tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19056539712859859032024-02-07T21:48:36.767-08:00Another Part of MeDionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-85221650071779831262016-01-25T10:46:00.001-08:002016-01-25T10:46:29.289-08:0012 Goals in 12 Weeks<b>Back to the Drawing Board...</b><br />
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Anyone who has followed this blog knows the struggle I’ve had with my third (which was supposed to be my second) novel. Here’s the quick and dirty version: I lost the manuscript after writing about 20,000 words. I tried to write it again and failed, because I couldn’t get it exactly the way I had it. I wrote Butterfly instead, which was a fun and completely different story (that probably stopped me from quitting writing all together). I went to Jamaica and found inspiration for the lost novel – I really want to finish this one. I started writing it again and now…I decided that it’s not working; one of the subplots needs to go and some of the characters aren’t acting sensibly. Really, I’m not buying what they’re selling. Which means I’m going back to the drawing board…sort of. I’ve been marking up my outline and doing some more research. I’m liking where the story is going now. The only challenge is I know I’ll have to cut out some good scenes that no longer belong in this manuscript and I’m over 55,000 words in. But, it must be done.<br />
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Since it’s still early enough in the new year, I can do some things differently this time around. I’ve already added evening writing sessions to my routine (and those who know me know I only write in the mornings). A friend also recommended a new approach – 12 challenges in 12 weeks. I’m going to try it out. So, here’s my personal challenge: 12 writing goals in 12 weeks. I figure if I also blog about my progress, I’ll actually be forced to make some and hopefully I’ll be far enough along by the end of April that I will see light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
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<b>Goal 1</b>: I’m going to finish redrafting this outline by January 31st.<br />
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Check in with me next week to see how I’m doing and feel free to put your own challenges in the comments below.<br />
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Here's a song I'm listening to for inspiration: Natural Mystic by Bob Marley. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWoDSGfSu6o<br />
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Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-43366593632128069402015-03-07T08:12:00.000-08:002015-03-07T08:12:18.117-08:00Women's History Month - a Jamaican Heroine's StoryI came across this article recently and thought I would share it. Nanny of the Maroons: History, Memory, and Imagery by Kimberly Juanita Brown. This is an interesting read about Nanny, a former slave, rebel, and military leader in the fight against slavery in Jamaica. <a href="http://www.yale.edu/glc/nanny.htm">http://www.yale.edu/glc/nanny.htm</a> If you come across any others, please share the link.Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-82956701430878187002015-03-04T05:55:00.000-08:002015-03-04T05:59:23.845-08:00Great Quotes for Read Across America DayThis week, people across the country celebrated Read Across America Day on Dr. Seuss' birthday, I love getting lost in a book as much as I love writing one and if you were like me, your love of reading probably started with a Dr. Seuss book. His stories were memorable, but he also gave us some great quotes that I found in this article called <i>Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! 16 of His Greatest Quotes to Inspire You</i> by MindBodyGreen, I'm sharing the link here.<br />
<a href="http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-17599/happy-birthday-dr-seuss-16-of-his-greatest-quotes-to-inspire-you.html">http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-17599/happy-birthday-dr-seuss-16-of-his-greatest-quotes-to-inspire-you.html</a><br />
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I think my favorite quote is, "Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way."<br />
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Feel free to share your favorites in the comment section below. Happy Reading!Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-43073712299224229472015-02-07T14:38:00.000-08:002015-02-08T08:14:37.018-08:00My Five Favorite Bob Marley Songs<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On Friday I posted a photo of Bob Marley on my Facebook page
in recognition of what would’ve been his 70<sup>th</sup> birthday. A friend
asked me what he represented to me and that really got me thinking. Bob Marley
and reggae music played such an important part in helping shape my Jamaican
identity while growing up in Canada, and his music taught me so many things. I
love all of his songs, so it is hard to pick just five, but here are <i>some</i>
