tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90724800144244683572024-03-13T21:24:45.813-07:00Living Virgin Island StyleClaudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-9495362275485978622020-02-16T12:44:00.001-08:002020-03-06T11:45:47.891-08:0010 of the Naughtiest Double Entendre Calpysos Ever WrittenClick on the link below to read a recent article on what I consider to be a totally blush-worthy, but incredible art form: the traditional calypso. The article lists ten popular calypsos by some of the music's most popular artists (past and present). <br />
<br />
When I first moved to the Caribbean, I would go to calypso shows (especially the Tents and Calypso Revues during Carnival), and everyone would be breaking up laughing and having a ball, and unless I was with someone willing to explain what was being said, the accents defeated my ability to understand exactly what the songs were about. Talk about frustration!! It took a while (I won't say how long), for me to be able to break it all down to the point that I was laughing and really enjoying along with everyone else. Sweet relief.<br />
<br />
With that in mind, I wrote the article and added the videos, so that people like me (not native born islanders), would actually get it, and could truly understand and enjoy the cleverness (especially of the double entendre) inherent in traditional calypso. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.hubpages.com/entertainment/8-of-the-naughtiest-double-entendre-calypsos-ever-written" target="_blank">http://www.hubpages.com/entertainment/10 of the naughtiest double entendre calypsos ever-written </a>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-68079898162713532092013-05-30T11:13:00.000-07:002020-02-16T12:58:26.365-08:00Kenny Chesney's 'Life on a Rock' Tickles my SoulKenny Chesney has had a long association with the Virgin Islands. His album <i>'Life on a Rock' </i>is a touching salute to his experiences there. His commentary on the following video says what he feels much better than I could:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eHAeE-K7G0M" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
St. Thomas' nickname is actually "The Rock" because all of the Virgin Islands is essentially rock formation that was formed during volcanic eruptions eons ago. What is above water today was once, for the most part, on the bottom of the ocean. That's why, particularly on St. Thomas it is difficult to grow food ... you won't go too far beneath surface soil before you hit rock.<br />
<br />
When Kenny makes the statement about craving that way of life ... my heart totally responds. It is difficult for many people to understand that desire, that need for a simplistic lifestyle, natural beauty and acceptance based not on what you do, but just on a human level. To say it sooths the soul, is an understatement. <br />
<br />
In <i>'When I See a Bar' </i>he said:
"This song defines a time when I first started going to the Virgin Islands, and I had a group of people I became great friends with. They didn't know what I did, or they knew and didn't care."
That just says it all. <br />
<br />
When I think back to my Virgin Island days, I see myself sitting on the beach looking out at that blue-green water, and experiencing such peace. My entire time there was a healing experience; not from any particular thing, just from life itself. Somehow I think Kenny is feeling me on that.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-25159321346996845852013-04-02T11:06:00.000-07:002013-04-05T22:44:24.105-07:00ALISON HINDS AND SQUARE ONE: ABSOLUTE MUSIC ROYALTYHi everyone, <br /><br />
Although my heart has been present, I have been absent from the blog-writing process for some time now. There are many reasons for my MIA status, the most important being that I couldn't log on to my blog. I know it sounds silly, but for some mysterious reason, I couldn't log in, and when I tried to reset my password, it simply didn't work because the email to reset was being sent to an old email account that no longer exists. All of this happened at a time when I had MANY other challenges in my life, and decided that signing on to this blog was something that could wait. Well, the wait lasted much longer than intended, but I am back. Can't say the situation is straightened out because it isn't, but I'm working on it. I could disappear again. If so, I will start a new blog, and give up on this one.<br /><br /><strike></strike>
In the meantime, one of my most memorable experiences while living in the VI was seeing Alison Hinds and Square One perform one Jouvert morning in St. Thomas. They took us into the start of Jouvert. If you're familiar with Alison, then you know she and the members of the group have always been hailed as much for their masterful 'wining' as for their singing. After leaving the Caribbean, I had lost touch with Alison. Well, recently I looked her up on YouTube, and was happy to see her still doing her thing; still performing, still beautiful, and still dancing. What a joy! <br /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AvMaFwNLUaBr-XEWuP6-8yN5IgpkuNaQiwGaGOUSbfoJ3tjR9dudnMhI-LaYxjg_CytP7bANfSrYuZOcVeXrBBwQvTN7p7kSKzHt49S3k5wMEOXL9w7XpM9sQlnnlIvb5rLdqKXl4V4C/s1600/Alison+Hinds+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AvMaFwNLUaBr-XEWuP6-8yN5IgpkuNaQiwGaGOUSbfoJ3tjR9dudnMhI-LaYxjg_CytP7bANfSrYuZOcVeXrBBwQvTN7p7kSKzHt49S3k5wMEOXL9w7XpM9sQlnnlIvb5rLdqKXl4V4C/s320/Alison+Hinds+3.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F4rAkFW4cgWmdx5RUc-jUB6GyrNe8_2bIW934ibCTQq2j5PNbSbVCdTEx0Tw4smB8LpShSSngZmRi4wHnyM_0i2lxbLiy7m1PdlAp7SeLPFMzWHPJqBbS7X2a63sI5zihjNz2virhG7r/s1600/Alison-Hinds-Faluma-Makelele1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3F4rAkFW4cgWmdx5RUc-jUB6GyrNe8_2bIW934ibCTQq2j5PNbSbVCdTEx0Tw4smB8LpShSSngZmRi4wHnyM_0i2lxbLiy7m1PdlAp7SeLPFMzWHPJqBbS7X2a63sI5zihjNz2virhG7r/s320/Alison-Hinds-Faluma-Makelele1.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUs63fK2UseWaiiGKQnGexLmYvDAUfCmD4wT-oWnnBptcvWJThHTesRbO1wEdCWfTaL8JcAUCvR8r0WLi3YyJDOm9b0dgVw1447_ahSzhj-vVE5cHGlLeGVUCvLrSzz0N4vBaE_OHsP3V/s1600/Alison+Hinds+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUs63fK2UseWaiiGKQnGexLmYvDAUfCmD4wT-oWnnBptcvWJThHTesRbO1wEdCWfTaL8JcAUCvR8r0WLi3YyJDOm9b0dgVw1447_ahSzhj-vVE5cHGlLeGVUCvLrSzz0N4vBaE_OHsP3V/s320/Alison+Hinds+4.jpg" /></a>
<br /><br />
The center photo is a 1998 hit that was revived for 2011 Carnival: "Alison Hinds - Faluma/Makelele" (official music video)
Check it out on YouTube. <br /><br />
Alison Hinds is not only the 'Queen of Soca', but is true Caribbean music royalty. I understand that she has formed another group, so maybe the old days are really just that. I am just so happy I had the experience of seeing Alison and Square One in person. I was front and center for their performance that night, and I still remember it as if it was yesterday.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-49558970060002549182010-04-12T18:42:00.000-07:002020-02-29T08:21:39.302-08:00IT'S CARNIVAL AGAIN!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_AzY_sC3nCvs_0RZvNg7fcIn-iRoAOmSzcMm3t0y-f0lesSbJsk3ILxW3Ai4zjw6DjQsA7ezAbfeOK3ir66VttjmVJdN0DN10TF7Q9PbA-kQLMLpg7XSOvYD1L92JWTAA_BZMKt5Caqv/s1600/parade+costume.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="342" data-original-width="381" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_AzY_sC3nCvs_0RZvNg7fcIn-iRoAOmSzcMm3t0y-f0lesSbJsk3ILxW3Ai4zjw6DjQsA7ezAbfeOK3ir66VttjmVJdN0DN10TF7Q9PbA-kQLMLpg7XSOvYD1L92JWTAA_BZMKt5Caqv/s400/parade+costume.png" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRhCbxiIXTkGMFu062stN4sj6GPGcxXpec1c01KfauzWm8eEAPaPpWSx5cfEfQ0W_RkACoUjP0EqJds9rOwz1-TJ5HpyeOHmDBZPV1uujR5Cl9kWkAhhyB0Uo_P0_NVC6Y7nq01q0x9zP/s1600/majorette+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="391" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRhCbxiIXTkGMFu062stN4sj6GPGcxXpec1c01KfauzWm8eEAPaPpWSx5cfEfQ0W_RkACoUjP0EqJds9rOwz1-TJ5HpyeOHmDBZPV1uujR5Cl9kWkAhhyB0Uo_P0_NVC6Y7nq01q0x9zP/s400/majorette+I.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjD131c56r9MvWTEGBDKUF_Cx_-Qx7EukXPxlQph44S6BsdtEPcsT_YoWvaL1xffyStFj8XkQW7ZqGmzCDNoNySzGumtQIai4Z-XKkC-ci1Bat8PDW4pf79wDthCijwFS-eZJnH2ZISJ3V/s1600/mocko+jumbies+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="318" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjD131c56r9MvWTEGBDKUF_Cx_-Qx7EukXPxlQph44S6BsdtEPcsT_YoWvaL1xffyStFj8XkQW7ZqGmzCDNoNySzGumtQIai4Z-XKkC-ci1Bat8PDW4pf79wDthCijwFS-eZJnH2ZISJ3V/s640/mocko+jumbies+.jpg" width="380" /></a><br />
Oh my, it's Carnival time again in St. Thomas. Cannot believe a year has passed since the last celebration. And, yes I'm missing it again. The only good thing I can say about that is ... I have enough memories of the ten years of Carnival I enjoyed to last me a life time.<br />
<br />
The theme this year is: BACCHANAL AGAIN FOR 2010!<br />
<br />
If you're comtemplating visiting the island during this fun time, peruse the Carnival Committee's website www.vicarnival.com to see upcoming events and which ones you might like to attend.<br />
<br />
Also see some of my blogs on Carnival (linked on this page). Some of my favorites are:<br />
<br />
"A J'ouvert Story"<br />
"It's Carnival in St. Thomas: Five Fun, Exciting, Don't Miss Carnival Events". <br />
"Rain Don't Stop the Carnival" <br />
and ... oh, you get the idea.<br />
<br />
If you find yourself in St. Thomas before Carnival ends on May 1, have a Rum Punch for me!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gTnSexgljw2pRSz7ZPK7FMYUvDZK2bRY1EGldnO5JZ8qyU3gX1gyU_p8q-qjqW4XLzkEJ22t2lBAuKd4z9sSuCQro98sfTShyphenhyphenaEcuWRoThHEhPO9qCPuFGx6CqQ3EjYaxgh13Nl7xz-Z/s1600/parade+troupe+orangejpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="544" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gTnSexgljw2pRSz7ZPK7FMYUvDZK2bRY1EGldnO5JZ8qyU3gX1gyU_p8q-qjqW4XLzkEJ22t2lBAuKd4z9sSuCQro98sfTShyphenhyphenaEcuWRoThHEhPO9qCPuFGx6CqQ3EjYaxgh13Nl7xz-Z/s640/parade+troupe+orangejpg.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-54668310515298228712010-01-24T10:24:00.000-08:002020-02-29T07:40:46.053-08:00Excerpts from the Novel "The Secret of the Veil"At a recent book signing, I read the opening of Book 3 of my novel, <b>"<i>The Secret of the Veil". </i></b>Although the novel is a work of fiction, I often employ areas of my own personal experience, especially in description, as a part of the storytelling process. That's exactly what I did in this novel.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7TWwV-FpmCf4HECJz90rx24jc_7YQfcTcCi_N23IxLWQOGwgbHyD7twVfCUbLzB3CXMx91_8IR-1XscKHpaPz6q8mvk9YNmDUq8zTrBbYsrqypmaTHTveFaUf4rMCz8JWRIHPjT61gk8/s1600-h/Copy+of+secreoftheveil.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430383176777622034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7TWwV-FpmCf4HECJz90rx24jc_7YQfcTcCi_N23IxLWQOGwgbHyD7twVfCUbLzB3CXMx91_8IR-1XscKHpaPz6q8mvk9YNmDUq8zTrBbYsrqypmaTHTveFaUf4rMCz8JWRIHPjT61gk8/s400/Copy+of+secreoftheveil.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 200px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 153px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
