- Updates from the Islands -

- - St.Lucia - -

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:27:08 EDT

Morning to all

Well another hot, dusty and dry day in St. Lucia. We have a strong wind blowing today which has just helped kick start yet another bush fire. From our house because we have such uninterrupted views we see bush fires most days, but - this one is bigger than most I have watched for a while. See the photo for a ringside seat.

A local lady asked me the other day how we could be having so many bush fires here, because, as she put it, 'we have had droughts before & I never saw so many bushfires then'. I pointed out that maybe then there weren't so many bottles being thrown out of drivers windows rather than take them home, and we all know what happens when the sun shines directly on glass. Her face illuminated and she proudly boasted how she did that at school! She then went around announcing to everyone that this is why we are having so many bushfires and they must all stop throwing their bottles on the ground and take them home - Aaaaahh well, one step at a time after all, every little helps!

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:31:23 EDT

Morning to all

Well, just a quick update. It did rain yesterday, but the shower I wrote about, was very unfortunately - it! It did last about twenty minutes or so and was still very welcome, but regrettably we didn't get any more rain here in the South. Every little counts though.

Hopefully the rain forest got lots more as that's where the reservoir is. It did stay cloudy all day though which did give us a very pleasant break from the intense heat of the last few weeks.

This morning though, all back to normal, sunny skies, a bit of haze out to sea and a brisk trade wind blowing. No rain today!

Be safe out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:17:50 EDT

Yes, yes, YES! ITs raining, yippee!!!!!!!!!

Got up this morning and it was very cloudy, but it has been a few times recently but no rain, this time however, we have got a couple of heavy showers so far. Lets hope it stays in for the day, the reservoirs will be getting a small but much needed top up, and my plants a well needed life saver!

Bring on the clouds ...................

Thought Of The Week

Do you ever wonder about those people who spend $2.00 a piece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try spelling Evian backwards.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 11 Mar 2010 06:07:58 EST

Boy is it hot here the last few days! Reaching 32deg celsius most of the time with hardly any of our 'cooling' trade winds to speak of, so you really feel the difference - hot, hot, hot.

The drought is still biting hard, and apparently St Lucia shipped in water from Dominica recently to send to the hotels to keep business running. I don't know all the facts, and how accurate the information is, they were just arguing about it on local radio the other day, and that isn't always the most reliable sources. Of course though without tourism the economy in St Lucia would nose dive very fast, as with most of the caribbean islands I guess.

We have had a lot more cloud of late, maybe that is a good sign that rain will soon follow, lets keep our fingers crossed.

Be safe out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 8 Mar 2010 07:20:14 EST

Morning from sunny St. Lucia. Well last night we actually had a teeny tiny shower, it wasn't enough in Vieux Fort to even get the ground wet, but apparently it was a bit heavier as it moved over the rest of the island. Unfortunately at this stage it is nowhere near enough to be of much use but hopefully it might be the start of more to come.

Last night was so hot as well, the wind dropped right off, not even enough to make the remaining leaves on the trees rustle, so a very sultry night for all. It has picked up slightly though this morning and is very welcome.

The last few days have been much cloudier so if we are lucky and the clouds keep rolling in, sooner of later they are bound to bring rain, aren't they .....................

Thought For The Week

If you can't be a good example, you'll just have to serve as a horrible warning.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 4 Mar 2010 10:05:47 EST

Hi to everyone

Ok, I know its getting really boring now, but guess what? Yep, its still hot, still sunny and still no rain, oh yes, and still breezy!

Apart from that nothing has changed here in St Lucia for quite a while. The local radio did say yesterday that they only have 7 days water left in the main reservoir in the North, WHAT, seven days, and then what. Well of course in true caribbean style they only gave you the information, nothing expanded on other than that.

Here in the South I have no idea, I haven't heard anything although turning the water off is becoming a regular event. I am particularly lucky where I live as there is a large tank on our hill, just for the supply of the properties here as we are slightly isolated from a pipe point of view at any rate! There are only about 20 houses or so, and we are all being really careful, so hopefully we will last a bit longer than most, fingers crossed.

Apologies as well, I announced my holiday rental house is now ready and available but it seems my name being so rare (not) only has about 1300 others for everyone to trawl through and find - oops! Anyway try this link instead, fingers crossed.

http://apps.facebook.com/marketplace/view/-/1812999725/?orig=profiletab

So its yet another good day for a rum on the beach, I will sit there and salute the gods and hope they look kindly enough on us to send some rain, cheers ..............

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 3 Mar 2010 06:24:07 EST

Yippee............ it rained, woo hoo!

Well ok, it was a tiny little shower that lasted about 4minutes or so, promptly followed by lots of brilliant sunshine as per usual, but hey, every little helps! It was just enough to dampen down some of the dust but a lovely relief on the temperature ever so briefly, but lets hope its the beginning of the end for the drought.

Still breezy as well so another good day for the kite surfers in Vieux Fort at Anse De Sable beach, which is a great sport to watch especially if you're like me and not quite brave enough to try it!

So have a good day everyone and lets keep our fingers crossed for more rain.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 2010 07:53:17 EST

Morning to everyone

Another beautiful day in St. Lucia. Lots of sun as usual, but we do have a stronger breeze today thank goodness, a brief respite from such intense heat. Yesterday was pretty cloudy most of the day, I thought we might have had a small shower or two, but still no joy, judging by the weather across UK and Europe, 'our' rain has gone that way.

