Well, those of you worried about the economy, have no fear: the White House still has half a million dollars to spend on place settings. From the news story, "To Serve Twin Needs, White House Unveils a China Accord," we read:
Speaking of Daniel Webster, if you're ever in the Marshfield, Massachusetts area (known to locals as "The Irish Riviera") be sure to visit the Daniel Webster Masonic Lodge.
The official George W. Bush State China Service (total price tag: $492,798) consists of 320 14-piece place settings ...the eagle motif is taken from an inlay on a Massachusetts sideboard in the White House collection said to have been owned by Daniel Webster. Mrs. Bush said the green color of the china was selected in part to differentiate it from what is already in the collection - Washington PostOh, sure, Laura. Given the 13 stars, 13 laurel leaves (sacred to Apollo) and golden eagle, I'm sure the green has nothing to do with a green sun or any other such nonsense.
Here's a 4th Century BC coin showing Apollo (Horus) with his laurel leaves and eagle to ponder while admiring the new china pattern.
BONUS FACTOIDS
And speaking of marshes, need I mention that Horus was born in the Marsh of Buto?
The other pattern in this twin story shows a Magnolia. Mulan is Chinese for Magnolia, which reminds us of the Disney film of the Chinese girl who dressed as a man to take her father's place on the battlefield. So bonus androgyny points for Mrs. B!
UPDATE: "Tentacle UFO spotted night before carnage at Conisholme wind farm." What does that have to do with anything? Conisholme, England is located on a marsh.
UPDATE II: This English UFO story is turning out to be a very big deal.
