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My, my, my, it is that time of the year when I give an overview of our Jonathan Grant High
School Class of “88 and friends reunion. Take a deep breath, now relax, and enjoy the read.

Like all the other years, my husband and I got to the beautiful Island of Jamaica a few days
before the reunion started. We arrived on the Island on October 16, 2024. First order of
business was to get patties, coco bread, kola champagne and Big-Jo box juice from Tastee of course, just a few miles outside the Mo-Bay Airport. Then it was time to hit the road.

We took a nice, relaxing scenic route up the coast to the beautiful, lush green Parish of
Portland. There we checked into the Geejam hotel, this hotel has the most comfortable,
thoughtfully decorated rooms and property, and had amazing views. We spent a few glorious days there. Upon checking in the rain was falling, so we relaxed in our room until
dinner time. Then we had a delicious meal, listened to music and the crickets then went back to our room. The bed was so comfortable when morning came it was almost difficult to get up. We however conjured up the energy to go for breakfast, ackee and saltfish with boiled provisions and fried dumplings was for me and an omelette with toast for my husband. We spent the rest of the morning chilling on the property. For dinner we went to
Osheas876kitchen. Guys let me tell you, if you haven’t been, Osheas876kitchen dinner on the beach is a must do. For dinner we were served, escovitch fish, curry goat, oxtail, festival, rice & peas, freshly made june plum juice, a bottle of Moscato and water. Need I say every morsel was eaten, don’t judge me, yes, I ate it all with my husband, LOL! We then took a short tour of the town, went to The Blue Lagoon, and then went back to the hotel.

Much thanks to the staff at Geejam Hotel and Osheas876kitchen for an amazing few days in the absolutely beautiful Parish of Portland, Jamaica. This is a must do again in the very near future.

The day came when we had to check out of the hotel and head to Vybz River to meet up with the group to get the reunion started. We had breakfast and head out, with much reservation about leaving this beautiful hotel. Back down the coast we went.

Friday, Vybz River: This river is in Laughlands, St. Ann just outside of Runaway Bay. Prior to
leaving Portland I received a call from Ms. Loretta, my contact at the river, letting me know that unfortunately we will not be able to go into the river as it had been raining for a few days and river “come down” so the water is rough and not safe. I thank her for the information and let her know we would still stop by, but we will not be staying. To my surprise, Ms. Loretta made fish and fruits for us. Which was very good, I was there sharing fish and fruits like how Jesus shared the 5 loaves and two fish, lol! She also left to make us festival and other goodies, but unfortunately in the interest of time we had to leave before she returned.

Vybz River was a vibes all by itself. The people them di a gwan wid demself like dem figet dem age paypa. Nuttin but niceness an laughta. Di muzik did nice, dancing did on point, mi nah lie everyone had a great time at Vybz River.

We got to Grand Palladium hotel, and check in took us 1 hour and 33 minutes to check in 32
people, from meeting with our contact person to completion, and the receptionist that checked us in was able to tell us that we are missing three people that did not check in, (they were checking in later that night). A BIG thank you to our booking agent, Floyd, with Island Trotters. Travel agency. He ensured that all details were in place for us, even though I consistently WhatsApped, voice-noted and emailed him a bit too much, I wanted to make sure this year at the hotel went smoothly. He did not disappoint. We were greeted with welcome drinks. We had one area by ourselves where we were all checked in, not bouncing from one desk to another. Very friendly staff who were accommodating to a request for one of our group members who needed special accommodations for the stay. After checking in it was off to our rooms for a little relaxation and freshen up. We then went to dinner. After dinner some of us went and rested our weary feet while others went out and enjoyed the hotel nightly activities.

Saturday: A few of us went walking on the beach, did some exercise, dipped in the water, and went to get ready for the day. We all went down for breakfast. After breakfast, I handed out a few goodie bags to the Committee members that I brought for them. My husband and I went to Lucea SDA Church with 3 other group members. Towards the end of Sabbath School, one of our group members, who was not at Church with us, ran into the church, touched my husband, and ran back out of the Church. Needless to say, my husband went outside as he thought something was wrong. She was just next door with another group member whose tire got damaged on the way down on Friday getting it patched, LOL. Service was great. The Children story spoke about the “Mattress Is Coming.” A man went up into a coconut tree to pick coconuts without any protective gear. While in the tree, he slipped and started to fall so he held onto a branch. His wondered if he would die because he was so far up in the tree and there was nothing there to break his fall, so he would surely hit the ground hard and surely die. While dangling there someone shouted to the neighbor to bring a mattress so the man could fall on it and would not get hurt or worse die. The man was still dangling, his only hope currently was to hold on, because people were under the tree shouting to him to “hold on the mattress is coming”. So, he held on. Eventually the mattress came, and he let go and fell on the mattress safely with no injury. The moral of the story, regardless of what life throws at you in your spiritual journey, hold on Jesus is coming.

