From One White House Kid To Another

Though Barbara and Jenna Bush, the twin daughters of former President George Bush are now much older than the Malia and Sasha Obama, they were only seven when their grandfather moved into the White House, and 18 when their father became President.

Needless to say, they have a lot of experience living at the most prestigious address in the United States, and were happy to share some of it with the two first daughters in a letter penned to them just before last week's inauguration.

Here is an excerpt of some of the fun advice they gave to Malia and Sasha.

-- Surround yourself with loyal friends. They'll protect and calm you and join in on some of the fun, and appreciate the history.

-- If you're traveling with your parents over Halloween, don't let it stop you from doing what you would normally do. Dress up in some imaginative, elaborate costume (if you are like us a pack of Juicy Fruit and a Vampiress) and trick-or-treat down the plane aisle.

-- If you ever need a hug, go find Ramsey. If you want to talk football, look for Buddy. And, if you just need a smile, look for "Smiley."

-- And, a note on White House puppies--our sweet puppy Spot was nursed on the lawn of the White House. And then of course, there's Barney, who most recently bit a reporter. Cherish your animals because sometimes you'll need the quiet comfort that only animals can provide.

-- Slide down the banister of the solarium, go to T-ball games, have swimming parties, and play Sardines on the White House lawn. Have fun and enjoy your childhood in such a magical place to live and play.

-- When your dad throws out the first pitch for the Yankees, go to the game.

-- In fact, go to anything and everything you possibly can: the Kennedy Center for theater, State Dinners, Christmas parties (the White House staff party is our favorite!), museum openings, arrival ceremonies, and walks around the monuments. Just go. Four years goes by so fast, so absorb it all, enjoy it all!

Wow! Sure looks as though the two girls had a ton of fun as first grand-daughters and daughters. The letter also talks how special Christmas was at the White House and their life when they returned at the age of 18. However, the most important piece of advice to the girls was the last sentence that said:

- So here is our most important piece of advice: remember who your dad really is.

We are sure the Obama girls will take a lot of the advice to heart - especially the one regarding sliding down the banister and having swim parties!

Source: Wall Street Journal.com