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Left our home in Richmond, Va. @ 4am to make a 6am flight to Philadelphia on Thursday 1/30. Looking out of the window of the car, snow is pounding the windshield. We arrive in plenty of time, and it is steadily snowing. We find a seat near our gate and wait patiently for boarding. The airport is dead, not even the coffee shop is open.
We board the plane at 5:30am and watch as teams of airport personnel de-ice the wings. Not a good feeling, but a few prayers said, and we're on our way.
Arrive at Philadelphia on schedule and take the shuttle to our next flight headed for Montego Bay-YES! That flight is packed. I meet the ladies next to me, who are on their way to Montego Bay just for the weekend jazz festival. I mention Glistening Waters to them for something to do at night, since they aren't to far away.
3 1/2 hours later and we land in paradise. Already the sight of the water is exciting, and a wonderful feeling comes over my husband and I. This trip was very unexpected. Andrew, my husband, tells me 5 days before we leave, we're going to Negril. We need to get away, and work is slow now, so let's go! Who am I to disagree?
Soloman is there waiting with his wonderful smile, and we give him a big hug. Geocox and Sanya are waiting in the van for us for the ride to Negril. Geocox had arrived about an hour ahead of us. We all introduce ourselves, and we're on our way. Geocox is already in pain with his psiatic(sp) nerve, and is on heavy meds. Sanya is answering multiple telephones, and making plans for the week.
The air is warm, and the day is beautiful. It's still early in the afternoon, and we pull into Roundell to drop off George and Sanya.
Next stop, Lily Mae's, our place to stay for the night, which ends up being the entire week. We meet Juanita and DuJon, her grandson. She takes us to our room, and we have a look around. The place is great, just as JTtogo said it would be. We see the room where he and Laura will be staying, directly across from ours, and very much the same.
Andrew and I are hungry, so we set out for some food, and to head to the cambio for some cash. We have never stayed at the beach in Negril before, and we feel like this is a good choice. Easy walking to just about everything, and taxis pull over all along our walk to see if we need a ride. No thank you, we say over and over.
Back to our room, and the music is pumping at the Coffee shop next door to Lily Mae's. We sit out on the porch and watch the cars go by. An afternoon rain shower hits, and we sit and watch it pour down. We meet our Italian neighbors, and share some kind of communication together. It is their first trip to Jamaica, and so far they couldn't be happier. The rest of this day is uneventful, and we head inside for some rest for the night after our long journey.
Bright and early, we're talking 6am I wake up, and check my watch for the time. Wow, I never wake up this early at home on my own. It's got to be the alarm clock that gets me going usually. This is what will happen everyday while I'm in Negril on this trip. It's like my mind wakes my body up so as not to miss one minute of time while I'm here. And this continues throughout the week for me, only the next day I wake up at 3am. I just can't sleep alot when I'm in Jamaica. I don't want to waste time sleeping when I can be enjoying this beautiful paradise on earth. Andrew can sleep, and I leave the room and sit on the porch to wait for a reasonable hour when I can wake him up.
8:30am and we head to Selina's for some coffee and breakfast. The pot has just begun to brew, so it will be a little while before we get a mug. Even the coffee pot is on Jamaica time. It takes at least 1 full day to recover from "life in fast mode" in the USA. Everything seems to take so long to happen, but once you become one with this peaceful vibe, you're able to soak up the beauty of it. I decided that I like the slow coffee pot, that it wouldn't be good if it brewed faster, because then I wouldn't take the time to just sit, and listen to the sounds, and watch the day start. I wouldn't notice all the details at Selina's of the employees getting ready for business. I would be in and out of there, like here in the USA, never missing a beat, never noticing the day that I am blessed to be a part of.
After a nice breakfast of fresh fruit, and 2 cups of coffee, we're off to the beach with cameras, towels, and sunscreen in tow.
We walk across the busy road, and cut through the yard, asking if this is ok to pass to someone sitting on their front porch. No problem. Why would I think that it would be? The beach is spectacular, and the day is bright. The water is turquoise blue, the sky yet another shade of blue, and it all meshes together like a painting. We walk along, and stop at Irie Vibes to have a sit in the shade. The sun is hot, and the sand is warm on my feet. We meet our new friend "Ikee" and immediately begin a relationship. This will be our new "hang out", as each day we return to the vibe and become great friends with the crew there.
