The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Family ritual after the birth of a child

The first time our family is together after of birth of a baby
in the family we always have the same dinner and ritualistic
behaviors. First of all, my family always serves green beans,
chicken, rice, and a cake for the baby although the baby may or
may not be present at that particular gathering. We all sing
happy birthday to the child, and then talk about all of the other
children's days when the family gathered together for them.
After the dinner, the women go to the kitchen to wash the dishes
and clean up after the meal so they can talk, while the men all
sit in the living room smoking their cigars.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; Sandusky

Date learned: 00-00-1985

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