After reading the opening of that section, I thought ... Although attributed to the heroine of the story, what a perfect and honest account of my first impression of St. Thomas; an impression that I should perhaps share here on my blog. <br />
<br />
So, below are selected excerpts from Book 3 of <b>"<i>The Secret of the Veil".</i></b><br />
<blockquote>
From pages 291-292:<br />
<i>From the sky the ocean was a deep, mystical blue, but when the shoreline came into view before landing on St. Thomas, the water turned a translucent and beautiful shade of deep turquoise.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When the airplane landed and I walked down the steps into the bright sun, the heat hit me like a solid wall. For a few moments, I felt like I was suffocating and frantically wondered what I was doing on this island. Gratefully the trade wind breezes I had heard so much about kicked in and cooled me down some.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When I reached the ground, I stopped and stood staring at Sammy's hills; green slopes checkered with colorful houses. As people brushed past, I continued to stand transfixed by an eerie sense of familiarity with a place I had never seen and only recently had heard about. I had an odd feeling of inevitability combined with a peculiar sense of homecoming.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Of the four major islands in the Virgin Islands chain of St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island, I had chosen St. Thomas because it was where Sammy had lived. I hadn't a doubt it was the right choice. </i><br />
<br />
From page 293:<br />
<i>On the drive from the airport, we passed the harbor in Charlotte Amalia and it was pure majesty. Cruise ships lined up at the dock across the bay had disgorged hundreds of passengers who filled the streets and the colorful shops to overflowing. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Once through town we were driving up and down hills so steep, I was lighheaded and breathless, and more than a little bit afraid, but pretended not to be.</i><br />
<br /></blockquote>
You can read more about the <b><i>"The Secret of the Veil"</i></b> on my website, <b><i><a href="http://www.claudettejones.com/">www.claudettejones.com.</a> </i></b>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-11671302652528580712010-01-15T18:23:00.000-08:002010-01-23T10:59:25.620-08:00Haitians Still Amazingly Calm Despite Unimaginable CircumstancesYou would practically have to live on another planet not to know about Haiti's horrific tragedy this past Tuesday. A 7.0 earthquake that has resulted in a tragedy of epic proportions.<br /><br />Sadly, living on an island seems to magnify everything; both good and bad events, circumstances, situations. I guess it's because islands are compressed, compact societies where it is often impossible to remove yourself in the event things get antzy. Everything is absolutely up close and personal, and you can't always get away from it even when you want to.<br /><br />You can't just fill up the tank, catch a Greyhound, or even put on your walking shoes and leave everything behind. No, it takes forethought, planning and most important ... possibility. In short, in certain circumstances, you might just find yourself STUCK in place. Certain circumstances like disasters such as hurricanes and yes, earthquakes.<br /><br />My heart goes out to the people of Haiti. How well I can relate to those (even the able-bodied), who are helpless in the present situation. I am a survivor of Hurricane Marilyn that hit the Virgin Islands in '95. To be completely dependent on the goodwill of others for your well-being is to say the least, frightening. <br /><br />For instance, I can't imagine being in the tropics for several days without water. Even if uninjured, how do you exist in 90 degree heat without water for that period of time? I couldn't. And, the media is now making an issue about some of the people becoming violent. Who wouldn't? They don't have access to communications and have no idea when and where help is coming from. <br /><br />The plight of these helpless people is heart-wrenching. <br /><br />Right now, the only thing most of us can do to help them is to contribute money and to pray. Let's all do lots of both.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-77660924172033617902009-08-28T12:17:00.000-07:002009-08-28T21:52:55.840-07:00Vacationing in the Caribbean During Hurricane SeasonOne of my readers emailed me about the possibility of a hurricane during her vacation. She didn't know this was hurricane season and had planned a trip to St. Thomas right in the middle of the season.<br /><br />Unfortunately many travel professionals are often tight-lipped about hurricane season to travelers heading into those destinations.<br /><br />After all, if you knew a hurricane was possible during the time and at the place of your vacation, you'd probably think twice about going there.<br /><br />Now, there's good news and bad news about making the decision to vacation or not vacation in such an area at such a time.<br /><br /><em>THE GOOD NEWS</em><br />I would go ahead with travel plans unless a hurricane is currently on the way to your vacation destination. If so, don't go. Or, at least wait until it passes, or until you have more information about it. <br /><br />If nothing is on the way, then take a chance and go. You definitely get the best bargains during hurricane season. So, go ahead. Take advantage. <br /><br /><em>THE BAD NEWS</em> <br />Once a hurricane is reported to definitely be heading to your vacation destination, (particularly to a Caribbean island), airline seats off island will disappear faster than a cold beer on a hot day. Not only will vacationers change their exit dates, but residents of the island will be buying up those seats as well.<br /> <br />If you're already at your vacation destination, and you learn a hurricane is on the way, pay attention to what's being said by local authorities. When they say, it will <em>probably</em> hit your location, immediately call the airline and change your return date. By the time it's definite the hurricane will hit, it's usually too late to leave the island by air. Seats are gone. <br /><br />While living in St. Thomas, I stayed up one night for the 5am weather report, which was going to have more info on the approaching hurricane. By that report, they would know and be able to tell the public if the hit was definite. When the report came on, it was a sure thing that the storm would hit St. Thomas. <br /><br />I called the airline immediately. No seats available. Every seat on every airplane leaving the island was gone.<br /><br />Before the storm hits, all the airlines fly their airplanes off the island and are gone until such time as the storm is over. <br /> <br />So, bottom line, I would definitely go ahead with any plans made to travel to the Caribbean, or anywhere hurricanes are a fact of life. I would, however be very aware of the weather and weather reports, and be ready to act quickly in the event something blows up.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-28406218058033536752009-08-21T06:48:00.000-07:002009-08-21T06:58:10.836-07:00Hurricane Bill Was Good to the Virgin IslandsHow marvelous that Hurricane Bill moved away from St. Thomas. The islands missed the trauma that a hurricane ... even a small one ... can bring. Bill is preparing to move up the east coast of the US mainland, probably as a bad storm.<br /><br />Now, there's only a couple more months of hurricane season. September is usually the most active month of all, however I'm optimistic. <br /><br />Let's all say NO MORE HURRICANES FOR THE VIRGIN ISLANDS!!!Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-82331023316520079042009-08-15T19:03:00.000-07:002009-08-15T21:07:28.104-07:00Hurricane Bill Moving in on St. ThomasThis is hurricane season; words that have a special meaning to those living in an area of the world prone to these destructive storms.<br /><br />I am a survivor of Hurricane Marilyn, which struck the Virgin Islands, and most particularly St. Thomas in 1995. If it is true that adversity builds character, then I am a towering mass of character. <br /><br />Marilyn hit on September 15, 1995, lasted about 15 hours and was the worst hurricane in Virgin Islands recorded history. Over 95 percent of structures on the island were damaged or totally destroyed. Recovery took months and in some cases, years. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKSIArAiCOTqUiKMjrn0jUlj0CN9GawHIDKQ_5Kpvq-Px7k6H6cZ4rjDE8vzJJuwlXWGa3a8Pau6geTK6BhS8FtlPEdp8STTcEnZdykxc4liH0wd4Li2LFr0kSaVV8TRk9YH01JnfEiG1/s1600-h/517px-Hurricane_Marilyn_16_sept_1995_1811Z.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 345px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKSIArAiCOTqUiKMjrn0jUlj0CN9GawHIDKQ_5Kpvq-Px7k6H6cZ4rjDE8vzJJuwlXWGa3a8Pau6geTK6BhS8FtlPEdp8STTcEnZdykxc4liH0wd4Li2LFr0kSaVV8TRk9YH01JnfEiG1/s400/517px-Hurricane_Marilyn_16_sept_1995_1811Z.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370406182201469090" /></a><br /><em>Hurricane Marilyn at its Height</em><br /><br />It was three months before the island had electricity in some areas, one year before telephone service was restored to all parts of the island (I was one of those with no phone service for a full year), and years before homes, businesses and public buildings were restored.