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Printable View
So I wander away from the table to sit on the cement bench and gaze upon the ocean and boats. I try to imagine what one does to afford such luxuries and what it would be like to jump on one and sail the sea whenever you wanted.
The sun was setting. Evening is not far off. I was feeling emotional but couldn’t put my finger on why. The day started out nice and continued to get better and better, yet I’m failing to appreciate all that’s around me. I sit and think and pray for a changed attitude.
From out of nowhere a young guy sits next to me. Thing is, I’m feeling irritable, not sad which means his company wouldn’t be welcomed at all. But maybe, just maybe his company is what I needed.
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It wasn’t!!! In essence he had nothing to say and what he said wasn’t keeping my attention. In fact, I was more focused on taking pictures of a blue crab crawling across the pier. I've must have taken 20 pictures of the crawlie...insane! Normally I’m all for lending a listening ear, but not then. He did make me laugh when he offered to take me running with him.
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I told him I wanted to be alone. He said he would leave but told me to take his picture then write down his number so when I’m ready for someone to “keep me company” I should call him. The picture is to remind me of what I let go.
HA!!!!! REALLY??!!?? So..I took his picture. He asked to see it. When I showed it to him he turned and walked away without a word or giving me his number. As you can tell, I have zero tolerance for arrogance. Especially from some who’s young enough to be my kid.
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Now alone…
Then the reason for my mood hit me. I’ve been here for SEVEN days and haven’t done anything on my Portland Wish List. How could that happen??? I was angry with myself for letting the days slip away so casually as if I were going to be here for months. Time is winding down, just like this day. Only soon I won’t be waking up in Jamaica to start a new one.
Pulled my notes and almost cried. This is not me. I thirst for new adventures…how could I deprive myself of that necessary quenching???
I’m not going to fall apart; I’m going to be aggressive perusing my plans.
Once I gripped that, I began to feel better. I need to have a true “Vi experience” soon.
Don’t know how this photo looks, but the clouds out that evening were amazing to see. I gave thanks for the “here & now” …looking forward to “tomorrow”.
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The story of the guy wanting to talk and you'd rather be taking a picture of the crab literally made me lol at my desk. Too bad I didn't get to see a complete picture of the one you let go.;) because you conveniently cropped his face out. lol. I also have zero tolerance for arrogance, some people are just ingnorant of there own behavior. I remember going to the marina almost ten years ago. Remind me of where it is located so that I can put that on my "to do list". I'm sure my next trip to Portie will help me heal. Jamaica has the tendency to lift my spirits, no matter what obstacles I have in my life. It is my true " happy place"
i don't think vi cropped the pic . . . i'm thinking that's how she took it and that's why he walked away.
Butterfly, the entrance to the marina is directly across the street from the Royal Mall and gas station. If you venture into the mall, there is a restaurant on the second floor called the Urban Spoon. Really good food and reasonable. I usually have lunch there after leaving the salon. You can also get the food to go.Quote:
Originally Posted by butterfly
JitterBug is right. I purposely took his picture like that because he was so full of himself. What I should have done was taken a picture of his face AFTER he saw the picture. He didn’t know how to take me so he walked away. I’m sure I wouldn’t have gotten off that easily had I pulled that on a guy in Ocho Rios or Negril.
7/11/14 friday, day 8
Skipped a cooked breakfast this morning, had fruit and hot tea instead.
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Today…Friday…I wanted to go to Reach Falls. Look how gorgeous the morning appeared that day. It was the perfect day for that 45 minute ride traveling east. ideal weather for swimming and climbing the falls. Bet the water is clear and warm…full of little, colorful fish. I call O’Neil to let him know what I want to do today. “Okay” he says “I’m coming now.”
Rushed to pack my bag making sure not to forget water shoes and rice for the fish.
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He shows up 15 minutes later. I’m so excited that I didn’t notice the sad look on his face. I get in the car all prepared to find myself standing waist deep in that refreshing pool of water…
We get to the foot of the lane and he makes a right instead of left. Oh kayyyyyyyy
“You going into town?”
“Yeah, me hear a likkle “knock” so before we drive all the way to the falls I’m going to have my cousin listen for it and find where the trouble.”
I couldn’t respond. I’m already getting disappointed because I know where this is going.
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I asked him to stop along the soccer field. I always find calm there. The thick mist resting ontop the mountains was plenty that late morning. The view did keep my words under control.
I reminded him of the plans we spoke about before I arrived. “Remember we agreed certain days were reserved for road trips and certain days reserved for beach?”
“Right…no problem. We still going to the falls……….”
