Around the World Party

Recently, our squadron had a big Around the World Party. Since we have so many families living in the same small subdivision here on the north side of base, we figured it would work well for a progressive dinner party. Six families decided to host for an hour - providing appetizers, drinks, music and games that went along with their country of choice. Everyone else put on international-themed costumes and just enjoyed eating, playing and catching up with friends. We were also given passports that had to be stamped at each house. The passports also came with some silly rules for this event. The only one people really stuck to was making sure we thanked the host before leaving each house. =^)

James and I, of course, represented New Zealand on our journey. We put on the shirts we bought while down there, some jandals (the Kiwi word for flip-flops), James painted the logo for their rugby team on my face, and he even spiked his hair into a very New Zealand faux-hawk. (Not that he needs a reason to spike his hair up. Most people didn't think a thing about this part of his costume.)

Stop #1 was FRANCE! The hosts wore berets and their best Parisian attire. French music, low-lighting, mini Eiffel Tower figurines and photos from France scattered throughout the house really set the mood. The spread included mini onion quiches, a plate of fruit and fromage, truffles, and lots of French wine.

From there, we walked across the street to GREECE. It was hilarious because they had a big foreclosure sign on the front door. The hosts were in togas and totally put everyone to shame with their gorgeous, outdoor pavilion packed with fabulous Grecian food.

Stop #3 was ARGENTINA! The house was decked out in blue and white streamers and posters from Argentina. I helped the host, Kristin Masopust, make a bunch of beef empenadas the day before. She also set out some dulce de leche sandwich cookies, fruit, crackers, and matte (a special type of tea that is very popular down there.) They also set out a bunch of roses incase anyone felt like a tango. Apparently one of the world's best soccer players is from Argentina and has a big mustache so they hosts also had fake mustaches on all night. Hilarious.

 

On to ITALY! My friend Lisa set out a beautiful spread of bruschetta, italian meat balls, and homemade italian ices in assorted flavors. I donated the hydrangea blossoms from the bushes in my back yard. =^)

 Before things got TOO out of hand, we made sure

to get a couple of group photos. =^)

Country #5 was CANADA! I wasn't sure what they would have to offer in the way of food, but it was all actually REALLY good. Lots of things involving bacon, gamey meats and cheese. We started out the hour long Canada-fest by singing 'O Canada!' at the top of our lungs. This lead into a big play list put together of well known Canadian artists, and had some rowdy games going on in the backyard.

The final stop was MEXICO! Most of us were totally stuffed by that time, but still managed to down some chips and salsa while holding a wild dance party. Fun night!

 There were some truly great costumes that night. Below are a couple of my favorites. The Kenkels dressed up as Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach from the Super Mario Bros. video game. (Very Italian, I know. ;^) Then Hunter and Brenda Powell represented Japan as a sumo wrestler and a geisha. Hilarious!