After a few Red Stripes, and some "attitude adjustment", we head to the water for a swim, and to start our sand sculptures on the beach. I am an artist, and just enjoy making sand kitties on any beach I encounter. I have been making them on Nagshead beaches for years, along with some pretty huge sand couches that my husband Andrew makes. It is a relaxing activity, and it feels good to sit in the sand, and feel the sculptures make their way into being. Everyone loves them, and soon they draw attention to most people that are walking down the beach. Ikee is pleased that we have dotted Irie Vibes with the sculptures, and he decides to help Andrew with the sand lounge chair. We stay there all day, and just enjoy sitting and soaking up the music, the vibe, and the spiritual conversation with Ikee.
More to come later......
Since I didn't take the time to write my trip down while I was there, things might not happen on this board in sequence, but so be it.
We left the beach and headed for home(Lily Mae's) and decided that we would stay at least 2 more nights there, but as it was, we ended up staying there the entire time.
We took a walk down past Selina's, and took a taxi to the cliffs. Stopped off at Pirate's Cave, and visited with Jason who we knew from before. He owns Pirate's Cave and ran it when we were there in October, but has since leased the property out to the owner's of Rick's Cafe. Once we heard this, we didn't have any desire to eat there, but did stop in and sat at a table with Jason where we drank a Red Stripe together and chatted over the beautiful sunset view. The place looked very nice, linens on all the tables, a fresh coat of paint, and many strings of twinkly white lights. Jason said he just couldn't manage there, and the new leasors had made the place so much better. It was packed with guests, and Jason informed us that the prices were more in line with that of Rick's, so as I said, we just sat and chatted with him, and after saying our good-byes to Jason we walked across the street to Mae's of Joseph's Cave Bar.
Mae was happy to see us again. We all got big hugs together, and then went to Mae's home to see Damale, her grandson, whom we had met before. Such a cute little guy. We returned to the bar, and gave Mae some paper and crayons for Damale for later. She was thankful. We pulled up some stools, and sat down for some Red Stripes and several games of dominoes. Andrew and I had never played, but quickly caught on, and we each took turns playing with Mae, her husband and her nephew. It was great fun, and Andrew even won a game or 2. I think we stayed there for several hours, and then moved on to 3 Dives.
We had brought some table clothes, pot holders, and some dish towels and things for Lydie and Paula. They were happy to see us, and were greatful for thinking of them with the small gifts. I think we dropped the presents off to them on our way up the cliffs, so after leaving Pirate's Cave, we stopped back by 3 Dives, and the table clothes were already in place. They looked very nice, and festive. We promised to send more upon our return home, as we didn't nearly bring enought to cover all the tables there. Paula and Lydie work so hard, and I pray for them to have strength to keep it up. I know it's hard. The place is always hopping, and they both stay so hurried and busy all the time. I'm sure they are use to all the hard work, but they really do have little time to take a breath. We got to sit with Lydie for a bit before the rush of guests, and that was good.
On our last trip in October, we stayed at Sea Grape, so we stopped by to say Hi to Juicy and Bently who manage the property there. Juicy was getting over the flu, but still managed to keep his new shop open just across the street from Sea Grape. He sells jerk chicken, and various arts and crafts, and sodas and beer. It was good to see him again.
After our stop at 3 Dives, we took a taxi with Masta Blasta, and headed for home.
Early to bed, early to rise. As I said, I woke up at 3am the next day, and had to force myself to go back to sleep until at least 6. I made it to about 7:30am, and headed out to the porch for my morning ritual, and passed some time, until I thought Andrew might be awake.
Again, breakfast at Selina's. This time we were there around 9, so the coffee was ready, and we sat and took in the place. Andrew had banana pancakes, and could barely eat them all. He was only able to eat about half, and became very full very fast. We headed out to the Cambio again to exchange some more cash, back to Lily Mae's and onto the beach. As we passed through the yard, we met someone new. Marley was his name, and he took us to a small blue tent to meet his friend Israel. We sat with the 2 of them for at least an hour probably more like 2 hours, and just listened to all that they had to say. They were so thankful for life, and the blessings of Jah. They gave us a taste of sweetsop, our first time to try it, and showed us some kind of roots juice in a bottle that was good for ailments and such. We both felt fine, so we passed on the roots drink. Israel makes it himself, and he was also cooking some vegetables. It all smelled so good, but we were full from breakfast, so we passed on that too. While we were there, the donut man came by, and he purchased a to go container of the veggies, as did others. Marley and Israel both shared alot with us spiritually and made us feel very welcome and warm. More friends made in Negril. It seems to happen so easily there. Andrew and I both said how nice it was to share with people that you didn't even know, and how where we live, it just doesn't happen this way. Sad to me, but it is what it is in the USA. Random meetings of friends in Jamaica, and the love and warmth that is given from strangers. This is what brings me back again and again. There is so much love and respect in Jamaica. I can never get enough of it!