Saturday Night: Mi seh, di people dem come out in dem blue jeans and white top looking like the rock stars they are. Absolutely beautiful ladies and handsome gentlemen. We were able to all sit in the same location for dinner. We then headed to the Infinity area where karaoke was the order of the evening. I handed out goodie bags as a thank you for contributions made towards a project I am working on. THANK YOU EVERYONE!! If I tell you all that we did not have a BALL at the people them place for karaoke, I would be lying. Who was not singing to dem person, sang to the group, even my husband got dragged on stage by some person I will not call names, LOL! The highlight of the evening was where all 30+ of us got on the stage and sang “That’s What Friends Are For”. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. After all this amazement, we went to change and off to the all-white party on the beach it was. Dancing till late into the night with sand between our toes. The night was about the JGHS class of “88 and friends both at the karaoke and the beach party. Some people went to the snack bar after the beach party, some went to bed. As for me and my tired feet I went to bed.

Sunday: We had our usual Sunday Praise and Worship on the beach, some people shared
testimonies, we prayed, briefed the group on things and went to have breakfast. Fun day in
Negril was upon us. We got ready and left for the beach in Negril. We caravanned there, I
believe with 9-11 cars and vans. We got to Long Bay Beach, Negril and the fun continued. We played dandy shandy, sightings, did some exercise on the beach, made friends, and such. You should see the grown and mature people hopping, skipping and bending down to miss getting hit by the ball. While other were either stretched out on blankets on the beach side or in the water. The plan was to go to Rick’s Café for dinner and watch the sunset, but we were hungry and the price at Rick’s was daunting. We settled for Pushcart Restaurant for dinner, with the idea of going to Rick’s after dinner for the sunset. Some people were disappointed as they were looking forward to going to Rick’s for their lobster dinner. The food at Pushcart was good, not much to write home about. The nyamming’s platter was not bad. Some people said the fish was not good. The rain fell so we decided to stay at Pushcart and made the best of the evening instead of going to Rick’s because we would not have been able to see the sunset due to the overcast skies. Heading back to the hotel was a caravan of well tired people. Upon arriving at the hotel, some went to enjoy the hotel activities while other went to bed.

Monday: We had breakfast. It was a beach day for most. Who was not a model, was doing
something else, but the beach it was. Lunch was at the Poseidon restaurant (a seafood spot) at the hotel, we had escovitch fish and all the fixings. All agreed that this was the best meal at the hotel by far. We got some R & R after. For dinner we came out in our bandana attire and Jamaican black, green, and gold color attire. Di tings slap weh, di colors dem shot, di people dem sell off. Rolled right into the silent headphone party. Nuttin wasn’t normal or silent about dis party. It was done like only the JGHS class of “88 and friends know how to do it. Fun cyaan dun!

Tuesday: We met for breakfast and said our goodbyes. I took my husband to the airport and
waited for the group to meet up in Mo-Bay. We caravanned to the school grounds and people went home in their different rides. I went to the Rok hotel for some rest, then met up with a few group members at Gloria’s Restaurant for dinner. Dinners was good and my friend got their lobster that they were not able to get at Rick’s Café, mission accomplished, LOL!

Wednesday: My intent was to sleep most if not all of the day, BUT plans changed. I had
breakfast at the hotel, relaxed a bit then went to Spanish Town to meet up at “curry yard” with others, hang for a while then head back to the hotel. Had dinner at Ocean7 while others headed to Timber Lounge. I was too tired to do the drive there. Reports from all parties in attendance and pictures, indicate a great time was had by all who went. This Wednesday link- up had to happen as one group member had to fly home on Thursday and would not make the Thursday link-up.

