Swing your partner round and round

We tend to think of the U.S. as a the biggest melting pot in the world, but Rome can't be far behind. It is so funny to see Asians and Africans, first generations, speaking fluently in Italian, their new mother tongue.
Our Rome stake decided since we have so many nationalities in our boundaries, that we needed to have an activity to showcase the various talents and backgrounds. The first thing that came to mind was a dance (Italians love to sing and dance) and a table display to give a taste of the food from various countries. So we had a quilt, cross stitching, our Basitan family Bicentenial picture, and a copy of the Constitution I framed after we went to DC a couple summers ago. I had on a bandana scarf, jean skirt and cowboy boots and the members kept yelling out "TEXAS"! (After UT, the next state they know)

And of course we set out traditional food: Sister Sommerfeldt brought apple crisp, Sister Quinada lemon bars, Sister Burt apple pie, Michelle Rees hotdogs and CHEETOS! And I brought up the rear with brownies, chocolate chip cookies and mini hamburgers.

PERU: Steve was born in Lima. A lot of the handiwork I recognized on this table... from things Steve's mom has displayed in their home in TX.

Argentina: Steve's mom grew up here and the mate` gourds are like the ones they drank their yerba from. This cute little Garcia boy is in our ward and did a fantastic dance afterwards.

Brazil: these gals could shake their hips....like the polynesian dancers

Philipinnes: never remember if it's two n's or p's in the name. This was a traditional mating dance done with a scarf. Wonder if Heidi learned this on her mission? We learned the tin inkling Filopino dance as kids with the poles in school and performed it on Guam for a ward activity.

Colombia: their dresses were to look like bird wings...like a mating dance from nature again.

Africa: their simple dance and costumes was very pretty with the drum beat.

Argentina: the white lace made them look like Clydsdale horses, but they were smooth!

Sicily: Sister Calabrese was born on the island south of Italy mainland. She looked Spanish with this black lace.

Taranto - Southern Italy: This reminded me of gypsies with the tambourines.

Peru: traditionally only the prettiest Peruvian gals are chosen to perform this dance....no wonder... had to find someone to outshine the gorgeous costumes.

Venezuela the Fandango was stunning! Jacqueline and Fiorella who danced this were stunning!

EQUADOR

They had fun Chaquita Banana hats

Thailand: Their hands and feet are so dainty when they move and hold poses. Amazing to watch. We watched this type of dance when we were in Bangkok a few years back.

United States: the swing Dancing to Elvis Presley's Jail House Rock. Everyone was standing up and clapping and whistling.

We stood before this and sang the Star Spangled Banner. Don't think there was a dry eye in the house afterwards! It is good to be an American!