What's in a name?

I went to a naming ceremont today. Little Jainabou Abbu was born a week ago and was nameless until today.

This morning her father and the men of the family joined with male friends to take the baby to the Mosque where the Imam announced the child's name for the first time. Boys are usually named after famlily memembers but parents can get more creative with girls' names. The baby is a grandchild to a co-wife of my good friend Hawawou. Yesterday I went to visit my friend and met the baby for the first time. I suggested they name her “Loriatou,” but alas they went with Jainabou. My dear friend invited me to the “after party.”

Family and friends celebrate a naming ceremony by slaughtering a sheep and then feasting. It is also kind of like a baby shower (minus the ridiculous “how big is the mommy's belly” game). Everyone brings gifts for mom and baby and everytime someone new joins the party, they go and look at each gift. The mom and baby received several new outfits, diapers, baby supplies, and SOAP- oh my goodness did they get soap. So much soap! I told Charlie's nanny about how much soap the mother received and she said when she had her child, her soap supply lasted until her daughter was a year and 8 months old! I brought some gifts, and yes some soap! But the fun thing is the mom gets gifts too- and not “mom gifts” like nursing pads but fun gifts like fancy new shoes and pretty cloth to make new dresses! There was even “goodie bags.” We went home with a leg of lamb, cola nuts, and candy!

We had a great time. So much laughing and eating and taking pictures since everyone was dressed up and in a festive mood. You might notice that Jainabou also was quite festive with her eye brow makeup! She also had her head shaved for the event much to my dismay. I begged them not to shave it because she had a head full of soft, thick, beautiful black curls. They all laughed at me and did it anyway. Regardless, she is a sweet little baby and everyone enjoyed passing her around.

I am so greatful to have met Hawawu. She is so joyous and fun to be around. I am so glad to call her friend and love that she has invited me into her life!