Onto the beach and Irie Vibes. Another beautiful day, and more conversations with Ikee, Carolyn, and Betty. More sand kitties, and a big butt lady layed out on the beach made of sand. Andrew's idea, and a good one. Everyone stopped to look, and one guy even mounted the butt and.... well, I won't go into detail, but he really did a number on the big butt sand lady. We laughed alot about that. He was amazed that we could make these things, and brought others to have a look. It was all good, and so much of a conversation piece.
We also met Shadow at Irie Vibes. He worked there to I think, but on this particular day, he just sat and drank beer after beer. Even asked us to buy him a few. Ikee wasn't to happy about that, and asked him to leave. Shadow was quite a character, and though he didn't talk alot, every now and then he would just say "RIIIIIIGHT". It was funny, though I think it was beer induced, but funny all the same. He said "right" to everything and everyone. It was the way he said it. I can never do it justice in words, you had to be there. He really was a character.
We watched the sunset, another magnificent one, could it be better than yesterday's? I must have taken a whole roll of sunsets on my camera. You just can't believe the beauty of it all. Thanks to God for making something so beautiful for me to enjoy, and thanks to Him to for my eyesight that I can see all this beauty.
Dinner that night was at Famous Pete's. Glad we stopped there, it was a fantastic meal. Andrew had conch soup and jerk chicken. I had lobster that was sauteed in garlic butter, and a cole slaw salad with peas and rice. It was all so good, sitting right there on the beach, having a wonderful meal and enjoying the sounds of the sea. Please do go there if you're on the beach. It doesn't really open until around 6pm or so, but it was so good. Also, Marcia, who served us, makes cakes there and sells them right out front of Famous Pete's. They are all homemade, and all very delicious. Coconut pie, banana cake and chocolate cake. That night we shared a piece of coconut, and took a slice of banana to go with us. Marcia is a wonderful person, and boy she really knows how to bake. Please do stop by and sample her cakes. Remember she's there after 6pm. On Monday night we had dinner there again, and we got a slice of coconut, banana, and chocolate to go. All delicious! You really must try them! I told her that I would tell others to try her cakes and pies, and she was most appreciative. That night at dinner we met a couple who was from Cananda. They had been to Negril once before and were staying at The Yoga Center. We ended up having quite a long conversation with them, and passed on Soloman's name and number to them for day trips. They really didn't feel comfortable getting around, and were very happy to have us recommend someone who they could feel secure about. They wanted to go to Mayfield Falls while they were there, and I do hope that they called Soloman. As I said, we ate at Famous Pete's another night, and they were there again. So, you can see, this is a great place for dinner. Lots of repeat customers. They loved the cakes and pies too.
Home to Lily Maes' because the next day we were off to Uncle Sam's and the donkey derby. What a day that was.... More later....
So, Sunday morning, it's Donkey race day. Woohoo, I have no idea what to expect. I know how much donkeys cooperate, so this promises to be a fun filled day.
We're supposed to travel with Geocox and Sanya, and the original plan is to get there by 2pm, so I guess that means leaving around 1pm. Soloman is promptly there at noon to pick us up, next stop Devine Destiny to pick up George.
We arrive at Devine Destiny around 12:30, plenty of time. Andrew and I wait in the car, while Soloman proceeds to DD to get George and Sanya. Goats are invading the property, and we snap some photos of them eating all the vegetation at DD. One of the employees yells out the window at the goats and they hurridly move on.
After what seems forever, I decide to go in and find out what is taking so long. I have forgotten which way to turn to get to George's room, so I am directed by a staff member, who seems to have a bit of an attitude with me for not remembering my way. Oh well, I am pleasant to her, and let her know that on my previous visit, I had consumed 2 Red Stripes, and wasn't paying total attention.
