[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[December 7, 1992]
[Page 2176]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Remarks at a Christmas Greeting for the White House Staff
December 7, 1992

    Don't dare move my hands--[laughter]--what I wanted to do--
[laughter]. No, but I am very grateful to Dana and to Paula for being 
here. And Dana's given me a lot of laughs. He said to me on the phone, 
``Are you sure you really want me to come there?'' [Laughter] And I said 
yes. And he said, ``I hope I've never crossed the line.'' I knew exactly 
what he meant, and as far as I'm concerned, he never has. The fact that 
we can laugh at each other is a very fundamental thing. I'm not sure on 
November 4th that the invitation would have gone out and then had the 
same enthusiasm. [Laughter] But we're shifting gears. And I think he's 
given us a wonderful kickoff to what I hope will be a joyous, totally 
friendly, very happy, somewhat nostalgic but merry Christmas for 
everybody.
    In a few minutes, Barbara shows the press through this spectacular 
house that we've been privileged to live in for 4 years. And we wanted 
to share with some of you--I wish we could have had everybody--the 
majesty of this place, which I hope many will get to see in these 
various receptions and all. But I think there's something special seeing 
it for the first time when it's just beginning.
    So let me take this opportunity once again to thank Dana Carvey for 
brightening our lives, giving us a little joy, and wish each and every 
one of you a Merry Christmas. And we can never adequately say thanks for 
all you've done for us, for your country, and for the Bush family.
    Thank you so much, and God bless you.

                    Note: The President spoke at 9:50 a.m. in the East 
                        Room at the White House. In his remarks, he 
                        referred to comedian Dana Carvey and his wife, 
                        Paula.