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- Winter weather
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 26 Jan 2010 08:14:08 -0400
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We are certainly getting winter weather at the moment, it rained cold droplets most of the day yesterday. The temperature is low at night and in the early mornings, in the valley it is definitely time to curl up watch movies wearing sweaters and even socks! We like this time of year, the garden is loving the weather as well, the lawn is green and the vegetables are doing really well. It is raining as I write. There is some blue sky peeping out from behind the nimbus-like clouds so it could just turn out to be a lovely day.
Yesterday when the earthquake happened we were watching the new movie Sherlock Holmes we were totally immersed in the film and did not feel the earthquake at all. Our neighbours down the road telephoned and asked us if we had felt anything and we had to reply absolutely not! This is good as it could not have been a big quake. I really hope that we do not get another tremor in the near future.
We are still very much tuned into what is happening in Haiti, absorbing as best we can what is going on there. Thankfully there are some uplifting stories coming out of the suffering and misery. The main thing now is that Haiti is getting an acceleration of help and the supplies seem to be getting through despite the crowd troubles. Again, thankful for our life here.
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- Update
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:43:12 -0400
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Hi again,
Just had another quick look at the news. Tremor reported,
mag of 5.1 Sunday evening at 5.43 pm, depth of 42.2 miles.
Tommiegirl.
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- Update
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 08:35:41 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Seems we had some tremors here over the weekend. News reports
say they were off Guadeloupe and could be felt in the southeast of Dominica.
No report on time these tremors occured, we never felt a thing. One local
news comment, someone reported feeling the tremor in Antigua. We must
have been asleep. Nothing wakes us. Takes the guys working next door to
start up the jack hammer to get a response from us.
This morning is dull. Thick grey cloud. Feels nice and cool.
Slight breeze.
Sea looks dull and grey.
Now geering up a notch for carnival.
You all take care. Have a great day. Will post any more news on the tremor.
Tommiegirl.
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- RAIN AND MORE RAIN
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 18 Jan 2010 07:36:49 -0400
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What a delight yesterday in a way a perfect Sunday! The rain started around 7.30 a.m. and continued for the day and into the night. We badly needed the rain as the holding tank was getting really empty. Jaco Ladd and I needed a restful Sunday. We were warm and cozy; I cooked bread and home made soup, painted, read and watched The Hangover movie. Today it is overcast and we shall probably have showers again. The cistern is full. We never forget how lucky we are; our thoughts are very much on Haiti and knowing how incredibly fortunate we are, never take anything for granted.
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- One step at a time
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:06:57 -0400
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The islanders and businesses of Dominica are gathering, money, clothing, food all supplies that can go immediately to Haiti. We have many Haitians living here in Dominica. Yesterday I was in town and the grief of everyone was tangeable. I spoke with several of the Haitians that I know who sell food and have some businesses in town. The majority of them had not been able to get any information about their families. They felt as if they were in limbo and were only functioning on automatic pilot doing the things that are necessary for their everyday lives.
The repercussions of this earthquake will be felt for many, many years to come. The Dominican Republic is also an extremely poor Caribbean country and will now have to struggle to keep many of the Haitian people from crossing it's borders. There will probably be trouble ahead.
What can be done to rebuild a country that is denuded of so much; what a huge task lies ahead. When a tragedy of this magnitude happens it totally shows the futility of war! It brings humans together and shows the compassion and caring that is in each and everyone of us. We might not be able to go and assist but each and everyone of us can do something to help, whether it is by donations or helping our Haitian brothers and sisters who are close by in their time of need.
Our Prime Minister the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit is visiting Haiti in his capacity as the secretary of the OECS. Dominica and the Dominican people are committed as are the other Caribbean islands to helping Haiti.
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- So Sad.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:44:13 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
O my, those poor people in Haiti. If it's not hurricanes, and some
of the worst flooding, they now have earthquakes being thrown at them.
Being one of the poorer sister islands, Makes one wonder how much
more they have to take.
We have a lot of Haitians living and working on this island. I hope
our government goes into action fast to help this island and it's people.
To all Haitians wherever you are, stay strong, I know it's not much,
but all our thoughts are with you at this dreadful time.
Take care.
Tommiegirl.
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- Heart rending
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 07:46:38 -0400
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Our heart felt sympathies go to the people of Haiti. We were here in Dominica when there was an earthquake that went on for a minute. The sensation was really scary, we were standing on the lawn with the earth moving literally watching our home moving! We can't imagine how terrifying to have buildings falling down around you or the worst scenario being trapped under rubble and killed. Our prays and thoughts are with everyone in Haiti.