favorites:</span></div>
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<img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRB45mbPkHLLz_0uHAQVCDVcxKtB-FokIv7hnnkeaTZ1qzuzOfa" /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Positive Vibration</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love the first line of this song, “Live if you want to
live!” <i>Positive Vibration</i> always
lifts my spirits and reminds me to focus on the good in my life and to “make
way for the positive day.” </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Zimbabwe</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Released on the album, <i>Survival,
Zimbabwe</i> is one of those protest songs that gets you moving and gets you
thinking. “Every man gotta right to decide his own destiny.” <i>Zimbabwe</i> was a call to action for Blacks
to rise up against the minority rule of the White Rhodesians. It’s a reminder
to fight for “you.”</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Turn Your Lights Down Low</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bob Marley encouraged spirituality and advocated for
freedom, but he was also a romantic. <i>Turn
Your Lights Down Low</i> puts you in the mood to spend a quiet and easy night
with a special someone. The version on the <i>Exodus
</i>album is timeless and classic and the version with Lauryn Hill on <i>Chant Down Babylon </i>is really well done
too.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Could You Be Loved</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some claim this is a love song, some say it was written for
the poor and struggling, and some say it was Bob Marley reaffirming his faith
in Rastafarianism. I’m leaning towards the last two interpretations: “Don’t let
them change ya! Or even rearrange ya!” Be true to yourself and stand firm in
your beliefs. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Heathen</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The <i>Live
Forever: The Stanley Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA, September 23, 1980</i></span> album
is a recording of Bob Marley’s last concert performance before his death. “Rise
up fallen fighters, rise and take your stance again!” In <i>The Heathen</i>, Bob Marley definitely lets you know the importance he
put on spirituality. This song is at times quiet and low, but it is also energizing. It makes me sad that I never had the chance
to see a live performance.</span></div>
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" /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bonus: Crazy Baldheads</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During my first years of practice, my managing partner had
all the attorneys pick a war or “going to court” song. Mine was <i>Crazy Baldheads. </i>Yeah, I was reclaiming
everything that was taken <i>and then </i>I
was going to run you out of town (court)!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That’s my five (well, six). Notice that I didn’t number
them; I couldn’t. I think they’re all great and there’s many more I would add
to the list, so there’s no way I could rank them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So that’s it for now. #OneLove! (Yeah, I
snuck in another one.)</span></div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-86791267181993107732014-09-28T10:51:00.000-07:002014-09-28T10:51:41.989-07:00Day 6: Manchester Reunited!<div class="MsoNormal">
I know, I know. It’s been a while since my last post. I’ve
been busy with some other projects, like finishing edits on my new novel <i>The Butterfly</i> (due out early next year) and
working on a third novel. But (with a
trace of melancholy) here’s how I spent my last days in Jamaica.</div>
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Saturday morning started off beautiful and sunny. Since we’d
been beating the road all week we decided to take it easy and relax in
Mandeville. This was real family time and we spent it shopping (but, of
course!) and exploring the town centre, which was alive with the sights and
sounds of people getting ready to continue Emancipation Day celebrations. When
I think about it now, the aromas of fresh baked patties from the Juici bakery
and the fresh fruit from the open air market still fill my memory. The pace is
always easy in Mandeville and I was really getting used to it. By now, I was
also used to being driven around on those narrow roads that wound up the
mountains and no longer worried about whether I might end up in a gully as we
rounded each bend.</div>
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At home, we relaxed on the verandah, taking in the warmth of
the sun and catching up on some reading. Andrea even managed to get a pic of
the elusive and camera shy Talia, deeply immersed in her book.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/p417x417/10306741_10204556562141075_2785412669090396937_n.jpg?oh=a2206f6194c2d33b991aeffced716e04&oe=54C0DD0B&__gda__=1422530589_d7ef9b4fc04e6097d65635e8d8952750" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm reading "Til the Well Runs Dry". Not sure what Talia has there, but I think it's a card shark's handbook or something.</td></tr>
