All About Me, Part Deux

The name Susanna is not one well known in these parts anymore. Growing up, many Greek people would ask me, "What's your Greek name?" and I would always answer, Susanna to their perplexion. With the exception of my Greataunt, my Grandmother's sister, and whom I am named after, I didn't know of any other Susanna. Today, I visited the graveyard in the village, and to my surprise there were numerous Susannas in yesteryear.

The way most people remember name days is by having a relative or a friend with that name and celebrating annually. Because I only show up sporadically in the summer (much preferring Easter time until now), my feast day had been forgotten. Many people came up to me the next day and wished me Χρόνια Πολλά (Many Years) saying that they didn't know or had forgotten and then they'd wink and say, "that's ok, a name day lasts for forty days".

And so, a Name Day actually lasts for two days - the actual day for people who remember and the next day for people who forget! Rena and Klairi stopped by with their families during the day to wish me well, Georgia 'Gabellina' and several others. Sometimes the day after is sweeter. You actually get to sit down and enjoy your guests.

Late afternoon, Dad went out. I put Baby to bed at around 8 and went to sit on my favorite spot on the balcony. And how does an impromptu party happen? Dad comes, Ameralis comes, then Maki and Petro, then Donado and Viki, then Pippino and Lucas. Food is brought out, the table is spread, the raki starts to flow, wine for others, and Greek music on the laptop. Great conversation, lots of laughing, and after 2 litres of raki, lots of singing. My cousin called me around midnight and asked me if that's us that could be heard all the way in Kalloni! We had a great time and the party finally broke up at around 2.