Multi-Cultural Weekend

The Payne family had such a great weekend, we had to share. First it was swimming and lunch with some great friends. I actually made Pies!! Because what's more American?! Then for fireworks that night, one of our church buildings is right behind the parks and rec, and they always do a big show. So the whole stake gathers together on the back lawn and we put our own music to the fireworks. Its genius really and very cool. I have lots of great friends in the stake so its always so much fun to see everyone. And our ward actually gathers early and we have burgers, dogs, and potluck. See why I love my ward!! Then after the fireworks is when it got really exciting, Mason threw up in the parking lot. Too much fun for that kid. 

But the fun didn't stop there, Saturday was when we went Multi-cultural! 

Background... We have some neighbors across the street who are from India. Their 18 year old daughter dances a type of dance called Bharathanatyam. (5 buck to whoever can pronounce it) She practices sometimes in her garage and the boys love to go watch her. So this Saturday she had what is called her Arangetram, which is basically her solo debut. And we were so honored that they invited us to attend. It was a huge ordeal, they had very beautiful invitations, they rented a theater at Pepperdine University in Malibu, and the theater was packed with family and friends beautifully dressed in their gorgeous Sari's. It was amazing, she danced by herself for 4 hours! She did 7 different dances with 4 very talented musicians playing for her. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for us to be there. We took the boys and they enjoyed it but had to be bribed with candy for the last half, it was a lot of sitting still. Then after the performance they fed everyone a very yummy indian dinner. IT WAS SO COOL. I did feel a little out of place with my boring old dress, but Darren and I just soaked it in and probably looked like deer in the headlights. It was truly amazing, and again probably a once in a lifetime. So these are some pictures of her invitation and the program with the beautiful costumes she wore. Enjoy!! and if you ever get invited to an Arangetram, GO!!!