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No trip to Jamaica is complete without having sampled some seafood offerings from the Caribbean waters, so it was off to Little Ochie, a restaurant in Mandeville where you
actually get to pick your fish and have it made to order. We had red snapper
and parrot fish, served with rice and peas. Since the fish was being freshly
prepared, we passed the time playing cards. I was happy when the food came –
not only because I was hungry, but also because 12-year-old Talia is a bit of a
card shark and I of course prefer eating to losing a game.</div>
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Our last evening in Mandeville was spent at the Manchester
reunion, an event that brought together classmates from the entire parish,
spanned several generations and included those living abroad in places like
England and the U.S. who were home to visit family and reconnect with old
friends. The awards ceremony honoring local businesses took place inside the
school while people mingled outside, listening to music and catching up with
each other. The food was great (Chinese food, Jamaican style!) and the
atmosphere was just right. I didn’t want the night to end, knowing I would have
to be up in a few hours to head to the airport, but my desire to stay up soon
gave way to commonsense and we headed home.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/q82/p417x417/10569040_10204504907929752_2421792743301180149_n.jpg?oh=320513091ca4eab4ba2f2b461ed0e571&oe=54C41F49&__gda__=1421820858_7807275d04b99c0be2c21a941eb65cb0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrea and some of her classmates - quite a fashionable crew. I was the photographer - the least I could do since I crashed the reunion. :-)</td></tr>
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A few hours later and I was off to the airport. I had mixed
emotions about leaving on yet another beautiful day. A part of me didn’t want
to leave; I’d had such a good time. But, part of me missed home too. I guess
that’s the blessing of having a good life. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3LbsxHDseWP2wrD20wtaPaCmSbuySlMHBc5eQEdeM2C-jx_G3pwMlXulDYklaZ5Cp6ocJJB5wXZxXkw7-nqjPRG-VCBX_ekzz0IkuDWWvOS5lcV4LO8Xefgji4FgKRDH2uB42ccoeXU/s1600/Airport.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3LbsxHDseWP2wrD20wtaPaCmSbuySlMHBc5eQEdeM2C-jx_G3pwMlXulDYklaZ5Cp6ocJJB5wXZxXkw7-nqjPRG-VCBX_ekzz0IkuDWWvOS5lcV4LO8Xefgji4FgKRDH2uB42ccoeXU/s1600/Airport.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Montego Bay Airport. I'm smiling, but I'm missing my island already!</td></tr>
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Besides, there’s always next year…</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-29376611527598692222014-09-07T20:09:00.001-07:002014-09-07T20:09:37.212-07:00Day 5: Portland – a Writer’s Hideaway<div class="MsoNormal">
Whenever I travel anywhere a thought that always comes to
mind is, “I wonder if I could live here?” I’d enjoyed every day of my stay in
Jamaica at this point and certainly could see myself visiting all of the same
places, but it wasn’t until we arrived in Portland that I had that feeling – I could
live here. At the very least, it would make a great writer’s retreat or
backdrop for a story.</div>
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When my cousin and I were first planning what we’d do when I
got to Jamaica, she suggested we spend a day in Portland. I’d said, “Okay…what’s
there? What are we going to do?” Andrea had replied, “It’s beautiful. You just
have to see it. Maybe you’ll get some inspiration for your next book.” </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1Ybmk56iMRufmpmZRb6XxIUgL6Y8JVnrlpNMEKdpCqwdEHHl_80taQgoY5urGmlpQ9Q9NjsBqMwJR1G_8XdyII0ksI2g6ysKMzTYYkeWo4iovU5cYcDwHUL-cRgM88DrpLzbcmX-V2A/s1600/The+Coast.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1Ybmk56iMRufmpmZRb6XxIUgL6Y8JVnrlpNMEKdpCqwdEHHl_80taQgoY5urGmlpQ9Q9NjsBqMwJR1G_8XdyII0ksI2g6ysKMzTYYkeWo4iovU5cYcDwHUL-cRgM88DrpLzbcmX-V2A/s1600/The+Coast.JPG" height="245" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riding along the coast</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8rzGFKOge_k2OJg2yMbnoeXC_L91Z3fzQdRWwp82e5XOvu6Yy8Y_HJM8DOc7CukgatBNMRukN1H3FIaPODyzElsEnAx9j9jdHoA5HrnblmzELRG27VdpHTYex3xlNPaEM7buE1MccIQ/s1600/Coconut+Grove.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8rzGFKOge_k2OJg2yMbnoeXC_L91Z3fzQdRWwp82e5XOvu6Yy8Y_HJM8DOc7CukgatBNMRukN1H3FIaPODyzElsEnAx9j9jdHoA5HrnblmzELRG27VdpHTYex3xlNPaEM7buE1MccIQ/s1600/Coconut+Grove.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grove of coconut trees</td></tr>
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Right she was. Portland is indeed beautiful. Located on the
northeast coast, it was quite a hike from Mandeville, but well worth the drive.