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4tuN0FbD5EHeJ_gGMtZBqHoTNp-rs53FrUZkaglLsm4bRNQGoHnP63aNQ4H_5ADilppeG11bljlBb64xffS6scQSLTIxbt2ci2IPVd6IeXWskY7bkZtvRLP4IX4YTaVF9k16YXLmftoC/s1600-h/Marilyn-Damage-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4tuN0FbD5EHeJ_gGMtZBqHoTNp-rs53FrUZkaglLsm4bRNQGoHnP63aNQ4H_5ADilppeG11bljlBb64xffS6scQSLTIxbt2ci2IPVd6IeXWskY7bkZtvRLP4IX4YTaVF9k16YXLmftoC/s400/Marilyn-Damage-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370395432570625842" /></a><br /><em>Destructive Aftermath of Hurricane Marilyn</em><br /><br />I could expound on what it was like to have to wait until the generator was turned on each day from 6pm until 9pm to flush the toilet, wash dishes, take a bath, etc., but, you don't want to hear about that. Let's just say, both the hurricane and the aftermath are experiences that I'll never forget. <br /><br />Hurricane Bill is currently approaching the Virgin Islands and has been predicted to be a Category 2 storm that will possibly reach St. Thomas on the 19th or 20th. <br /><br />I don't want to mention this, but I feel I must: Hurricane Marilyn was predicted to be a Category 1 (little more than a tropical storm). Now that's what it was when it hit St. Croix (about 45 miles from St. Thomas), that fateful evening. But, when it left St. Croix and crossed the ocean it gathered in strength and ferocity. By the time it arrived in St. Thomas, it was another story altogether. <br /><br />Afterward, the National Weather Service admitted that the storm strengthened possibly to a Category 3, and maybe a 4. Let me say that for those who suffered through those 15 hours, it was obvious, we were in a storm that was at the least a Category 4 and at the most, a 5. <br /><br />I am praying that this storm either disspates, or really will be no more than a Category 1. <br /><br />An approaching hurricane is a frightening reality, especially when it is realized that the only possible defense is leaving the area, or if that is impossible, making the necessary preparations.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-63570554184796790422009-07-10T16:06:00.000-07:002010-01-11T13:16:15.680-08:00Steel Pan Music is ambassador For the Caribbean<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiIrSsfSgsNnDCQ7LUiRsMkojOh8BQMsd4D14rlKvY9J6Qz_-3W_23M89kBB8AyOuFd2FZBGq76yoMOadAjO6-5jhuaGUpqEeYjyprws4aq4Uqe8ksov9wiTB4K1Pa2PVJp5xEZEaSYLz/s1600-h/steel+pan+woman.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 215px; height: 204px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiiIrSsfSgsNnDCQ7LUiRsMkojOh8BQMsd4D14rlKvY9J6Qz_-3W_23M89kBB8AyOuFd2FZBGq76yoMOadAjO6-5jhuaGUpqEeYjyprws4aq4Uqe8ksov9wiTB4K1Pa2PVJp5xEZEaSYLz/s400/steel+pan+woman.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356982514563541218" /></a><em><em><em></em></em></em> <br />When one hears steel pan music it is easy to imagine the beautiful tropical paradise that spawned the magical music.<br /><br />Pan music is perhaps the most innovative musical contribution of the twentieth century, and is an intrinsic part of the culture of the Caribbean.<br /><br />Steelbands originated in Trinidad and were born out of the people's need to continue the African tradition of drumming despite the British prohibition of the instruments, especially during Carnival celebrations.<br /><br />For many years, revelers substituted bamboo tubes for the drums, which they beat on with bamboo sticks. Then, at some point during the 1930's it was discovered that metal produced a more melodious, resonant sound and from that point everything from tin pans to brake drums were introduced to the mix.<br /><br />During the early years, the pan hung on straps around the player's necks or, as it's expressed ... "pan round de neck". The use of oil drums, which produced a wider range of notes, and the transporting trolleys came later. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCyXMnNBtjGlFQF-yu_IpvdWb0gCgAOEwG8qvA1Hmvy8FWLYLtE0m7X1KzzA6ug2cIFhyphenhyphenY-9yjMmzWiyyOVJQNyrlf6ECpy-wvSIdtKElFdpehMepYvyxxkV07kakeRBPsHPLZPMGI1zL/s1600-h/steel+band.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVCyXMnNBtjGlFQF-yu_IpvdWb0gCgAOEwG8qvA1Hmvy8FWLYLtE0m7X1KzzA6ug2cIFhyphenhyphenY-9yjMmzWiyyOVJQNyrlf6ECpy-wvSIdtKElFdpehMepYvyxxkV07kakeRBPsHPLZPMGI1zL/s400/steel+band.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356975345264114690" /></a><br />Steelbands eventually sprung up in different parts of the Caribbean, including in St. Thomas where it was introduced at the 1952 Carnival (the first Carnival the island had celebrated since 1914). Needless to say, the music was a big hit, as it has been around the world.<br /><br />Today, pan is the true ambassador of Caribbean music.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-86088155554997567172009-06-09T13:05:00.000-07:002009-06-09T14:25:47.892-07:00St. Thomas' Famous Mountaintop Burns Down<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPO3YD0t6gyzajdlyTBj4Wq7DZcEQTfaM4W2cIUrsoDEoeiUxAc5ERVjnW35tCiygEuty_4qBoOTaOttlQeN_J_FjPxdcXpC0YjbhjafHobfOpWmX2amReS9HgpGW8BHmeU1J62ELMgu_t/s1600-h/mtntop08b.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPO3YD0t6gyzajdlyTBj4Wq7DZcEQTfaM4W2cIUrsoDEoeiUxAc5ERVjnW35tCiygEuty_4qBoOTaOttlQeN_J_FjPxdcXpC0YjbhjafHobfOpWmX2amReS9HgpGW8BHmeU1J62ELMgu_t/s400/mtntop08b.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345435811255958466" /></a><br /><br />Mountaintop, the famous tourist spot atop St. Peter's mountain burned down on the evening of May 18th. What a huge loss to the community and to the many people who hold cherished memories of the attraction.<br /><br />Famous for its Banana Daiquiris, which has used the same receipe for 60 years, Mountaintop was also famous for it's bird's eye view of the beautiful Magen's Bay Beach and a multitude of surrounding islands. The view was considered the best on the island of St. Thomas.<br /><br />Also known as Signal Hill, Mountaintop was used by the U.S. Government in the 1940's as a communications center and at approximately 1,500 ft. above sea level is the island's highest point. <br /><br />I remember Mountaintop as being one of the most colorful areas on St. Thomas. There was the bar, the shops, the Parakeet lady, the music ... and of course, the view. There was always a line of colorful Safaris loaded with cruise ship passengers and other vacationers coming up for some Mountaintop ambience. <br /><br />We hope that the owners will rebuild and that Mountaintop reemerges even bigger and better than before the fire.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-60551465016678199322009-05-28T15:05:00.000-07:002010-01-24T10:23:00.961-08:00St. Thomas' Amazing 99 Steps<div align="left">An aspect of St. Thomas that I have always found intriguing are the 99 Steps. These are steps found in various areas of Charlotte Amalie (the capital of the VI), that makes it easier (slightly) to traverse the many hills on the island.<br /><br />In actuality there are 103 steps, not 99, which is really kind of funny.<br /><br />The most popular of the steps are located on Government Hill next to Hotel 29, formerly a private home built by a nineteenth century sea captain for his bride, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Haagensen</span> House, a restored nineteenth century upper-class family home.<br /><br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOERAZuUCJMqeTWAcTKHB1bsggf8cfNaNZJpU6kmqmIqa3Emn0Hi6X3FOFp4TqbBfN0ap6jmZhn8iqjqTSGsC2hPXxd241-7Pxe9T74ryFylta6W5FSysyif_YTuKxN51hIRECE2Sa3St/s1600-h/99+steps.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340999627044658082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 302px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOERAZuUCJMqeTWAcTKHB1bsggf8cfNaNZJpU6kmqmIqa3Emn0Hi6X3FOFp4TqbBfN0ap6jmZhn8iqjqTSGsC2hPXxd241-7Pxe9T74ryFylta6W5FSysyif_YTuKxN51hIRECE2Sa3St/s400/99+steps.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><span style="font-size:85%;">The Steps circa the 1950's </span><br /></p><p>The above photograph shows the area surrounding the steps before some of the amazing restorations of the past couple of decades, particularly to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Haagensen</span> House.</p><p>Everyone, including Virgin Island historians agree on how the steps became a part of St. Thomas' landscape. It seems Danish engineers who laid out the town (in Denmark), had never actually been to St. Thomas. After all, in the 1600's the trip from Denmark to the Virgin Islands would have been long, and hazardous.</p><p>The story goes these engineers had no idea of the island's hilly terrain, and when the mistake was discovered, the steps were added as an attempt to connect the various streets of the town to approximate (as much as possible), the original vision of a flat terrain. </p><p>The steps traveled to the island as ship's ballast. <span style="font-size:85%;"></p><br /><br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340999772918258866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 323px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1H1u6nd9fn4EYLZNlCE3rX8IpnW9aa_Zd3gIK3QowVyXbdhuYhH0qvu9aLjJaufySlTdJ2YPDJIM84oqYKu0OVjS0hzszTmfCv6eZcvUTG3G2Z0DnwkJ1IiizBatJAsCtY5ujp2Xn2YZw/s400/99Steps.jpg" border="0" />The 99 Steps on Government Hill lead up to Blackbeard's hill, where one will find historical structures such as, Blackbeard's Castle, built originally as a pirate lookout, and Crown House, the home built for Governor Peter Von <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Scholten</span>, the man who freed Virgin Islands slaves.<br /><br />It is interesting to travel around the town of Charlotte Amalie and suddenly look up and notice some of the steps in various areas. Sometimes they're heavily used by town residents, and sometimes they look somewhat overgrown. But, whatever the case, they are always intriguing, and a beautiful feature of a beautiful island.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-67386360155876733742009-05-15T07:14:00.000-07:002014-02-23T11:34:36.509-08:00The Bush Tea CalypsoWe talked previously about Calypso music and how there are different kinds, and most of it, except for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Soca</span>, which is primarily dance music, focuses on the story told in the song.