Its all good for the peeps on holiday though - enjoy!

Thought for the Week:

If the black box always survives a plane crash, why don't they make the planes from it...........

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sun, 28 Feb 2010 05:31:15 EST

Morning to everyone out there

Our weather here is completely unimportant after hearing the news about Chile.

Our thoughts and prayers are with them all.

Ever watchful now for Tsunami's, lets hope they don't wreak their full force but calm down before they reach land.

They could all do with a few guardian angels right now, lets hope they're watching.

God Bless

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 27 Feb 2010 09:08:35 EST

So, another weekend. You know, considering that things move slower in the Caribbean, the weekends sure come round really quickly!

Nothing much to report on the weather front, we are pretty much the same as a lot of the other islands, no wind, no rain but plenty of heat and sun, although we do have a little cloud today. Its not doing so much though, not really taking any of the heat out of the day and certainly not bringing any of that much needed rain!

I went on a guided tour of Laborie the other day, a pretty little village not far from me in the South of the island and I took this pic. Drying your washing Caribbean style!

Great weather for a rum on the beach though .................

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 25 Feb 2010 07:04:37 EST

Boy oh boy, is it hot here the last few days. Hardly any of those lovely trade winds that we usually get to keep us cool, very still, very sultry and hot!

We did have a very small shower this morning but it wasn't even enough to make the grass damp unfortunately but I guess the plants will be glad of anything no matter how small. I can't see much of the sea from my balcony today it seems to be heat haze or maybe a light covering of saharan dust, either way there aint much view!

I have attached a little pic of a local's house who likes to make his feelings quite clear. He was having trouble with the local 'council' over where his house boundary ends, they stipulated that it was too close to the road, and he should move it, so he shut his door on them and then the next day his sign appeared. Judging by the state of the sign that was a long time ago and I guess he has lived in relative peace ever since! Oh if only it were so simple to deal with UK councils!!

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:19:35 EST

Hi to all

Another glorious hot and sunny day in St Lucia. Brisk breezes today to help keep the temperatures down, lets hope the wind brings some rain clouds. The ground is so dry and very hard, it took me ages to plant some young seedlings which I am avidly providing liquid to with the used washing up water, am trying to do my bit to save water where ever possible.

I was sat on the balcony last night and it occurred to me that I hadn't heard the whistling of the tree frogs in a long, long time. I guess there just isn't enough moisture out there for them to come out at night any more. I guess they hide in the trees and hence their name, but the trees are dry to, so lets hope they survive long enough to be able to sing their nightly songs again.

Yesterday and today in Vieux Fort we have a big car racing event, lots of 'souped' up cars and drag racers from all over the Caribbean. Check out the website

lucianriders.com

lucianriders.com/forum

They have pictures and posters of the event, and from my balcony I can see some of the racing, it looks fun if you're into cars that is!

Drive safe out there ............

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:39:11 EST

Morning to all

Well after yesterday when I felt the mild tremor here, I was beginning to doubt myself. No one else appeared to have felt it, and as it was so small I was starting to think it was probably something else, not that I knew what of course! A lady emailed me from the North of the island and nothing had been felt up there, so I thought that's it then, I imagined it!

Anyway another 'stormcarib' follower emailed me later in the day, with a link to a news article confirming that they had felt a tremor of 3.6 on the scale. Check it out

.
http://www.martinique.franceantilles.fr/actualite/environnement/la-terre-a-tremble-ce-matin-19-02-2010-62180.php

For those who don't speak French us this link for a translation.

http://uk.babelfish.yahoo.com/translate_txt

Mind you I wouldn't have probably noticed anything if I had been busy and not just sitting and chilling on my balcony with my breakfast! Glad it was nothing major for anybody though. But, mystery solved, thanks to everyone who helped.

Sunny of course again today, hazy over the sea though and a brisk breeze, but its still another lovely day in St Lucia.

We finally have got our house up and running to rent out now as well, so check out my facebook page if anyone is interested for photos! Holiday weekend also here, Independence Day on Monday so I might pop to the beach for a rum..............

Cheers!

Tracy White

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:06:58 EST

Morning to all

Well something strange happened this morning. There I was sat eating my brekki when the earth started to move! It began with the sound of a gentle rumble like a lorry going past and then the house started to vibrate. Check the road near us, nope, no locals going by with the speakers hanging out the back windows so I guess it was a mild tremor.

Felt one once before a few years ago, we had a freak one in the UK where I lived once, and it was basically the same, so I will listen out for the local news and check back on stormcarib later, in case it was stronger elsewhere on the island.

It makes a change from our usual sun and more sun I guess! Still no rain a few tiny showers but nothing that will help and they are starting to restrict the water supplies around the Vieux Fort area as well now, inevitable and necessary. Bring on the clouds!

Take care out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 15 Feb 2010 07:54:34 EST

Morning to All

Sunny St Lucia, is still exactly that, very sunny, very hot and very, very dry. We really could do with some rain and being an ex Brit, that is something I never thought I would never hear myself say! Why would I want rain, that's why I left after all. Trouble is, everything is so dry that we are getting quite a few 'bush' fires these days, mostly caused by empty glass beer bottles which are just discarded and then caught by the suns rays.