Get to George's room, and he has decided to move to another room on the property. He seems upset with the whole darn place, no hot water, no tv reception, not a happy camper, and still in a lot of pain with his back. Sanya seems not to take notice and sits on the porch hanging out. Sanya offers us a beer, and George is running around like a mad man, packing his bags getting ready for the switch to another room. He is in and out of the current room, and back to the office preparing to move on. No relaxation for George, and I feel bad for him. He is obviously stressed out, in pain, and is getting no help from Sanya. I am worried about him as he is sweating buckets from walking up and down flights of stairs. Finally, the switch is made to another room, and we're on our way to the races.
The road to the races is awful. Funny how this is only 10 minutes away, but takes us a full hour to get there. Soloman of course, always calm and collected navigates through traffic and whats left of a road.
I think we get there around 3 or 4pm, not sure, but everything is in full force. We make our way to Sam's and check out the happenings. There are mostly townspeople there but some tourists also. I enjoy walking around and observing all that is going on. I'm not sure where the race takes place and as I walk through the dirt pathways, I worry that I might be trampled by racing donkies. Well, there is a yard for the race, but I didn't know that. A sigh of relief, as I no longer feel that I will be crushed by on coming donkies.
Andrew and I get something to eat, a couple of Red Stripes, and just sit and observe the activities all around us. There are lots of hippies there, at least this is my observation. I take out my cam corder and pan the scene of all that is around me. A very interesting mix of people. We walk over to see the race and Soloman and I place our bets. #12 we both pick, sight unseen for me. 12 is my birthdate, so I pick it based only on that. My bet is only 100J, and I wait to hear the results. Soloman and I both win, and wish we had bet more.
The rest of the time there is spent observing people, watching various people take to the microphone to sing, and just enjoying the afternoon. George is still in alot of pain, and tries to find a comfortable place to sit-this is hard to come by. George informs us that there are other board members present and I get up to meet whomever I can. Accompong is there and we meet and talk a bit, what a nice guy! I meet some other women there to, but it is very noisy so I have trouble getting their names. There is alot of activity all around us, so it is difficult to hear and more difficult to try and have a conversation.
Time to go, as poor George is really in alot of pain. I feel for him, as do Andrew and Soloman. We make our way back to the van and head home.
We board the plane at 5:30am and watch as teams of airport personnel de-ice the wings. Not a good feeling, but a few prayers said, and we're on our way.
Arrive at Philadelphia on schedule and take the shuttle to our next flight headed for Montego Bay-YES! That flight is packed. I meet the ladies next to me, who are on their way to Montego Bay just for the weekend jazz festival. I mention Glistening Waters to them for something to do at night, since they aren't to far away.
3 1/2 hours later and we land in paradise. Already the sight of the water is exciting, and a wonderful feeling comes over my husband and I. This trip was very unexpected. Andrew, my husband, tells me 5 days before we leave, we're going to Negril. We need to get away, and work is slow now, so let's go! Who am I to disagree?
Soloman is there waiting with his wonderful smile, and we give him a big hug. Geocox and Sanya are waiting in the van for us for the ride to Negril. Geocox had arrived about an hour ahead of us. We all introduce ourselves, and we're on our way. Geocox is already in pain with his psiatic(sp) nerve, and is on heavy meds. Sanya is answering multiple telephones, and making plans for the week.
The air is warm, and the day is beautiful. It's still early in the afternoon, and we pull into Roundell to drop off George and Sanya.
Next stop, Lily Mae's, our place to stay for the night, which ends up being the entire week. We meet Juanita and DuJon, her grandson. She takes us to our room, and we have a look around. The place is great, just as JTtogo said it would be. We see the room where he and Laura will be staying, directly across from ours, and very much the same.
Andrew and I are hungry, so we set out for some food, and to head to the cambio for some cash. We have never stayed at the beach in Negril before, and we feel like this is a good choice. Easy walking to just about everything, and taxis pull over all along our walk to see if we need a ride. No thank you, we say over and over.
Back to our room, and the music is pumping at the Coffee shop next door to Lily Mae's. We sit out on the porch and watch the cars go by. An afternoon rain shower hits, and we sit and watch it pour down. We meet our Italian neighbors, and share some kind of communication together. It is their first trip to Jamaica, and so far they couldn't be happier. The rest of this day is uneventful, and we head inside for some rest for the night after our long journey.
