I had no idea why I stood to hug him and knelt down on my two knees to say thank you, but James ceremoniously but carefully helped me up, kissed me on my forehead and eyes “as though kissing my tears away; I didn’t even realize I was tearing up,” and hugged me very tightly until we heard the sound of throat clearing. It was his mum, carefully taking me from him, kissing both my cheeks and hugging me, and praying for fruits of love, happiness, and everlasting joy for both of us.

She told him to excuse himself for a moment so that the women could assist me in dressing up properly, as our guests were arriving shortly and I wanted to make sure I looked my best to welcome them. The anticipation in the air was palpable, and I felt it was important to present myself well for such a special occasion.

She gave me a single royal bead, although it has the evidence of aging, it was no doubt a priceless family piece. She explained that her mother in-law gave it to her and that it must kept well and be handed to my first daughter in-law too.

After helping me to dress up in a beautiful traditional outfit, the women surrounded me with joyous laughter and warm smiles as they carefully packed my belongings. They ushered me into the open area in the compound, where a vibrant celebration awaited. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, as everyone gathered to honor me on this special occasion. Friends and family sang cheerful songs, their voices harmonizing in a delightful melody that resonated throughout the space, while colorful confetti floated in the air. Guests enthusiastically sprayed me with money, creating a lively and festive spirit. Even James’ little nieces and nephews joined in the celebration, their eyes wide with delight as they brought forth lovingly wrapped gifts, each one symbolizing their affection and well wishes.

All these stuffs were packed in a decorated car that looked brand new, adorned with white and red balloons and ribbons that fluttered elegantly in the gentle breeze. The vibrant colors not only added a festive touch to the vehicle, but they also drew the attention of passersby who couldn’t help but smile at the cheerful sight. Inside the car, gifts were neatly arranged, showcasing an array of exciting surprises waiting to be unveiled, while the scent of fresh flowers from a nearby bouquet added an additional layer of joy to the atmosphere.

I was made to sit in this car with my husband, while my mother in-law, father in-law and James aunt sat in a while jeep that went before us, the rest of the cars followed behind. This procession went straight to my father’s house and I was surprised to find that there was a party going on “I later found out it was held in my honor”. My mother in-law presented my mum with a calabash which she in turn opened to find a red stained white handkerchief. This my mother raised up for all our people to see and drumming, singing and dancing followed!

The gifts were dropped as they carefully placed them on the table, and James moved forward with enthusiasm along with his father to greet my father, who awaited them with a warm smile. After a short exchange of pleasantries, a date was picked then for the traditional wedding, which would be a joyous occasion filled with laughter and celebration. They discussed the details of the ceremony and the preparations that lay ahead, and after finalizing their plans, they left afterwards, their hearts light with excitement for the festivities to come.