There is one burning quite merrily now at the local tip, started yesterday as a bush fire nearby and spread. This one I expect will burn for days just because of all the buried rubbish which will smoulder and generate its own heat for a long time to come. Of course lets hope the methane doesn't create its own explosion!

I have attached a little pic of the 'excitement'. Bring on the clouds!

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 9 Feb 2010 07:10:44 EST

Morning to All

Well its another hot and sunny start to the day here in St Lucia. We are experiencing some haze out to sea though, not much visibility, whether its a heat haze or pollution we will no doubt find out as the day progresses!

We are suffering the same fate as many of the islands with the dry season being very, very dry and not any rain to speak of for a long while. The North of the island is apparently having small restrictions placed on them with not watering unnecessarily etc but nothing to serious as of yet.

The plants need watering every day now, but mulching helps keep the moisture in. Hubby is busy making some beautiful Blue Mahoe chests of drawers for a customer so I keep all his wood shavings/sawdust for my garden mulch, ideal! Coffee grinds do help as well and it provides nutrients for a lot of the plants so hopefully everything will survive with minimal maintenance until the rain. We do a lot of cabinet/furniture making as it is still hard to get quality hardwood furniture on the island, so we make our own!

Just as a little point of reference the name Mahoe is derived from a Carib word. The ‘blue’ refers to blue-green streaks in the polished wood, giving it a distinctive appearance. The cream streaks running through the grain make a very attractive finish. The tree has hibiscus type flowers which start with yellow, changing to orange red and finally to crimson. It grows to approximately 66ft. (Info from Wikipedia).

Lets hope the dry weather doesn't upset these beautiful trees too much!

Be safe out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 08:12:39 EST

Good Morning to All

It was pointed out to me the other day by a good friend of mine, that I hadn't written a report on behalf of St Lucia in quite a while. I pointed out that it wasn't because I was too busy, after all I do live in the caribbean, but - because there was no weather!

I moved from UK to get away from the weather there as a lot of us do. But, one thing, we always did have plenty of weather there.

We used to get many varied days consisting of, rain, showers, heavy showers, occasional showers, drizzle, mist, mizzle, fog, snow, snowy showers, hail, sleet, occasional sunny spells, and on a rare occasion just 'sun'!

So my absence from stormcarib is because St Lucia is having no weather except what you would expect SUN, SUN, and more SUN, yippee, don't you just love the caribbean!

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:27:32 EST

Just to wish everyone who reads any of the posts on stormcarib, a Very Happy New Year and I hope it brings to everyone, everything they wish for.

So another year down, another new one to remember on the calendar, 2010, fingers crossed its a kind one.

Weather in St Lucia, is hot, sunny, gently balmy breezes, although the sea is slightly rough from the strong winds yesterday, having to water the plants every day as the dry season is well and truly ruling the roost!

So to all, party on, relax and bring the new year in, in true caribbean style .......................

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 12 Dec 2009 08:29:30 EST

Morning to all

Well a slightly more unusual day here today, I have woken up to rain, strong winds, lots of cloud, yuk! Looks like it might be one of those rare damp days we occasionally get here, well I guess I wont have to water the plants today.

It could also be worse, I could be living back in the UK where they have a daytime temperature today of 3degrees, although I do have brief moments where I miss it, only brief mind you!

So feet up, get a movie out, and that's me sorted.

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:13:36 EST

Hi to one and all

Well its the beginning of the season of goodwill to all men, and women of course! This weekend we have a holiday, National Day and that will pretty much be holiday time for all, from then until after Christmas - don't you just love the Caribbean!

The weather in St Lucia is glorious, hot and sunny as usual, although the change in the season is marked by the strong winds blowing the leaves off the trees in readiness for the growing to commence.

Being so high up on my hill, the doors and windows on the side facing the sea have to stay firmly shut on that side, good job I have plenty elsewhere to get a through draft. We recently built another balcony on the other side of the house for that reason, when its too windy on one side, its calm on the other, perfect!

So that's it for now, let the holidays commence...............

- (no subject)

By swhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 1 Dec 2009 11:26:13 EST

Hi to everyone from beautiful St Lucia. Well the change in seasons definitely began last week. Strong winds, rough seas, trees turning brown but still hot and sunny.

This week the wind has dropped, the sea is starting to calm down and it has taken with it most of the slimy old seaweed. I know its good for the garden, but its not so nice walking on the beach when its covered in the stuff!

Apart from that the sun is still shining and its still hot! Good day for a rum on the beach ......................

Be safe out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:42:44 EST

Hi to everyone,

Glorious sunshine, but very windy and the sea is even stormier. Off to the beach later, but will have to swim in the Caribbean side today, the Atlantic is far to rough. It is perfect for the kite and windsurfers though, who will love it, they will have plenty of speed and lift today, they just have to be careful where they might end up!

Lovely to watch the waves hitting the headland though from my balcony, one of natures stunning live shows.

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:30:04 EST

Hi to all

Beautiful day here in St Lucia. Brisk winds, lots of lovely sunshine, perfect temperatures. The sea is still very rough though and sooooooo much seaweed, yuk. We haven't had this much seaweed for a while. The beach has become layers of seaweed then more sand covering it and so on, so when you walk you sink right down into the mulchy mess! Not to worry, it will all disappear again in a few days or so.

