Today I had a long-awaited opportunity to cover the White House. I had a chance to shoot the Bushes coming back from the ranch in Crawford, TX.
My supervisor got my security clearance this afternoon. I was supposed to be to the White House an hour and a half early, so after clearing security I had plenty of time to get familiar with the press office and chat with other journalists. I enjoyed reading the letters and news cuttings posted on people’s desks or on the bulletin board.
For instance, as I walked by the coffee maker I noticed it was adorned with several pictures of Tom Hanks. An article posted beside the machine informed me that Hanks bought the $1000 Illy espresso machine after noting during a tour that there wasn’t a coffee maker for the journalists. He sent a note with the machine:
I hope this machine will make the 24-hour cycle of news a bit more pleasant. Add water, insert pod, press button and REPORT.
All good things,
Tom Hanks.
Around 6:00 a White House staffer called for us to assemble. We were lead out to the South Lawn. After 10-15 minutes three helicopters came around the Washington Monument. The two dummy helicopters peeled off and Marine One landed on three disks set out to protect the grass.
After a marine and a secret service agent exited the plane, the Bushes’ dog, Barney, bounded down the stairs. Then the President and First Lady exited and walked slowly toward their residence. 
As they neared the White House the Bushes stopped to wave to the small crowd that had come for the event.
I struggled a bit with my camera, but was still satisfied with the event. I’m very thankful to have this opportunity on the last day of my internship.