Thursday: Giving back to our Alma Mater, Jonathan Grant High School, is a large part of our
reunion each year. This year was no different. The Class of “88, friends and family donated a refurbished Math Lab with a brand-new Smart Board, printer, projector, as well as other
learning tools for the students.  The turnover of the Math Lab was tied in with the Annual Prize Giving Ceremony where students and teachers were given recognition for their hard work. This project was well received by the principal and faculty of the Math Department, one of who is one of our very own batchmate of 1988 who is now a Math teacher at JGHS. In attendance at this Ceremony was the Regional Director for Region Six (St. Catherine), Mrs. Forbes-Hall, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Education and Youth, Jamaica to the Class of 1988, friends, and family for the donation of the Math Lab to the school. We endeavor to continue our commitment by giving back and impacting the lives of the students at Jonathan Grant High School.  Thanks to the lead organizers of the Math project, Ms. Claudel C. Bull, Ms. Erica Cowan, and Mr. Kevin Francis. Huge thank you to the people who donated financially this project. Without your donations this would not have been possible. Not to be outdone, the JGHS class “89 presented the clothing and textile department with a sowing machine that will greatly benefit the students at the school. Thank you, class, “89 for your donation.

Thursday night: We met up at Palms Restaurant and Lounge for our link-up before the rest of us had to fly home or “get back to life”. This was a great link-up, dancing, fellowship, and saying goodbyes until next time. Of course, it would not be the JGHS class of “88 and friend reunion if there was not a little hiccup somewhere, just a MINOR one. I ordered my meal at 8pm before others got to the restaurant, why in tarnation at 9:10pm I still did not get my meal, a vegan pasta dish? While others who ordered 20-30 minutes after I did were either eating their fish or finished. I was not waiting a minute longer, so in true Stephne tempo, I cancelled the order. I did not care that I was hungry. Principle is principle and yes, I did make a complaint to the manager. Lawks; hungry nearly mad mi after. I had to stop on the street across from the hotel and get a bun and cheese when I drove back to Kingston after 10:30pm because the hotel restaurant had closed, Gloria’s was closed, Ocean7 was closed, and I had no choice. Thank you to the corner vendor who was open late.

Friday: I got up, went walking, drank my jelly coconut my friends brought for me on Thursday, went sightseeing downtown Kingston, went back to the hotel and had breakfast, chilled for a few, then took my happy self to the airport and fly back home.

It was an absolute pleasure seeing my batchmates and friends, spending quality time with
them, giving back to our Alma Mater and just letting down our hair. For the first time since we started our reunion, I was able to TRULY enjoy it from start to finish. This year’s reunion gets my vote as the BEST one yet.

Thank you to the Committee Members, Christine Barkley-Anglin, Sophia Henderson, Carl
Williams, Lascelle Warmington, Jacqueline Wynter, Carlene Najair and Stephne Ellis for
your/our tireless work! You are all appreciated, you all ROCK!

Until next time peeps. Walk good, live good. Do for others as much as you can without
reservation, expecting nothing in return. #LiveLoveLearnLaugh. #PeaceLoveRespectHumility to all.

Thank you to my editor, my favor first born child, Danielle. Who believes I should leave her
everything I own in my will. I love you princess!

For many years I have hosted events for different reasons. I had a dream that one day I would step outside my comfort zone and do something I had not done. 2022 while sitting in my living room crying over the loss of my mom, remembering the Mother’s Days I would call mom to wish her happy mother’s day and she would greet me with, “Happy Mother’s day my first star”, the fact that the last mother’s day I spent with mom doing something special for her and other mothers was 2017 at my home, 2018 was tough due to mom’s illness and 2019 she passed a few day before mother’s day. I started to wallow in self misery and the poor me syndrome. I will never have another mother’s day with my mom again. I was brought back to the here and now. I vividly recall having a conversation with mom, where I told her about wanting to do something to give back, more then I was doing then. Mom in her infinite wisdom told me that only I alone can come to the final conclusion of what it is I want to do, however; whatever it is, to make sure I pray about it, do it not to get praises nor to be the center of attention, but do it because it is the next right thing to do. So I pulled my thoughts together and went to work on a vision I have carried for many years; one where I go to my beloved Jamaica and give back. I put pen to paper and came up with what I know was an awesome plan. May 7, 2024 would be 5 years since mom’s passing so I decided I would do a give back for Mother’s Day 2024.

I went about planning this event, inviting ladies to meet at a location in Kingston, Jamaica, that would be disclosed to them only days before the event, all expenses paid, except their transportation to and from the location. Some ladies accepted, some declined for different reasons. With plans in place, I went to town organizing, finding the location, paying for the location, making arrangements (via phone calls, WhatsApp, email and by any means necessary). Amazon, Michaels and Hobby Lobby became even more friendly with me, decorations, goody bags, you name it were ordered. Things coming together nicely. But, there is something missing.

