Monday 30 December 2013

Kids New Years Eve Party

Fireworks


Christmas came and left, and now the focus has shifted to the festivities that will be held on New Years Eve. Most people are making plans to go to the numerous parties and ring in the New Year in style. This is great and I love the excitement this special day brings, but won't be going to any parties this year.

In fact, I didn't go to any last year either, and had a terrific time at home. My son was always sad whenever I went out, and felt that he should be a part of the celebrations. I decided to stay home last year, and hosted a very small kids party instead. This will also be repeated this year.

The guest list includes four of my son's cousins and  two of his friends. It has to be a small sleepover party because I don't intend to frazzle myself out. The bottles of sparkling fruit juice is already chilling in the fridge, and the disposable wine glasses and party favors were bought in advance. All that is needed is the food and that's not a problem. Pop some wings into the oven along with a batch of cookies, and everyone is happy.

Thank goodness for Pizza Hut too. The pizzas will be pre-ordered as I know how busy their delivery schedule can be. There will be enough snacks and activities planned, as I intend to have a good time with my young guests. One of my neighbours always have a party, so I don't have to play music as theirs is extremely loud. They will no doubt provide the fireworks, so that's added entertainment to watch from my windows. The kids are excited and looking forward to the sleepover party, so that certainly puts me in a happier mood.

I doubt I'll be hosting another in 2014. Another family member or friend will take a turn playing host next year. It's only fair, and it takes care of everyone's babysitting dilemma for the evening. This will probably be my last post for 2013, so I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

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Saturday 28 December 2013

Book Review: Damaged Girls 1

 Damaged Girls is a most appropriate title for this book, written by Janice G. Ross.This author certainly knows how to spin a tale, as I was immediately drawn into the tangled web of lust and deceit she wove with an entertaining, yet serious modern day drama.

The story is narrated by Morgan, and is focused on her friend Stevie. Stevie is a man in his mid thirties who is only attracted to teenage girls, impatiently waiting for the day when they hit the legally ripe age of consent (16 yrs), so he can immediately start relationships with them.

He gets involved with Jessie, a young, lovestruck and headstrong teen, and rekindles an old flame named Jillie. (By old, I mean Jillie is now twenty-one, which is not the age group Stevie usually likes his girls to be in.) He is a jealous man who is determined to have his cake and eat it too, and that is evident throughout the story as it deepens with intriguing scenarios and intense dialogue.


I must admit that I was slightly disappointed with the abruptness of the ending, and felt the story could have closed off with a proper air of suspense, leaving the reader to amusingly speculate its outcome. Let's hope Damaged Girls 2 make up for that, which I look forward to reading. However, Damaged Girls 1 is a book that is sure to make interesting table conversation or discussion.The author, Janice G. Ross wrote a good fiction story, although it reflects the realities of life that is sometimes seen in today's society.



Link: http://www.amazon.com/Damaged-Girls-I-Janice-Ross-ebook/dp/B00AMLEZ7Q/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_d_2


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Tuesday 24 December 2013

My Christmas Muse for 2013

Christmas Tree

This Christmas will be a quiet one for me, and won't be going to the numerous activities and events that will be held for the festive season. I intend to spend a peaceful time at home, reading books and writing more articles for my blog and a few clients. My studies have also been neglected, and this too, will be my primary focus.

As I'm sitting at my desk writing this, the urge to go outside and sit in the warm sun and admire the flowers in the garden is tempting. But it is too great a distraction, as there are many errands to do to ensure Christmas Day, as well as Boxing Day special ones. My son ate all of the treats that were in the stockings, so I need to get more refills as well. I only took a break and ended up jotting this article; scribbling my thoughts clears my mind and relaxes me.

I always know when Christmas is near because the wind changes in late October, carrying that special fresh pine scent I love. My hometown Mandeville, is 2,000 feet above sea level and is one of the very few places in Jamaica known for its cool climate. It tends to get foggy too, and is fondly referred to as "The English City of Jamaica."

There are a lot of pine trees around, and some people including my family, often go to the nearby tree nurseries and select the trees we want in advance, tagging them with our special ribbons or other identification. Another sign of the festive season is the pleasant aroma of rum cakes and fruit cakes being baked. These are sure signs of Christmas that always puts me in the festive spirit.