Vi!!! I'm just today seeing this! I've not been on here much at all and haven't seen you report. I'm so loving your style, dear lady, and your beautiful pictures as always! You mentioned something about commenting on everyone's responses not being liked by some but it only shows how large your heart and spirit is. You are an inspiration, for sure. Port Antonio is my most favorite place in Jamaica and we haven't been back in too many years, sadly (heartbreakingly). Your pictures show how much things have changed. Winnifred is my favorite beach and you seem to really enjoy it, too. I'm much more open and talkative to people a foreign, like you, and want to open up and learn more about their lives and experiences in their culture.
Rock Bottom! Love that dear man! Such a wonderful jolly person. He had given us (me and daughters) a root bracelet for a gift and I never took it off until it broke, at least 4 years later. I'm at this moment wearing my daughter's because she doesn't wear it and gave it to me. It's great to hear he has a new place.
Keep on with the great writing and beautiful pictures, sweet Vi! Many blessings and love to you!
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SCHUTZZIE!!! THERE YOU ARE!!! Was wondering if I would have to put out an APB on you girl!!! I’m happy you are on board now because, to be honest, the ride really hasn’t begun. (smile) Thank you darlin for such kind words. Yes, although I like ALL the beaches in Portland, Winnifred is my favorite. And now that I-Cliff has the drink stand up and running, my favorite spot there is safe!!
I wish every day I had gotten a picture of Rock Bottom. He looks great and is happy in his new surroundings. Broke my heart when the bracelet snapped. But all the more reason to get back Portland ASAP!
A quick stop at a store for cranberry water on the way to the garage. Of course I grabbed a small bottle of rum…just in case.
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He tells me he’ll only be a short time. I say okay and turn on the music while I wait. The car is not parked right. All the action is behind me. I wanted him to come turn it around so I could have a better view, but decided that would be wasting time. So I sat patiently looking at roadway action opposed to the greasy, dirty mechanics dashing about hauling car parts and tools. Which would have been more interesting.
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Three men came walking across the adjacent lot. One in his 50’s, one around 35 the last not much older than 27. The 50y.o., of course, caught my eye. He was extremely handsome in his jeans and white button front shirt. I admired how the midsecton buttons were straining to keep the shirt closed over that nice, firm, thick belly. Okay Vi, stop staring and definitely stop drooling.
I look away to adjust the volume on the player when I hear…
“Wow, hello…hello brownin” I look up to see the baby of the bunch smiling and waving at me. LOL Don’t know what made me laugh out loud more, being called “brownin” or it coming from the youth!!!
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Twenty-two minutes slipped by before I realize he’s been gone much longer than a couple of minutes. I open my bag to reach for my phone to call Momz.
“Vi…dem nuh have the part.”
“What part??!?”
“The part to stop the leak.”
“Wait I thought someone was going to look at the car then we will be on our way?”
“I’m going to get my cousin to search out the knocking, but for now I came to check for the part to stop the leak.”
“So you are going to Boundbrook AFTER here?”
“Yes.”
“What were you doing all this time??? I mean you could have gone to Boundbrook then come back here to get the part….wait…if or when you get the part are you having it installed today?”
“Yes, I can’t drive the car long with that leak.”
“How long will it take to install?”
“About 1-2 hours.”
“Take me to juici patte then drop me off at Shanshy beach.”
I sat in the hot car, trying to cool down (anger wise) while he got the patties. I took pictures and promised myself I’m going to have a good time today no matter what. Dyam good think I bought that rum…I have a feeling I’m going to need it.
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Oh some dusty guy saw me taking pictures of these flowers and asked if I wanted him to pose in front of them...I said "Sure!" Then he charged me 100J...I got a kick out of that. I showed him the picture and then deleted it.
"So now that the photo is gone, I don't owe you anything, right?"
"Yes baby, you owe me for my time."
"How much?"
"50 dolla."
I gave him 100J.
Haha! You know the tricks with them. Thank you, so much for thinking of me and all the others that you drew in the sand. Such a sweetheart and so very thoughtful. Can't believe you remembered all of us. Ahhh, so wish I could meet you! We used to stay in Fairy Hill at Wrights Apartments but from searching online, it looks as though, they are not renting out anymore. I need to find this place that you stayed at and maybe we can check it out and stay in the future. We were not far at all from Winnifred, my favorite :) and spent many hours at that beach when Otis was there and ICliff.
Your journey is making me want to go back and visit! It is certainly on our radar. We've been visiting Puerto Rico a lot, recently. I so love your wonderful spirit and it shines!
through in your writing!
portland . . . i long to go there . . . one of these trips . . . thanks vi . . . a car is a must in portland. don't have the patience for a driver . . .
on one of my "zion country" stays, rock bottom escorted us ladies to under the rock when it was rocking in the "old days", good man!
you've toured me through all my favorite haunts, thank you.