<br /><br />A while back, I ran across the old sketch below with a Calypso about Bush Tea, which is definitely an important part of the islands' culture. Bush Tea is derived from, yes BUSHES! Bushes that grow wild all over the islands, but particularly of course, in the more wooded areas. I have however, seen people picking bushes from the side of the road. Of course, you really have to know what you're doing, for example the difference between Lemon Grass and regular grass.<br /><p>During Carnival, at certain times there are restaurants serving free Bush Tea.</p>There are said to be approximately 400 varieties of Bush Tea, but what makes it special is that most are considered medicinal. As a matter of fact, some years back there was an elderly gentleman on a local television talk show who was supposed to have more knowledge about the teas than anyone still living, and I believe he said he knew hundreds of varieties; and what medicinal purpose each should be used for ... whether preventative or curative. <div></div><br />What was interesting was that this man refused to teach anyone what he knew, including his son, who he said wasn't really interested. Unfortunately, that meant his knowledge would leave the earth with him. I hope someone broke down his resolve and got the information before it was too late. In any case, even if no one did, today there are people who have extensive knowledge of Bush Teas.<br /><br />Here is the Calypso:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpCLHPiKBwDWRAWZmNXV4Tmf0eXXsPt9Ylt5QTaBGnfnxNSxFMFp9IaEurUm52qOca3ACHwgGD76NHsMZ8w5vR-oa-r_S_y-7i5o0nSgMD37AkjVoLS5nmZfQ2TxipUqRvohmGEhsip7g/s1600-h/weed+woman.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336054336252945874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 333px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpCLHPiKBwDWRAWZmNXV4Tmf0eXXsPt9Ylt5QTaBGnfnxNSxFMFp9IaEurUm52qOca3ACHwgGD76NHsMZ8w5vR-oa-r_S_y-7i5o0nSgMD37AkjVoLS5nmZfQ2TxipUqRvohmGEhsip7g/s400/weed+woman.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center">She had her dress tied up over her waist</div><div align="center">And was wriggling down the street</div><div align="center">She had on a pair of old slaps on her feet</div><div align="center">Just then she started to name the different weeds</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">And I really was more than glad</div><div align="center">Although I can't remember all</div><div align="center">that she called</div><div align="center">These are a few she had:</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">She had pap bush, elder bush, </div><div align="center">black pepper bush</div><div align="center">Then soldier, corporal and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">carpadulla</span></div><div align="center">Fabian leaf, money bush, soldier <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">posely</span></div><div align="center">Pumpkin blossom and even devil doer.</div><div align="center">Demon Congo, grass in galore</div><div align="center">Physic nut, and lily root</div><div align="center">In fact the only bush she didn't have</div><div align="center">Was the bush for everyday soup.</div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Author Anonymous</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></em></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Is it possible to purchase Bush Tea outside of the Virgin Islands? You bet. Check out: <a href="http://www.vibushtea.com/">http://www.vibushtea.com<br /><br /><br /><br /></a><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div></div>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-54171722389373371292009-05-01T07:51:00.000-07:002009-05-01T08:45:24.171-07:00Parade Day in St. ThomasIt's Adult Parade day and the last official day of Carnival. Remember, this is the event that can last 9-10 hours. But, that's what makes it so much fun.<br /><div><div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>The parade also marks the end of Carnival. Oh, there'll be another couple of activities, like the fireworks display, this year dedicated to President Barack Obama, but for the most part, when the parade is over, carnival is over for another year. </div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>The images of carnival:</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330870268622668610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH0q6Zwle9OBgUySZjaGIw1pME2kf9i9ndrV-2KVY1m1dbwqkhZBJuS8-_jR2NvxapXn7vFWbZ3h5rva_9MxkqAuUaSDKohs3scbbhv9x8yPX-kuQe074J7lOmcE5RefRP9VYHLtjc_8PN/s400/majorette+I.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330871919542067890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 263px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfdmCxtLn64WJa5El4lK2O2PIXvBNgQRfEHVvhyphenhyphenWST2ilRb8xtIyw4GQ2HqcdVMxKWeeL3O3xGVlBGQAs3TnbNFsOERweWrpKS4BWULq9OKvh4w0DOIY8CegAF9IjMPFGUM9t_Y0o0TV5M/s400/Carnival+001.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330869911498995634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 392px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 364px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1IVS-H5KtWvCI4AghBKn_TjJFyXvmc4g5yvGpFcn48gimkicJvhuTUGhKXWujdnjIz5Bs6GSTXyHBEiYR0cZCJ2dWzgM2OYC2BOglWWVoNDPHjTBKH1FSMgtQXZlhigbUSUSm4-GUvD3/s400/Human+Float.png" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330870699282534082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83PtHPOhhCkuFQUCQb2izVIE9GFx97QVqn2pxxB2mh33Re7bzQiN79jwktFxmhxF0-YyIOBh3OBsCrPlC-XYm444eOQ8-xYQ-4GyCUIHtnsXDb2e3O4QKTc-koeeWkXL0e0QLLk40xP5J/s400/mocko+jumbies+three.png" border="0" /> </div><div></div><div>Happy Carnival!<br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-71203827523124247092009-04-29T20:45:00.000-07:002014-02-23T11:32:26.056-08:00A J'ouvert StoryAs I'm writing this, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">J'ouvert</span> (pronounced <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">J'ou</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">vay</span>) warm-up is in progress in St. Thomas. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">J'ouvert</span>, a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">pre</span>-dawn dance through the streets of Charlotte Amalie will begin at 4:00 am and run approximately 5-6 hours.<br /><br />There is something enchanting about thousands of people pouring into the dark, early morning streets waiting for the first flatbed truck loaded with bands, and humongous speakers to weave into view.<br /><br />As the trucks roll slowly by, booming some of the best road march music imaginable, fans fall in behind and in front of the one carrying their favorite band, and begin their tramp (dance). The sun rises on thousands of people jamming with abandon to pounding Calypso music. Although it can get a little risque, it is fantastic fun.<br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330347713264599842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacGVsieuHw0M-31l4uaV73gLCMU4i1Q1qqKQl45G_-IKJICT4vnKoNHZ_Eo5Pq4YRhl1dIE0heoqvT6SK9V5aIMQ3E0CGPV7eC_3MpFgle7vmAb66VeHt03yWJTekFJbRJzSyC8k91ZYB/s400/jouvert+dancers.jpg" border="0" /><br />Bands play at various locations around the island leading up to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">J'ouvert</span>. The partying can actually last for a couple of days straight.<br /><br /><span style="color:#990000;">A TRUE J'OUVERT STORY</span><br />My first carnival, I was working on a pretty demanding job, but still trying to make ALL the canival events. Well, I was invited to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">J'ouvert</span> by someone I had just begun dating. I was really excited because this was someone I really liked a lot, plus I was looking forward to this new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">carnival</span> experience that I had heard so much about.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330346015600372722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 253px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXejxUzdFAq0-HrrDD0Jv0FgqkJ_kykUvJaS0a1Hz_ZrIt5Q3o9_l0XbXLLnoU2Ip-ZH1mJHpUp1PiZ6mrgMnJ3P-_BkNbf5GUR2fExclMiggjGlC9ft5a-3y187ueZJ8XLbYye0SjOVF/s400/jouvert+three.jpg" border="0" /><br />The day of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">J'ouvert</span>, I was pretty tired, so I left work early, called my date and explained that I was running on low because of all the festivities, and wanted to change our plans. Since he had to work until early evening and I wanted to take a nap, I suggested we meet at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">pre</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">J'ouvert</span> warm-up later on. We agreed on the time and everything was set.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330346327226752450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 236px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oVHIo15sNESgWN4uEH94JkPtQRii-ce0IHuCrCkX8lMia7w6PlMBMI7tkGzlpdUUxSm-sObTsU-J-GQY_lF2LhyIQS1PllE6ZKOjK7wG4DuuPfqkRsIPxV_NmJgfsXSrQ6UMdTjAQCw_/s400/jouvert+two.jpg" border="0" /><br />I got everything ready for later, set the alarm and laid down to take my nap.<br /><br />I woke up with the sun in my eyes. It took me a few minutes to wonder why the sun was up. Then, it hit me. I jumped up like a scalded cat. I believe I actually screamed. I turned the alarm off, already understanding what had happened. I had set the clock for 9am not 9pm.<br /><br />I hurriedly dialed my friend, but as expected, no answer. My heart sank. I couldn't believe this had happened. Tears of frustration rolled down my cheeks as I jumped into the outfit I had planned to wear the night before all the time wondering why he hadn't called. It was then that I noticed the bed room phone was off the hook. </p><p>Can you believe that? I couldn't.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330348148747187570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 492px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 270px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTX0dsvlCKvHHmipOu7cilk4IqwkPUggSSTN-ygPgFU_nGpbuM0I8HbdDtIXgjg3Jd0GKuB-FxUr61nbkkn-IUSgqx7heO0I2F4EUP-PCxhVgdd9VZSt7loLsjDsBCNhbkC_yIp1HyVOL/s400/jouvert.jpg" border="0" /><br />I went looking for my friend. As I reached the downtown area, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">J'ouvert</span> was winding down, and sleepy eyed revelers were passing me on their way to the beach (a tradition after the tramp), or to carnival Village.