Simply Portland...Utterly Devine

NEW DAY…A REVISIT TO A FAVORITE HIDEAWAY

After breakfast I finished tidying up my luggage contents then checked my funds only to discover I need to change more money. I made a mental note to stop at a cambio when I go into town.

I decided to change clothes. Took off the ugly, yellow baggy shorts and the t-shirt that said “Yo, wassup!” on it then put on a petty white & floral cotton sundress. I love this dress decorated nicely with big, colorful hibiscus flowers against a white background. But I felt the look was incomplete without the blue flower barrette I forgot to bring. It would have looked nice behind my ear surrounded by the cluster of curls. I searched to see if maybe I packed something similar like a hairclip or a bright color band.

Nothing.

The dress is pretty so it doesn’t matter I don’t have other accessories to go along with it. It’s pretty enough as is. Then why do I feel a little disappointed???

I look at myself in the mirror and sway my hips from side to side. Good, it doesn’t cling. That’s all that matters right now. I look fine. No I should change.

The phone rings.

It’s my driver calling to say he’s waiting outside. Wow, it’s almost noon already??? Checked the clock and it’s actually 12:10. No time to change and why was I fretting about my outfit all that time anyway??? No one knows it’s incomplete but me.

We woman always fret but I'm sure you looked beautiful...just walk out and own it ;)

We will find SOMETHING even if we know all is well!! You are so right Schuttzie...lol

Downstairs, pass the reception desk, a goodbye to Duane and out into the blinding sunlight. Darn…sunglasses!! Looked in my bag and there they were. The black ones with the big saucer-size lens. They will do.

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The stops in town this afternoon first the cambio to exchange more money and to buy more credit now the auto parts store to look at car headlights. Driver said it’s getting harder to see the road at night so he’s purchasing brighter bulbs. I thought I hope it IS the bulbs need changing and not his eyesight going bad.

I wander through the store while he takes care of business.

I felt I was being watched.

Went over by the tires close to the window. I like the smell of new tires. Could see a young woman outside selling bags of mangos. She had some big ones, three to a bag and I had to have them. I turn to see a little person peeking around a display of motor oil and other cans of fluids. I smile, but he doesn’t. I go closer but he runs to his father.

I leave the air conditioned store to go out into the heat to buy the mangos. She only has two bags left and tried to talk me into buying them both. The price of 100J per bag was excellent but I didn’t want 6 mangos. I gave her 200J for the one bag. She was happy with that decision.

Go back into the cool store and the little peeker is watching me as I enter with my bag of fruit. He moved close to his dad’s side as I approached.

“Is it okay to give him a mango?”
“Yes mon…is alright.”

“Do you like mangos??”
“Yes” he answered followed by a nod.
“This is for you.”

He took the mango with his left hand, but uses the palm of his right to press against my dress. He lifts the hem up to his nose and smells one of the blue flowers. He didn’t let go right away but lifted the hem for another smell.

“He thinks your dress is beautiful.”
“Thank you.”

The men got a kick out of him smelling my dress. I appreciated the way his innocent actions let me know the flower barrette wasn’t even needed.

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Rolled up to the gas pump…2,000 please. Quick in and out of the grocery store for…what else? Red Stripe.

Then on the road heading east.

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AWWW the innocence of a child.........

Can't wait to see where WE are going next........

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almost there...

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by sammyb

AWWW the innocence of a child.........

Can't wait to see where WE are going next........

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:)

*Vi*, knowing you I'm sure you were just fine in your dress, but what a sweet likkle boy to confirm that for you. :). I luv the way you always ask permission prior to handing out goodies to the likkle ones. Such a mommy! Your pictures are making me "home" sick.

Thanks Sparkle, I hate I left those flowers at home. I searched high and low for those crazy things and they matched a couple of dresses I had with me. He was cute and YES he made my day.

I never liked it when people would offer the boys candy without checking with me first. I mean what if they were diabetic or have allergies to sugars or dyes. That’s why I make it a practice to ask the adult if it’s okay to give something to a child. Plus I get to meet more people that way.

omg, i feel like i'm riding with you . . . miss that place . . . i can smell the air . . .

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Ahhhhhhhhhhhh the Rio Grande River

I must steal a phrase from Summer when I describe this section that lays beside the Rio Grande…it is truly the place to find “undisturbed tranquility” and without a doubt one of my favorite hideaways.

I delight in the sounds of the river rushing over the rocks and the striking view of the majestic John Crow Mountains and the Blue Mountains.

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Hi Jitterbug!!!! Got plenty of ground to cover before this thing ends. I do hope you continue to enjoy the ride.

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This section is in Fellowship. It’s a poplar area for swimming but rarely are we joined by more than one or two people coming to get refreshment from the heat of the day. Today we are in the company of quite a few others.

Besides the two gentleman wading not too far from me and the three teens standing, chatting to the left of where I stood, there was a lot of laughter coming from the small group way up on that mountain ledge.