Schuttzie, I appreciate anyone taking the time to even open the report to look at the pictures and maybe read a little. But I treasure the comments. Especially the ones I’m receiving in this particular report.
I am not one to promote anything or anyone unless I feel it/they will deliver 100% satisfaction. Winnifred Breeze would be perfect for you and your hubby and the girls. I can’t say enough positive things about this place or the owners. I stayed at quite a few guesthouses in Portland, but this is it for me. I’ll tour other places, but will only stay there.
I’m glad to know you are traveling, but I feel you truly miss Portland. So until you return I’ll do my best to keep you up to date on the changes and the beauty that will be waiting for you.
JitterBug, I want to thank you for your kind words. Means a lot to me because I know how serious you take your travels to Jamaica. I really wished I had gone to ALL the places on my wishlist and share those discoveries with you. It was doable considering the amount of time I was there…however it meant relying on a driver who wasn't conscientiously prepared to accomodate me. You’re right, having my own car would eliminate that need, but I love riding/hate driving so I’ll need to have more than one driver lined up at all times.
Great report so far Vi. I'm a little put out though, no name in the sand for me :((
Oh sandman, no and I feel really bad about that. Just like Miss Butterfly I wish I could dash back there to photo sand greetings for you both. But PLEASE don’t let that keep you from coming in and adding your input and reflections of Portland.
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Shan Shy Beach
Found a spot, secured my things then stepped into the ocean. I didn’t go far because I had to keep an eye on my bag. That sucked because being shoulder deep in the water is what I needed to take the edge of the morning disappointment off my mind. Also I knew I would be there a while so I was going to enjoy everything about that beach.
Not many people at first which was nice. Last time I was here, I had the place to myself. The owner showed up and introduced herself to me. Again that was October, so the kids that would be sprinkled on the beach were in school. Anyway I enjoy the beach more when it’s overrun with kids of all ages.
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Next time Vi, I will hold you to it LOL. So where is Sanshy beach? I'm not familiar with it.
Loving this. Such a nice treat to come home from work every night and have this report to look forward to!
Just lovely!
still haven't made it to that beach. Sandman on the outskirts of town going toward St Margaret's Bay / Buff Bay direction
Sandman I PROMISE to photo a special greeting from yard to bring back to you and Mrs. Sandman. Shan Shy beach is just as you enter Port Antonio, while the road is still smooth and wide, after coming through Boundbrook. It’s before you reach Juici Patty and the courthouse which are after the bend and on the right side. Oh if you know where Dickie's restuarant is, the beach is not far from his place. You have to go down a steep cement drive to get to the beach so you can’t see it from the roadway. I have pictures of that wicked drive.Quote:
Originally Posted by sandman66
And it’s a treat for me when I see you and others still hanging in with me. So much more to come Sam I Am, hope you’ll continue to enjoy it all.Quote:
Originally Posted by Sam I Am
Sammy, it’s definitely worth checking out.Quote:
Originally Posted by sammyb
I haven't been to Shan Shy Beach, either. Need to check it out when we return, one day. Lovely pictures from the that beach, Vi, still tagging along :)
Hi Schuttzie, like I said, it is worth checking out. Especially in the summer when all the shops are open the beach is loaded with families and floaties!
Please keep the reports coming Vi,we are enjoying them and the pictures tremendously!!
Thank you BUNCHES billndonna!!!!! so glad you are enjoying this so far....more coming right up...
After wading for about 20 minutes, I move me and my stuff from the steps leading to the complex platform to the steps mid-way the platform which I didn’t know were there until I ventured around. Perfect cozy nook where I can see all the action but none of the action sees me.
I get comfy and begin to reflect on the previous visit here. I laugh to myself when I realize I always experience “OMG” incidents when I come to this beach.
Dare I Share??? Why not…..
HAHA! Please, do share!
Like I said, in October 2013 I practically had the place to myself. No one was out because rain was in the forecast. Well indeed it stated to come down hard soon after I got there. I found a nice table in the middle of the complex to settle in and wait for the rain to stop. I wrote a little, skimmed an Oprah magazine a little and drank a lot. The sound of the rain was soothing and the breeze was like welcomed company.
(photo from 10/2013)
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(photo from 10/2013)
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(photo from 10/2013)
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Undisturbed and unsupervised I drank more than I usually do during the day. Besides having to make my way back into Port Antonio alone, I knew all this fluid that went in will need to come out.
(photo from 10/2013)
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The rain stopped. The sky cleared but not sure for how long. Although tipsy and wobbly I better get moving before the clouds open up again. I decided to step into the water a little before leaving. There was a mentally ill man standing next to the fence. He was holding a casual conversation with himself so I stayed at a distance as I didn’t want to intrude.
The washed up debris was everywhere and that made the beach less attractive so I decided to cut the shore walk short and make my way up. Besides I’m feeling semi-sober and will be able to walk without stumbling into a guard rail or car or wall. Turn up my music and proceed.