<br /><br />I finally found my friend at a restaurant on waterfront. I calmly explained that I had fallen asleep, and unfortunately had set the clock wrong and overslept. I apologized profusely. I mean profusely. He was extremely quiet during my explanation. Finally, I understood why he was quiet. He hadn't believed a word I had said; he thought I had intentionally stood him up.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330374345576050786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 434px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 221px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZe3yhEEDA-H81ARAfuwaKj5ulv4HKwjHAAJpJKRqvDBXz6HvsaMvrkKBTTE24rye5VWrZ0Ol6og9zbqMvs-0dgVQ2sCG_Su391DVyUO8BeSGIOp8xc9Elo1Xh0-OAKQFwe2Y2_iWTPBSV/s400/jouvert+four.jpg" border="0" />When I didn't show up, he had tried to call me, and after prolonged busy signals the operator had told him the telephone was apparently off the hook. He had figured something more interesting had come along and I had chosen to do that, rather than be with him. There was nothing I could say to get him to believe that I really had fallen asleep, set the clock wrong, and had knocked the phone off the hook. Actually, it was hard for me to believe, and I knew it was true. He finished his breakfast, said he'd catch me later, and walked out of the restaurant.<br /><br />So, that's how I missed my first <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">J'ouvert</span>. A sad story, huh? I still think of it today. Needless to say, my friend and I never get together after that. No trust; on his part.<br /><br />I finally accepted the crazy incident by understanding that everything happens for a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">reason</span>. I may never understand what the reason was, and can only hope it was worth my missing everything ... and I do mean everything!<br /><br />But, life goes on, and I never missed another J'ouvert.</p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-54893081703872064872009-04-28T08:37:00.000-07:002009-04-29T00:08:36.646-07:00Carnival Village and Calypso Competition at St. Thomas Carnival<div align="left">Okay, it's the last crazy, frenzied week of Carnival, and it's pretty much none stop at this point. It's just party! Party! Party! And fun! Fun! Fun! Some of the events going on now, or coming up soon are:<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">CARNIVAL VILLAGE</span><br />The Village opened yesterday amid the usual fanfare. This is where everyone hangs out between events the last week of the festival. It's open almost 24 hours a day, and is the main meet-and-greet venue of the carnival experience. Everyone walks around greeting friends, digging and dancing to the music, eating, and yes, drinking.<br /><br />The Village is named each year in honor of various citizens who have made serious contributions to carnival over the years. This year it's called: "<span style="color:#ff6666;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Chummy's</span> Culinary Kitchen".</span><br /><br />The Village is built in a parking lot and is designed in a square comprised of about 20 booths that are individually decorated and named by their owners. It is all very colorful and actually, quite historical. A winner is chosen each year based on the design.<br /><br />A stage is built in the center of the Village, and the best local bands, and many visiting bands play there each evening until the wee hours of the morning. People dance on the ground around the stage.<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329800681116178434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 353px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirszndbqQWTWatp6y9b-jom4aOtI4NNDCc47ech9rqNzpzoYUldo9rKb5Hga5NJPtDIdDRh9xg47YYEaJzfOVOsQAyaDvvg5sgHWDSOTeEEv020kClABiZfO-platOH4hJoW7tZYsR-nhC/s400/cultural+fair.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Preparing Pates</span><br /><br />The most important function of the Village though, is the food cooked and served at each booth. This is another place to get those traditional Virgin Islands dishes that just aren't that available throughout the year. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Beverages</span> like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Maube</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Soursop</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Guavaberry</span> and many others are highly anticipated. And, dishes like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Kallaloo</span> (a soup), Conch (a shell fish), crab and rice, Johnny Cakes, Pates and so much more are eagerly sought.<br /><br />The village is where you go to see and be seen; it's where everyone comes to mix and mingle and get their CARNIVAL ON.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">LOCAL CALYPSO COMPETITION</span><br />This is when local <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Calypsonians</span> compete against each other for the title of <span style="color:#ff6666;">King of Carnival</span>. It's something that's taken very seriously, as carrying the title of "king" can affect your income pretty much the way an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Academy</span> Award does; as well, it raises your prestige all over the Caribbean and everywhere calypso music is played and understood.<br /><br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329784920716244226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJteT6dvyNkQ7Kw3Rd_M8tnbH7-bE46caClLbnVJ9osvR28nyJwiW92M54QtZJl1GWE-7B33pO5kqf2zVj0NBgbgsMaHOpd-ipMbmMUBmQtXBUiEhMnrQkYo4UoZBoQkDYnXLUFLjfkqS/s400/calypso+tent.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:85%;"> King Kan for Plenty dressed as a woman during Calypso Tent</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">performance<br /><br /></span>In the weeks leading up to the competition, Calypso Tents are held around the island. In the tents local <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Calypsonians</span> reveal their new songs for the carnival season. Only those considered the best will continue on to the finals at Lionel Roberts stadium the last week of carnival. These guys pull out all the stops in terms of costumes, props, back-up performers, etc.<br /><br />Remember, the songs are satirical, funny, and/or ribald; and usually tell stories based on local gossip, political foibles, and achievements during the past year. This is where the audience really connects with the performers.<br /></p><p>Calypso competition is one of the most important carnival events, primarily because it's really all about music.<br /><br />Next time J'ouvert.<br /></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-63844776122514210312009-04-24T09:16:00.000-07:002009-04-25T12:15:54.883-07:00St. Thomas Carnival Means ... All Things CalypsoThis is the second week of carnival, and it's really rolling, now. This evening, a star studded <span style="color:#cc0000;">Calypso Revue</span> will bring the biggest international (those who travel to Europe, Canada, the Caribbean and the mainland U.S. to perform), and local <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Calypsonians</span> together on the VI carnival stage. This event is in my top three.<br /><br />Calypso is the unofficial (official) music of the Virgin Islands, particularly during carnival. There are several different kinds of Calypso, but what you'll find in the VI, for the most part, is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Soca</span> (basically dance music with an uptempo), and old style Calypso. Not that there aren't other forms of music, like Reggae and others.<br /><br />Old style Calypso is what made the genre famous and has been around since slaves first arrived on the island's shores. The story told in the song is the most important feature of the music. The lyrics can be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">stingingly</span> satirical, laugh-out-loud funny, or down-right bawdy.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Calypsonians</span> are poets, singers and entertainers. They mostly write their own material, and are known for their entertaining presentations. The best of the best can sing extemporaneously (compose and sing songs on the spot), and are masters at double <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">entendre</span> (songs that have a double meaning).<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/htUSEezyOqM&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/htUSEezyOqM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Some of the famous entertainers, who hail from all parts of the Caribbean include: The Mighty Sparrow, Short Shirt, Lord <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Kitchner</span>, Louis <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ible</span>, Jr., <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Whaddablee</span>, Lord Nelson, King Obstinate, Calypso Rose, The Mighty Chalkdust, Singing Francine, and so many more, it is impossible to name them all.<br /><br /><span style="color:#990000;">Calypso Revue</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><span style="color:#999999;">generally runs for two nights, and is incredibly entertaining. The outfits are generally glitzy, particularly on the second night, and props are used to give emphasis to the songs. It's theatre at its best.<br /><br />My greatest challenge in my first two carnivals in the Virgin Islands was simply understanding the accents of the singers. If you don't know what's being said, you feel real left out when every one is screaming with laughter, singing chorus, or participating in call and response. I learned super fast.<br /><br /></span>Calypso is a unique art form that has influenced many genres of music. Think about it this way, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Calypsonians</span> were rapping long before there was anything called rap.<br /><br />So, tonight Lionel Roberts Stadium will be rocking with some of the best Calypso on the planet, and I may not be there physically, but I'm going to be there in spirit ... with that chicken leg, and Red Stripe.