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- Whew, It's Hot.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 7 Jan 2010 23:53:03 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
Wow it's been hot here. Had some pretty glorious days.
Slight breeze. This evening it's still very warm, until the breeze
blows through. Definite chill to it. Early hours of the morning can
be a bit nippy too.
A quick peek at the sat pic's show we may be in for a little
rain. It wouldn't go amiss. Garden looking thirsty.
England is looking a bit on the cold side to say the least.
Enough snow to make the airlines cancel flights. Not good if your
trying to get away for a few days somewhere warm.
Rang the daughter to make sure she and the boys are o k.
Boys are loving it. Extra days off school due to very dangerous
icy conditions.
I'm off to finish up whats left in that glass. Get some sleep.
You all take care. Have a great day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- Wet, and must have been wild.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Sat, 2 Jan 2010 19:57:02 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
A very wet start to the morning. Lots of thick grey cloud cover.
Not much breeze to speak of, and the humidity seemed to be creeping up.
What a difference by this afternoon. Sun and blue sky. Cool breeze.
So nice I spent some time in the garden doing battle with the weeds.
Our friend from the east coast called in, and told us they had, had plenty
of rain, and that the river was rising again, rapidly.
This evening is one of those lovely balmy Caribbean evenings. Frogs
singing away. Cool breeze. Dogs barking. Ahh the joys.
Message from our Dutch friends. We left behind the cell phone and
slippers. I have our friends mouse for his computer. Gee, that must have
been one good new years eve. Shame we don't have them at least twice
a year. Think this year will have a middle of the year party.
You all take care. Have a great evening and an even better day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- Wet Start to 2010.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 1 Jan 2010 18:28:59 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
What a great last week of the old year. Fantastic weather.
Dolphin and whale watching from the back balcony. Love it.
Spending time with friends on new years eve, with a good
amount of laughter.
Woke this morning to dull, grey, wet, cool, breezy weather.
Seems we have a fairly large amount of rain heading our way. Still
it is badly needed. Ah well, all part of the joys.
Would like to wish you all a very happy, peaceful and prosperous
NEW YEAR.
You all take care. Have a real good day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- HAPPY NEW YEAR
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 31 Dec 2009 08:50:55 -0400
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The weather really is quite remarkable we are just having really
sunny, dry days and fairly chilly nights. The ocean is still really
warm a lovely temperature to swim in, however, this does not bode well
for the coming hurricane season! I think we need the temperature of
the ocean to drop a few degrees before June.
We will probably have to use the water pump to move water from our
pristine ravine into our major holding tank if we do not get some good
rain soon! This is unheard of at this time of year in Dominica.
I was on my usual walk with the dogs this morning when I noticed quite
a lot of white and brown mess on the road! It then dawned on me that
this could be snake poop from the boa constricters that are living
close by us! We used to have a huge banana plantation over the road
which has been left to rack and ruin. My imagination is now running
wild - there must be hundreds of snakes lving really close by
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeek! Never mind as long as Jacko Ladd and I don't have
to socialise with them we should be fine.
On that note we wish everyone a very Happy New Year and hopefully
another quiet hurricane season in 2010.
Here is my latest painting;I'm trying my hand at horses!
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- Sunshine and more Sunshine
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Sun, 27 Dec 2009 09:04:05 -0400
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The weather over the Christmas holiday has been superb, sunshine and
more sunshine. Today also seems to be going the same way.
Dare we say it but soon we will need to check our water tank. Getting
a top up from the pristine ravine is totally unheard of in the winter
months. Is this signs of things to come for our future with the
predicted global warm up!?
We wish everyone a belated Happy Christmas and a stressless 2010 - we
have no idea where the time went, super fast for sure.
Here are three of my latest paintings! Butch Cassidy and the Sundance
kid were awesome; a candidate for the favourite movie of all time! The
other two pics are pure whimsical invention.
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- Seasons Greetings.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 25 Dec 2009 08:45:16 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Woken to a dull, cloudy, cool, breezy day. No snow though. Although it
looks very much like we are going to get some rain.
I'm off to make some mince pies. For those of you who don't know. They
are a traditional sweet fruit pie which we have in England at this time of year.
Would like to wish everyone a really great day, with all the seasons wishes.
You all take care.
Tommiegirl.