(photo from 10/2013)
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The walk up the long, steep drive was more than a challenge because my flimsy flip flops were still wet. If I walked a normal pace, my feet would slide to the side or worse, they would slip back so I had to step slowly or risk tumbling back down like a 300 gallon beer barrel. Felt like it took me forever to reach the top. Out of breath and about to collapse from exhaustion I meet three people coming down. A driver and two ladies. All three are Jamaican and all three are young. The driver and one of the ladies are dressed. The second girl, who is on her phone, has a body size towel wrapped around concealing her bathing suit.
“Nice tunes. Nice music. Look like we came late. The party gone left now???” the driver asks.
Okay now I’m considering joining them on the beach. Yeah going back down the steep drive only to have to come back up again. But they look like fun and I was game.
I go to step to the side to dry my feet. The second girl, still on the phone, sees my camera and asks me to take her picture. Sure…strike a pose. She did. Actually three very sexy poses. The other two are sitting on the rail, smoking a spliff, patiently waiting to go down. I walk over to show her the photos. She’s smiling with approval. I’m pleased that she is pleased because I take pride in the pictures I take, even when I’m less than sober…lol.
“You look freaky.”
“huh??!?…excuse me???”
“You look like you’re a freak.” She repeats with a big smile.
I’m speechless and unfortunately, clueless.
The look on the other two faces should have tipped me off…
“Well” I answer “Back in the day yeah, but not now.”
The other two freeze. The model steps closer to me. BAM it hits me…
“Oh WAIT…um…but with MEN, just men.” I laugh nervously.
She doesn’t move. Continues to stand inches away from me talking on the phone.
“I’m looking at the most beautiful big, brownin woman right now. You should see her. Pretty gold skin, curly red hair, full lips. You should come. Come now to see this beautiful brownin woman me find.” He eyes never broke contact with mine and I was too shocked to say or do anything.
Imagine that. A woman diggin on me. But not just any woman, a GORGEOUS, body like an ace track sprinter and YOUNG woman.
“She like MEN!!” the other girl announced quickly. “W, she say she likes men.”
Okay, now that’s shocking, but here comes the “OMG” moment.
W, uses her left hand to secure the towel which is now only draped in front of her. She tucks the phone under her chin and with her right hand she slowly reaches towards me and cups my right breast. Gives it a gentle squeeze before releasing. I am motionless. Don’t even think I was breathing. I’m sure I wasn’t breahing.
Back in the states, that would have never happened because I would have seen it coming and somehow prevented the advance. But I was completely off guard until it was too late. She copped a feel!!!!!!!!! Okay now I got to beat her down, right??? Wrong. This young woman would have pounded me senseless before I could even make a fist let alone take a swing. No sir, I had to give her a pass and then remove my big brownin butt from that scene.
I said I needed to go before it started raining again. They said good-bye and went down the drive.
LOL only while in Jamaica do I collect such memories and get to share them on a message board…SOME of them.
Anyway, back to the report and present…July 2014 day at Shan Shy Beach continues on nicely until O’Neil calls to say he’s having a lot of problems getting the car right. This is going wrong. That is going wrong. Whine...Whine...Whine...I’m running out of money. “Can I borrow $20US?” “Yeah” (insert rollin eyes smilie here)
I’m getting hungry so I dig out the beef patty and pinch at it while I watch the ocean activities. More people have arrived. Lots of teens doing what teens do…
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Wow! I had a jamaican lady come on to me too. Lol! It's not just the men...:rolleyes:
Oh, my! I don't know what I would have done, lol. Sounds like you handled yourself well and just exited yourself from the situation. Yeah, I would be pretty shocked, haha, never had that happen before.
Girl stop she got a feel...Lawd Have Mercy!Quote:
Originally Posted by *vi*
vi, welcome to the "real jamaica" where anything goes!!! . . . lol . . . i often get approached by women . . . too funny . . . thanks for sharing . . .
Kaycee & Schuttzie, not my first time being approached but my first time being approached by a Jamaican woman. And FIRST time being touched. She was bold. But yeah, JitterBug, "anything goes" is right. Sometimes I get complacent then boom I’m reminded that I ain’t in the garden state!!
Sammy. I'm grateful she didn't have BOTH hands free :eek:
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a little pool game going on
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Here is the steep drive
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Vi, I am getting such a kick from your report, you travel well solo, just like me. I to have friends once in a while
hint to come with, I kinda go, uuuh, I don't know....lol :)
I swear some think I have a secret boyfriend there.
Glad to see you had a great time, I'm counting down till my next reach, NEWS YEARS EVE , on the beach!!!!!!!
Doesn't get any better than that.