Bright and early, we're talking 6am I wake up, and check my watch for the time. Wow, I never wake up this early at home on my own. It's got to be the alarm clock that gets me going usually. This is what will happen everyday while I'm in Negril on this trip. It's like my mind wakes my body up so as not to miss one minute of time while I'm here. And this continues throughout the week for me, only the next day I wake up at 3am. I just can't sleep alot when I'm in Jamaica. I don't want to waste time sleeping when I can be enjoying this beautiful paradise on earth. Andrew can sleep, and I leave the room and sit on the porch to wait for a reasonable hour when I can wake him up.
8:30am and we head to Selina's for some coffee and breakfast. The pot has just begun to brew, so it will be a little while before we get a mug. Even the coffee pot is on Jamaica time. It takes at least 1 full day to recover from "life in fast mode" in the USA. Everything seems to take so long to happen, but once you become one with this peaceful vibe, you're able to soak up the beauty of it. I decided that I like the slow coffee pot, that it wouldn't be good if it brewed faster, because then I wouldn't take the time to just sit, and listen to the sounds, and watch the day start. I wouldn't notice all the details at Selina's of the employees getting ready for business. I would be in and out of there, like here in the USA, never missing a beat, never noticing the day that I am blessed to be a part of.
After a nice breakfast of fresh fruit, and 2 cups of coffee, we're off to the beach with cameras, towels, and sunscreen in tow.
We walk across the busy road, and cut through the yard, asking if this is ok to pass to someone sitting on their front porch. No problem. Why would I think that it would be? The beach is spectacular, and the day is bright. The water is turquoise blue, the sky yet another shade of blue, and it all meshes together like a painting. We walk along, and stop at Irie Vibes to have a sit in the shade. The sun is hot, and the sand is warm on my feet. We meet our new friend "Ikee" and immediately begin a relationship. This will be our new "hang out", as each day we return to the vibe and become great friends with the crew there.
After a few Red Stripes, and some "attitude adjustment", we head to the water for a swim, and to start our sand sculptures on the beach. I am an artist, and just enjoy making sand kitties on any beach I encounter. I have been making them on Nagshead beaches for years, along with some pretty huge sand couches that my husband Andrew makes. It is a relaxing activity, and it feels good to sit in the sand, and feel the sculptures make their way into being. Everyone loves them, and soon they draw attention to most people that are walking down the beach. Ikee is pleased that we have dotted Irie Vibes with the sculptures, and he decides to help Andrew with the sand lounge chair. We stay there all day, and just enjoy sitting and soaking up the music, the vibe, and the spiritual conversation with Ikee.
More to come later......
Since I didn't take the time to write my trip down while I was there, things might not happen on this board in sequence, but so be it.
We left the beach and headed for home(Lily Mae's) and decided that we would stay at least 2 more nights there, but as it was, we ended up staying there the entire time.
We took a walk down past Selina's, and took a taxi to the cliffs. Stopped off at Pirate's Cave, and visited with Jason who we knew from before. He owns Pirate's Cave and ran it when we were there in October, but has since leased the property out to the owner's of Rick's Cafe. Once we heard this, we didn't have any desire to eat there, but did stop in and sat at a table with Jason where we drank a Red Stripe together and chatted over the beautiful sunset view. The place looked very nice, linens on all the tables, a fresh coat of paint, and many strings of twinkly white lights. Jason said he just couldn't manage there, and the new leasors had made the place so much better. It was packed with guests, and Jason informed us that the prices were more in line with that of Rick's, so as I said, we just sat and chatted with him, and after saying our good-byes to Jason we walked across the street to Mae's of Joseph's Cave Bar.
Mae was happy to see us again. We all got big hugs together, and then went to Mae's home to see Damale, her grandson, whom we had met before. Such a cute little guy. We returned to the bar, and gave Mae some paper and crayons for Damale for later. She was thankful. We pulled up some stools, and sat down for some Red Stripes and several games of dominoes. Andrew and I had never played, but quickly caught on, and we each took turns playing with Mae, her husband and her nephew. It was great fun, and Andrew even won a game or 2. I think we stayed there for several hours, and then moved on to 3 Dives.
