trip report / july fourth, twenty-fourteen

Another perfect day on the beach. I’m glad I decided to park at Alfreds because there were plenty of families around me. Man am I going to miss all of this…

Once I was settled all I wanted to do was look around and take in all I could of this scene. I glanced at the black bag containing my breakfast and although I wasn’t hungry felt I should eat a little before happy hour. Having been dumped in the carrier then shaken up, the meal looked a mess and unappetizing, but I couldn’t waste it so I forced myself to eat the ackee. So glad I did because it was delicious.

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Then the fruit guy came along waving a big smile and baby bananas in my direction. Why not. I’ll take one.
“ONE?!?! One bundle??”
“No, one banana.”
“But how you a big gal only eat one honey banana?”
“How do you expect my business by insulting me??”
“Cha…come on…come one...Miss...buy chree or four.”
“I’ll take two for 100. If you give me any more flack about what to buy you can just be on your way leaving me with none of your bananas and you without my 100 dollars.”
“You nuh easy…”

I got two of the most sweetest bananas I had in a long time. Kinda wished I bought more..but why since I’m leaving tomorrow…

Leaving tomorrow…I think I’m going to cry.

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Thirsty! I’m mad thirst! I guess so…it’s officially happy hour. I go to the bar with the intentions of getting something lively and fancy to drink, but wind up ordering a short of overproof and a cup of ice.

This is Chris, one of the bartenders at Alfreds. Such a sweetie and not too hard on the eyes either!!!!!
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I wish you could be there when I'm there. I love your style of travel and personality. I have never been short of adventures on all my visits. The excitement is a part of the reason for my return. I am not computer savvy, so I don't know how to post pictures. My son makes fun of me all the time because I go to him for everything pertaining to the computer. I definitely don't have your style of writing.

Holley molley , I think I need a rum punch from Alfreds !!!! :):)

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Originally Posted by butterfly

I wish you could be there when I'm there. I love your style of travel and personality. I have never been short of adventures on all my visits. The excitement is a part of the reason for my return. I am not computer savvy, so I don't know how to post pictures. My son makes fun of me all the time because I go to him for everything pertaining to the computer. I definitely don't have your style of writing.

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Butterfly, you and me both!!! I tried to make it work but it’s not financially feasible for me to force a reach in January. Soooo darhlin! darhlin! Me darhlin! Your mission is to live those adventures for the both of us!! Have twice as much fun. Take twice as many photos. HOWEVER only drink HALF the amount of booze I would. Don’t want you to develop liver issues on vacation.

TRUST, everyone appreciates the pictures, Words are nice, but the photos are what brings the experience to life. Thanks for the compliment; I’m just a rambler…not a writer. You express yourself very well so you won’t have a problem pulling a great report together. Now about those thousands of pictures and videos you are going to take…I’ll link you about that.

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Originally Posted by jojo p

Holley molley , I think I need a rum punch from Alfreds !!!! :):)

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jojo, I kid you not, he's a cutie for sure. He's on the quiet side but I have a feeling you can change that...lol

Vi, beautiful. I am living a vacation just reading your TR with the pictures.:)

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Like this one...so sorry this is report is coming to an end....

[QUOTE=*vi*;149198]Hey the billndonna!!! Wow what an honor to know you are still hanging with me while on the rock!!!! Glad you are having a great time and hope the hiccups were minor and few. Thanks for taking the time to post a little something on the board for all. Can I ask you something…who is doing the posting, bill or donna or is it a team contribution???
It is I,Bill posting with my back up lady helping me keep things on track,i sometimes tend to wander.Ok,i always tend to wander! Keep it coming Vi we love your reports,sometimes i read her parts of yours and sometimes i just let her daydream on her own.We now have a year to suffer through until we can get back and hopefully bring our son and his wife so they can make more memories.

The cutie has beautiful eyes :) Sammyb, I really like that picture of the ladies entranced by something, too! I don't want this to end, dear Vi~

Mmmm...Chris, you say?? Looks extra fine. Lol! His eyes are pretty.

I hate when an excellent trip report comes to an end.