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They were having a BALL climbing the sides then taking turns jumping off. Always one at a time. I can’t tell you what fun it was watching them.

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Have about 3 great videos of them diving and splashing in the water. But I haven't learned how to post videos yet otherwise I would share those action moments as well.

Reminds me of the fun I had with my brother and his friends riding our bikes down th hilly valley. My friends were too scared to do it. But like those guys here, I didn't have fears of height or speed.

The five went even higher than they are now. I envied their agility AND stamina. They were jumping before we came and were still flying off as we left.

The mighty busu. A teeny, tiny snail used in soups. Taste just like clams.

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Red Stripe on the Rocks anyone???

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Awww, sweet sweet boy! You have a wonderful loving kind heart, Vi~ And so full of joy and can appreciate your surroundings....love it <3

This so exciting tagging along on your journey!

Priceless! I sooo need time to wander at my leisure.

And I appreciate YOU, Ms. Schuttzie for sticking around and for your kind comments. Being in Jamaica brings out the "giver" in me like it does to so many others on this board. In between reaches, I shop with kids in mind. Yesterday I made the mistake of going into Old Navy and browsed by their summer clearance areas. Although I'm concentrating on backpacks & shoes I couldn't help filling a cart with shorts & tops because they were so reasonable and I'm so obsessed. When momz calls she doesn't say hello she says "Vi, what store are you in??"

Quote:

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Originally Posted by goldilocks

Priceless! I sooo need time to wander at my leisure.

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Goldilocks this place is perfect for you!!

Sorry to be so late to the party, I finally got an invite :D

Love the way you write, Vi, always...and have to nod and laugh at some things.

When you said you went on a boat with Elvis to Navy Island I was going to say I did too, until I saw his picture...not my Elvis. Checked my notes and I went with "PRESLEY...as in Elvis" - also from the marina and seriously looks like the same boat!

Glad I am now riding along...

Hello Liz and welcome. So glad you joined the ride. I know you are very familiar with a lot of, if not ALL, of these places so feel free to add your comments and thoughts. And thanks so much for the compliment.

I have to laugh out loud when I saw the name of your boat captain. Too funny.

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This isn’t a “pack a lunch, bring the beach towels and a two-pound novel” place. It’s more of a “YOU is all you need to bring” place. A perfect site to experience total mind relaxation.

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On a glorious sun saturated day like today one can come here to mentally drift away and get lost in the peaceful breeze that is always present. The tranquil sound of the water traveling over the rocks is your only disturbance.

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After exploring the perimeter getting up close and personal with nature, I take my time entering the gentle current to claim a rock that would support me for a few minutes or more. Who tracks time when you find a sweet spot to linger in?? There I sit and enjoy the water as it streams over my feet and swollen ankles. The temp changes from cool to warm as it moves along and it feels utterly deeeevine! Rushing eagerly between my toes and every once in a while splashing the calves or sprinkling dots of wetness on my thighs.

My thoughts trend going from one thing to another as I sip the red stripe I manage to carry without wasting too much. Thoughts of giving thanks for just being in the center of a sparkling river flowing through one of God’s most beautiful creations, the island man named Jamaica. Thoughts of momz and if she could see what I see right now she would understand why I’m an unwavering Portland enthusiast. After pondering the two above I step out of my head. Jamaica is the only situation that allows me to get out and stay out of those rooms in my mind that stockpile worries, priorities, family needs, loved ones lost and regrets.

The towering mountains and walls of green leave me breathless as I gaze upward at their height. The sun is hot, but not scorching my skin. The temperature suits me.

Watching the boys jump, flip and dive into the water forces me to giggle out loud. Not too many moments do that to me these days. Life, the majority of the time, doesn’t allow for much spontaneous, child-like outbursts of inner enjoyment. But Jamaica gives me enough of those moments to take with me that keep me smiling in the midst of back home pandemonium.

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The Rio Grande as it travels through Fellowship, Portland is as non-intimidating as the little busu that cling to the rocks within it. I love this area for what it brings to my world…further proof that I am welcomed here and my reason to return.

"Jamaica is the only situation that allows me to get out and stay out of those rooms in my mind that stockpile worries, priorities, family needs, loved ones lost and regrets. " Awe Honey... So happy for you that JA has imbraced you into her arms and gives you the recharge you need to function here.... Your pictures are making me want to book today...I just know if Momz were to visit she would most definitely understand what keeps you going back.

after countless rides down the rio grande, i still have to remember to breath . . . breathtaking every time . . .

Sparkle, momz listens but I’m sure it’s because I can’t shut up when it comes to Portland. She’s nice like that in that she doesn’t tune me out like other people…lol. But I’m sure she doesn’t understand the obsession which is why I wish I could take her there.

Jitterbug, yes it is just that awesome.

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Hate to leave, I really, really do but I have a pedicure appointment that I can’t miss. My feet and toes are atrocious. So making my way back to town.

