time that both are experienced gardeners, with conflicting views.
The two men had planned a joint announcement today at 11 a.m. EST regarding the new organic vegetable garden on the White House grounds. As journalists approached the section of the South Lawn designated for the announcement, they heard raised voices from Bush and Obama, and could make out a few words.
"Double-digging? Man, this is the 21st century!"
"That's how I do it on my ranch and I won a blue ribbon for pole beans!"
The press conference was abruptly cancelled. Although photographers were rushed away before they could take pictures, they did see the two men struggling over a shovel.
The transition between the administrations had gone smoothly, beginning with the cordial reception the Obamas received on their first visit to the White House, but has now hit an ugly patch.
Reliable sources from the West Wing and the Obama team say they are working toward a reconciliation in time for the inauguration ceremony on January 20, and are considering various intermediaries. Jimmy Carter may be brought in, and it is expected that internationally known gardening expert Penelope Hobhouse will arrive from England within a few hours.
On Inauguration Day the President-elect and Mrs. Obama will have coffee at the White House before they are driven to the Capitol with the President and First Lady. Conversation is sure to be strained and there are hopes that sensitive subjects, such as the probable date of the last frost in Washington, D.C., can be avoided.
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11 comments:
Remember the controversy it created when George Bush Sr. said he hated broccoli? Looks like nobody learned their lesson. Surprised I haven't seen this on the news, but am confident your scoop will be picked up by the wire services anytime now.
Susan, Excellent point on the broccoli, I had forgotten about that! At least we know that W. Bush likes pole beans. I will stay on the story and see what develops in the week ahead.
This is a hilarious post, mainly because we gardeners can so totally relate to it and the rest of the world can relate to the inauguration in a friendly funny way. It should be published-can you send a link to the Whitehouse landscaper? I bet he'd get it seen by the President.
I found your blog through Susan. I was intrigued by the daffodil planter moniker. I like the daffodils (at my house I call them the daffys). They will soon be out and I can't wait.
Welcome Tina! I'm glad you enjoyed the article! I love the thought of those two guys having a big discussion about the acid/alkaline balance in the White House soil.
Is the article for real? Initially, I thought you made it up. Then, I had a second thought ... How funny!
Welcome Blossom! Yes, the article is a joke. I think the sensitive subjects for Bush and Obama are more likely to be what cover crops to use, or the best ways to support tomato plants. Last frost may not be such a big deal.
Hi, This is a timely and fun post! The world would be a better place with more gardeners,and some humor!
Best,
Philip
Welcome Philip! Well, maybe the little girls at the White House will get into gardening. There's a lot of space there!
Hi DP,
Was there a battle over whether Obama could bring a poodle into the White House? Jan
Jan, No poodle battle per se. It was one of the breeds considered. Seems that they have narrowed it down to a Portuguese Water Dog or a Labradoodle. Hmmph. You and I know that a jolly Standard Poodle could have been ideal. It will not be a terrier to dig up the garden!
Great post! Thanks for the laugh tonight- gardeners are all alike in that we all find our own way, eventually, of doing things that works best for us! Happy spring to you :)
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