HAPPY CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
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- Humidity Up.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 18 Dec 2009 23:17:17 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
Humidity really high this evening. Making it just a little uncomfortable.
No breeze at all.
The day was very nice though. A nice Caribbean type day. Blue sky,
gentle breeze, and hot.
Our Dutch friends finally made it across from Guadeloupe. We ended
up with an impromptu party. Other friends from the east coast came bye, the
Kubili flowed and lots of laughter. So we think a good time was had by all.
The elections are over. We can now settle down to the celebration
of Christmas.
I'm off to finish what's in the glass. I can hear the ice melting fast.
You all take care. Have a great day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- Dull Day.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:39:22 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
A dull day. Few showers of rain. Very cloudy, giving what we call half
light, the kind that makes you squint. Not much breeze. Humidity creeping up.
Sea, that horrible grey colour and it looked just a bit choppy out there.
Friends from Holland who should have joined us today are stuck in
Guadeloupe. A very quick phone call from said that their pilot couldn't take off
due to bad weather. ?? Any info on this please. Their English is sometimes
not so good, and our Dutch is even worse. Makes for very entertaining
conversations, with lots of laughter. The language barrier has given us some
hysterical laughter at times. Still lots of arm waving and we usually get there.
Have a great evening and an even greater day tomorrow. Stay safe.
Tommiegirl.
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- Christmas winds
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:26:50 -0400
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We have woken up to those wonderful Christmas winds totally amazing. Jaco Ladd and I wrapped up in our jackets and took the dogs for a long walk at 6.0 a.m. It was pouring with rain, the dogs were shaking the water off their coats and looking at us with a puzzled stare but we just enjoyed sloshing through the water and feeling the cool rain on our skins. We came home and cooked up a great breakfast we are fortified for the day today. We are also proud to live in Dominica we hear on the grapevine that Dominica is extremely solvent and has not suffered from the worlds recession.
It is interesting because I have travelled a lot this year to the islands and also to the UK. I have noticed huge differences between Dominica and other countries; we luckily have not any unfinished buildings all over the island or in fact any outward signs of recession. The Dominican people are proud and kind, a lot of them live a simple life and enjoy the Nature Island which is proud to be ECO friendly - long may this last.
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- Breezy.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:27:04 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Pretty breezy to say the least for the last couple days, but o so nice.
Cool and comfy. Sunshine most days, with the odd shower of rain. Great
for the garden. Sea a little rough. So anyone out there, take good care. This
morning is nice and bright, with only the odd dark cloud floating bye.
Had to go into town a couple times. Normally In and out fast because
it can become so uncomfortable. With the breeze it's been lovely to be able
to walk around and browse in comfort. Getting fairly busy in town now, what
with all the tourists from the cruise ships and people getting ready for Christmas.
Most of the shops playing Christmas songs. Makes it all feel very festive.
I'm off to have that other coffee, watch the palms swaying.
You all take care. Have a great day.
Tommiegirl.
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- Wintry weather - Only joking!
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 17:35:37 -0400
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It is so cool up the valley it is wonderful. We have sunshine after a great deal of rain! We are now starting to get into the Christmas spirit.
The Christmas tree is up with lots of lights twinkling into the mountain backcloth. The Christmas cake is baked and today we had our first lunch party. A great day.
There is nothing quite like snuggling up together under the duvet at night warm as toast, listening to the rain crashing like a waterfall onto our wondrous acoustic roof.
Getting up at dawn - in any weather - taking a walk down to the river with the dogs on the lead by my side, briskly walking home, creating a great breakfast to start the day.
On the chillier days making a pot of hot soup and some homemade warm bread. Just cozy days.
We hope our kindred islands are enjoying the cooler weather and cooking up a storm, so to speak!!
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- NIGHT RAINBOWS ???
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 3 Dec 2009 01:23:38 -0400
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A very early good morning everyone,
We have had a pretty good week here on the west coast weather wise.
Lots of sun, light breezes, O such lovely blue skies, and blue calm seas.
Decided to get in the garden yesterday, yep, it rained, heavy enough to
make me run for cover. Still they didn't last long and then the sun came back
out.
Around about 7pm yesterday evening, we were sitting out on the balcony
having a nice cold Kubili, and I thought perhaps I have had one to many. Not
really dark, the moon was very bright, but with out a doubt I could see a
rainbow, but not the like you see in the daytime with all the colours. This was
a perfect arc of white. Just to make sure I was really seeing this for real, I
asked hubby if he could see it. To my great relief he said yes. Anyone else
ever seen a night rainbow ?? Hubby thinks it looked white due to the reflection
of the moon. Does anyone know ?? Just wished I'd had a super duper camera
to take a photo of my phenonamon, phenonnamon, pheno, something that unusual.