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-85226995217471194032009-04-19T16:15:00.000-07:002009-04-21T09:55:04.253-07:00St. Thomas Carnival: Echoes Through Time<div align="left">Well, St. Thomas Carnival officially kicked off on April 12, and around now it is in full swing. The theme this year is: <span style="color:#990000;">Echoes Through Time. </span>Events like the<strong> <em><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#ff6666;">Prince & Princess Selection Show</span></em></strong><em>,</em> <em><strong><span style="color:#ff9966;">The Queen Selection Show</span></strong>,</em> <strong><em><span style="color:#ff9966;">Toddler's Derby</span></em></strong> and <strong><em><span style="color:#ff9966;">Junior Calypso Revue</span></em></strong> (young <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Calypsonians</span>), have already come and gone. But, there's so much more to come. </div><p><br /></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326545560421986018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 211px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 335px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZb-J9INE73UGev_2pXzOwKhC-uFGyZlBsFyfRfGm-eVgI1CfMAb2MJiOweWPRPKEDCh6iDhO2yLWGYi8-IMZRZ3Xx-pR6vdsHivTzUpziXdwsVx_x1z3nRPhVRZA-3e_q6oQw19D5EPtq/s400/toddler+derby.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><em>St. Thomas Carnival Magazine</em></strong></span></p><p>Coming up this week are some popular events. First, there's <strong><em><span style="color:#ff6666;">Cultural Night</span>,</em></strong> which celebrates the history and culture of the Virgin Islands, and takes place at Lionel Robert's Stadium. You can count on seeing awesome exhibitions of Quadrille and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bamboula</span> dancing (both in elaborate costumes, of course).<br /><br />The Quadrille is a parlor dance that made its way to the islands from Europe around the same time as the Waltz. The dance, described as a five-figure square dance, was observed by blacks as they served guests in the European style ballrooms of wealthy planters and merchants. They soon copied and adapted the dance for themselves, and it still survives today.<br /><br />The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Bamboula</span>, on the other hand, came straight from Africa ... by way of slaves. It is a dance that comes complete with lots of drums and body movements associated with Africa, and is the only dance that is considered indigenous to the Virgin Islands.<br /><br />Other Cultural Night activities include, Maypole Dances, Masqueraders, troupes, groups and more. It is a spectacular celebration.<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326546431153616642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 407px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 361px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMxeREKFTj26xy4Tk51q6_iEFYTDfb8pwgbqHybkR2p7oaWNswFCuEuSutOx0r_3UJ7XFjoa_Tkrf4sx7C3LHcUW9FWyDW8aGq4yAkDUv9LkPOgnfpSNwIuLyB-Lg5fcGN3cuJy51engoZ/s400/parade+costume.png" border="0" /><br />During Cultural Night the most elaborate costumes that will lead the various troupes and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">floupes</span> on the day of the big parade, will be presented. The parade is like the jewel in the crown. It is the last big event of the festival, and can I say ... it is an all day event. We're talking from 10:oo am until ... yes, it has run as late as 9:00 pm. Does anyone mind? Absolutely not. But, more on that later.<br /><br />The <strong><em><span style="color:#ff6666;">King and Queen of the Band</span></em></strong> will be chosen based on those spectacular costumes. It is a huge honor because these costumes are so stupendous, so amazing, and some are so big, that part of their under-carriage is riding on small wheels. I call them human floats.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326545893138062482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 434px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 244px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwsx1R0aly7XwMZHVqoa-kC2A3CqG27JZagO2CRejQehbrunSDLjCJBvvKgnYTe7GLLDLwzg6D-Df83Lzn3WPYw-xRN7F0KDG8R8uE9e4Pn50arr6K_o0eBLHm9JNgFB4uNbxpPMZODtQ/s400/orange+green+yellow+costume.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326546860674068658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEbLtnE2F0lY6KUTdahL3zoPKgS4Zmfpela6I03sApgjvtp1QB7cN5_ZDnB3zufjKFM9k-7rQn_zc5Qnl1eEL9Ll5FMIRQT_PNQWKlQwQ8cZJDo2RLHkvMrb6qGyxcBEJcmaMkf3j0bxi/s400/st.+thomas+mocko+jumbies.png" border="0" /><br />Then, there's <strong><em><span style="color:#ff6666;">Latin Calypso Night</span></em></strong>, which is a celebration of Latin music with local bands, and bands from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Puerta</span> Rico and various other islands. Dancing in the aisles is definitely allowed. This is where you get your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Salsa</span> on.<br /><br />Oh, did I mention there are carnival rides and games? Well, there are. I would say it's for the kids, but you see an awful lot of folks over there who don't have children.<br /><br />Also coming up at the end of this week is <strong><em><span style="color:#ff6666;">Calypso Revue</span></em></strong>. Now, that's one of the events I NEVER missed. Not under any circumstances.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Calypsonians</span> are the highest level of Caribbean entertainer, and are a combination of singer, poet (most write their own songs), and performer. They are true artists. The show consists of local performers, and the best and most famous <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Calypsonians</span> from all over the Caribbean, the States, Canada, or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">where ever</span> they happen to be living.<br /><br />These artists converge on St. Thomas at Carnival and .... IT'S ON!!!<br /><br />Next time, we'll take a closer look at some famous <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Calypsonians</span> who have graced St. Thomas' carnival stage in the past.<br /><p></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-36294295065988407652009-04-13T16:15:00.000-07:002009-04-21T09:56:35.382-07:00St. Thomas Carnival: A Personal PerspectiveIt is difficult to explain my first carnival as a newcomer to the Virgin Islands. I found it so exciting ... because I had never experienced anything similar. It was all new to me, and I drank it in like an intoxicating drink. Ten years later, I was still as enchanted as that first year.<br /><br />I admit I was like a child with eyes as big as saucers; wanting to experience every bit of fun and wonder, but at the same time wanting to understand the history behind all I witnessed. I couldn't then, and still can't believe how interesting it is from a historical perspective; which made me feel something like an anthropologist, fastidiously digging for treasure.<br /><br />The Caribbean carnival celebration that many credit with beginning in Trinidad, according to a number of scholars, actually has its roots in Africa. It made the transition across the ocean, and began first in Trinidad before spreading to other Caribbean islands, landing eventually in the Virgin Islands.<br /><br />One of the adjustments I had to make as a new islander was the size of everything. My first carnival event at Lionel Roberts stadium, for instance was an eye-opener. I knew better than to expect anything even resembling say, Soldier Field in Chicago, but still I was surprised at the small size of the stadium.<br /><br />Amazingly though, even that worked for me. There was more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">camaraderie</span> and more closeness among both friends and strangers ... and believe me, that's a wonderful factor during some of the events when the crowd actually participate with the performers, as in call-and-response when the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Calypsonians</span> are singing (we'll get to that later).<br /><br />Oh, amazing carnival. I can still close my eyes and and get a clear image of me at the stadium heading up into the stands for an evening of fun, ready to whoop and holler at the hilarious, the intriguing, and yes, the bawdy ... with my fried chicken leg in one hand, and my Red Stripe in the other.Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-36377467000446677932009-04-06T16:33:00.000-07:002009-04-06T18:53:57.224-07:00"Rain Don't Stop the Carnival!"Carnival is the most exciting event on the annual Virgin Islands calendar. It starts slowly with the different pageants like, Queen Selection, and events like Junior Calypso competition and Cultural Night, but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">excitement</span> builds as it moves toward the end.<br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321754137520452674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 457px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwA_36q_5a4TbgYdgvZLa5hIw4n3YRnoRMoM7M6kHYIvPCvMpBawK2XHWCawsaI3yvFQNwILmrn7FkFZfUom52qIydTxPStS_Iom4m97xfB3vPO1a4P0cV0BDR4bpRBChP8qlghoVHNWK/s400/carnival+float.jpg" border="0" /><br />And finally it's the last week and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">BAM</span>! The last 7-10 days are positively insane: sleep is simply not a priority; employers are threatening employees about showing up for work; shop owners in town are making plans to shut down on certain days (some close the entire last week of the festival); stores are running out of cut-off jeans, and shorts; <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">beauty shops</span> are open longer hours ... it's just crazy! Good crazy. </p><p>But, before we get into what happens during Carnival, I should discuss how all this wonderful craziness began ... so let's go all the way back. The very first Virgin Islands Carnival took place in 1912. The next one took place in 1914 and unfortunately, there was a 40-year hiatus before another Carnival celebration happened in 1952. Then, it was ON! Carnival hasn't stopped since.