mean this is not your bride? Young man, you must pay me more money to look for your bride.” It is a customary routine to present at least three false brides to the groom before the real bride is revealed. After the third false bride is introduced, there is excitement building in the room. The deejay has amped the music, everyone is trying to get a glimpse of the bride, and as she is ushered in, Joojo can no longer stand the suspense, he stands up, as the go between presents this fourth bride, removing the African print cloth to reveal his Nana, looking more beautiful than he has ever seen her, a traditional princess, and the whole house erupts in a loud cheer as he confirms her to be his bride. Beaming with pride and hugging her, he feels emotional, for here, at home, in the land of his ancestors, he has come to claim his bride and he seems to hear a whisper in the wind saying, you have been away for too long son, welcome home. 2003, Ameni arrives. And then Fazi, in 2005. Fifth Decade Nana graduates from Boston University School of Law. Vidal, her ever-supportive husband, is proud of their family achievement. Nana would not have slept a wink during those school days in Massachusetts, but for confidence in his daddy skills. A loving father to Ameni and Fazi, from crying baby days, to troublesome toddler years, and now cheeky teenagers. 10 The Birthday Journal
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