Well I'm off to finish what's left in the glass. Look for more night rainbows.
You all take care. Just had another shower of rain. Have a great day.
Tommiegirl.
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- Christmas is coming!
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 1 Dec 2009 11:48:38 -0400
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Officially the end of hurricane season! We have been so lucky with the hurricane season in the Caribbean. We have got through the season unscathed and in tact, infact, in Dominica I think it has been one of the driest summers for a very long time. Dominica is very lucky as we usually get more than our fair share of rain so this summer has been very balanced between sun and rain. Our advocado season started in September and we are still having wonderful advocado's from our trees, this is so neat!
Christmas will soon be upon us and seems to come around each year quicker than the last. The island is in election mode, in fact it is rather like Carnival except we have flags all over the island and on a great many vehicles. Many of the trucks are carrying large PA systems and playing loud music wherever they go whether in the day time or in the middle of the night! This can be quite alarming especially for our dogs living in the middle of the country who get most confused and bark loudly joining in with the mahem! Party time.
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- Nice morning.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:46:38 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Had a pretty good week here. Plenty of sun, with the
odd light shower of rain thrown in. This morning the sky is
bright blue. Couple of those little white fluffy clouds floating
around. Nice comfy humidity. Little breeze every now and
again. Sea, that amazing blue. Looks nice and calm out there.
When we get these kind of mornings just feel so lucky to be
sitting here.
The elections are warming up nicely. Everyone has an
opinion and they are very vocal about it. Becoming more
interesting by the day. Does make for long traffic queues
through some of the villages. You have to wait while the guys
with the big trucks, loud music, and huge speakers who have
stopped in the middle of the main road put up their parties
flags and posters.
Looks like this is going to be good day for the garden.
Off to have that other coffee, enjoy my view. Think about
what to do next.
You all take care. Have a great day.
Tommiegirl.
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- Sun Today.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:00:55 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
What a change in the weather today. Sun, Sun, and more Sun.
Very light shower early this morning. Then the sun came out and
stayed with us all day. Fantastic. Very light breeze. Sky and sea
that brilliant shade of blue. Little white puffy clouds. A quick peek
at the sat pic's, and it looks pretty clear out there.
Well the General Election date has been announced.
The whole island is abuzz with politics. It's the only topic of conversation.
It's going to get very interesting over the next couple of weeks. Some of
the conversations can and do get a little heated. Makes queueing in the
bank and for your groceries fun.
Well I'm off to finish whats left in the glass before it turns to slush.
You all take care. Have a great day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- Guess What.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:53:15 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
Guess what's happening. Yep. Rain and lot's of it.
It's coming down pretty heavy, with a nice breeze thrown in
with it. Humidity creeping up. Hope this downpour helps clear
the air. No thunder and lightening though.
You all have a good evening and an even better day
tomorrow. Take care.
Tommiegirl.
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- Buckets of Rain
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:07:20 -0500
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Wow, what a night the heavens opened and it poured with rain, it felt like our home was sitting under a waterfall! There was a great deal of thunder and lightning - we had to turn the electricity off to avoid any strikes, very unusual for November! Today the sun is shining brightly we are good to go again and the garden is looking fantastic!
Sent by my ChuckBerry device from Digicell No. 24 Greensville Correctional Centre
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- Plenty more Rain.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:06:45 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Yesterday we had reports of minor tremors to the north of the island. Before I
could post the electricity was turned off. That was at 9 in the morning and it didn't
come back on till 4 in the afternoon. Might as well go do something about the hole
I have dug in the garden. Yep, it waited till there I was up to knees in mud, and down
came the rain. Light to heavy showers on and off for the rest of the day. Late evening
a great light show started. Came across the ridge to the east of us. Lit the whole sky.
Thunder started, and then down came the rain ( again ). Real good heavy pounding
rain. Had to keep turning the volume up on the t. v. to be able to hear it over the noise.
Lasted about 2 hours. Then the electric went off just on the last 15 minutes or so of the
film we were watching. (now what words can I use to describe the reaction, Blast is good,
not to rude ). The glass was empty, might has well go to bed. No electric, no fan. O well.
Electric came back on early hours of the morning, AAAAAAArrrrrrrggggggg a wasp just
attacked. Those and roaches are a no no in this house. Horrid things.
