Buon Natale 2009

Our Christmas decorations - stockings, a nativity and lights.

Pandoro (Bread of Gold) is the traditional gift given to neighbors and friends. Jeff remembers eating it on his mission 35 years ago. It looks like it is packaged in a "hat box". You can see it to the left of the photo. We bought a beautiful Ravensburger Puzzle to do during Christmas.

The above cellophane wrapped plate of goodies from the Relief Society Presidency to each sister, contained this unique treat spread between evergreen leaves. The taste and texture was similar to German Chocolate Cake frosting.


We went into Roma Centro to look at the lights and find the Christmas Open Market at Piazza Navona. Brother Sommerfeldt took this photo through the open window of a moving bus.
Carosel in Piazza Navona

Need a sugar high?

St. Peter's at night. The Christmas tree is hung with balls that reflect the light.

Both photos taken by Brother Sommerfeldt.

The streets and alleys are hung with "dripping" lights.

Toys in Piazza Navona.

Items for sale to add to your village nativity scene.

We quickly learned why there were witches for sale everywhere.

Italian children receive their festive treats from an old lady called Befana, who comes riding a flying broomstick and leaves her gifts on Twelfth Night, or the Eve of the Epiphany.

Playing Don't Eat Pete!

Practicing for our timed flash camera to go off after District meeting in the chapel (yes, this is the chapel, minus a few chairs).

Our District with a surprise visit from Arianna (5 days after her release as Sister Marangoni - already wearing stylish clothes and big earrings!)

Elder Hartsock (DL), Elder DeRuvo (AP), Elder Steiner (AP), Elder Hatch, Elder and Sister Sommerfeldt, Elder Burt, Arianna, Sister Burt (note the cut off fingers in my gloves to type in a cold office before the heat gets going!)