January 2024 I decided to share my idea/s with my siblings, Natalee, Errol and Tanya. I explained my vision of what else I would like to do with them and asked if they would partner with me to finance this portion of the event. This was a no brainer, Immediately; they were on board and funds came in. I was able to add an additional arm to my plans. Now to execute it. Thankfully, I had done some research on this before bringing it to them. I sent emails to my contact in Jamaica confirming my intent for this portion. Yes sir/madam, things are now finalized. Let me just pause to say, there will always be hicupps when planing any event, especially, when you are not on location; in this case I was in one Country organizing an event in another. You have to just pray for divine guidance always. Trust and believe it will work out.

Fast forward to Mother’s Day weekend. I got to Jamaica on Thursday, tired like wow, so I went to sleep as soon as I got to my location. Friday I met up with persons to pay for the second arm of the event and took care of some personal business in the mix (Government offices can be scary at times, but I got through it). Saturday intent was to go to church with a friend and his family, that did not work so I watched my church on Youtube. Picked up a friend Saturday night to hang with me. Sunday morning all bright eyed and bushy tail I went to the location with my friend who helped me organize/decorate the space. I was more nervous than I had ever been just thinking of how this event would turn out. My presentation was rehearsed a few time, I checked and re-checked the tables, menu, drinks, computer/technology system, granted technology was almost bust, thankfully the banquet manager came to the rescue and resolved this quickly. Thank God for qualified individuals who are cross trained. During all of this I am planing in my head to stop and go get dress until my friend asked, Stephne where are your clothes? What do you know I left them same place in the closet. Back to the AirBnB I went, so I just got dress there. Thankfully it was just around the corner, literally!

The ladies started arriving, can I tell you all, they were absolutely beautiful. Welcome drink served while they waited for the event to start. Event finally got on the way at 11:30AM (slated start time was 11AM). Get to know you more activity took place, presentation presented, plated lunch served, different array of activities, music, dancing, (because what would a Mother’s Day event be without dancing), pictures, laughter, me ugly crying because of a particular event, cake cutting and so much more. The event was a success.

My dream for this event was realized, for the ladies in attendance to have a great day. By all accounts, they did. I could not nor would I ask for anything more. Like mom admonished me, “do it not to get praises nor to be the center of attention, but do it because it is the next right thing to do.” I heard you mom and I did it. Until next time God’s willing!

Thank you to my peeps who supports me comes what may; my husband Courtney, I can always count on your support even when I am going over budget slightly, LOL! Minice Pickney dem, (Natalee, Errol and Tanya) mom would be so proud of us her Stars, my kids (Danielle, Maria and Christian), the two new addition, my son-in-law Joseph and my princess granddaughter, Ms. Luna. I know there might be others who would have supported me had I told them, but this was my baby and I wanted to keep it as such. Maybe next time I will call on you, who knows.

A very big thank you to the ladies in attendance, because you accepted my invite to this Mother’s Day Event May 12, 2024, my dream became a reality. I could not have done it without you. Thank you!!

Y’all ready for this one? Make sure you are seated before you start reading, it is going to be a bumpy ride at take off, but smooth and lovely after.

It is time for JGHS class of 88 and friends annual Reunion recap.

As per usual my husband and I arrived on the beautiful island of Jamaica a day before the reunion. We stayed at one of the Marriott in the city. We headed to Port Royal for dinner, low and behold the wait time at Gloria’s was unacceptable, so we head to Usain Bolt’s restaurant, Tracks and Records. The food was reallllly good, service was what we expected, fast and friendly, like the owner. We head back to the hotel BECAUSE we know the following day would be loaded with activities and we also know our age, lol.

Ok, so Friday morning is up on us. We had divided the group into three houses, pink house, blue house and yellow house. We had cheer leaders for the houses. The cheers started before we got to school on Friday morning, it started in the group. Singing: Pink house, pink house, yes,yes, yes, can they beat us? no, no ,no. We beat them here, we beat them there, we beat them standing in the atmosphere. Hip, hip, hurray!! We got off to a bit of a late start, but, it was well worth the wait. People, we had a field day, yes, you read that right, we had a field day. The people them run 50 meters dash, jump sack race, run egg and spoon race, run lime and spoon race, gallop in the potato race, take off on the relay, swallowed in the bun eating competition, get dress and dash to the bus race, and so much more. People fall down, people knee slip out of place (they are doing ok), we are all feeling the effects of this day now, lol. Mi nearly choke in the bun eating contest, came in second place though. Individual medals were handed out after all the events of the day. People collected their gold, silver and bronze medals, even my husband walked away with a few medals (1 gold, 3 silvers and 1 bronze). We then headed to Tina’s Homestyle Kitchen “Curry Yard” for lunch. Lunch was delicious. My husband got a beet root juice that I am still waiting to get some; thanks to my BFF, Patricia, I tasted some of hers.

