The party was for my friend's 5th child, a boy, who was born 2 weeks earlier. Traditionally they hold a party on the 8th day after birth but my friend was waiting for relatives to arrive from a neighbouring country before having the party. As each woman entered the house, she gave a gift or tucked money into the baby's blanket.
They had actually had a baby party 2 days earlier for relatives and I was invited to that party, but it was on the same day as Ethan's birthday party at our house. So I had apologised that I couldn't attend because I'd already invited Ethan's friends to come to his party. In typical Jordanian last minute style, my friend asked if I could rearrange Ethan's party so that I could go to her baby party! Although I couldn't change my plans at the last minute, it was an indication of how much she wanted me to be there. She even suggested that she might be able to make her baby party later so that I could attend. However since I didn't hear any news back about this I presumed that the timing hadn't changed. Often here people don't want to tell you if they can't do something, they feel that it is more polite not to tell you anything rather than say "no" or give unfavourable news!
At the baby party for the neighbours, we chatted and danced. Coffee and dates were offered round and then there was more dancing. A traditional cinnamon drink with desiccated coconut and walnuts was given to everyone since they believe this helps contract the womb after a woman has given birth.
Then there was an Egyptian tradition which I'd never seen before! They put a basket in the middle of a table and lit a dozen candles. Those holding candles walked around the table singing (they made sure that I had a candle and joined in!) with the mum holding the baby joining in too and a woman tapping a metal cup to beat a rhythm. Then they put the baby in the basket and rocked the baby side to side. Amazingly he slept through the whole procedure! I asked about the meaning behind this tradition but the only explanation was that it was from Egypt and that it was meant to protect the baby. The basket reminded me of the Prophet Moses who was saved because his mother hid him in a basket, and a I wondered if there was any connection to that story.
After more dancing (these women love to dance!) they handed round little gifts of chocolates, perfume and small toiletries. This was followed by more coffee and dates which was the signal that guests could start to leave. Although I needed to collect the children from school, I didn't want to be the first one to leave. So after a few women left, I also said good bye even though the party still seemed in full swing!