Kaycee, I saw him first ! :):)

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Originally Posted by Summer

Vi, beautiful. I am living a vacation just reading your TR with the pictures.:)

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Oh Summer, thank you…makes me very happy to know you haven’t disappeared.

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Originally Posted by sammyb

Like this one...so sorry this is report is coming to an end....

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Thanks Sammy. It’s just as sad coming to the end of a report as it is coming to the end of a reach. For me anyway. I’m reliving the anguish of leaving all over again which is why it’s a challenge relating the events of the last full day/night and departure moments. I know you know, Sammy.

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Originally Posted by billndonna

It is I,Bill posting with my back up lady helping me keep things on track,i sometimes tend to wander.Ok,i always tend to wander! Keep it coming Vi we love your reports,sometimes i read her parts of yours and sometimes i just let her daydream on her own.We now have a year to suffer through until we can get back and hopefully bring our son and his wife so they can make more memories.

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Well hello billndonna. Thanks for your support and for supporting the board by sharing your own lovely experiences and pictures. I like that you give your precious wife space to daydream on her own. Must be a very pleasurable sight for you to gaze at her indulging in total contentment. And Bill, you made my smile beam to see that you read my words to your Donna. Thank you so much for that.

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Originally Posted by Schuttzie

The cutie has beautiful eyes :) Sammyb, I really like that picture of the ladies entranced by something, too! I don't want this to end, dear Vi~

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Hi Schuttzie, the ladies were in a photo shoot. I took the picture because I was interested in one of the ladies’ hair style.

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Originally Posted by kaycee

Mmmm...Chris, you say?? Looks extra fine. Lol! His eyes are pretty.

I hate when an excellent trip report comes to an end.

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Awwwwww thanks you kaycee!!!! Yes, so when you are in Negril make sure you go there in the evening so you can gaze into those hypnotic gems.

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Originally Posted by jojo p

Kaycee, I saw him first ! :):)

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LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! then you gots to get there first jojo

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I grabbed my camera and drink then strolled to the colorful vendor stands next door. While taking pictures a voice called out to me to come inside. The strong rum’s tone was louder and told me I was hearing thangs so I continued taking pictures. The voice, now getting closer, again invites me to come take a look in the shop. Meeting me at the entrance was a thick (but way too young fe me) cutie. He calls himself G-Man. Blessed with equal and very generous portions of Jamaican and Indian nature, he is adorably blended. Reminds me of my younger son. I follow G-Man in to take a look at his table full of wares.

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It was hot in there so I knew I had to scan quickly then leave before the heat makes me impatient. .

I think G-Man is flirting with me as I table shop. Didn’t want to assume he was so the rum told me to ask.

“Lawd child, are you flirting with me??”
“CHILD!” followed by a giggle that made his belly jiggle. “What, you won’t go out with me?” he takes a hold of my right-hand pinky. “To party and dance?? What’s your name?” he asks with a boyish smile that almost made this grown woman weak.
“Party…dance…ok…where??? Um wait!” (Geee now I’m giggling and jiggling.) “It’s not that you aren’t a handsome man, you are. It’s just that you remind me of my son and it would feel like I’m doing something morally wrong with you if we dance the way I like to dance.”

He smiled and I just wanted to pinch his cheek. He’s looking more and more like my Kenny the longer I stare at him. I turn my attention back to the table and see something I really wanted.

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“How much is that crab?”
“1,000J. You like that?”
“Yeah I do, but I don’t have that much on me. It’s my last day so the dollars are low. All I have on me is 300. But I promise I will look for you on my next reach.”
“Promise?”
“Absolutely.”
“Respect Sista…Respect”

I’m sweating buckets so I said my goodbyes and made my exit.

Vi, I'll be there on New Years Eve, I'll tell him you sent me , LOL !!!!!!

DWL jojo you should!!!!! I think I told him I was going to bring him some attention. Let me see if I can help him remember me…red hair…always sat on the loungers taking pictures, writing & listening to music… fat…old…below-average to homely looks… only drank rum on the rocks w/red stripe chasers…yeah he should remember me. URGH!!! lol

LOL. Keep it coming Vi, I know it's almost over, just don't want it to be. You'll probably finish this just as I'm leaving fi de rock...
Btw, I see you have pictures of Giddy House restaurant. Where is that exactly? I've never noticed it before, but someone else posted about it recently and piqued my interest.

