An unexpected baby shower

A girl in my class announced she's pregnant today. It surprised me a bit, because she's a devout Catholic, although the class's reaction surprised me even more. It was one of excited jubilation, full of congratulations, and completely nonjudgmental (although somewhat crude, as is the Italian way). The girl brought a few metres of pizza, bags of chips, coca cola, pastries and cake to celebrate, and la professoressa made a little speech at the commencement of the party. There was no visible shame. It's quite remarkable, although I'm unsure if this reaction from peers and teachers is typical. All of the girls in the class (except for Alessandra, who looked seriously unsettled) gathered around her, laughing and talking (presumably about the topic at hand). I, however, could not help but wonder what she will do. Will she get married? Go to college? Have the opportunity to travel? How will she raise the baby? Did she cry when she found out? Did her boyfriend cry? Did they consider abortion (although it's illegal here)?

Some of the boys in the class and I took advantage of the ample party time to play a couple games of Bluff (or BS, as it's more commonly known). It's their favorite American card game, by far.

The feast.

The class swarming toward the snacks.

Fredericka, pointing to her belly.

I'm such a joiner.

* I talked to Martina later, and she told me that the class's reaction was, in fact, atypical. Apparently, the class was putting on smiles for Fredericka's sake, which is understandable.