<br /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321751091454276674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 419px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOogdvn1MHXpl5_01da6qsLMXMKxB2lwmohH4YP-GIltVTzy5vGKhwOOHkJ8D1P99Ss7poMU0AyRR645a3VNxa0dCWbiRhz7XfjXSl2kRjThv2_5P0qVI75OLXhv-Cz27Ab4jbKW9fVmMP/s400/carnival+troupe.jpg" border="0" /><br />Because of the weather, the 1952 celebration was a real challenge. There was a deluge of rain. All the bands, the grand <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Marshall</span>, the troupes were ready ... but the rain wouldn't stop. Neither would the Duke of Iron. </p><p>Trinidad <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Calypsonian</span> (calypso singer), The Duke of Iron composed a song on the spot, "Rain Don't Stop the Carnival" and while singing with the accompaniment of some of the musicians, led the Gypsy troupe, the bands and everyone else down the road ... in a drenching downpour, setting the stage for future generations.<br /><br />Despite the rain, Carnival was a huge success that year, and every year since it just keeps getting bigger and better.</p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-18375239885808685202009-03-29T13:48:00.000-07:002009-03-31T09:38:57.211-07:00It's CARNIVAL Baby!! Carnival Time in St. Thomas!<span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>It's the most anticipated ... most exhilerating ... most exciting event on the Virgin Islands calendar. We're talking CARNIVAL baby! And it's fast approaching. </em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em></em></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>The fabulous costumes! Fantastic music! Delicious food! Intriguing contests! It's a Carnival Baccanal!</em></strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318757725841250962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 252px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4OmeusQwWs8N2C3nAeYxtPAGiwmlol18jCz5-fdSmP2Fa7u-FsZSV52jM7M8nqG6iuLT7sXS44XXXhhnRIqMSaZ2t-ihXa3PGED2yD8N99C24YgqpuTyfVjQ6gMCDK4Kfvb1GDT-CcSp2/s400/carnival+costume.jpg" border="0" /></em></strong></span> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318774857090728034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 261px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSL5UZwHTax1GCRvf2WpQLXjYI9UFzs6p3AZ1NCpPY3UNENrr-TtRj-izksALeATk8FNTxsoJxADSNNXoYkuxnl_WcJZElIFLTQPHllbG3itsFyXIy3hfP6eJDo2Ue1Ljtm1fwAPgK7KC7/s400/Carnival+two.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>The three islands of St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John celebrate Carnival at different times of the year. For St. Thomas, the largest Carnival of the three, the dates this year are: April 12-May 02.</em></strong></span></p><p><em><span style="font-family:times new roman;color:#993399;"><strong>If you're wondering why Carnival runs for such a long period, it's because there's so much that goes on, it takes that long to stuff it all in. There are parades, tramps (more on that later), singing contests, pageants, fairs, parties, and oh, so much more. </strong></span></em></p><p><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318764647755928610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0pcWPjh_N2l_UeKuSvxBXY2TXuYbIu0b6LJlmbFD7Oz3umK6dF9LqnKVyDjYgd7wLLkR_31m3ZBe3evlCIoe00C6mZU-A2v7-J0aSJKqMR_uHHCc2lieM7iFNNaKpHNaAZQsy-Wk1VGC/s400/Mocko+Jumbies.jpg" border="0" /></em></strong></span></p><p><em><strong><span style="color:#993399;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"></p></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></strong></em><p><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:100%;">According to a 2003 survey conducted by USA Today, St. Thomas' Carnival is in the Top Ten of Carnivals in the world. Each year the number of visitors, and non-Virgin Islands participants increases.<br /></span><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Carnival in the Virgin Islands is not only a fun event, but is considered seriously historical and cultural. It is fascinating to look at some of these events from the inside out. </em></strong></span></p><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318753952003169394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 199px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtZQ-ffobsswYD17Ic-BGuff1mt-aNbLvrAFH9Til5Nbb2WQbxVQHV4lWhpKwuyfPXEbxJM8bOgt1asenBKskSd9UinMVjR4h3oamu7vicu9DYsliLhYHRDrYlP43D9SMLn7DXRVuSMon/s400/majorette+IV.jpg" border="0" /><br />In the coming weeks, we'll visit some of the many Carnival events that make the celebration so special:<br /><br />Carnival Queen-King-Prince & Princess Contests</em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>Cultural Fair</em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>J'ouvert (pronounced Jou-vey)</div></em></strong></span><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em></em></strong></span><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>Calypso Tents</em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>Calypso Revue</em></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>Children & Adult Parades ...</em></strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>and more.</em></strong></span></div><br /><p><span style="color:#993399;"><strong><em>I hope you'll join me as we celebrate St. Thomas Carnival</em></strong>.<br /></span></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-78521978901441083202009-03-21T20:51:00.000-07:002009-03-24T14:19:51.754-07:00A Little Virgin Islands HistoryThe Virgin Islands is located at the head of the arc of the chain of islands stretching northward from Trinidad. These islands are known as the Lesser Antilles. They stand on the threshold of the group of larger islands continuing westward that is known as the Greater Antilles.<br /><br />The Virgin Islands were created for the most part by a great volcanic explosion, and as a result has a rocky, hilly, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">mountainous</span> terrain. It is amazing that the island of St. Thomas is only 32 square miles and St. John is approximately 19 square miles. The hills and mountains give the islands an appearance of being much larger.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Archaeological</span> discoveries place human inhabitants on the islands as early as 710 BC. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tanio</span>, Arawak and the Carib (the tribe of Indians from whom the Caribbean takes its name), were some of these early inhabitants and survived by hunting, fishing and practicing agriculture.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315865601234734994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 109px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkNQd9WR9awplrZm_pYnvs3nja80oiDZ9nVjHcmENX_xLTk_pbFskVtI0_gy1UiaWL8XiioWU2Ectqwt0yo0b2F0-D0A3VGLyH2St5jacipcWvoNq7ueB_6uI4CZe7C1x5chRn6OagKWs/s400/mapes+monde+painting.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"> MAPes</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">MONDe</span> Collection</span></p><p>The Virgin Islands received its name from Christopher Columbus. When he landed in the Lesser Antilles in 1493, Columbus named the seemingly countless unspoiled islands, cays, and islets, The Virgin islands, after the legendary Ursula and her 11,000 virgin followers.<br /></p><p>By 1671, after periods of squabbling and brief occupations by Holland, France, England, Denmark, Knights of Malta, Spain and the Dutch, Denmark emerged victorious and the ruler of St. Thomas. It wasn't long before the expansion minded Danes had also added St. John and St. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Croix</span> to their holdings, which effectively united the three major islands. </p><p>The Danes ruled the Virgin Islands through a series of Danish governors until 1925 when the islands were sold to America for $25,000,000.</p><p>Today, the Danish influence is still evident in its wonderful architecture, and in the names of the streets in Charlotte Amalie, which is the Capital of the Virgin Islands. </p><p>Charlotte Amalie, by the way is named after a Danish queen. </p><p><a href="http://technorati.com/claim/6e9xrrsu47" rel="me">Technorati Profile</a></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-56120364562388220252009-03-08T22:29:00.000-07:002009-04-04T08:20:10.994-07:00The Glory & Grandeur of Yachting Season in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands<span style="font-size:0;"></span><span style="font-size:0;"></span>One of the most anticipated times of the year in the Caribbean is yachting season, and St. Thomas Virgin Islands is no exception. Every winter yachts of every size, beauty, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">grandeur</span> and expense descend on the islands in large numbers.<br /><br />They come from all over the world, some staying for several months, others staying for shorter periods; and yes, some bringing well-known celebrities. Some of the yachts are rented, or leased, but most are privately owned. They make quite an impression on many aspects of island life, not the least of which is the economy.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311057591757794066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 420px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 245px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6qJc_6VI4b__Hdwu37TLWPeEnYxXz8L4JQbzOtM7hASBZ2O_M1pNE9orsBc7hLPMEu8LczPb1JVu1Zta_0c_YM21S7UTT-A9P9lca2DPPc1bdKgaODPn427hBKUxQHPuor9xXlNSbo8i/s400/yacht+two.jpg" border="0" />The yachts dock at any of a number of marinas, like Yacht Haven Grand, St. Thomas Yacht Club, American Yacht Harbor, and others; however all the yachts pictured below are docked at Charlotte Amalie Harbor in St. Thomas. During season these lovelies lined up like huge, magnificent toys, and are only separated from the picturesque shops and boutiques of Charlotte Amalie by the harbor sidewalk and Waterfront, a 4-lane <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">thoroughfare</span>.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311057234235719618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLVufmOlcVWoLHwi-yCNeQoI71i1bpHG4vRaqc006DWITqi6044foC3s12ZHoXCEhBuxxDUF3MAjyxhrouwj9oWnM_hRC2iwqizn6U5vlXEduBBTFWDXe4VRT9Fjk8n8mAi8nimCwn06Ew/s400/yacht+one.jpg" border="0" /><br />The harbor, a natural deep water harbor is one of the deepest in the world, and at one time was the busiest shipping and distribution center in the Caribbean. In those long ago days, import houses and warehouses belonging to English, French, German, Ame<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">rican</span>, Spanish and Italian traders thrived. Today the historic old buildings housing the fashionable boutiques and salons were once those warehouses.