Well, this is my little post of the day, as time is precious, and my coffee break ended long ago. Writing really is absorbing and makes one forget about everything else.

Christmas Cake


Have a Merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year!

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Saturday 21 December 2013

A Ray of Hope (200 word flash fiction)


Rainy Weather


 Laura looked around the tiny studio, and sat on the bed and cried. Gary put his arms around her.

"Don't worry, darling. I'll get you a nicer place than this someday," he promised, wiping her tears away.

 He felt as dreary as the heavy downpour of rain outside, like the weatherman predicted.  
"Gary, what are we to do? You lost your job, we're behind in the rent, and the landlord wants to evict us. Maybe we acted hastily when we ran away and eloped. I know my dad will help us if we ask him."

"No! Your dad already thinks I'm a loser. Asking him for money will only convince him he's right," Gary retorted, answering the telephone when it rang. He smiled after the call ended.

"That was my uncle Ray who lives out of town. He offered me a job in his car service company, and wants me to start  right away. How do you feel about moving?"

"I can't wait," said Laura, kissing Gary. "It's a good opportunity to make a fresh start and pay our bills. Besides, you promised me a better home to live in."

Their future became brighter than the weatherman's forecast.

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Friday 20 December 2013

Sweet Revenge




The door slammed, echoing down the hall. Joan smiled as she put dinner on the table. Jim was home on time, just like clockwork. Dinner was a silent affair, for Jim did not care much for conversation, and did not want his wife to talk unless she was spoken to. "A woman must know her place," he often told her. 

Joan had left her husband  several times, only to have Jim track her down and bring her back to their house, beating her on each occasion. The last time he threatened her, saying he would kill her if she ever left him again. Joan took his threat seriously, especially after seeing the crazed look in his eyes.

Well, tonight was the last time she would spend here, if her plan worked the way she wanted. Why shouldn’t it? She thought, making herself a cup of cocoa after dinner. Jim came into the kitchen and put a couple ice cubes in a glass, then poured some whiskey in it, and drank, watching his wife the entire time.

“You made me look like a damn fool in front of my friends, running away from me!  Now my friends think I am not man enough to keep my wife at home. You embarrassed me with your stupid actions.”

Joan flinched, thinking she was going to be hit again. When she realized that it was not going to happen, she took a sip of cocoa, sitting down at the table. Jim swallowed more whiskey before continuing his rant. "Y you will never g get another chance to leave me again. I made sure of that, you, you!" Jim began to slur his words.

Good, the poison was taking effect, Joan thought, smiling. Jim always had whiskey before going to bed. The glass dropped from Jim’s hand, and he began to stagger towards the table, reaching out to Joan with outstretched hands.“W what did you do to me?” he asked in a raspy voice.

Joan stood up, finishing her cocoa. She felt a pang of anxiety at what she had done, but when she heard Jim cursing her, her confidence was boosted knowing she had finally overpowered him in her own way. “I poisoned your drink, you bastard. It was the only way I would ever be free of you.”

Jim now lay dying on the kitchen floor, perspiring heavily and could barely breathe. He did manage to smile briefly while Joan watched him suffer. Then Jim struggle to talk, beckoning her to come closer. Joan knelt at his side, no longer afraid of her husband.

"P poisoned th can cocoa!”  It was the last thing Jim said before dying, but he lived long enough to hear his wife scream in fear.

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Wednesday 18 December 2013

My Christmas Wish (Acrostic Poem)



Christmas Tree and Gifts



Many trees to trim, lots of tasty goodies to bake
You'd better remember the orphans' gifts to take

Christmas shoppers are frustrated and so tired
Having to get the kids' gifts, or they will be" fired"
Roll out the garland, quickly decorate the front door
In a minute carolers will come knocking once more
Snowmen and snow angels are bound to delight
Tow trucks are aplenty and giving us all a fright
Mealtimes will always be treasured occasions
As some relatives are coming from far locations
Special times that bring festivities for all nations

Warm the cider,  bring out some more wine
It is time for our prayers and then we'll dine
Seasons Greetings for a very Happy Holiday
Hoping all you wish for will come your way!

