Former President George H.W. Bush wasn't home for Christmas

HOUSTON -- Former President George H.W. Bush remained hospitalized through Christmas Day after experiencing shortness of breath two days ago.

Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath said Thursday that the oldest living former American president is "still doing well."

"President Bush had another terrific day and is in great spirits," McGrath said. "He was visited by Mrs. Bush and his son Neil and daughter-in-law Maria Bush."

Mr. Bush, 90, was in Houston Methodist Hospital.

"He asked that his sincere wishes for a very Merry Christmas be extended to one and all," McGrath said.

Mr. Bush was hospitalized Tuesday evening as a precaution and held for observation, McGrath said. He spent nearly two months in the same hospital and was discharged in January 2013 after treatment for a bronchitis-related cough and other health issues.

The 41st president suffers from a form of Parkinson's disease and now uses a wheelchair or a motorized scooter. He most recently appeared seated in a wheelchair at an event in November at Texas A&M University with his son, former president George W. Bush.

Still, the elder former president also skydived on at least three of his birthdays since leaving the White House, including a tandem jump for his 90th birthday in June.