This morning is beautiful. Bright and clear, (so far ). Sky is that wonderful shade of
blue, with tiny white fluffy cotton wool balls floating on past. The sun is shining. Gentle little
puffs of breeze. Humidity comfy. Sea looks calm and that wonderful blue. Couple guys out
there fishing. This morning is reminding us why we are here. Stunningly beautiful.
I'm off, have that other coffee, watch the cruise ship dock that's just pulled in. Then
go plant some carrots today I think. You all take care. Watch for those mud slides and
loose boulders. Everyone have a great day.
Tommiegirl.
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- Still Raining.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:43:54 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
Been raining on and off most of the day. No thunder and
lightening. Nice cool breeze kicks in just before the next downpour.
Humidity comfy. Neighbours dog barked all day, and it is still going.
Over 24 hrs now. Ahh well, part of the joys.
You all take good care. Careful of those mud slides.
Hmmm, a nice cool breeze just went through the house. Guess it
might be more some more rain on the way.
Have a great night and an even better day tomorrow.
Tommiegirl.
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- Rain, Plenty of It
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:28:36 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
More than enough rain yesterday. Light showers on and off most
of the day, then at about 6 in the evening the thunder started to grumble
and rumble. Few good strong streaks of lightening. Then the heavens
opened and down came the rain. It rained for 3 hours or more non stop.
Seemed to come in from the South/East. Rain was pretty heavy. So all
you in mud slide areas take care. The large hole I have dug in the garden
filled rapidly and I had my swimming pool in minutes.
It's still grey this morning. Light showers. Breeze kicking in. Sea, not
so nice, looks grey and very uninviting. Humidity feels like it's going up.
Thunder started the neighbours dog barking, and he was just left to
get on with it. He's barked for 14 hrs. Even after all our time here I don't
think it's something we will ever get used to.
Looks like more rain heading across the ridge at the east of us. It
is getting very dark out there.
I'm off, have my coffee, check out the view. Watch the sea change
colour from the run off from the river's. Go with great care out there today
if your going out to sea, or your near a river. Watch for those boulders that
come rocketing down with no warning.
You all take care.
Tommiegirl.
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- RAIN, RAIN AND MORE RAIN
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:26:26 -0400
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Yesterday was weird, it got dark in Roseau around 1p.m. threatening to pour with rain however, the rain had not come by the time I left Roseau which was around 4p.m. On the way home there was a lot of lightning flashes, the sky was so dark it felt really strange. I got home - still no rain but lots of thunder and lightning. I had to turn off the electricity in case of a wayward flash. The rain never came until this morning; we are now having lashings of rain, a lot more than we need. I hope it clears up as I have to go and look at some land up north today.
Tommie Girl is right, the cruise ships are now back in force in Dominica the tourist season has begun and the streets are full of hopefully, happy people spending dollars in our beautiful nature Island Dominica.
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- Humidity.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 23:58:28 -0400
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Good evening everyone,
Humidity sky rocketing. No breeze. Feels hot and very clammy. Yuckkie.
Thunder this afternoon, but no lightening and no rain. Hope it rains soon to help
clear the air.
Only cool thing is the ice cracking in that glass.
You all take care. Have a great day tomorrow. Stay safe.
Tommiegirl.
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- Royal Clipper Back.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 09:54:17 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
This morning the sun is shining. Some fairly big dark clouds drifting
over the ridge to the north of us though. No breeze. Humidity comfy. Sky
to the east is bright blue. Sea looks calm, and is a lovely shade of blue.
Quick peek at the sat pic's show quite a mess out there still.
My favourite ship came in this morning. The Royal Clipper. A
beautiful sight first thing in the morning to see floating past your back door.
One of these days it's going to get the better of me, and I'm going to have
to go down to where she anchors and ask if I can go aboard for a look. Fat
chance of that I expect. Well you never know unless you ask.
Well I'm off to enjoy that view and my coffee.
You all take care. Have a great day and stay safe. Watch out for those boulders,
that may have come loose with all that rain yesterday. It's getting darker out there.
Tommiegirl.
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- Had some Rain.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Thu, 5 Nov 2009 10:48:58 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
First off, hope all under Ida stay well and safe.
We have had a fair amount of rain this week. It always seems to rain
for Creole week and the Music Fest. Bit like the Glastonbury Fest in
England. Doesn't feel the same if it doesn't rain.