Chartered bus now loaded with full belly people, cars ready, we drove down to Riu Ochi Rios to get the rest of the weekend festivities started. But, the devil had other plans. Can I just say that I got to the hotel at 3:30pm and did not leave the lobby with my other committee members and guests until 10:50pm. All because the booking agent did not do what he was supposed to do. Nine guests did not have a room, we were all booked to leave the hotel one day before we were to leave and he had no intention to make the corrections. To this date we are still waiting for reimbursement for the room we had to pay for twice and for the one night for all 38 people. But I will leave that right there for now.

Saturday: My husband and I took two of my classmates to church with us. Service was awesome. The preacher spoke about preparing yourself for heaven. He spoke about his experience of not knowing how to read and write 14 years ago when he came into the SDA faith and because of this he did not participate in church activity, when he was asked to do something he would decline. However, he confided in an elderly gentleman who was an elder in the church that he could not read and write, this man placed him in a class with students who were studying for the CSEC and GSAT exam. The students did not know that he was there to learn to read and write, they thought he was just one of them. Today he can read and write and he preaches the word of God. Others stayed at the hotel and enjoyed the hotel activities.

Upon returning from church I joined with the rest of the committee members, my husband and BFF to get down to the business of decorating the ballroom. We did a great job with this, I believe, down to making a V out of an L because the pack came with two Ls and no V to make the word LOVE, I was not having any of that, o I got creative.

We met up in the dining area where we had dinner and hang around for a bit. We then went to the ballroom. People, people, mek mi tell unnu sinting, shhhhh, the mature people dem come out ina dem ball gown, mask, suits and tings. Dem did look proper, proper. The winning house for the field day was announced. Pink house, my house, came out victorious in first place, with yellow house following closely in second place and blue house pulling up in third place. Appreciation prizes were awarded, and thank you were done. Mr. DJ had us on the dance floor for the rest of the evening. All in all this year’s ball was a huge success.

Sunday: We had our regular prayer service on the beach, hearts were mended, friendship restored and God was in the midst of it all. Many of us had plans to attend the funeral service for one of our classmates, however; due to the booking agent’s irresponsibility, myself, Christine and Shantal spent the entire day in the hotel lobby ensuring that 7 out of the 9 people had a place to sleep for that night. All I can say is, when God is in control, no one can stop progress. The rest of our classmates showed up in numbers for Normadel’s funeral. May her Soul Rest In Peace. Our meeting in the evening was successful. Persons were added to the committee body for the new year 2023-2024, who will add value to what is already been done to enrich the lives of persons in the JGHS class of 88 and friends group and by extension assisting out Alma Mater, The Jonathan Grant High School students and school at large.

Monday: We met up for breakfast. Lord, here we go again in the hotel lobby trying to get the booking agent to follow through with extending the time, keep in mind he was fully paid for 4 nights at the hotel from as far back as September 22, 2023. Emotions continued to run high because of not knowing. Long story short, we had to all check out of the hotel on Monday and find our way home. Those who live in Ja, some of us were lucky to be able to stay with friends and family. But again I say, when God is in control, no one can stop progress. So we pressed on.

Tuesday: Some people returned home to the USA and many of us stayed. I checked into a beautiful AirBnB property in Kingston and got some well needed rest.

Wednesday: Was a relaxed day for many. Wednesday night came and the fun turned up and over. Timber Lounge it was. The food was delicious. The music brought us right back to our school days, di people dem sing every song, danced to every beat and who couldn’t dance, rock to the beat.

With all of the headaches, hiccups and disappointments at the hotel, that we are still enduring, reunion 2023, will be remembered for ages to come for all the great times spent with friends making memories. Because at the end of it all, the memories we make are very important.

Until next time my people, walk good, stay blessed and remember to take care of yourself and each other. #LiveLoveLearnLaugh.

SE

Today I celebrate another mile stone, I am one year older, wiser and stronger, (mentally, spiritually and sometimes physically). I thank you Lord! Life has a way of “pitching” you over a few times just to have you realize who you are and whose you are. I am me. Unapologetic. Love me or leave me. I am.