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Ginger Lilly
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Passing many banana fields and seeing these plastic bottles filled with an unknown liquid hanging from the trees. I tried to find someone in the area who would know what’s in them and their purpose. No one around. So if anyone knows the answers could you please post? I’m still very curious about them.

My guess to ward off insects??? Jitterbug....Liz do either of you know?? Anyone??

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Driver stops to hail up a cousin who owns a little roadside stand. I wait in the car. Crouched on the ground to my left is an elderly man well into his 80’s selling guinep bundles. When he didn’t offer to sell me some, I inquired.

“Good afternoon, sir.”
He nods
“Guinep sweet?”
He nods
“May I have one to taste?”
He nods then rose to bring me three bundles to choose from.

I take a piece of fruit from each and all three were sweet and juicy.

“How much a bundle, sir?”
“Fifty dolla.”
I hand him 200J “I will take all three.”
He nodded then returned to his seat.
Driver comes back and they chat briefly then bid each other goodbye.

I drop the three bundles into my bag adding them to the bundle I bought earlier.

“Vi! Why you buy so much guinep?”
“I couldn’t sit looking at the man and NOT buy any.”
“But why so much bundle?”
“You should know me by now…I honesty don’t know. Now here take these and start eating.”

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He just smiles and shakes his head.

*sigh* just one of those humbling moments.

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Finally in town I walk up the steps of the two-story building to get to Peaches’ place. Last time I was here I got the works…new nails, new hair and one of best pedicures I ever had. Everything came to less than $35US and that included tip.

Also the last time I was here the place was packed. This time it just be me and three employees.

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Marsha is a sweetheart and spends over an hour on pedicures.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by *vi*

Jamaica is the only situation that allows me to get out and stay out of those rooms in my mind that stockpile worries, priorities, family needs, loved ones lost and regrets.

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Sparkle, I was going to quote this too, lol! This is exactly how I've felt there and the childlike joy and laughter of the simplest things. We used to watch for long periods of time the crabs on the beach that go in and out of their holes digging, scooping out dirt. So much fun to give them a chip and see them try to pull it back into their hole, haha!

Such beautiful words, Vi, how you describe everything and cooling water bringing peace and tranquility!

LOL Schuttzie I look for those tiny sand crabs!!

The cliché “stop and smell the roses” actually happens in Jamaica. She invites you to enjoy her but also makes you stop and pay attention to what’s around you. From those tiny, beige crabs you mentioned to the mighty Caribbean Sea…very little does one ignore what one encounters there.

Thanks again for your kindness and support. :)

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I normally get all this (expensive) salon crap done before coming to Jamaica, I hated the nail color on my toes in January and wanted it OFF! So I found Peaches’ place and decided to make an appointment to get other things done besides the pedicure. Now I’m a regular client. So yeah I get on the plane with jacked up toes and crusty heels and let Marsha work her magic.

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I love the service and the inviting atmosphere here. Not like the salon I go to back home. It’s big and impersonal. I make sure I have plenty to keep me entertained while I wait…and wait…and wait. But not at Peaches. Everyone talks to everyone including me!

I love the service and the inviting atmosphere here. Not like the salon I go to back home. It’s big and impersonal. I make sure I have plenty to keep me entertained while I wait…and wait…and wait. But not at Peaches. Everyone talks to everyone including me!

Since it was just a couple of us in the shop, we listened to music and chat female chat.

Children…men…weight…men…fashion…men…cr amps…men…music…men.

They had me rollin as they spoke about “de wortless men dem”. Wish I could post them but I don’t remember all of the details. So unless told right, the stories won’t bring the same reaction. I told them next time I’m going to video the talkin!! They said okay…lol.

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90 minutes later I looked like I had new feet attached to my ankles. Soft, tender heels and piggies I was proud to show off. And guess what…NO PICTURES! That’s not like me. I guess I was waiting to take a photo at another location. Maybe I’ll come across a shot. But she did an awesome job. Ultra Hot Pink polish with a silver starburst spray on the big toe. Love them.

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Here’s a photo of the ladies from January. Left is Marsha, right is Cardell. Cardell does hair. I love that name, Cardell. Can you believe she’s a grandmother??!!

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A new day and a grandtastic road trip

Today would be a full one of first-time experiences. Not a day to wear a dress because I’ll be doing some climbing and walking through the bush. After breakfast I came back to the room to change. Discovered the only pair of shorts I bought was missing the front button. So I sat pushing and pulling the needle and thread through the tiny button holes feeling proud for remembering to pack the travel sewing kit.

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Visiting the small town of Bath in St. Thomas to check out the Bath Hotel and Mineral Spa. Also called Bath Fountain.

I’ll wait to share my “personal” feelings about the experience later.

In the meantime, in between flashes of scenery along the way, I’m going to post a little information I found about this poplar destination.

:cool: - This is going to be Nice!!

Can't wait!