The streets were quiet the morning we set off, as people prepared to celebrate Jamaica’s
Emancipation Day. We passed through St. Anne’s Parish, also known as the Garden
Parish where you’ll find the majestic Dunn’s River Falls (if you have never
climbed the falls, it is definitely something you must experience). Passing
through this parish already had me in a mellow mood, but when we got to Portland
I definitely felt a level of peace and comfort that exceeded what I’d experienced
so far. The houses on the hill had perfect views of the sea and even those
closer to the road had the same advantage. I could imagine sitting on a balcony somewhere
enjoying my morning tea and watching the sunrise above the rippling sea as I
tapped away on my laptop. Yes, it’s really that nice.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINgMQyRSEhLhBzV_tDf2Lhfk5efceP6HKaSr8vRW2KReplzxhfB3FOVFqJyyGcA5zAC2Q-T8Kn3tsBN0Vd9pqxNDbmMPC_R9mwdqzuYjp-7ZgETv32YcVQxRaVjKYCiOJbD3Rby2sbzE/s1600/House+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINgMQyRSEhLhBzV_tDf2Lhfk5efceP6HKaSr8vRW2KReplzxhfB3FOVFqJyyGcA5zAC2Q-T8Kn3tsBN0Vd9pqxNDbmMPC_R9mwdqzuYjp-7ZgETv32YcVQxRaVjKYCiOJbD3Rby2sbzE/s1600/House+View.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House overlooking the Rio Grande</td></tr>
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So what to do once we arrived? Well that question was easily
resolved. When I was a child my parents had lots of reminders of Jamaica around
the house, including a wall hanging with various depictions of Jamaican life on
it. One of the pictures was of a man rafting on the Rio Grande, so when we saw
the sign for this, we knew what we were going to do. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPXdleevoaEf1eK7ZbqphEmNaqW1HnaycZHb4oaqk2pUSlBxeq3iPESZEx8eV7P4ziCsw55EYzwlu-aOtxeczY3ZXeTGqGlpji1cW51TZRqVCmgnVwFT0BUoGKBnZSXpgET9AnrtFi2o/s1600/River+Captain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPXdleevoaEf1eK7ZbqphEmNaqW1HnaycZHb4oaqk2pUSlBxeq3iPESZEx8eV7P4ziCsw55EYzwlu-aOtxeczY3ZXeTGqGlpji1cW51TZRqVCmgnVwFT0BUoGKBnZSXpgET9AnrtFi2o/s1600/River+Captain.JPG" /></a></div>
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Rafting on the river was everything I thought it would be.
The sun was warm, but not too hot and the water was a clear, vibrant turquoise
blue. We had two raft captains for our group and they were contrasting
characters – Trevor didn’t say much, except to point out the occasional duck or
other attraction. Roy was quite talkative and every once in a while he would slow
the raft he was guiding to share some interesting trivia with us - apparently
many celebrities like to raft here too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWGTzCOYiXuSw95VgEV_TQYwGXvQUc_VWJ1ekOIcCPnwFwcWaDjAQXGdW_534JYUMpeBzft0dZfnPS6QacoBQc16-7YQT9E1_0cMNfr3_ocCrM7_W_E0ivUGf6w0eKuj8ZjmW6qmWGXc/s1600/Family+Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWGTzCOYiXuSw95VgEV_TQYwGXvQUc_VWJ1ekOIcCPnwFwcWaDjAQXGdW_534JYUMpeBzft0dZfnPS6QacoBQc16-7YQT9E1_0cMNfr3_ocCrM7_W_E0ivUGf6w0eKuj8ZjmW6qmWGXc/s1600/Family+Shot.jpg" height="320" width="230" /></a></div>
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Halfway through our ride we stopped near the shore to take a
dip in the cool water. All I can say here is, “Ahhh! Very refreshing.” On the
way back our captains let us take a turn rafting. I did pretty well if I do say
so myself. I was sorry when the ride was over – we did the one-hour tour and it
seemed way too short. We will definitely go back and take the three-hour ride
at sunrise. I’ll be bringing a good book and my notebook with me too.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFNDYQrs9Au2M3RNPpbze0g0uwTjei_dtXd_weTnYndvOtIMUiOZcypChQkVyzWmT9xEfE_E6IJvMNoz8puIP7wKEnSccYAxCji_lFDoQa5JLC_HzIOssCehomdYaZQUtQYURbd2VlOQ/s1600/Rio+Grande+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFNDYQrs9Au2M3RNPpbze0g0uwTjei_dtXd_weTnYndvOtIMUiOZcypChQkVyzWmT9xEfE_E6IJvMNoz8puIP7wKEnSccYAxCji_lFDoQa5JLC_HzIOssCehomdYaZQUtQYURbd2VlOQ/s1600/Rio+Grande+1.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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After the Rio Grande we were torn between Somerset Falls and
the Blue Lagoon (yes, the setting for the Brooke Shields movie). Our river raft captain suggested Somerset
Falls. I must confess I did want to see
the place that shared a name similar to my novel title, Somerset Grove, though
it is not the actual setting for my book.
