Toui's Wedding

So towards the end of December, my host brother got married. This is not an event, but rather a series of ceremonies and parties. I was so excited to be here for this time, and so thankful to my host family for accepting me as a regular family member. I was put to work in the weeks of preparation and included in all of the family portraits and the receiving line. It was also good for me to be busy during this time so I wouldn't have time to think about not being home for Christmas!

This is a shot of me with my host parents and their grandkids, Pinky and Mot.

Toui's in the middle of this picture with his beautiful wife Natt (pink flower) surrounded by friend's and family. The wedding photo shoot basically consisted of whoever could get in the picture before the camera flashed.

After the parade, Toui and Natt entering our home for the baci ceremony.

I don't know why I found it surprising that in this communal culture, people go on honeymoons with friends. Indeed, I went with the new couple and three other friends to Vang Vieng. A small beautiful mountain town on the river several hours north of Vientiane. At one point they talked about just getting two rooms, one for girls, one for guys. I drew the line there...it was their honeymoon after all!