We had brought some table clothes, pot holders, and some dish towels and things for Lydie and Paula. They were happy to see us, and were greatful for thinking of them with the small gifts. I think we dropped the presents off to them on our way up the cliffs, so after leaving Pirate's Cave, we stopped back by 3 Dives, and the table clothes were already in place. They looked very nice, and festive. We promised to send more upon our return home, as we didn't nearly bring enought to cover all the tables there. Paula and Lydie work so hard, and I pray for them to have strength to keep it up. I know it's hard. The place is always hopping, and they both stay so hurried and busy all the time. I'm sure they are use to all the hard work, but they really do have little time to take a breath. We got to sit with Lydie for a bit before the rush of guests, and that was good.
On our last trip in October, we stayed at Sea Grape, so we stopped by to say Hi to Juicy and Bently who manage the property there. Juicy was getting over the flu, but still managed to keep his new shop open just across the street from Sea Grape. He sells jerk chicken, and various arts and crafts, and sodas and beer. It was good to see him again.
After our stop at 3 Dives, we took a taxi with Masta Blasta, and headed for home.
Early to bed, early to rise. As I said, I woke up at 3am the next day, and had to force myself to go back to sleep until at least 6. I made it to about 7:30am, and headed out to the porch for my morning ritual, and passed some time, until I thought Andrew might be awake.
Again, breakfast at Selina's. This time we were there around 9, so the coffee was ready, and we sat and took in the place. Andrew had banana pancakes, and could barely eat them all. He was only able to eat about half, and became very full very fast. We headed out to the Cambio again to exchange some more cash, back to Lily Mae's and onto the beach. As we passed through the yard, we met someone new. Marley was his name, and he took us to a small blue tent to meet his friend Israel. We sat with the 2 of them for at least an hour probably more like 2 hours, and just listened to all that they had to say. They were so thankful for life, and the blessings of Jah. They gave us a taste of sweetsop, our first time to try it, and showed us some kind of roots juice in a bottle that was good for ailments and such. We both felt fine, so we passed on the roots drink. Israel makes it himself, and he was also cooking some vegetables. It all smelled so good, but we were full from breakfast, so we passed on that too. While we were there, the donut man came by, and he purchased a to go container of the veggies, as did others. Marley and Israel both shared alot with us spiritually and made us feel very welcome and warm. More friends made in Negril. It seems to happen so easily there. Andrew and I both said how nice it was to share with people that you didn't even know, and how where we live, it just doesn't happen this way. Sad to me, but it is what it is in the USA. Random meetings of friends in Jamaica, and the love and warmth that is given from strangers. This is what brings me back again and again. There is so much love and respect in Jamaica. I can never get enough of it!
Onto the beach and Irie Vibes. Another beautiful day, and more conversations with Ikee, Carolyn, and Betty. More sand kitties, and a big butt lady layed out on the beach made of sand. Andrew's idea, and a good one. Everyone stopped to look, and one guy even mounted the butt and.... well, I won't go into detail, but he really did a number on the big butt sand lady. We laughed alot about that. He was amazed that we could make these things, and brought others to have a look. It was all good, and so much of a conversation piece.
We also met Shadow at Irie Vibes. He worked there to I think, but on this particular day, he just sat and drank beer after beer. Even asked us to buy him a few. Ikee wasn't to happy about that, and asked him to leave. Shadow was quite a character, and though he didn't talk alot, every now and then he would just say "RIIIIIIGHT". It was funny, though I think it was beer induced, but funny all the same. He said "right" to everything and everyone. It was the way he said it. I can never do it justice in words, you had to be there. He really was a character.
We watched the sunset, another magnificent one, could it be better than yesterday's? I must have taken a whole roll of sunsets on my camera. You just can't believe the beauty of it all. Thanks to God for making something so beautiful for me to enjoy, and thanks to Him to for my eyesight that I can see all this beauty.
