The word got out that they were coming back to Grand Teche after this big surprise; and the locals decided that they needed to mark this event with an old-fashioned custom: a charivari. Well, people elsewhere spell it a shivaree; and its pronounced the same and goes pretty well like it.
So the locals got out their bugles, fireworks, washpans, and whistles to serenade the blissful couple until they invited all in to toast the happy bride and groom.
Well, it was about bedtime; and the lights of chez Meaux were gettin' put out and time to get cozy when the noise began. Boom! Bang! Bang! Rattle! Such a din!
Now poor Pierre, he got totally confused. What in hell was going on?
But Shirley got the idea -- the neighbors were treating them to an old-fashioned charivari. No, it wasn't because they were angry; or because the Meauxes violated some regional custom as some sources have it. It was simply that they were in the hot, steamy dog days of summer and people get bored, you know. . . . And in Grand Teche sometimes people need to make their fun.
Well . . . . fortunately, the local 7-11 store recently launched a special delivery service; and Shirley decided that a few cases of beer, and associated snack foods would do the trick. Neighbors just want to celebrate a wedding in style.
That was a great save! And all due to Tee Thibodaux while manning the cash register made a special hauling of stuff for the impromptu party!
Yee Haw!
8 comments:
Great story! A grand way to wish happiness to the couple.
"...referring to the custom of rattling kitchenware with an iron rod."
Just like New Year's Eve in the 50's.
Germans have the concept of the "polterabend," which can also get pretty rowdy.
Never heard of that. It sounds like fun.
Great story, Angel!
Enjoyed your story.
Yehaw indeed! Kudos to the friends and neighbors and best wishes to the bride and groom. Great story with a happy ending!
I took part in one in Tuscaloosa, of all places!
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