Henna Fest, 2009 Kristi and Julianne Tell ALL!

Wow what a night! We had planned to take the family to the MK Nature Center, but when we arrived Ladan was out front ( where she and the other Somali families in the complex typically congregate) getting a bowl of henna ready. Guess who was getting "hennaed".....yep Julianne, Rebecca and I ! While it should be fun to explain at work tomorrow, it was a gracious gesture by Ladan and her family that we could not refuse. Maryan even did Rebecca's feet! They told us a few weeks ago that they do it to make women more beautiful and before a bride gets married. They also told us tonight that Maryan is a henna artist! Who knew???

It was one heck of an experience! Ladan supervised while Shamsa painted our hands with great care. Istahil also jumped in to help when needed and Ahmed even worked to get the dried henna off of our hands :) Abdifatatah just smiled and laughed away. Moulid, Mohamud, and Ahmedshukri supervised as well. Ladan even made us tea which was delicious!

Julianne and I were touched by the clear message that we were finally welcomed into the "inner sanctuary" of the group as there were other families who spent time talking to us as well. We typically chat with the other families when we visit, but have never really been encouraged to sit where they congregate. It was a true act of kindness.

Thanks Julianne, daughter Rebecca, and Kristi for sharing your pictures and story! We would love to hear from you about your family visits! Please send your case notes and pictures to Joanie at the IRC for inclusion into the volunteer blog!!