This morning is bright and just a slight breeze. Temp up into the
80s. Few dark clouds passing across every now and again. Humidity
comfy. Warning out for sea bathers and small craft. So you all take
care out there. Also with the amount of rain over the last few days watch
for those loose boulders that cannon down.
Guess the tourist seasons about to start. Had several large cruise
ships in. What with Creole and the music fest, the island was bursting at
the seams. All good fun.
Managed to get the neighbours garden in some sort of order for her
return. Just need to do battle with the weeds now every few days.
I'm off to have my other coffee, check out the view. Have a great day.
Take care.
Tommiegirl.
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- Lovely Morning.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:33:00 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Rain through the night, but this morning is bright and clear. No breeze.
Sea, looking good, blue and calm. Sun out. Humidity down. Dog's barking.
King birds singing.
Looks to be some more rain heading in our direction. O well.
Creole in the park brings a car parking nightmare to town. Add to that
all the tourist buses for the cruise ship that came into port yesterday. Result.
Total chaos. Stayed up here on my little bit peace and tranquility.
Off to finish my coffee, check out the view, and enjoy this beautiful morning.
Then off to go do some shopping, replenish the Kubili.
You all take care. Have a great day, whatever your doing.
Tommiegirl.
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- Interesting weather
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:13:42 -0400
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Yesterday was really wet and we had a great deal of thunder storms especially in the night. I had to get up twice and turn the electricity from the mains off! Jaco Ladd was fast asleep! Today started with rain but cleared and we had fantastic sunshine.
Dominica is enjoying Creole Festival week. This afternoon I went to Creole in the Park which is organized and efficiently run by LIME! I had a blast there were a couple of fantastic bands playing, great to dance to. The park was dry and the people were having an amazing time liming and chilling. We have more fun tomorrow and then we have some amazing bands coming to play in the stadium from Friday through to Sunday, Maxi Priest starting off the playing on Friday! Dominica is the place to be this week.
It looks like there is some really nasty weather approaching the windward islands we sincerely hope it misses us in Dominica, we can't have the partying interrupted by bad weather. We hope everyone stays safe.
Good to have you back as well Tommie Girl hopefully we might see you out and about Liming as well!
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- Some Storm.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:25:40 -0400
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Good afternoon everyone,
Well we just had some rain. Along with thunder and lightening. Gusty wind.
Total whiteout all around us. Could see only our immediate neighbours houses.
Pretty spooky. Think we had every type of lightening there is. The thunder rolled
across the top of the house. Sounded like it was rolling across the roof. It started
last night with a fantastic light show, coming from the east. Rain throughout the night.
Ended with a spectacular thunder storm this morning. The deluge of water has now
stopped, the wind's died down and the sun is making a very weak attempt to get
through.
I'm off to check out the garden for damage. You all take care. Watch out for
those boulders that may have come loose.
Tommiegirl.
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- Mozzie Attack.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:12:01 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Yesterday afternoon we had a really good downpour of rain. Everything in the
garden sighed with relief. Rain on and off during the night, and just seconds ago
another light shower. Humidity feels high. Some pretty big dark looking clouds
coming across from the east again this morning. A nice breeze is blowing. Sea,
not so nice, bit grey. Still, we had a morning like this a couple days ago and
ended up with a scorcher of an afternoon. While writing the sun is making an
attempt to get out from behind those clouds.
Plenty of mozzies about last night, I know cos one got trapped under my top,
and now I have lumps and bumps in places I shouldn't have. Ahh well the joys of
living in paradise. All part of the fun.
The plot at the back of us is now being cultivated. A local guy is making a
determined effort to clear it up for planting veggies etc. Personally I prefer the bull
which was bought down by a local farmer to clear the plot.
Well I'm off to get my other coffee, find some Aloe for my Itches, enjoy the view.
You all have a great day and take care.
Tommiegirl.
P. S. Welcome back Lissette.
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- Back home
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:23:22 -0500
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I have been back in Dominica a week today I am so glad to be home!
"Home is where the heart is" This is a very true saying! Jaco Ladd
had been keeping the home fires burning so to speak. He has been
painting and sprucing up the place, methinks I should perhaps go away
more often!
Dominica has been very dry through the two weeks I was away. We had
to use the pump and move water from the ravine into our outside water
tank for general use and rely on our underground spring for the
drinking stuff. We have had some rain for the last two nights so
things are moist and the garden is looking really lovely.