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Monday 16 December 2013

Book Review: The Killing of Perry Santos: And Other Short Stories




If you like suspense and espionage involving spies, along with the intrigue that always go with it, then "The Killing of Perry Santos: And Other Short Stories" is sure to please. This book is written by Scott Durham, a talented author, based on what I've read. I was given no time to feel bored as the content I read grabbed my attention from the very beginning, with its fast paced rhythm of action and well executed scenarios.

Mr. Durham is an author who does not mince his words. He is precise and gets straight to the point; therefore is effective in delivering a collection of stories mixed with murder, and stirred with wry humour. If the pen is a weapon, then Scott Durham is a writer who knows how to use it with ease. The book cover itself is attractive, and also caught my eye as well.

I am not one who like to divulge a lot of information about a book, much preferring to give readers a chance to find out on their own. But I will say my reaction to the book was not disappointing. I look forward to reading more of this author's books, and the next one will soon be released to the public.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Killing-Perry-Santos-Stories/dp/0615870422/ref=cm_cr-mr-title


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Thursday 12 December 2013

Give Me Love





Give me love without any reason
One that won't change with season
Give me love to be my dearest friend
A love that nurtures until the very end

Give me love as sunny as the day
So he'll see clearly to walk my way
Give me love branded on his heart
A love no-one will ever tear apart

Give me love, one so understanding and kind
No more deceiving love to play with my mind
Give me love that will show his tender care
I want to be happy, and not cry another tear


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Wednesday 11 December 2013

1 Drink 2 Many




I remember spending a few days with family and friends at a villa near the beach. It was a marvelous time frolicking in the pool, and dancing to pulsating rhythms of reggae and calypso.

There was a generous supply of alcohol, but most of the guests drank in moderation. However, a mature fun loving couple named Stella and Paul was never seen without drinks in their hands.

They kept the staff busy, as they continuously drank glasses of vodka chased with coconut water or ginger ale. Stella and Paul were the first ones to drink in the morning, and the last to leave the bar at nights. The effects of alcohol made Stella talkative, and it made Paul feel like a strutting young cock among the hens.

Stella liked to float on an inflatable raft in the pool while sipping her drink, and balanced the glass on her stomach when her hand got tired. If she needed another one, Paul or one of the staff were always there to “fill her up.” I knew Stella loved her liquid diet, but didn’t realize just how much until an incident occurred one day.

Most of us were busy playing dominoes, or doing other activities. The music was loud and no one paid any attention to the person in the pool. It was just luck that a friend looked toward the pool. Stella had fallen off the raft and had gotten into difficulties. We quickly ran over and heard her shouting as she went underwater.

“Help, save the drink!” Stella repeated a couple times as she went under and came back up. While she struggled to keep her head above water, Stella’s hand was raised high in the air, firmly holding onto her glass of alcohol.

“Save the what?” was the question we asked each other in disbelief.

“No, she couldn’t have said that.”

“Oh, yes, she did!”

 A couple of the men went to her assistance, as Paul was too pickled to rescue his wife. But he stood by the poolside laughing with the rest of us at the hilarious request Stella made when she almost drowned.  Her precious drink was saved too.

Stella was slightly shaken by the incident, so it was surprising to hear her say, ” I need a drink to calm my nerves.”

 She was told to rest instead, and managed to stay sober for a short period before drinking again, much to our disapproval. She had her husband’s company for a drinking partner. I’m glad I rarely socialize with this couple.

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Monday 9 December 2013

Warning to Santa Claus

Santa Claus



Dear Santa

My son and his friends cannot wait to see you
The other parents and I are not happy, alas we rue 
Last Christmas should have been a festive season
But you made it very sad and here is the reason

Instead of taking pictures with kids on your lap
You danced, gyrated, sang, fell, then took a nap
I know Christmas time brings joy and good cheer
Why did you have to do it with a six pack of beer?

The elves worked extremely hard to hide your mishap
What they should have done was to give you a slap
You have always gotten top ratings, and never a low
So please come sober this year with a HO HO HO!