Dinner that night was at Famous Pete's. Glad we stopped there, it was a fantastic meal. Andrew had conch soup and jerk chicken. I had lobster that was sauteed in garlic butter, and a cole slaw salad with peas and rice. It was all so good, sitting right there on the beach, having a wonderful meal and enjoying the sounds of the sea. Please do go there if you're on the beach. It doesn't really open until around 6pm or so, but it was so good. Also, Marcia, who served us, makes cakes there and sells them right out front of Famous Pete's. They are all homemade, and all very delicious. Coconut pie, banana cake and chocolate cake. That night we shared a piece of coconut, and took a slice of banana to go with us. Marcia is a wonderful person, and boy she really knows how to bake. Please do stop by and sample her cakes. Remember she's there after 6pm. On Monday night we had dinner there again, and we got a slice of coconut, banana, and chocolate to go. All delicious! You really must try them! I told her that I would tell others to try her cakes and pies, and she was most appreciative. That night at dinner we met a couple who was from Cananda. They had been to Negril once before and were staying at The Yoga Center. We ended up having quite a long conversation with them, and passed on Soloman's name and number to them for day trips. They really didn't feel comfortable getting around, and were very happy to have us recommend someone who they could feel secure about. They wanted to go to Mayfield Falls while they were there, and I do hope that they called Soloman. As I said, we ate at Famous Pete's another night, and they were there again. So, you can see, this is a great place for dinner. Lots of repeat customers. They loved the cakes and pies too.
Home to Lily Maes' because the next day we were off to Uncle Sam's and the donkey derby. What a day that was.... More later....
So, Sunday morning, it's Donkey race day. Woohoo, I have no idea what to expect. I know how much donkeys cooperate, so this promises to be a fun filled day.
We're supposed to travel with Geocox and Sanya, and the original plan is to get there by 2pm, so I guess that means leaving around 1pm. Soloman is promptly there at noon to pick us up, next stop Devine Destiny to pick up George.
We arrive at Devine Destiny around 12:30, plenty of time. Andrew and I wait in the car, while Soloman proceeds to DD to get George and Sanya. Goats are invading the property, and we snap some photos of them eating all the vegetation at DD. One of the employees yells out the window at the goats and they hurridly move on.
After what seems forever, I decide to go in and find out what is taking so long. I have forgotten which way to turn to get to George's room, so I am directed by a staff member, who seems to have a bit of an attitude with me for not remembering my way. Oh well, I am pleasant to her, and let her know that on my previous visit, I had consumed 2 Red Stripes, and wasn't paying total attention.
Get to George's room, and he has decided to move to another room on the property. He seems upset with the whole darn place, no hot water, no tv reception, not a happy camper, and still in a lot of pain with his back. Sanya seems not to take notice and sits on the porch hanging out. Sanya offers us a beer, and George is running around like a mad man, packing his bags getting ready for the switch to another room. He is in and out of the current room, and back to the office preparing to move on. No relaxation for George, and I feel bad for him. He is obviously stressed out, in pain, and is getting no help from Sanya. I am worried about him as he is sweating buckets from walking up and down flights of stairs. Finally, the switch is made to another room, and we're on our way to the races.
The road to the races is awful. Funny how this is only 10 minutes away, but takes us a full hour to get there. Soloman of course, always calm and collected navigates through traffic and whats left of a road.
I think we get there around 3 or 4pm, not sure, but everything is in full force. We make our way to Sam's and check out the happenings. There are mostly townspeople there but some tourists also. I enjoy walking around and observing all that is going on. I'm not sure where the race takes place and as I walk through the dirt pathways, I worry that I might be trampled by racing donkies. Well, there is a yard for the race, but I didn't know that. A sigh of relief, as I no longer feel that I will be crushed by on coming donkies.
Andrew and I get something to eat, a couple of Red Stripes, and just sit and observe the activities all around us. There are lots of hippies there, at least this is my observation. I take out my cam corder and pan the scene of all that is around me. A very interesting mix of people. We walk over to see the race and Soloman and I place our bets. #12 we both pick, sight unseen for me. 12 is my birthdate, so I pick it based only on that. My bet is only 100J, and I wait to hear the results. Soloman and I both win, and wish we had bet more.
The rest of the time there is spent observing people, watching various people take to the microphone to sing, and just enjoying the afternoon. George is still in alot of pain, and tries to find a comfortable place to sit-this is hard to come by. George informs us that there are other board members present and I get up to meet whomever I can. Accompong is there and we meet and talk a bit, what a nice guy! I meet some other women there to, but it is very noisy so I have trouble getting their names. There is alot of activity all around us, so it is difficult to hear and more difficult to try and have a conversation.
Time to go, as poor George is really in alot of pain. I feel for him, as do Andrew and Soloman. We make our way back to the van and head home.
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