Lahcen Flifla and Monica Romano were married June 20, 2008 in Morocco. The Groom’s family held celebrations all weekend at their home in Kenitra. On the eve of the wedding, the bride and her new female relatives enjoyed a relaxing visit to the Hammam (Turkish style steam bath); then returned home for mint tea, sweets and the century-honored henna party. Family members gathered to witness the couple sign their marriage certificates and danced the night away. The next morning, the family was busy attending to last minute details. In the evening, Lahcen and Monica were greeted in the street by musicians, drums and singing. The bride wore 6 different silk dresses during the party, each representing a different region in Morocco.

The celebration continued until sunrise with music, dancing, and a feast of roasted lemon chickens, Seffa (special couscous with dried fruit, cinnamon, and sugar) and a beautiful assortment of hand-made savory pastries.

Post Script ~ I returned to Bellingham 07/04/2008 and received the shocking news of Lahcen’s death on 07/27/2008. He suffered a fatal epileptic seizure and was laid to rest in Sidi Banour, Morocco. He is survived in Kenitra by his parents, Benaissa and Jemia, twin brother, Hussein, eldest brother Mohamed of Rabat, sister Baheeja of Sidi Banour and sisters Ayesha and Fatima of the Sahara Desert. Lahcen also leaves behind his Aunt Fatima and the entire Benakrim family of Kenitra. Lahcen is missed by many friends and neighbors who became accustomed to his smile, warm heart and sense of humor. His spirit lives forever. Lahcen, you taught me lifetime lessons; that the finer things are the simple things, happiness can transcend the worst circumstances, and ultimately everything is in God’s Hands. Please visit our website: www.Remembering-Lahcen.virtual-memorials.com