Today and everyday, I am. I phase just for awhile to thank the people who, by the grace of God, raised me to be who I am. Ms. Bernice, my grand aunt, Ms. Theresa, my grandmother, Mass. Vincent, my grand uncle-in-law, Evadney, my aunt, and Judith “Minice” my mommy. These people are all deceased now, but I thank you all from the very depths of my soul for loving and raising me to be the best me I can be. To Mr. Jimmy, my stepfather, I thank you from the depths of my soul for loving me like one of your own and raising me to be the best me. I am because of God’s grace and mercies and because you all poured into me your very best. I thank you!

To my husband, Courtney, my children, Danielle, Maria and Christian, my sisters, Natalee, & Tanya, my brother Errol, thank you for your unwavering support, love and genuine selflessness. Your support and love means the world to me. You have helped me through the darkest part of my life, losing mom. It still hurt like hell, but you have all made it a bit easier. Lots more work to do in this area. I thank you!

To my other family members and friends who have loved and supported me over these years. I thank you!

I am. I understood my purpose. I am. I’m still learning and growing. I am. I will continue to be a positive thinker, I am. I will continue to fear God. I am. I will continue to love ME. I am. I am me 💕❤️🌷.

Happy Birthday beautiful!

I AM.

#IAm. #GodIsLove #LoveWithAPureHeart #LiveLoveLearnLaugh. #LoveAndLight 🎉🎂❤️❤️❤️❤️🎂🎉💕🌷🌷🌷🌷💐💐💄

It is that time again that I tell you of a great event, the JGHS Class of 88 and friend Reunion. This event took place in the beautiful City of Montego Bay, Jamaica between October 14-18, 2022. But for me and my husband it started on October 12, 2022. We started off driving through MoBay, St. James, stopped at the border of Hanover and Westmoreland to get some food, bwoy the soup was good. We were hoping to get some ackee and saltfish with roasted breadfruit , but had to settle for the soup. Then on to Negril where we spent a MARVELOUS night at the Negril Tree House hotel. The views did not disappoint at all. We had our own hammock right outside our door overlooking the ocean. If you know me, you know this is close to heaven for me. Dinner was very tasty. Upon waking up we did get some callaloo with roasted breadfruit for breakfast, yummy. We then took the scenic route through seven (7) parishes, (Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, St. Catherine, St. Andrew and on to Kingston), stopping along the way for boiled corn, soup, sugar cane, jelly coconut, scenes, views atop Spur Tree Hills and so much more. We stopped for rest at the beautiful AC Hotel by Marriott. The night life was awesome in the lobby, locals milling around eating, drinking and just enjoying each other’s company. Dinner was on point in the hotel restaurant, a bit pricey but worth it.

Now let me get into the business at hand, lawk!!

Friday: Everyone journeyed to Jonathan Grant High School to start the reunion. There was praise and worship devotion before we got started. This devotion brought us full circle to when we were students at the school. The graduating class of 1988, with friends from other graduating years, family and friends raised a total of JA$648,400.00 in scholarship funds to help 160 students pay for their CSEC exams. This was presented to our principal. We stayed at the school for some well needed mentorship sessions with the students who were the recipients of the scholarship. I felt such pride knowing that I am a product of JGHS. Snacks, fruit and water was provided for all in attendance. We then journeyed down to MoBay to Riu MoBay where the fund started after a little hiccup with checking in, everything would not be right if there was no hiccup, right… Friday evening the “young’ people came out in their 80s disco fit. Lawks, the shocking/neon colors were bright and who wasn’t in neon was dressed to the nine. A great time was had by all. Ok ok, come gwope to unno room, it late. More to do on Saturday.

Saturday: Some people stayed at the hotel and enjoyed the day’s events during the day, water slides, pool party, etc. While some went to visit family, and some went to get the venue ready for the night event. There was an incident by the waterslide at the hotel, but God was in the vessel for protection. The “Bringing Back to the 80s” Dinner and Dance, sell right off. Let me tell you, the ladies and gentlemen came out in their big hair, big heel shoes, fancy dresses, neon colors, one lady was even called the “pimp of the night”, ok yes, it was me. The music was on point with 80s beats, the food was delicious, the decor, the venue, Everything was amazing. Then after the 80s dinner and dance, some people went to the disco upon arriving back at the hotel.

