Michelle Obama visited with her friend Ellen DeGeneres to celebrate the talk show host's birthday and dispense some advice in these politically fractured times.

"People are afraid, but then there are people who feel good about the direction of this country. That's what makes this country complicated," Obama said. "Do the things we do every day. Love each other, take care of each other. We have to be an open-hearted nation. That's who we are. Let's keep living our lives like that and forget what they're saying in Washington."

MORE: Michelle Obama made a surprise appearance at the BET Awards and Twitter couldn't handle it

It wasn't her first visit to Ellen's show. During a memorable visit in the past, the two hit the CVS for a hilarious shopping trip during which they discovered boxed wine.

Obama paid homage to that outing with her array of gifts toasting Ellen's 60th birthday.

"You introduced me to the box wine concept," she said, handing over a hefty box of Franzia. Other goodies in the haul included a Barack Obama Chia Pet (who knew that was a thing?)

The Obamas are now living in a house near the White House. The former POTUS was still running the country when his wife picked out and decorated their new digs, so he drew the short straw when it came to square footage, sadly.

"He got so shortchanged on this whole deal," the FFLOTUS said. "He doesn't have enough closet space .. sorry!"

While they live near 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., they're enjoying life as private citizens.

"What I learned is home is where we make it," Obama said.