My dog Fudge is settling into his new caribbean home very well, and is starting to shed his UK winter coat, he will soon be a new slimline version! He certainly approves of my 'local' beach and is loving swimming in it, although its not so much fun for me trying to comb all that seaweed out! Everyone have a good weekend, and its another perfect day for a rum on the beach ..............

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:00:27 EST

Morning all,

A beautiful clear and bright morning so far! A few heavy showers yesterday evening and into the night but today has dawned different again, brisk breeze which is better for keeping the 'feel' of the temperatures down. Lovely sunny skies, although the sea does still have a bit of strong movement to it.

Today is exciting - well for me at any rate, Dear Miss Mermaid has her cats, and my dog is arriving from the UK this afternoon, good job we live on different islands! The final piece in the move from good ole' England to St Lucia, everything is now complete, perfect.

So today when I go for my rum on the beach, I will have to show off my favourite spot to my friend and see if he approves, as long as I can get the girls to give him a cuddle or two and a big bowl of water, I'm sure he will be in heaven.

Be safe out there...............

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:57:00 EST

Hi All

Weather not quite so good here today. Lots of showers, not particularly heavy though, still some sunny spells so not all doom and gloom. Good brisk breeze, and temperatures slightly cooler than of late, the sea is looking slightly choppy from the balcony so think a swim might not be such a good idea today!

Never mind, at least living in the caribbean we are blessed with more good weather than bad, so am sure tomorrow all will be back to normal, fingers crossed!

Be safe out there.................

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 7 Nov 2009 10:45:52 EST

We had a lot or rain during the night, a real lot of rain! Much needed though, its been a very dry 'wet season' so far. This morning, more heavy showers, some sunshine, but sticky and uncomfortable.

A day to find some indoor jobs I think, instead of a day off, I think I will carry on working in the apartments and keep heading towards the day I can rent them out. Hey ho, hey ho, its off to work I go..........

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 3 Nov 2009 10:01:21 EST

Boy, that was some rain last night. Lots and lots of it! Few light shows, a few rumbles of thunder but mostly just the rain. This morning, clear and breezy, plenty of sunshine, plenty of clouds starting to gather around but dry so far. The sea is rough today though, some big waves out there, maybe good for surfing and stuff, but not so sure I would swim!

Still its dry enough for my rum on the beach and that's what counts............

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 31 Oct 2009 10:29:50 EDT

Morning to all,

What a beautiful morning here in St. Lucia, balmy gentle breeze, glorious sunshine, what more could you ask for. The sea is still a little rough, looks like a bit of a swell from what I can see up on high here, but its ok for swimming and cooling off if needed!

Off to water the garden, and then later on off to the beach to my favourite spot for a little rum just to check the quality you understand ...................

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:17:26 EDT

Morning one and all,

Awoke this morning, after a night of heavy showers, to more of the same! Very wet, very windy, and some good rumbles of thunder. Makes a welcome change though as at least I don't have to go and water the veggie patch, mind you those army ants have probably finished most of it off by now. How can something so tiny eat so much in 24 hours and not even put on any weight, how unfair is that. They get the pleasure of my food and still stay skinny!!

Anyway it looks like the weather is clearing a bit now, the winds are strong so hopefully they will blow it all away. Too strong to open the windows on the hill today, too strong to put the washing out as well as it will all end up in town - again!

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:42:19 EDT

Morning to one and all

Yesterday was Jounen Kewyol and for us down here in Vieux Fort, our first taste of the events since moving here. It was a great day, lots of good food, lots of good local entertainment, and lots of rum - perfect! The weather was beautiful, sunny, slight breeze and of course warm.

Today is a little bit more eventful, very windy today, and being high up on this hill, it means I can't open the windows on the sea view side. A heavy shower or two earlier on, and the sea is whipping up a little bit but not too bad. Still sunny though, and a little bit cooler than of late, which is a nice relief anyway!

So back off to do some more work to the apartments, am still drywalling, nasty job but it has to be done!

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:33:52 EDT

Good Morning to one and all,

My absence was noted and I have been officially told to get on with doing my weather reports again from the beautiful island of St Lucia, so sorry guys, but I'm back!

It has just purely been a case of life gets in the way sometimes, and as I do need to get on with finishing my apartments so they will be ready for rental at some point, I just kinda got wrapped up in my work and the rest as they say is history.

So, to update, the sky today is not looking as clear and as beautiful as of late. In fact I would describe it as pretty 'lumpy' up there today. The sun is still shining though and we have a lovely, warm, gentle breeze. I did stay up last night (courtesy of some good friends and some rum of course!) to try to look for the meteor shower Dear Miss Mermaid notified us of, but I didn't get to see it unfortunately, it was a shame as the sky was so clear yesterday. Of course these things don't keep to time and probably waited until I went to sleep!

The temperature is noticeably cooler today as well, so maybe some rain might come in later, that will save me having to water my plants at any rate!

Everyone be careful out there ..........

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 1 Oct 2009 10:20:57 EDT

Morning to one and all

We have a beautiful clear and sunny day today. Gone is the pollution of the last few days, I just assumed it was saharan dust, what does spring to mind, is that was a lot of pollution. It makes you think when you can actually see it, I guess we can all do our own things to try and help.