Somerset Falls is a gathering place where you can take a swim in the
pool, grab some jerk chicken or fried fish and relax while a deejay plays a mix
of hip hop, R&B and dancehall tunes. Since it was Emancipation Day, Somerset Falls
was filled with local families enjoying the day off. We had plans to celebrate too,
so we headed back to Mandeville. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzALBOn6RHjXvcl4qcA1Fb6crJGXcOKsWYI_P8f4VNumHlPDz7E0a_5D_yZ3L3KV4NEbssw8sd-qXe9QsMrt4J2C4UgPMj4HfzE5fwgEiGFc65MFkL5L6MLKhz9o8CZ673rnB0l8lq-D4/s1600/Somerset+Falls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzALBOn6RHjXvcl4qcA1Fb6crJGXcOKsWYI_P8f4VNumHlPDz7E0a_5D_yZ3L3KV4NEbssw8sd-qXe9QsMrt4J2C4UgPMj4HfzE5fwgEiGFc65MFkL5L6MLKhz9o8CZ673rnB0l8lq-D4/s1600/Somerset+Falls.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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By late afternoon, the preparations for Emancipation Day were
in full swing. Every small town we passed through on the way back was abuzz
with activity as sound systems set out by the roadside pumped out smooth reggae
beats. </div>
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Mojitos Café was the spot for us that night. The café owners
had taken over the entire plaza, draping it with white fabric throughout and
filling the air with a blend of old and new hits. Again, the vibe was easy as
people mingled and relaxed. I was tired from the long day, but I didn’t want it
to end, knowing I would be going home in two days. I finally gave in around
midnight. I guess I can’t hang like I used to, but it was okay. I’d had a great
day and yes, I was inspired. </div>
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Up next: Manchester Reunited!</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-47006710526313317942014-09-02T18:15:00.002-07:002014-09-02T18:15:15.878-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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Day 4 – Montego Bay</div>
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Another beautiful and sunny day in Jamaica! This time we
drove to Montego Bay to tour historic Rose Hall, once home to the infamous
Annie Palmer, a woman said to have killed three husbands and numerous slave
lovers before her own death. </div>
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But first, Montego Bay – situated on the north coast of
Jamaica, “Mo’ Bay” is a popular resort town and will be host to the Jamaica
Jazz & Blues Festival in late January – I’m told this is a must, so you
know I’m already plotting my return.</div>
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The drive here was beautiful with amazing views of the
shimmering blue ocean on the left. Rose Hall sits up on a hill where you can get
a perfect view of the sea. The house is beautiful, with large bright and airy
rooms. We got some great shots outside too. See?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6wSfDlqATrV_EYn5BBoJpcLDibMP5ZpDlpIiCghuFW0bx2HaYdYDTSKX7lbcXSt4M8BaxYS-hpVjnJTA1KYhETeMnbODquKRPzqw_UT2my6hStOn3PQnLxAclJqJqHs6Ossx7ex7_vo/s1600/Rose+Hall+House.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6wSfDlqATrV_EYn5BBoJpcLDibMP5ZpDlpIiCghuFW0bx2HaYdYDTSKX7lbcXSt4M8BaxYS-hpVjnJTA1KYhETeMnbODquKRPzqw_UT2my6hStOn3PQnLxAclJqJqHs6Ossx7ex7_vo/s1600/Rose+Hall+House.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Hall </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwdGLFs24cxh-YwtDQmzkf2-cI43cD_k4yxHxQ0WRIbANM6jkCmzh6yg4Q3iYI1-kdNTghSfz_rh74C9aC_8j6tpeoaRZFJ18kumaqm5hYK6DNbPiYU49NBCmKYMvVnSR8C_y-L4AoTg/s1600/Rose+Hall+1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwdGLFs24cxh-YwtDQmzkf2-cI43cD_k4yxHxQ0WRIbANM6jkCmzh6yg4Q3iYI1-kdNTghSfz_rh74C9aC_8j6tpeoaRZFJ18kumaqm5hYK6DNbPiYU49NBCmKYMvVnSR8C_y-L4AoTg/s1600/Rose+Hall+1a.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to Rose Hall</td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the balcony at Rose Hall</td></tr>
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Our tour guide Thesa went into full character, dressed in
her traditional costume as she let the story of Annie Palmer unfold. Here’s the