Your pictures look awesome Vi,they take me back to the Island where we would still like to be!Just got a new camera so next year we will have much better pictures.

We'll eventually be in Jamaica at the same time, and when we do I'm sure we'll not be short of adventures. As for the drinking I normally need a AA meeting after leaving Jamaica. I normally drink more rum then I do in anyone's lifetime. I will make sure I share my photos with you when I return.

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Originally Posted by TAH

LOL. Keep it coming Vi, I know it's almost over, just don't want it to be. You'll probably finish this just as I'm leaving fi de rock...
Btw, I see you have pictures of Giddy House restaurant. Where is that exactly? I've never noticed it before, but someone else posted about it recently and piqued my interest.

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TAH when are you leaving again? Doesn't matter, I'm insanely jealous you and your Princess have a reach approaching and I don't (insert pouty face here). Anyway...the report should be finished by Monday, Tuesday morning at the latest. Giddy House is a few steps from Alfreds. Facing Alfreds with the sea behind you, it would be to the left in the midst of that cluster of shops. I have a better picture somewhere but can’t get at it right now.

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Originally Posted by billndonna

Your pictures look awesome Vi,they take me back to the Island where we would still like to be!Just got a new camera so next year we will have much better pictures.

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Thanks billndonna. I know the feeling of longing to be back there once the old routine back home kicks in. Congrats on the camera!!! I’ve seen some fantastic pictures taken with phones and tablets, but for me, nothing like looking through a viewer and pressing a shutter button.

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Originally Posted by butterfly

We'll eventually be in Jamaica at the same time, and when we do I'm sure we'll not be short of adventures. As for the drinking I normally need a AA meeting after leaving Jamaica. I normally drink more rum then I do in anyone's lifetime. I will make sure I share my photos with you when I return.

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Butterfly, the closer the time gets to RS the more my heart aches and longs to be going. I know we would have crazy fun at that event. But like I said, I need you to represent and party for the both of us. Looking forward to seeing your photos…I’m going to need a serious Jamaica fix by then.

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Originally Posted by *vi*

TAH when are you leaving again? Doesn't matter, I'm insanely jealous you and your Princess have a reach approaching and I don't (insert pouty face here). Anyway...the report should be finished by Monday, Tuesday morning at the latest. Giddy House is a few steps from Alfreds. Facing Alfreds with the sea behind you, it would be to the left in the midst of that cluster of shops. I have a better picture somewhere but can’t get at it right now.


Thanks billndonna. I know the feeling of longing to be back there once the old routine back home kicks in. Congrats on the camera!!! I’ve seen some fantastic pictures taken with phones and tablets, but for me, nothing like looking through a viewer and pressing a shutter button.


Butterfly, the closer the time gets to RS the more my heart aches and longs to be going. I know we would have crazy fun at that event. But like I said, I need you to represent and party for the both of us. Looking forward to seeing your photos…I’m going to need a serious Jamaica fix by then.

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Thanks vi. Leaving tomorrow, but it's actually a guys trip this time. The Empress can't go because we have a child in school, among a few other things that won't allow for her to go this time. Honestly, I really don't even want to go this time because of that, but I have to play tour guide... it could be worse. At least I'll get in some snorkeling and a bit of free diving, and the food is always a plus, lots of subs will be consumed. I'll catch up on this when I return, can't wait for the conclusion. Thanks for the Giddy House directions, that helps a lot!

Awesome trip report Ms.Vi!!!
:)
*round of applause*

Hello Vi, I know you are busy being back in Real life mode but are you gonna leave us hanging on your last day in paradise. thanks in advance for your last days thoughts.

my apologies to you, newfiegirl and others who have been patiently waiting for me to end this. I was hoping to post the final day & night this week but got caught up being an over-worked adult which has left me with little free time. You know how that is. If not Monday, I promise to post more by Tuesday. I'm also gathering more photos to throw in at the end. thanks so much for sticking around, newfiegirl. I won't leave you hanging for much longer.

