Those Awkward Photo Ops

We all saw the awkward photos and video. Earlier this week, President George W. Bush invited President Elect Obama and all living former presidents (Bush Sr., Clinton, and Carter) to the White House for a lunch gathering. The five gentlemen stood in the oval office, allowing photographers to snap much anticipated pictures. You could see the uncomfortableness in their stances. One highlight was when former President Bill Clinton complimented current President Bush for his choice of Oval Office decor, saying - "I like that rug." This really did happen. You may have seen it.

I know that I tend to criticize President Bush in my blog, but I must give him kudos for such a historical gathering. What you may not know, is that this is not the first time that President Bush has "gone out on a limb" and extended invitations to people whom he may not be that comfortable with. That is one area where Bush has had more courage than many of his predecessors. Although not viewed by many, I have a collection of photos from some of these Oval Office gatherings that would make even Martha Stewart proud. Enjoy:

There was the "Fans of MSNBC Day." That was a rough one, but Bush got through it smiling:




And yes, I remember "Salute Your Friendly Rappers Day." Surprisingly, it went off without a hitch:



Few press showed up for, "Take your egocentric, abusive, ex-husband to lunch day:"


Things got pretty tense for, "Lunch with Looney Toons," but luckily, it was a vegetarian menu:



"Terrorist Awareness Week" was interesting:



Lastly, who could forget the opening day of moose hunting season:



I hope you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane. I also hope that you learned a few things. So, just when you start to think that January 20th could not get here soon enough, just remember...President George W. Bush - he sure could host a lunch.