Signed
Angry Mom

This actually happened a couple years ago

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Saturday 7 December 2013

Hogaholic

Glazed Ham


Oh, I just love to eat pork
Finger food or with a fork

Pork stew, chops or honey glazed ham
Give me a plate with some candied yam

I'm addicted to this very versatile meat
Pork cooked in any style is a tasty treat

Joined a support group to defend my reasoning
Had to tell why I like ribs with spicy seasoning

My support group meets every Friday night
At the Pork Pit, Rib Cage or Porkers Delight

It is not easy, I will reluctantly admit
To resist roast suckling pig in all its glit


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Friday 6 December 2013

A Neighbour to Watch




Mike and I were pleased when the house next door was sold. It had been empty for a while, and we hoped its new occupant was friendlier than the last couple who lived there.

My curiosity got the better of me, thinking the neighbour had enough time to get settled in. I baked some cookies to take along, and we went to welcome him to the neighbourhood.

Jake Briggs was a pleasant man and we hit it off instantly. He was in his forties, divorced, and worked as a freelance accountant from home. Mike and I invited him over to dinner a couple times, joking that single men shouldn't eat alone. It was good that Mike had male company to hang out with, I thought.

One morning after Mike left for work, I went to make myself a cup of coffee, and happened to glance out the kitchen window which faces my new neighbour's own. Jake was looking at me with a smile on his face. I waved and saw that he was shirtless. My eyes travelled down and realised he was in fact, stark naked. I quickly turned away from the window in shock.

When Mike got home I told him about the incident. He shrugged his shoulders, and told me Jake probably was embarrassed too, so I should forget about it. His response did not reassure me but didn't bother to comment.

Over the next few days Jake seemed to know my routine, and would stand by the kitchen window making sure I saw his nudity.  He even had the nerve to wink at me a couple times. I was embarrassed at first, but as he continued I was hopping mad.

My complaints fell on deaf ears whenever I spoke to Mike and we quarrelled.  He accused me of being jealous because Jake did not have a wife I could talk to. That remark stung because it wasn't true. Whenever Jake came over to hang out with Mike, he was so charming to me that Mike did not believe my complaints. 

I decided to take matters into my own hands and got even. Two can play the game, and I was not going to let my perverted neighbour win. He seemed to spend more time flaunting his naked body than working. As soon as Mike left for work the next morning, I went to the kitchen and washed up the dishes. Jake soon came and stood by his window blowing me a kiss. I felt like walking away but stayed to see my plan through.

I smiled as though I was now enjoying Jake's flirtatious manner, which only seemed to please him more. He slowly licked his lips with his tongue, and touched his genitals. His actions repulsed me, but my determination to put an end to Jake's lewd behaviour made me watch. Later that night while Mike was asleep, I sat at the computer and began to work.

I got up early the next morning, stuffed some sheets of paper in Jake's mail box, and put a few more in a couple of the closest neighbours' mail boxes as well. When Mike left for work I went and stood by the kitchen window, sipping my coffee while I waited for the creep to appear. It didn't take long, and he was soon up to his antics again. I gave him the finger and walked away.

Jake went to collect his mail and found some posters of him in all his glory. Each poster had him posing in various positions, and it was obvious he was enjoying every minute of it. Jake wore a stunned look on his face and glanced at my front window. I waved at him, and held up a sign with the word "BUSTED!" He hurried inside his house and slammed the door. By evening, everyone on the block knew about the pervert who recently moved there.

Jake won't be a neighbour for very long, as a Realtor came by to inspect his house. I hope the next occupants who live in the house will be a nice couple, and their stay will be much longer than Jake's. Hmm, maybe I shouldn't be too hasty to put away the hidden camera I installed in the kitchen.

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Wednesday 4 December 2013

Horsing Around




“Quit horsing around, and behave yourselves!” scolded Harriet Hen as she marched her chicks into the courtyard.

It’s not our fault, Mom. Percy Pig was acting like an ass.” said Cherry Chick.

“Why did you have to rat on me?” asked Percy Pig in an annoyed manner.

“My sister‘s not a squealer. You take that back!” shouted Lucky Chick.

“What’s all the quacking about?” asked Dan Dog, as he approached the other animals.

“Percy Pig tried to milk us by eating most of the corn.” Rusty Rooster complained.

“I did not, you goatish old liar!”

“That bullish attitude will not be tolerated at all, Percy Pig!”Dan Dog said as he listened to the squabble.

That Percy Pig is baaad news,” Dotty Duck commented.

