“I had flat-out begged her,” Michelle wrote inThe Guardianin 2022.
“My mother was the rock of our family.”
However, Marian didn’t foresee herself staying for four years, let alone eight.
“I love those people, but I love my own house,” she explained toPeoplein 2009.
“The White House reminds me of a museum … how do you sleep in a museum?”
However, concern about her loved ones motivated her to relocate.
Marian also served as a comforting presence for Malia and Sasha in the midst of Secret Service security.
Marian’s apartment was on a floor above where the rest of the Obama family lived.
Even though the mansion had housekeeping services, Michelle’s mom was adamant about washing her own clothes.
She had her own laundry facilities, and she made sure Malia and Sasha acquired this skill.
However, Marian also knew how to achieve balance when spending time with her granddaughters.
“I have a go at make myself scarce when their friends are around.”
When Marian first moved there, they made a big effort to welcome her to the residence.
However, in instances where Michelle struggled and felt inadequate as a mom, Marian gave her much-needed support.