We have a lovely breeze as well, and the view from the house is amazing, I really can see for miles and miles today, perfect. Great for anything you want to do, swimming, kayaking, or just my usual rum on the beach.

Stay safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:37:31 EDT

Wow, just rechecked my email and what has happened? The last report form me was over 10 days ago. Well, I guess that's what tends to happen in the caribbean, times just goes lazily by!

It also goes to show that the weather here has been thankfully, uneventful. Lots of hot sunny weather, a decent enough breeze most days and hardly any rain, only the occasional little shower.

Today there is a covering of saharan dust, but there is a decent breeze so hopefully it will not get to stifling today. So off to the beach this afternoon, a fast walk for exercise, a swim to cool off and then a rum on the beach for the soul ...............

Be safe out there

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:11:16 EDT

Morning to one and all

Well this is the start of yet another glorious sunny day in the Caribbean. The rain was a welcome relief and now we are back to the delightful sun, balmy breeze, and beautiful clear horizons.

As for this talk like a pirate day, well, I can't seem to manage the lingo, but I can certainly handle the yo ho ho and the bottle of rum bit, so as per usual I'm off to the beach .....................

Stay safe out there.

- (no subject)

By SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:25:09 EDT

Finally - a day with rain and if we are lucky it will rain all day! Sorry to all the lovely tourists staying at the moment who are probably grumbling as I speak, but it is just a beautiful relief from the sticky heat we have had the last two weeks or so. It actually feels like you can breathe and working on the apartments will go so much better without all the sweating!

Looks like it might last all day, as the frogs are singing their songs loud and clear this morning. To all the holidaymakers, I had some of the best fun in the rain, I still swam in the sea (or the pool) coz, hey, you can't get any wetter!! One of the best perks was you usually got it all to yourself as well. So carry on regardless, you are on holiday after all, don't miss a day of it, and if all else fails there are some great rum bars that have pretty watertight roofs on!

Take care out there

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:05:06 EDT

Morning Everyone

Well yesterday was a lovely relief from all the hot, humid and very dry conditions we have been having. I'm not complaining really, that is why I left sunny England after all, but boy, has it been hot recently.

Anyway the weather started cloudy, much, much cooler than of late, 24deg instead of the usual 30deg and up. Then later on we had some good heavy rain, we had a lot here in Vieux Fort but Castries only had a shower apparently. It was just so refreshing, and I didn't have to water my plants! Today is cloudy so far and checking stormcarib, a few more showers might be heading this way.

The apartment building slightly behind schedule but hey its the caribbean, need to get some floors tiled, it seems I want something that's not available. The main problem is we need the floor tiles to be level when finished and that seems to be unusual???? Aaah well, I'm sure a rum on the balcony will help later!

Stay safe out there

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 9 Sep 2009 13:49:39 EDT

Hi to all

Well sunny St Lucia has been exactly that for days now, hence no real need to report as nothing much is happening. That of course is a good blessing for this time of year!

So its as expected, hot, sunny, no real rain for a long time, gentle seas, gentle breezes, just beautiful! I guess I will get the kayak out this weekend if the seas stay this calm, I still need the practice. Of course that will be followed closely with the usual on the beach..............

Lets hope this weather holds as long as possible.

- ISS

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 5 Sep 2009 12:26:44 -0400

A beautiful day in St Lucia today.Still very hot but at least the breeze is back.

We had the alarm clock on 5 this morning to watch ISS pass right over St Lucia. Between 05:20 and 05:22 in a perfect clear sky we spotted ISS from our balcony. Tonight it can be seen in SE between 18:24 and 18:30 coming from SSW travelling to NE although it might not be dark enough to see it at this time. Around 18:27 it will pass right over Tobago. Later this afternoon we will follow Swedish Astronaut Christer Fuglesang's second spacewalk during this mission.

Annika

--
Please be reminded that The Edge will be closed for vacation from August 31 to September 30, 2009. Fire Grill & Lounge Bar including our Sushi Bar stays open for the whole month of September. T: +1 758 451-GRILL (4745) E: firegrill at gmail.com

The Edge Restaurant Bar & Sushi
Harmony Suites Hotel
Flamboyant Drive
Rodney Bay Village
St Lucia W.I.
T: +1 758 450-EDGE (3343)
E: edgerestaurant at gmail.com
www.edge-restaurant.com www.eurobbean.com

- Regeneration?

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 17:30:16 -0400

Have anyone checked Stormsurf lately? Looking at their model it looks like Erika is going to regenerate into something much more powerful in a few days... What do you others think?

Annika

--
Please be reminded that The Edge will be closed for vacation from August 31 to September 30, 2009. Fire Grill & Lounge Bar including our Sushi Bar stays open for the whole month of September. T: +1 758 451-GRILL (4745) E: firegrill at gmail.com

The Edge Restaurant Bar & Sushi
Harmony Suites Hotel
Flamboyant Drive
Rodney Bay Village
St Lucia W.I.
T: +1 758 450-EDGE (3343)
E: edgerestaurant at gmail.com
www.edge-restaurant.com www.eurobbean.com

- Update

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2009 08:04:30 -0400

Nothing much to report. Skies are grey, no rain and very little wind although the treetops are actually moving a little bit today. 29 C degrees.