‘We all have to share and live peacefully on Friendly Farm. If you can’t abide by the rules, I’ll have to report you to Farmer Brown," warned Dan Dog.

“Please don’t report me, Dan Dog," pleaded Percy Pig. "I’m sorry I acted like a sly fox. It will not happen again,” 

“We’ll be watching you. Your wolfish appetite is always getting out of hand,” Clover Cow remarked, while chewing her cud.

‘That’s the clucking truth!” agreed Sam Sheep, slowing nodding his head.

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Friday 29 November 2013

Beauty Magic



Dr. Edward Jones peeled away the bandages from Roxanne's breasts. He held one breast in his right hand and examined it closely. The incision was barely visible, and was healing nicely.

"Well, how do I look?" Roxanne asked, impatiently.

"Beautiful as always, my dear. You don't need to have any cosmetic changes done, Roxanne. You're a strikingly good looking woman. Leave the beauty fixes for the neglected housewives and disfigured persons."

"Oh save the lecture, Edward! You should be grateful you're married to me. Not many women would give you a second glance, with that plain face of yours, and those thick owlish glasses you wear. Why the hell did I marry you?"

"You were probably tired of paying me the money I deserved to do the unnecessary make-overs on you. I do love you as you are, Roxanne," Edward replied, placing a kiss on his wife's forehead.

"Oh, shut up!" snapped Roxanne, turning her head away. She looked at herself in the hand mirror that was on the night stand, and was pleased with the results. The puffiness and bluish color should fade away in time, before her trip to the resort next weekend, with a few friends.

The one thing she made sure to never run out of, besides money, was make-up. There was plenty of that in her dressing room to make her look flawless and more stunning. She could not wait to flaunt her latest assets.

Edward walked toward the door. He paused before opening it.

"I feel like a stranger with my own wife. I know my work gets in the way at times. Why don't we go somewhere quiet and romantic to spend some time together?" he suggested.

"Paris or London sounds marvelous. I need a new wardrobe to go with my new look." Roxanne said, looking up when she heard the door shut.

==============================================================

"Ahh, Roxy, I can't keep my hands off your magnificent boobs!"
                                                                                                                                  
"Careful, Paul, they're still slightly tender from the surgery. You'll have them to play with all weekend. I told my husband I'm visiting Jackie." Roxanne got out of bed and poured herself another drink.

"If you were my wife, I wouldn't let you out of my sight. Your husband's a damn fool."

"He's a man besotted with a beautiful woman, and believes the lies I tell him."

Roxanne went onto the balcony. The music from the resort band was loud, competing with the laughter coming from the patrons at the poolside. The non-stop partying was fun, and she was having an exciting time. All the men wanted to flirt with her. Paul was great in bed, with a voracious sexual appetite to match hers. She would keep in contact with him after she left. The fake compliments Joan and her other female friends made when they saw her robust cleavage made Roxanne smile. Envious bitches, she mused, finishing her drink.

The weekend activities came to an end, and Roxanne left late Sunday evening. After driving for a while, it began to rain. The road became slippery, and the car skidded. It spun out of control, and went over the embankment, hitting a tree before landing upside-down. A truck driver saw the wreckage and found Roxanne unconscious.

Roxanne woke up with a splitting headache. She looked around and realized she was in the hospital. Edward was sitting in a chair nearby and held her hand.

"What happened?" she asked groggily, attempting to sit and moaned in pain.

"Don't try to move. You were in an accident, and were brought here. You broke a couple ribs, and your face was badly cut from the broken glass. The doctors said your alcohol level was high too."

Roxanne put a hand to her face, and felt the bandages. "No, not my face!" she yelled, but stopped talking when she felt pain resulting from it.

"It's alright darling. I was called as soon as the doctors realized who you were. I decided to perform plastic surgery while you were unconscious. It was easier that way."

Roxanne was discharged earlier than expected, and Edward took her home. He had taken leave to care for his wife, and catered to her whims.

"I'm going to take the bandages off now," Edward told Roxanne in her dressing room one day.

"Well, it's about time. I'm tired of being cooped up in this dreary house with you!"
                                                                                                                                      
Edward slowly cut away the bandages, and turned Roxanne's head from side to side. He was pleased with the results. It was one of his finest works ever.