When I was in the UK I stayed in Cornwall where I was born and lived
until we moved to the Caribbean in 1989. I took some photographs of
Charlestown, a beautiful coastal village on the south coast outside
St. Austell. Many films have been made in this fishing village. Here
are the two tall ships that are docked permanently in the harbour and
have been featured in many pirate films!
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- Jungle Beaten.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:39:11 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
A glorious week here on the west coast. Yesterday it was just to hot to venture
outside.
A little dull this morning, some pretty thick, heavy, dark looking clouds looming
over the ridge on the east side of the house. Sea, well that's a bit grey, but looks fairly
calm. No breeze at all. Last nights humidity was really high, made it uncomfortable,
then we had a spattering of rain which helped bring it down a bit. This morning Humidity
back to high.
It's taken 3 / 4 day's to beat back the jungle from the garden, but it is now almost
back to it's normal condition. Had a lot of pruning to do. Totally exhausted by the time
I finished, good job we had some cold Kubilis in the fridge, and by the evening that
long, tall glass I'm so fond of William was full. Now to make a start on the neighbours
garden, before she returns for Independence Day.
Well a nice cup of coffee awaits out on the balcony, I'm off to check out the view.
You all have a great day, take care, stay safe.
Tommiegirl.
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- Back on Board.
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- By Tom Fullbrook <fullbrookt at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:36:15 -0400
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Good morning everyone,
Well I'm back on board and very pleased to be here. 6 weeks in good old Blighty
is enough for me. It should have been only 4 weeks, but we lost 2 due to the flu, so had
to extend our stay. Needed to catch up with family and friends, some who we have not
seen for almost 7 years. Bad.
Great to see the daughter and grandsons. The boys are growing up at an alarming
rate. Eldest will be as tall as me and his mum by next year I reckon. Hubby says that's
because we are little people anyway. Pixie size he says.
Seems we bought the rain with us, which was badly needed. Our friends up at Pond
Casse were even short of water, and they live in the rain forest. Usually you can make a hole
in the ground and another river appears on their property. We also came back to no electric,
high winds, and jungle taking over the garden and our neighbours garden..( I look after it for
her while she is off island ). Some serious weeding to be done, but hey who cares, when I
opened the back door and saw that view, it sure isn't me.
This morning is gorgeous. The sun is shining. The sky is an amazing bright blue. The
sea is the palest of blue's and calm. Slightest of breeze's , just enough to make the palms
whisper. O it's so great to be back, and to see why we are here. Everyone we see
welcoming us back. People driving past hooting and tooting, waving and smiling. Life is
good.
Would like to say a big thank you to those people who not reading this site for awhile
were concerned and enquired after my health and well being. THANK YOU.
I'm off to have another coffee, enjoy that view of mine. Then jungle here I come.
You all take care, stay safe.
Tommiegirl.
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- A Pristine Ravine
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Sun, 18 Oct 2009 11:22:45 -0400
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The sat pic this morning re the Eastern Caribbean showed definitive cloud above Dominica, nowhere else! - sure enough in the Layou Valley at least, this is turning out to be the squalliest day for two months or so. Taking into consideration that outside work is a no-go, I'm now concentrating on swinging from the chandeliers as Jaco Lass is back in Dom on the 'morrow, LIAT willing.
Pumping water from our ravine into the holding tanks was a must last Thursday -easily the longest, driest period since moving to the Nature Isle. And as usual, after setting up the few hundred feet of hose to transfer the juice the heavens opened. OK, just a spurt.....but the ravine I was pumping from came up trumps as the quality of water is like a liquid diamond and always flowing, how? after almost zilch rainfall... I don't know.
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- Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Hurricanes - the aftermath is the same.
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Sat, 3 Oct 2009 13:00:08 -0400
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Unfortunately, Jaco Lass has been called to the UK - her elder sister is ailing with the big C...that accursed word that creates bile whenever I hear it or see it in text...I wish the lassie a safe trip...
Since postings from Dominica - for many reasons - are as scarce as the rain we're not getting, it's prudent I guess to update from our perspective:
The ever verdant Layou valley is now starting to choke, though the glorious sunlight and temps right now would be a great value item for the vacationeer; in tandem with the rest of the Eastern Caribbean, this is the driest month or so for years. Yet, our source for spring drinking water is flowing as good as it gets, which means that the Central Forest Reserve is getting everybody's share of rainfall, this being the catchment area for the Layou river and environs.