- Two more things

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 23:06:12 -0400

Two things I forgot to mention. Have you seen that Erika by the look of the satellite images has divided herself into two? Somebody mentioned Schizophrenic behaviour... Secondly have a look at that blob coming off the coast of Africa.

Rain is coming down heavier now.

- Thunder and lightning

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 22:46:43 -0400

As Chris just mentioned we now have lightning and thunder in different directions, only a very light drizzle for now but I guess there will be more to come. I've been sitting outside on our balcony watching the lightning and a few of them have been so strong it actually hurt in my eyes. I think I will follow my neighbor's advice and turn the computer off just in case.

Good night

Annika

- erika from three sides!

From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 22:08:27 -0400

Only 30 minutes since my last post and now we have major lightning out to the north west / west north west and thunder and lightning coming in from the north east / east north east, bringing the first drops of rain. Still very little wind. It feels like two storms (!) but Erika is a big ting. It's been useful to follow the lack of accuracy in the tracking forecast models - a lesson to never take anything for granted! Looks like an interesting night but I hope that is all it is for those closer to the storm centre.

Chris Jenkins

- erika shines a light

From: Chris Jenkins <chris at redmanstlucia.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 21:32:40 -0400

Sitting out here in the north of St Lucia, the sky is lit up with the lightning display from Erika. It's like a continuous searchlight effect illuminating the sky to the north west. No thunder, so this must be centred some long way off but it indicates there is still some serious force in the lady, maybe over Guadeloupe or Martinique. After following the story here and elsewhere for a few days, it seems amazing she could have turned south at all.

- ER(ATT)ICA

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 19:07:45 -0400

No wind, no rain but quite a lightning show out at sea to the north of us has begun.

Around sunset there was this remarkable brown-yellow light. It was beautiful. I tried to take photos but it does not really stick that well on film. I attached a photo anyhow but it does not look anywhere near as interesting as it did in reality.

Will let you know what happens later on.

Annika

Attachment: 090902_small.jpg
Description: JPEG image

- Erika

From: The Edge Restaurant <edgerestaurant at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 2 Sep 2009 07:31:36 -0400

Hello everyone

I haven't posted here for a very long time but I always follow, read and appreciate all the comments from our islands.

It is very still here in the north of the island, like the wind died out completely. No rain but thick clouds like a lid although the sun is breaking through.

Erika certainly look impressive to me on the satellite image and it does not look like she can make up her mind really where she is going. I will definitely take in some things from the balcony today just in case.

Stay safe all of you.

Best regards

Annika

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 11:00:10 EDT

Good Morning from sunny St. Lucia. We had a few rumbles of thunder last night and a couple of showers, nothing to serious but it does save me from having to water the veggies!

Noticeable sea swell from my balcony this morning, lots of waves and some big ones breaking over the Maria Islands, guess this is courtesy of I94, makes for some beautiful scenery though.

The rains have cleared and the sun is breaking through, no wind at all, so doors and windows wide open, its going to be hot for everyone else down at sea level!

Good day for a rum on the beach later and to sit and watch those waves........... still no source for the favourite of all - DonQ Cristal, aaah well, I might have to learn to do distance swimming!

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:07:22 EDT

Good Morning to everyone,

Well as you have probably guessed by my absence, there hasn't been much to report in St. Lucia! Beautiful sunny skies, gentle breezes just as you would expect in the caribbean. Looking out my window the sea is slightly choppy today but I guess the breeze is probably just strong enough for some 'gentle' kite surfing for the newbies out there.

There has been the odd heavy shower during the night and one or two small thunderstorms but they're the best ones, don't spoil the day, and I don't have to water the plants when I get up.

Best of all though, its a fab day for a rum on the beach, see you all later

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:49:10 EDT

Hi to everyone

What a relief for Bermuda that Hurricane Bill danced around and didn't cause any serious damage, am sure there was some good party drinking after that!

Weather here in St Lucia has been good all weekend. Breezy, sunny, hot and generally good. Had a few thunderstorms in the night and some heavy rain, a few showers early on this morning, but now it is back to clear skies, very little wind and of course, hot!

I brought a kayak over with me from UK and I tried it out yesterday for the first time. A good friend showed me what to do and how to survive should I get washed out of the 'boat' and it was really good fun. Great for fitness I guess to, so double whammy! The sea was a bit rough yesterday with the waves though, so am waiting for a day like today to go back in when its a bit calmer. So kayaking and then a rum on the beach.

Bye for now

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:50:01 EDT

Morning to everyone,

A very still, hot and cloudy day here. Actually praying for some rain, that's a bit too weird coming from England 'an all! It just would take the edge of the temperatures a bit, that nice refreshing scent and coolness that comes straight after a decent shower.

The sea has calmed down a lot today, still a slight swell but nowhere near as rough as yesterday, just a few areas where the current looks a little too strong for swimming, but its heading the right way.

Puppies doing well, anyone want some? My neighbours other dog is about to give birth any day as well! All for now

Tracy

- SURF'S UP!!!

From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2009 18:32:04 +0000

Sandy beaches, continuos huge sea swells, and clear sunny skies.......SURFER's DELIGHT!!!!

The beaches on our NW coast are all discoloured and angry today, suppose the hotels have the red flags up to keep the guests out of the swelling seas.