“Perfect. Your face healed nicely, and not a scar in sight. All you need is a suntan to get rid of that pale complexion."                                                                          

"Hurry up, I want to see!" Roxanne spun around in the swivel chair and looked in the dresser mirror. She blinked before letting out a scream. Staring back at her was a creature that looked like death warmed over. Her nose was long and shaped like a beak, and her lips were plumped up from having been injected with too much Botox. The skin had been pulled back tightly, giving the cheekbones a too high look.  Roxanne's brows were raised at an angle, causing her eyes to appear slant and close set.

"My face! What have you done to me, you bastard?" she shouted, slapping Edward across his face. He smiled sadly.

"I created a new look for my wife. I have put up with your tantrums and selfish attitude for too long, hoping you would change and return my love. Everything I did and gave you was never good enough. You thought you could get away with your affair at the resort, didn't you? I've performed plastic surgery on some of your friends. A couple of the women at the resort were more than happy to call, informing me of my wife's antics. Did you know how hurt I was?"

"You'll never get away with this. I'm leaving you!" Roxanne cried, rising from the chair. Edward pushed her back into it. He had an angry expression which Roxanne had never seen displayed before.

"You no longer call the shots, sweetheart. From now on, you'll do exactly what I tell you. No need to worry about looking beautiful anymore. No man will want you now, and you'll never leave this house without me. Your time will be spent doing the cooking, housework, and catering to my needs."

Roxanne cried, still in shock over her appearance, and realized there was no-one to turn to. She would not let anyone see her horrendous looking face.

"I hate you!" she shouted at Edward, throwing a bottle at him. He caught it and read the label with a smile.

"Beauty Magic Cream. This won't help, my darling. You call me plain, but it's you who should be grateful to be married to me. Now go to the kitchen and fix my dinner. Your glamorous party days are over!"

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Thursday 28 November 2013

Man in the Mirror




 Is that old man staring back really me? Time really flies as the saying goes.  Funny, I don’t feel old at all, but am seventy-three years old.

How could my face have gotten so wrinkled without me noticing it? All these years I have been looking in the mirror, seeing a younger man. What made today so different to make me observe these changes? Maybe my beloved Martha has something to do with that. Fifty-one years of marriage today, and she still tells me how handsome I look. I guess I feel the same about her too. She is just as beautiful now as when I met her.

Look how thin my hair has become. It used to be so thick and dark, now I can use my hand to keep it in place. My face is so tanned and lined from working outdoors in the sun. All those years of struggling in the hot sun, trying to make a living from farming have rewarded me with wrinkles and aged spots. I earned every one too.

 It was not an easy life, but I endured the hardships and welcomed the good times. Those are not wrinkles around my mouth, but laugh lines, caused by the happiness of having a family. This is the face of a man who has weathered the four seasons reasonably well, despite disappointments and regrets. I have seen the ravages of war and survived. Friends and loved ones have passed on.

Age is a number. There is still the feel of youthful vigor in my body. Sure, I may not walk as briskly as before, but I am not slow either. Nowadays, I just prefer to move at my own pace. Why does everyone rush so much? My body is no longer as finely toned as it used to be, but I think I’m in better shape than some of the young men I see on the streets. They are all booze and belly. Martha does not complain about the romance, or lack of it, which is often the case these days. Holding hands can be so sentimental.

Ah, yes, Jake, my friend, is staring at me from the mirror. It is you who are the elderly one, not me. There is still a lot of energy left in this man, and life was meant for living, so I’ll not waste precious minutes looking at you. I have places to explore and new things to do before the breath leaves my body. When did the time past me by?
                                       
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Wednesday 20 November 2013

Saving the Hawksbill Sea Turtles

Hawksbill Sea Turtle
Sandals Whitehouse, one of the all inclusive hotels in the Sandals Resorts International Chain, located in Westmoreland on the south coast of Jamaica has always been a popular choice for visitors. This was made more evident with the arrival of the Hawksbill sea turtles, when their tracks were first noticed on the property's white sand beach in 2011.

