parade down the one road in Kalymnos
car after car after car with white ribbons on the mirrors
blasting air horns and car horns alike
one stop for coffee
[or was it “coffee”?]
and arriving to see and meet even more family
and friends

the bride arriving
surprisingly on time
[surprising for cultural tradition]
and watching the ceremony all in Greek
with an Athens-native whispering to us
what and why things were happening
and even the jokes that take place in today’s ceremonies
all while standing
and waiting
with rice in hand
to shower upon those before us
tying a marital bond

and, similar to American traditions, congratulating afterwards with rice as well,
then swept off for photos
and a reception
but with traditional Greek dancing
for hours before the modern dj’s set
and no specific time for food
[the main course being served at 1am]
and partying, dancing, and talking with folks
until being dropped off at our hotel at 4:30am
to hear the roosters crowing

i’m so glad we made the trip for this