I'm patiently waiting.:)

...Wait...there's more??

*sits back down*

I'm baa-aack...

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Originally Posted by kaycee

...Wait...there's more??

*sits back down*

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LOL that was cute

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Originally Posted by TAH

I'm baa-aack...

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no way! Okay, where's the report??? Post the link here so I won't miss it. Welcome back TAH! I probably missed you just as much as Mrs. TAH!!!

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Originally Posted by butterfly

I'm patiently waiting.:)

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and I appreciate your patience butterbaby :)

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Enough of watching other people have fun in the sun, I’m ready to do some real swimming!! But who will babysit my crap???? I removed the card from my camera and placed it in a tiny zip loc bag that was holding my extra battery. Secured under my headscarf & hat, it went with me into the ocean.

YEAH! Theres more! I love beach volleyball :)

Thanks vi, Mrs TAH handled my absence quite well, we talked most every day I was away. I was surprised at just how forgiving she was of my leaving without her, I've never done that before... We'll be back there in March, doing a split trip between the West End and Treasure Beach. Soon come.

Loving the report miss vi. When is your next trip?

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Originally Posted by Schuttzie

YEAH! Theres more! I love beach volleyball :)

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Hi Schuttzie...I do too but only as a spectator, especially in that heat!

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Originally Posted by TAH

Thanks vi, Mrs TAH handled my absence quite well, we talked most every day I was away. I was surprised at just how forgiving she was of my leaving without her, I've never done that before... We'll be back there in March, doing a split trip between the West End and Treasure Beach. Soon come.

Loving the report miss vi. When is your next trip?

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And why should you be surprised??? She knows she's got a good man whose days and nights were filled with thoughts of his Empress and counting down the days to see her smile again. "sigh" I can tell you two have a special dedication to each other. Treasure it and each other dearly.

Sooooo glad you made it back safely, TAH, and I can't wait to hear about all the fun you guys had. I'm trying to get back in March. It depends on airfare coming down and my pay going up. (insert praying smilie here)

The water felt fabulous. It really did. Although Negril beach is one of the best in Jamaica, I’m definitely missing the beaches of Portland. The water here is calm, very calm. I barely feel a current or wave. Portland waters are much livelier. I would say the calmest is Frenchman’s Cove, but that’s only if you don’t go near the rocks. Oh Boston Beach keeps you busy jumping and riding the waves or playing tug of war with the under current. I’m not complaining nor passing a “this verses that” judgment. Negril’s beach itself displays much more activity than ANY Portland beach, but the water is the total opposite, so quiet and so disciplined. More “socially” accommodating. With the absence of jet skis these waters are perfect for mingling and/or meditating. Voices speak and laughers ring out undisturbed by roaring motors and the screams of sales pitches from over zealous operators.

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The moment is incredibly serene as I stand looking out upon the great scope of seemingly endless ocean. The sun’s rays are toasting my brown skin browner. My co-workers are going to be so jealous when they see me walk into the office adorned by Jamaica from head to toe.

I’m experiencing absolute inner peace. Like the first night me and my babies slept in our new apartment after leaving my first husband. We didn’t know what the next day would bring, but we knew we were going to be alright facing it. I don’t want to leave Jamaica tomorrow, but I will face departure without tears because I go with a personal vow to return to where my inner peace will be experienced absolutely.

It feels like time has stopped. Maybe it has??? Of course it hasn’t and that means I’m closer to dragging myself through the “exiting-the-rock” doors with my back towards Jamaica. With that thought I need a drink.

I turn around looking at my chair and notice the lounger that was a distance from mine is now only inches away and obviously occupied. What is this??!! There is no reason for someone to park that close to mine. I take a couple of step towards the shore with a slight attitude and blazing thirst.

…ohmygoodness…what the…did something just swim by me????????????

What just swam by you must have been the friendly ocean welcoming party, we had the same Manta swim by our section of beach pretty much the same time every day. It's still pretty scarry tho.