A team comprised of fishermen from the local Bluefield Bay Fishermen Friendly Society  (BBFFS) trained in sea turtle conservation, and members of the hotel staff were led by the Environment Health and Safety (EHS) department to start an exciting and educational monitoring nesting program at the resort. The team worked endlessly to preserve the lives of this endangered species, as bad weather and predators had decreased the quantity of nests found.

Nighttime vigils in the mangroves and patrols along the beachfront property looking for nests and predators became a daily part of the hotel's activities. An intensive clean up campaign to remove trash and other debris scattered on the beach outside the boundaries of the hotel's property, and surrounding areas where the turtles would most likely make their nests was successful.

The month of May 2013 was the beginning of sea turtle season, and the dedicated team and hotel guests impatiently began their watch for signs of the Hawksbill turtles return. This event, however, did not take place until July and September, and twenty-nine nests were found. Six of the nests were destroyed by predators, and some had to be relocated to safer havens along the beach. Two hundred and forty-four (244) hatchlings were recorded, and they were safely released into the sea. Four nests remained at the time with an average of four hundred and eighty-five (485) eggs.

Turtle preservation is one of the many projects that the Sandals Foundation, a division of the Sandals Resorts International focuses on. A cash donation was recently given to the BBFFS, which was badly needed to further assist in the research, growth and protection of one of the most endangered and beloved sea creatures.

Things You May Not Know About the Hawksbill Sea Turtle:

1. It is one of the smallest sea turtles growing to an adult length of 2.5 - 3 feet (71 - 89cm).

2. The average weight of the adult is 101 - 154 pounds (46 - 70kg).

3. A Hawksbill's diet mainly consist of  sponges, squid, shrimp and anemones.

4. The turtle's natural habitat can be found in rocky areas, coastal reefs, estuaries and lagoons.

5.Their mating periods are between 2 - 4 years, and they usually nest 3 - 6 times per season.

6. The turtles will lay an average of 160 eggs per nest, with an incubation period of 60 days.

Hawksbill image courtesy of wikimediacommons.org

Friday 15 November 2013

Take Me To The Church On Time!



Making a Checklist

“Hmm…… Wedding cake – check; caterers – check; invitations – check; honeymoon – groom’s responsibility – double check.”

So you’re planning your wedding, and are constantly looking at your checklist, making sure that you have not forgotten anything. You are going to be the reigning star of this special event, and want everything to be perfect.

One of the most important items that should be on your checklist is transportation. How are you and your bridal party going to get to the church and reception? Have you considered using a wedding car hire service? Most car rental services offer chauffeur driven limousines at competitive rates, which are usually rented for three hours, depending on the bride’s requirements.

The car rental companies offer a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. Consider renting the romantic vintage car, such as a Rolls Royce for you and the groom, as it only seats two. There is also the stretch limousine which seats six to twelve persons, and is the preferred choice of most brides. The luxury sedan accommodates three to four persons.

Selecting a Limousine

It is your decision to decide which limousine company to use on your budget, and how many vehicles you will need. You and your party should be driven in comfort. Always look at the interior photos the limousine companies have to ensure that the vehicle is spacious, and the seating is in good condition. Heaven forbid that you or a bridesmaid should damage your dresses while sitting on the seat! Heaven forbid the limousine should break down on the way to the church! Never rent a vehicle until you have examined it, and also check to see how reputable each company is.

When you have selected one that matches your needs, make a deposit to ensure that you will have transportation on the appointed day. Keep in contact with the limousine service, especially when the wedding is near at hand. You need to be reassured that the vehicle will be on time to pick you up. Time is of the essence, and you want things to flow efficiently and smoothly on that day.

The Special Day

The limousine should take you and your bridal party to your destination in style and on time. The rental package features a bar service with complimentary champagne for the bridal party, and a chauffeur to drive the vehicle to the venue. The car can be decorated according to the bride’s needs, and will include a “Just Married” sign. Another additional feature to make this a memorable occasion is having the chauffeur “roll out the red carpet” for the special couple to walk on. The chauffeur is at your disposal, and is willing to go the extra mile to accommodate your needs.

A wedding car hire is the most popular choice when looking at transportation.  You would not want to take up "dear old Uncle Bob’s" offer to use his creaky, banged up looking sedan to take you to the church. Arrive in style, and be pampered. After all, how often do you intend to get married?


Wedding limousine image courtesy of wikimediacommons.org