The Caribbean is blessed so far this year to have avoided any significant storm damage and we clap our hands, so how tragic to view Tuesday's South Pacific tsunami aftermath in American Samoa, specifically the main island of Tutuila and its biggest community Pago Pago (Pango Pango). This is an affulent island by South Pacific standards and the properties are well built and sturdy, etc. I had the privilege of visiting the main port as an entertainer aboard a P&O liner a few years ago and will never forget the welcome that awaits every visiting ship as it passes between two heads beneath a moving cable car that releases a multitude of rose petals that cascade onto deck - sooooo cool! .......yet
the waterborne damage of this tsunami resembled every hurricane or earthquake aftermath that I've ever seen. And the searches for the living goes on...praise be.
Jaco Ladd
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- Muggy Weather
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 07:57:17 -0500
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Yesterday was the first day for weeks that we encountered a huge
thunder storm, lashings of rain for about an hour then back to the
sunshine.
We seriously needed the rain - on Friday I was in Roseau all day and
literally felt that I would melt. When I reached home I dropped off
my shopping, donned my swimming attire and jumped in the Layou river
with Jaco Ladd to cool down. There is truly nothing like swimming in
the cold water of the river to revive one from the heat, totally
refreshing and so good for the body. We are unbelievably lucky to
have the river so close to us just the luck of the draw!
In the night we had quite a few showers and this morning it is dull
and grey. We actually need the sun to shine today as we have the
Titiwi festival all day and evening at the village of Layou. There
are booths on the beach and lots and lots of fun things to do. We are
looking forward to going to the festival, meeting friends and having a
party.
For those who delve in peace and tranquility, here are some photo's re
3 acres of beautiful land I have to sell at Pagua Bay, N. East Dom.
It should be a fun day.
www.acecaribbeanrealestate.com
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- SUNSHINE
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:23:29 -0400
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Another amazing day in paradise, sun, sun and more sun! I have a
horrid cold so will chill out with a book on the deck for the day,
hoping to do some sleeping as well.
I spent some great days with Jan Farara in Antigua she is the best
artist just awesome. Here are some of her paintings. I took some
photo's of while staying in her beautiful home
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- Hot Balmy days
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- By Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Sun, 20 Sep 2009 07:40:53 -0500
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The weather is sunny and stable and has been for the last few days.
Jaco Lass was visiting Antigua for a few days last week and had a
wonderful time. The weather in Antigua was gorgeous.
It is really good to visit other islands sometimes as each island is
unique and has it's own charm. Antigua was very quiet not many
tourists around, I have to say I enjoyed this lying on the beach on
Dickenson Bay, the sea was so sparkling the colour so beautiful.
Coming back to Dominica was fun - one can never get over how green
everything is here on the island. The garden looked fabulous the
grass had just been mowed!
We seem to have been lucky so far this year with hurricanes, the
season is by no means over, however, it has been kind to up to now,
long may it last.
I have posted some photo's from Antigua
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- Fwd: Dominica stays just the same................
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- From: Lisette Stevens <jaco.lass at gmail.com>
- Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2009 07:49:03 -0500
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We had another beautiful day here yesterday and today looks as if it will be a equally lovely. I have to go into town today which will probably be hot and sticky. We are still being very watchful of the weather coming off the African coast!
We hope Tommie girl is OK as we have not seen her post on stormcarib for a while.
I hope you enjoy my blog today, which I have written for my website www.acecaribbeanrealestate.com
Dominica stays just the same................
Dominica in the Caribbean has let time stand still. Some of the
Dominican people are still cooking on the same stoves as they have
been doing for hundreds of years. I have attached a photo of the
outside kitchen of a friend of mine who lives in Aitkinson. It is
just amazing to see the simplicity of the cooking the pure comfort of
being outside, the smell of the wood burning with the two pots of
provisions boiling, away the aroma is mouth watering and what a tasty
treat awaits us for dinner!
Everything grows in Dominica; most of the Dominicans who live in the
country live a very simple life which is rich in flavour and provides
comfort and a healthy living for their families. Children still walk
many miles to school - as do adults, walking large distances to get to
their gardens, work place or town. Walking is a natural normal way of
getting around Dominica, this has not changed for generations.
The Dominicans are proud, fit and happy, you very rarely see
overweight people here as exercise is an everyday natural way of
living. The basic way of life here keeps people healthy. Dominica
has over 15 centenarians and many, many more elderly people who live
well into their 90's are fit and still looking after themselve. This
island has to be one of the the last bastions for healthy simple
living. God Bless Dominica
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Older reports from Dominica have been moved to another page.
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