Temperature wise, it is a very very hot day out today, Bill is hungrily sucking all the mosture away from us!!

Thanking god for our blessing of being spared, again, and praying that nobody lies along Bill's path.

Keep an eye on the surf...and the weather!!!!

Mike

See all the ways you can stay connected to friends and family

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:45:37 EDT

Just a mini update from here. I took this picture from my balcony as the sea is very spectacular, the path of Hurricane Bill is proving a very good show from up here. The islands are the Maria Islands down here in Vieux Fort, just off Sandy Beach, protected nature reserves, and very beautiful, and today they are getting a bit of a battering! The sun has disappeared and it is now cloudy, but still no wind and still really, really hot!

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2009 07:51:07 EDT

Morning on this lovely sunny day in St Lucia.

Its calm, no wind, and very hot already at 7am. A slight haze over the sea and a very obvious sea swell which I can see clearly from my place. At least Bill, bypassed! Lets hope he sees fit to keep doing this for the other islands.

I think I will just watch the sea from here for now and go down a bit later on to take a proper look just in case it picks up and gets a bit rough. Its far too hot to work though, but these apartments will never get finished if I don't pull my finger out!

Be Safe everyone

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:40:11 EDT

The skies are looking a bit mean and moody today in St Lucia. The seas are getting rough and the wind is definitely picking up.

Hopefully Hurricane Bill won't get blown in closer to us! If it does it certainly won't leave much time to prepare for anything. I won't even have time to stock up the freezer with lots of ice for my rum before the power will go off!

Talking of rum, I prefer the white, I do like the brown but just my own preference is white. The best one I have enjoyed so far is the DonQ Cristal, its from Puerto Rico and I have a serious issue - I have just finished my last bottle. Oh what to do, its just not available here in St Lucia. I am a pretty good swimmer, maybe I will have to practice when the storms have gone past! I wonder if I will get as sea sick as I usually do when I try those weird floating things!!

Good luck to all islands and lets hope the weather is kind

Tracy

P.S. Pups doing well so far!

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:40:03 EDT

Hi All,

Well there is some nasty stuff going on out there and I sincerely hope that anyone who gets in its path doesn't suffer with a full on hit. Fingers crossed all will escape unscathed.

Weather here in St Lucia has been glorious the last few days. Very, very hot, gentle winds, calm seas, fantastic. I can see by the satellite pics that it isnt going to last much longer! I think I might kinda like some rain for a bit, just to cool things down a little, nothing too much, just a sprinkle or two!

My neighbours dog had puppies last night. Somehow she spends more time here than at her 'own' house, I think I have a more humane view on animals then her owner!!! Anyway she had her pups way down in the woods below my house, and I heard them squeaking but could do nothing at the time as it was dark. This morning as soon as the sun was up I clambered down and found two, then a bit later heard more noise and found two more. She has four pups, clearly different Dads, (who am I to judge!

), so far fit and healthy, so fingers crossed. The Mum now has mastitis so any remedies anyone knows that would help would be appreciated please.

Enclosed a little pic, all say aaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:58:21 EDT

Ok all,

I have had two days where I could have rum on the beach and of course, it was good! If you follow me then as you know I am not a serious weather forecaster/spotter and only moved to St Lucia 10months ago. I try to follow all those fantastic technological images from satellites and stuff and think that obviously they know way more than I do, but, and I don't know, maybe that is a big BUT!

There is something wrong afoot with the weather here. The skies are clear, the horizon hasn't been this clear for soooooooooo long, calm seas, balmy breeze etc. Although, its not like in the dry season when the weather does this. ~It just has a feel about it, that I have never come across before, the wind has dropped, (a good informant said that can be a bad sign!), and I don't know, but somehow it feels like something is coming. I do so hope I am wrong, and of course mine is about instinct, NOTHING more, but what the hec, I am getting prepared just in case, and is that a bad thing? Am off to buy plywood tomorrow, and if its nothing, well, that's no big deal, I will use it eventually! Two apartments to build after all!

Everyone take care, remember I only speak on what I can see/feel!

Tracy

- (no subject)

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:26:16 EDT

Morning to all

And, hey, what a beautiful morning, lovely clear skies, amazing clear horizon. We haven't had such a clear day for ages. I guess though, we had better make the most of it judging by the satellite images coming out. The system seems to be slap bang over Barbados at the moment or at least very close, so I better get the washing dry today!

The sun will give the water in the jacuzzi time to start evaporating at least, as we are still building it we haven't got the drains in yet, but we do know it holds water! I just don't like the thought of stale water around, the mozzies are quite busy at the moment without any encouragement!

That's it for now all, and yippee I can get a rum on the beach today

Tracy

- St Lucia Update

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:45:02 EDT

Hi All,

Well, what a night, shame it was just the weather! The rain started here in Vieux Fort early evening with some light shows and continued into the night. We are in the process of building our own hot tub/jacuzzi to go with the apartments and we had so much rain it is over half full! Trouble is no jets fitted yet, so not worth jumping in, but that was still a lot of water!

This morning, pretty much as expected, cloudy, dull, very overcast and no wind. So, hurray, I get to open all my doors and windows without getting blown away, the very tiny disadvantage of living on top of a hill, sometimes its just too blowy to risk opening much! Got a 'heads up' from Max in an email that this is in for the next few days at approximately 24hr intervals so will be prepared as always. Thanks Max.