Sunday: We started out with praise and worship on the beach. Testimonies were shared, praises went up to God for so many different things. Then, it was a chill at the hotel kind of day. We played board games, (dominos, ludi & Jenga), water balloons popped on unsuspecting persons, (it was cold mi nah lie, but so much fun), in came the towels to dry off the board game soaked with water, then right back to the games we went. We played pool volleyball and some people got their balls served to them by a group of ladies. Evening came and everyone came back down for dinner.

Monday Hero’s Day: Mama, let me tell yu, the beach day turn right ova. We went to the beach in Trelawny for the day. Music, games, race on the beach (big belly man race, ladies race, special Olympic race) I won’t say who won, all I will say is people came away with scrapes and bruises. We went to the beach without food but left full, thanks to the people who went and bought KFC for all of us. Some of us bought bun and cheese (the lady who was selling the bun and cheese even ran out and had to call someone to bring more), sky juice (yes, the real thing with shaved ice, syrup and lime juice), soup, juice and other goodies from the local vendors on the beach. As for me, I rode a jet ski for the first time and it was AWESOME. It is a definite do again for me. Other ladies also rode jet ski, two of whom showed their skills and were their own drivers (not sure if that’s the term) but they did their thing, way to go ladies!!

Here comes Tuesday: Everyone had to check out of the hotel and say our goodbyes until next time. Overall, this reunion, I believe, was the best. The food at the hotel was good, the hotel activities (night and day events) were good. But the reunion events planned were well put together. Thank you to the committee body, the people who had helped to organize whatever area/s you organized and everyone in attendance who made this event a memorial event.

Until the next reunion, walk good, look out for the mad people in clean clothes, stay blessed and safe.

I am late with my post, but still posting. Please allow me to rant a little.

For many years I have thought about spending at lease one night in Negril, in particular at a small hotel. I have stayed in the all-inclusive before. I have heard of many places that we could stay, the dos and don’ts of staying in a small hotel, and still yearned to check it for myself. I was browsing Capita of Casual Negril and the name of a particular hotel keeps coming up, so naturally, my husband and I decided to check it out. You guest it; the place is none other than Negril Treehouse Resort.

We spent a night at the beautiful Negril Treehouse Resort earlier this month. Can I tell you, from entering at the gate with the security, to check in, to been shown our room, walking around the property, going to dinner, chatting with the server and chillin on the beach to watch the sunset for the night was definitely what we needed for the day. The staff were very friendly, accommodating and professional. Sitting on the veranda in our hammock looking out at the beautiful night sky was everything. Upon entering our room to turn in for the night, we turned off the AC and allowed the fan and the ocean breeze to do what they do best. We listened to the sounds of music 🎶, made by crickets and night creatures, until those sounds lulled us to sleep.

Waking up to the smell of ocean breeze, quiet, peace, the smell of food cooking and people saying “good morning”, started our day right. Again we were met by friendly and professional staff at breakfast. We chatted briefly with a lovely lady after breakfast, who I told that I saw the hotel on the Capital of Casual Negril page, and quickly realize she was very familiar with the page and she is also a friend of the owner of the hotel.

The food was delicious, (dinner and breakfast). Nothing makes the food more palatable than when you know it is served with kindness and thoughtfulness of preparation, from kitchen to table.

Our room was well appointed with all the necessary amenities. It was a large room. The bathroom and room where very clean. There was an in room safe to secure our things and a mini refrigerator. We received a welcome bag with necessaries in it at check in.

Check out was easy, but we were sad to leave.
Until next time, walk good. Thank you!

Mr. and Mrs. E.

Wow!! good times go by fast when you are having fun and a fun time we did have! 🎶💃🏽🕺

October 14-18 was the second reunion for the graduating class of 1988 from Jonathan Grant High School, with a few 87, 86, 89 and 94 sprinkled in for good measures.

We started out at the school grounds on Thursday, where we took pictures, (field day had to be cancelled due to the pandemic and restrictions), we looked good in our uniform and t-shirts. We then traveled the beautiful country side on our way to the Grand Bahia Principe, checking in had a little snag, but nothing Christine Barclay couldn’t get rectified. So before you knew it the fun started.

Friday we relaxed until it was time for the wedding of the year. I will leave that to the person who got married to say more, if she chooses to. All I’m saying, if I was to get married again, a Jamaica 🇯🇲 it a keep right pan di beach. Absolutely gorgeous!