<br /><br />Of course during those times, pirates like Blackbeard were also frequent visitors to the island. That is, until it became apparent that their <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">presence</span> restricted trade (for obvious reasons). A Virgin Islands governor responsible for allowing pirates access for financial gain was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">severely</span> punished by the Crown in Denmark ... but that's another story.<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311058492269517746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 257px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuA0U0IvGccjDGO2nWz13OGDySpVZQLwts4ZjCvCyu-5gTddVMbEmQ6hoiRI2_w8Q8TeirOobT4K9Rf7OsCgEJiw9kCflXQsNNoi7BCXj2Z47q6U-KOkM4pNLFfbuOMjWxq7ZnEBoPtWit/s400/yacht+four.jpg" border="0" />Today, Charlotte Amalie harbor is still a bustling center of activity as yachts, cruise ships, departing/arriving seaplanes, tour boats like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Kon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Tiki</span> party boat (yes, the one that just sits the bottles of rum and fruit punch on the bar and it's every man and women for themselves), as well as small boaters provide plenty of traffic.</p><p>One of the activities that keeps St. Thomas a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">hot spot</span> for yachting takes place each Spring. The International Rolex Regatta, held this year between March 27-29, 2009 has been around since 1974, and is an island tradition.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311057969219293090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 301px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6TzBPHuG1lyrz1D08Mdd62ukP0i-AkFy0u8wlwBfFDyeKaBb9-b_BeVs_hAYUjmfqWC5zhcwhwKotGrNBobQ8uR7LAx5Eo-cqWoiCrnr0HKyMbWTo1iwEJYd7IRFUlXtMBYx7fjBFJlQ/s400/yacht+three.jpg" border="0" />Commodore <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Newbold</span>, of St. Thomas Yacht Club stated recently ... "Over three days, the finest yachtsmen and yachtswomen from around the Caribbean, the United States and Europe join in world-class racing in a spectacular environment, which includes the warm, clear waters surrounding our club. It is an adventurous way to get a jump on their summer sailing season."<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimStki1ET7asABP7M2kfYS2KaW8auf3hds-38_0Srd1R5b2mJAas3fwVcObr1k0llXYqnc_N7xHL-P_0IwSwwUOzF3qNKWtFF_QHPqJHLLOf-66KUAxQOgTw2hPs_FaPyxL4VxrJ5FaXOY/s1600-h/yacht+five.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311058213053924338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimStki1ET7asABP7M2kfYS2KaW8auf3hds-38_0Srd1R5b2mJAas3fwVcObr1k0llXYqnc_N7xHL-P_0IwSwwUOzF3qNKWtFF_QHPqJHLLOf-66KUAxQOgTw2hPs_FaPyxL4VxrJ5FaXOY/s400/yacht+five.jpg" border="0" /></a>The beautiful, classy yachts definitely add a pleasant ambiance to the island scene. It is a joy on an early morning walk to pass them so close on the sidewalk that you can greet and chat with crew busily swabbing the decks and attending to other chores. </p><p>But what I find really intriguing is while shopping, dining or walking on Waterfront ... to casually observe an early morning breakfast, a romantic sunset dinner, or maybe a cocktail party on the deck of one of these vessels. I'm telling you, it's the stuff of movies.</p><p></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-92018798243379312842009-02-28T09:46:00.000-08:002009-05-17T21:40:21.051-07:00The Settler's Handbook: A Guide to Virgin Islands RelocationNumerous people have asked what information resources I used to successfully relocate to the Virgin Islands.<br /><br />I used everything (almost), at my disposal: newspapers, the Virgin Islands Chamber of Commerce, The VI Tourism Department, contacts ... and anything else I could think of to get information about the islands.<br /><br />I said "almost" because what I didn't use was "<strong><em>The Settler's Handbook, U.S. Virgin Islands".</em></strong> Although I did just fine without the book, the process would have been much simpler with it. The Handbook is a publication designed to assist people in relocating to, or starting businesses in the USVI, and has been around off-and-on for approximately 25 years.<br /><br />When I made my move the handbook was unfortunately, out of print (had been for years). The book was revised around 2002 and is now periodically updated. For anyone considering such a move, the Settler's Handbook is an incredibly valuable resource.<br /><br />Some of the book's highlights includes:<br /><br /><ul><br /><li>Chapters on each island: St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John</li><br /><li>Information on the history and culture of the islands</li><br /><li>How to move personal items such as, cars, furniture</li><br /><li>How to register your vehicle</li><br /><li>How to dress for the tropical climate</li><br /><li>A list of schools, churches, civic organizations</li><br /><li>Information on community life, entertainment, holidays ... and so much more. </li></ul><br />More information on The Settler's Handbook, U.S. Virgin Islands is available at:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.visettlershandbook.com/">http://www.visettlershandbook.com/</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">http://www.amazon.com</a>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072480014424468357.post-12550585694373606622009-02-20T20:32:00.000-08:002009-02-22T10:10:28.682-08:00St. Thomas: My New & Beautiful Tropical Home<div align="left">So, I relocated to the small Caribbean island of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. A U.S. territory since 1917 when the island was purchased from the Danish for 25 million.<br /><br />And, there I was ... a stranger in a strange land. But, as I said before, although there was some cultural difference, I felt right at home.<br /><br />Immigrants from the U.S. mainland are called <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">state-siders</span> ... and not always with the most positive reference.<br /><br />My biggest difficulties were adjusting to the heat, and understanding the speech of the islanders, which was English spoken quite rapidly, often with heavy accents. I found the lilting accents beautiful; almost musical. In time, I not only easily understood the speech, but when I returned to the states for visits was told I had acquired something of an accent myself ... although I never heard it.<br /><br />My living situation was quite exceptional as I lived on a hill above town and had a wrap-around balcony that afforded me an enviable view of the cruise ships in St. Thomas Harbor. The harbor was in the town of Charlotte Amalie, the Capital of the Virgin Islands.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqinYJ-Xhyphenhyphen6YMT6kEXR0LSK_I5te417xxNOCYvrh0A1kEF-Dm9uymzUu8ZOY2DqeuRxcMQnBgL3wk-w__cbsrucBdXZomhH-1AOWdaqN8Jtjsd5zJ5SttVos2qhZLH8N-e4fp0Sv-dnj53/s1600-h/day+scene.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305104362560083490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 257px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqinYJ-Xhyphenhyphen6YMT6kEXR0LSK_I5te417xxNOCYvrh0A1kEF-Dm9uymzUu8ZOY2DqeuRxcMQnBgL3wk-w__cbsrucBdXZomhH-1AOWdaqN8Jtjsd5zJ5SttVos2qhZLH8N-e4fp0Sv-dnj53/s400/day+scene.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:85%;">St. Thomas Harbor in Charlotte Amalie as seen from my balcony</span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><div align="center"><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305104584702544770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINsPhVCJozAFfWgUnfhOLyKue9vri5CBEUrlxj2mmvHM6cZQhhV7tdM27y6VKlW6VroydC_n5402vAIrRtfE7hAuhMCLOnH8VL_4oGy4bw_98MepzsU8pPDD5fzA5caDm3ZxoHim_6Qj8/s400/night+scene.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-size:85%;">St. Thomas harbor at sunset from my balcony</span></div><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="left">During high season, which ran between December and May, the island could accommodate as many as 16 ships spread out between <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Havensight</span> Harbor, St. Thomas Harbor (hailed as one of the deepest harbors in the world), and Sub-Base (an area that had been a naval base for many years). </p><p align="left">I did not need to become accustomed to my surroundings, which were amazingly colorful and beautiful. My yard contained plentiful fruit trees, like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Genip</span>, Tamarind, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mangos</span>; lush flowers like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Bouganvillea</span>, Oleander and Flamboyant; and exotic animals like the Iguanas that boldly crossed the yard as if they, not me were the rightful tenants of the house.<span style="font-size:85%;"></p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><p align="center"></span></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305105709465906722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLTsyHyk3g1cEFi4_cTG0K-VI09e7RLn0Y90Rq_UnbJkxd8ZNXpIRrRqtn_wJ_WyNzV3GjQ2cAZuBu2WWzuzifFbrE5VSvHVlK_VZicogH0ZnAkNnq_m425Jgh4Cs0YNpXhvxAPeuF0Jg/s400/iguana+two.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Iguana on an early morning yard crossing</span> </p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305105118195433442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 270px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyziPj5IG47zwuRbXTwTDr8-76QceKljI4MSBLaSBJNQ_BUyIPt5Xz8pZOTrFXfd6uB49NVJmGQZJLyGywwiJYQhTgDZSDFm5AZt3k-iLpmmhHw5IIva-l5rqE7x-QnD2v_yx5_rV-tx9/s400/iguana+two+001.png" border="0" /> <span style="font-size:85%;">Iguana on tree limb in yard</span><br /></p><p>As a visitor from Cleveland, Ohio once so appropriately put it:"It's as if everything where I came from is in black and white, while everything here is in technicolor."</p><p>I couldn't have said it better myself.</p><p></p>Claudettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07195361082598962085noreply@blogger.com0