Sending my best wishes as always to Dear Miss Mermaid, at least you might be in the driest spot for a little while, chin up my dear, you hopefully will soon be home.

Tracy

- St Lucia

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2009 15:42:24 EDT

Hi All

All quiet here in St Lucia at the moment. Very, very hot, but there is a slight haze starting to come in off the sea this afternoon, and we have had the occasional 'sprinkle' but nothing consistent. A good shower would be a pleasant relief from the heat though.

Never thought I would hear myself say that after moving from the continually sunny UK!

Good for all the kids on their school holidays, at least they can have fun on the beach, that's it for now

Tracy

- St Lucia

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:06:09 EDT

Morning to all,

Ok today in St Lucia the official term is 'Yuk',

Wet, windy, cloudy, overcast etc etc. and judging by the satellite image its in for the day.

It isn't as windy as the last couple of days but without any sunshine it doesn't really matter anymore, no need to keep cool, as its much more refreshing today.

I guess the rum on the beach is out, will have to put up with the balcony and the sea view from there instead for today! Life's a bummer!

Take care one and all

- St Lucia Update

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:21:00 EDT

Hi All

What a beautiful day here in St. Lucia. This is one of the best we have seen for about 5 days or so now. The skies are clear, the haze is only just still here, way out on the horizon, the sun is out and there is a lovely breeze. Don't think we'll be doing much building to the apartments today as its a perfect day for my rum on the beach ..............

Cheers

Pic of the beautiful sunny view today from my house, hopefully I got the sizing right this time!

- St Lucia Update

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:05:13 EDT

Hello to one and all

No clear skies in St Lucia today, it is very hazy, the sun not managing to quite poke through, but it is still nice and hot.

Yesterday was Carnival in Castries, so I took the trip up and it was well worth it. Great party atmosphere and sunny and hot all day, perfect.

After the last few days of rain and unsettled weather, I will manage to get my rum on the beach today - so off I go...........................

- labooway!!!

From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:01:58 +0000

Labooway comes from the creole word "laboo" (not sure of the spelling), which means mud. I'm out of state, but its carnival Monday in St. Lucia and a new band seems to be revelling the Choc - Castries route by the name of I 97. Nothing new to our Lucian revellers, matter of fact makes the "jump-up" more fun for most.

Enjoy, jump up in de rain and have a fun and incident free season.

Mike

See all the ways you can stay connected to friends and family

- St Lucia Weather Update

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Mon, 20 Jul 2009 11:33:09 EDT

Hi All,

Well as you know I am still learning much about the weather, but todays I guess must be due to the I97 that stormcarib has been warning us about for a good few days.

Had a good sunny start but that was very quickly replaced by lots of heavy rain, and that has been about it for the rest of the morning so far! Lots of really heavy showers, strong winds during them, but no thunder etc around today. The gusts of wind are very strong, they've been blowing the garden furniture around, so tied them down before they end up in my neighbours garden down the hill!

Any big changes I will update the situation, take care everyone

- St Lucia weather report

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Sat, 18 Jul 2009 08:33:21 EDT

Hi to all,

A little report from St. Lucia regarding the trials and tribulations of the weather. I am busy learning fast about all the weather terms and trying to get to grips on what all the different 'weather speak' will actually translate into with regards to rain and storms etc!

I moved here recently from England and live high up on the side of the hill with uninterrupted sea views (Sahara Dust permitting!) so regularly see things moving in across the ocean. (Photo attached).

Anyways, the Sahara dust has cleared beautifully now, and we had a few lovely sunny days albeit with some strong gusty winds. Today however, after a night of very heavy rain and a few thunderstorms, we awake to a very different start. There are no winds at all, which is a real novelty for me personally as we NEVER get days where there is no wind, mostly due to the height of the house. So this morning, every single door and window are open without any need to be tied down - bliss!

This does however mean that it is probably going to get very hot and sticky later, as of yet we still have no sunshine to speak of, but the sea has calmed down, not quite a millpond, but way more serene than of late.

So that's all regarding the weather, I am now off to continue with the building work we are doing on our house, as you can see from the picture it is work in progress and am busily trying to get two apartments finished and ready for rentals. Without the wind howling through, it will be much easier today that is for sure!

Until next time, everyone take care, and always find time for a little rum on the beach .............

- St Lucia Weather Update

From: SWhite3726 at aol.com
Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:38:05 EDT

I live in St. Lucia at the South of the island and am fortunate enough to have a completely uninterrupted sea view -usually. Well, Dave was certainly spot on about the dust cloud from the Sahara. It has been hazy here since Thursday morning and there really isn't much of a sea view left! I can just about make out the shoreline and the weather certainly has a much more 'sultry' feel than we would normally get here. The sun is trying is hardest to push through, although it is definitely struggling. There is still a decent breeze so lets hope it blows the 'dust' back on its way. Apart from that the weather is still good enough to sit on the beach with a rum!

- 2009

From: Michael Lascaris <mike_7800 at hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 20:51:50 +0000

Hello All,

We're back again this year for another round of the seasonal fireworks.....Let's hope it's boring....Keep watch as always....be prepared.....and never take any warnings lightly.....be ready, everytime....

Mike

What can you do with the new Windows Live? Find out