Celebrating the Naija Way!

In Nigerian-Christian tradition, two ceremonies are very important: the naming which takes place after eight days of birth [all babies have a Christian name and a Yoruba name] and then the dedication ceremony after three months [the baby is dedicated to God in Church]. Nigerians love to celebrate in a grand style! There is lots of food, drinks and many are invited.

On 28 March, Baby Christabell became three months old. It was very opportune that I was able to play a very active role in her dedication ceremony on 20 April. You know I LOVE food...so please bear with a more than required detailed account of the whole process:)

With a list and naira in hand, Lizzy [Bell's mom] and I headed to the market a day before. I was carrying the baby which attracted the attention of many [I alone attract many eyes, but with the baby it was heads turning back twice...]. 2-3 people were actually curious to know if I was married to a Nigerian! We bought veggies, turkey, pepe, spices, rice! Lizzy marinated the turkey, mashed and boiled the mashed pepe and tomatoes. On D-day, we woke up at 3:30 am...we started frying the marinated turkey, chopped the veggies, fried the bananas [called dodo], and finally made the "jollof rice". We were quite efficient, and even with the on and off NEPA, we managed to cook everything and clean up at about 6 am! Unlike Lizzy who had to feed the baby, I got on hour of sleep!

I woke up all excited to wear my lovely Nigerian dress. Basically it is a short top, a long skirt and a head scarf all in the same fabric! It fit quite well, I was even motivated to wear earrings:). We went to church [vow, the energy there of 400 + people was amazing]. The Pastor then blessed all the babies. We then got home and gorged on the lovely food [not just because i helped cook it, it was a real treat!].

After all the eating, chatting, drinking, I had a lovely 3 hour siesta! What a day!