Side note: After the wedding reception. Courtney and I got stuck in the hotel elevator with another couple for 42 terrifying minutes; we were stuck between two floors. They got the inner door opened at one point to put 4 bottles of water down, try looking down an elevator shaft and only seeing black and when you look up all you see is concrete and just a tups of the third floor ground. While the work men up there somewhere having a conversation about how bad things look, a nuh di right key dis, we need fi call di fire 🔥 brigade, while the young lady in the elevator with you telling her significant other to text her mom to tell her she loves her and she might die tonight. Thank God I’m here to tell the tail and we are all ok.

Saturday there were three events, the Couples Soirée hosted by yours truly and my amazing husband Courtney. The Singles Fiesta hosted by the fantastic Shantal and her team and the JGHS Presentation.

The Couples Soirée was AMAZING!! The couples came ready to participate even though they had no idea 🤷🏾‍♀️ what was in store, the participation was way up 🆙. The games were on point, the prayers were EVERYTHING. Can I just say that I’m very please and proud of the group of persons that were a part of this event. I can’t say thank you enough, and how I’m looking forward to another one.

The Singles Fiesta I heard was also amazing. I can’t give any detail on this because I wasn’t invited 🤣, Shantal banned me.

The JGHS Presentation was spectacular. Mi say if yu see di people dem ova 50 how dem did look GOOD inna dem Royal blue esee. Mi nah lie, wi look betta than some people inna dem 30s. Presentations were made, there was a fashion show where EVERYONE participated, even the ones we had to drag out of their comfort zone 😀, multiple prayers were prayed for different things and persons, moments of silence for our fallen brothers and sister. Then mix and mingling with a bit of 🎶 for the road. It was a beautiful event. Some of us went to the beach party after and had food, don’t judge it was after 12 midnight 😄.

Den Sunday now: Sunrise prayer 🙏🏾 on the beach was just the icing 🧁 on the cake. We prayed, song, prayed, fellowship and prayed some more. We then went to breakfast 🧇. Can you imagine all of us in the restaurant just eating, chatting and having a good time. We went and relaxed for a bit, then we were at the pool 🏊‍♀️. Water 💧 ball, man v women, I’m partial so I believe the women won 🏆. Relaxation took place after. Then the night got busy party time at the hotel 🏨 guest party event. Great time was had by all attendees, that’s all I’m saying, if you know you know 🤣🤣🤣. The river cookout for Sunday had to be cancelled due to the pandemic.

Before you quint Monday came and we had to say our goodbyes and head to our respective homes 🏡. I was a bit nervous because of the Government lockdown, but all went well and we all made it home safely.

Until next time, unnu take good care of unnu self and each other. Love, respect, peach and understanding to you all. ❤️❤️🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲❤️❤️. #LiveLoveLearnLaugh. Walk good!

The day I fell in love all over again was the day my granddaughter was born. God has blessed my daughter and her husband with a beautiful baby girl, who gets to call me grandma. I am so excited to watch her grow and help her parents to guide her in this journey of life.

I had often told my kids when we talked about me being a grandmother in the future, “I will not be a cookie baking grandma, I will be the traveling grandma”. Well, let me just say, once I saw my granddaughter’s face for the first time, all of that went out the window. Baby girl, grandma will bake cookies, pies, bread, puddings and then some for and with you. I can already see us in the kitchen, you in your mini me apron rubbing up something scrumptious, all the while making a mess and me not fussing over the mess because we can clean it up together later. Our bonding time is most important.

Welcome to this amazing, sometimes cruel and unforgiving World, my granddaughter.

Grandma loves you endlessly!!

Last night after bawling about the current state of the USofA and our black people.  I decided that I need to decompress or de-stress my mind so I could try and get some rest when I go to bed.

Pondering; self what can I do to decompress? If I try to read one of the many books📚 I have I won’t be able to focus, if I try to journal it will only peeved me off more, just writing ✍️ about these snitch…

Decision time; me, myself and I decided to take a long bath 🛁. One whole Kenny G, (greatest hits album 2019), many different scented candles 🕯 burnt, two different mix of essential oils (lemongrass and lavender) filling my bathroom, bedroom and my sense of smell with delight and 2 hours later; I was officially a well ripened prune 😊 and ready for bed 🛌. 

With my body including my feet well washed, I prayed, peed and went to bed….That did the trick. I got some sleep 🛏 💤 . 

#LiveLoveLaugh

#MeTimeIsImportant

#EspeciallyInATimeLikeThis

#BlackLivesMatter