The coming Saturday, we
were on our way to Fred’s cousin place on the other side of town. Actually it
was out of town since we had to drive for almost an hour. They were having a
get together for all the family members and I was to be there. No talking out
of it. I was so nervous about the whole meeting with the inlaws but Fred
convinced me to tag along.
I wore a yellow cotton
dress that reached to my knees. It was perfect for the hot weather and also try
to impress the family. Fred was in his casual self by wearing a white t-shirt
and dark blue jeans. He drove us to his cousin’s place. The drive offered a
great view of the valleys that I had always heard about.
By eleven thirty, we
reached our destination. As we approached the house, I noticed that the whole
of this family had come out to enjoy themselves. Children were running around
with most adults seated across the compound engaging to each other.
“Are we the last ones to
arrive?” I asked aloud.
“Nah, I don’t think so.
There will always be last minute ones.” Fred answered as we got out of the car.
Most guys came over and
greeted us as we walked over to join them. I remember seeing them at the
wedding but couldn’t remember their names. The introductions went on for quite
some time and I was really getting tired of it. Fred’s dad and mum came and
received me and directed me to a place to sit. I felt relieved. My mother in
law then served me a glass of cold apple juice.
The dad asked if I was doing okay and I answered yes. I told them a bit
of how my job was and he seemed impressed.
Fred joined me later with
a big glass of beer. By then, his cousins
had joined me and started chatting. It was really interesting. They were
talking on how it was when they were growing up, all naughty! They have been
having these parties every year at a different place even at a hotel.
I looked around the
compound and several activities were taking place. They had hired caterers who
were preparing food and barbeque the meat. They were at one corner of the compound.
The kids were on the swings which were on the lawn. The house itself was really
beautiful having the design of ancient houses but with a twist. Its grey colors
gave it a story behind it.
Two caterers came over
our table and served us the barbequed meat. We had this accompanied with the
food they had prepared. Our glasses were filled with whichever drink we were
having from beer to fruit juices. This afternoon really unfolded well. It was
nice to catch up with my ‘other’ family.