This is part 2 of David’s letters home regarding his engagement to Gertrude, his African bride to be.
Last night we stayed up until 2 preparing a budget for the party and also for the gifts. I agreed with the family to pay for half of the party, which is $1,000. The party is prepared for by the bride’s family and their village. And they welcome the grooms family and friend’s to visit their village. It is presided over by two speakers, one on the girl’s side and one on the boy’s side. It will be in Luganda with over tones of English interspersed throughout. My American guests will be sitting next to Ugandans whom will help keep them informed, but I have another idea for my guests back home in America watching the video coverage which will be made… They entertain, make up stories, and finally after much talk, give up the bride and accept their gifts. We then eat, dance and go home.
Then there’s the gifts. There’s many things which are cultural appropriate to give. Traditional dresses, a cow, and roosters to all my new brothers, and luggage for the bride as I am to take her away from her family. And then all the little things, rice, sugar, oil, fruit and vegetables, things which I can give them and they can share amongst eachother.
As I am still a PC volunteer and will be for the next year, I am recieving $250 per month, and each month I’m able to save almost nothing. I pray to God and pray to you all as my family and friends that you may help in any ways possible, which include. Ideas, I want to add on flavors of America and intertwine our cultures during this Introduction ceremony, I’ve thought of bringing a box of apples, a fruit they sell here, but is expensive, while in America, they are so plentiful during the autumn months. I’ve also thought of a third MC which will be like a live announcer in front of the camera, keeping the Americans involved. I’m begging you all for other ideas of things to bring which may be relavant to the situation and flavourful.
Also you can attend my fathers “Cows and Chickens” benefit concert the last weekend in August, proceed will go to cows and chicken and the purchase of an African bride. Donate money, sending it either Western Union, or through my mother or father. Haven’t you always wanted to buy an African bride, well now’s your chance to be apart of such a purchase, though i will not be sharing her when we return home : )
So that’s that. I’d love to hear from you all on the subject so drop me a line sometime and convince me you’ve read this all. Tell me how you’re doing and where you’re at. What good news do you have in your life these days? What cool things have you purchased ; )
Love yall
davey
