Introduction day

This weekend we had the pleasure of attending a Ugandan "Introduction" ceremony. Historically when a man intends to marry a woman here in Uganda he is to go to her family bringing gifts included in the bride price. They go through a series of discussions and "negotiating", if you will before they celebrate with a meal and he takes his bride home with him. It often takes hours of discussion before they agree and the presents are brought in. This one was a Christian introduction so things were a bit different but it was still big on the ceremony and took nearly 4 1/2 hours by the time we all ate. Traditionally the couple would be considered married after a ceremony like this but since they are Chrsitians the church wedding is next weekend when they will sanctify their union. It was very fun and I have to say our kids did great. We actually went the day before to help set up and do any work. Typical of things here in Africa not much happened as planned in preparing so we spent alot of time doing nothing. So basically for 1 1/2 days the kids had to be quiet, sit still and don't get too wound up. They did awesome!!!! The pictures show the bride and her maids being presented to the grooms family, typically ladies kneel to men in greeting and when being addressed. Also pictures of the "bride price" being brought in. The price may include cows, money, fruit and vegetables. Here you will also see soe soda, this tradition is new to Uganda. The last picture shows Toby in his true form, everywhere he goes he comands attention and makes friends. These children would follow him around and always wanted to play with him.