short version:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Annie moved from Haiti to Jamaica in search of a rich
husband. She met and married John Palmer, owner of the Rose Hall
Plantation. Annie killed him and her
next two husbands along with a number of slave lovers before she finally met
with the same fate. There are those that claim they’ve seen Annie in the house
or their pictures never quite turn out right because of a certain glow that
appears in all of their shots. I didn’t notice anything while I was there, but
I also wasn’t keen on the idea of taking a candlelight night tour of the place –
why take a chance? No, we had our witch’s brew punch in the dungeon-turned-bar during
the daylight hours and kept on moving.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the former dungeon.</td></tr>
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Last stop of the day was Discovery Bay, where Columbus
allegedly discovered Jamaica…and the Arawak Indians that were already living
there. Hmmm. Okay. Anyway, this is a
great little place to stop to get a quick tour and history lesson for whatever
you’re willing to pay. You can also pick up souvenirs or just hang out and
enjoy the view. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Discovery Bay<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our tour guide showing us where sellers would have their bananas tallied...Come, Mr. Tally Man...</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We ended the day snacking on jerk chicken at a nearby
outdoor restaurant then headed back to Mandeville. Montego Bay is nice and full
of great tourist spots to enjoy. I got
some great inspiration for the novel I’m currently working on and another one
that I’m outlining. (Sigh. Writer's ADD kicks in.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next stop: Portland!</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-43720899309452404062014-08-22T18:10:00.000-07:002014-09-28T10:52:12.644-07:00Day 3 - Sunset in Negril<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Day 3 – Negril!</div>
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We started off the morning with a traditional breakfast of ackee
(fresh from the tree in the backyard) and saltfish, plaintains, breadfruit and bammy. And yes, I did get a
picture this time…after my cousin Andrea yelled –uh – reminded me to do it. <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">:-) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Wingdings;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8iXFAlloEIoZIxFYE4dzxbjy8NJItB2u-ipfBeXcIAfKZ5k5ZLRUX4PHMWT4dU9rWXzfhYI94K7OmzzjaHVoc6_jXsQjEhTXoWjIEMzFIYnqGSxsHhPUahQNt5-zlaLCyvYJNtBPego/s1600/Breakfast.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8iXFAlloEIoZIxFYE4dzxbjy8NJItB2u-ipfBeXcIAfKZ5k5ZLRUX4PHMWT4dU9rWXzfhYI94K7OmzzjaHVoc6_jXsQjEhTXoWjIEMzFIYnqGSxsHhPUahQNt5-zlaLCyvYJNtBPego/s1600/Breakfast.JPG" /></a></div>
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After breakfast we put on our swimsuits, got ready, and
headed out for a sunny day of lounging on the beach, right? Wrong! Jamaica had
been experiencing a drought for several months, but the rain everyone had prayed
for finally arrived as we made our way down the coast. No worries, though. Even in the
rain, Jamaica is still beautiful and we had a great time singing along to Beres
Hammond’s soulful hits as we drove. Here's a sample: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj-E-YnyLK4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj-E-YnyLK4</a></div>
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One of my favorite parts of this road trip was going through
Holland Bamboo in Saint Elizabeth’s Parish. Tall bamboo trees stretch out above
from both sides of the road, creating a beautiful tunnel that will leave you in
awe.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJzKZAeYhOyuY_Hxt1mx_EhpffOrCyOzAjHmBDZnuyHdlZtCluds9hi_4RHVFj4UsApcPw9iUmpLpE7oY0o2eTNiffr-0xxEihGaMi710QdhVMprWPNT0RamFDWXSJW_cUFGAjTvyzpM/s1600/IMG_3062%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJzKZAeYhOyuY_Hxt1mx_EhpffOrCyOzAjHmBDZnuyHdlZtCluds9hi_4RHVFj4UsApcPw9iUmpLpE7oY0o2eTNiffr-0xxEihGaMi710QdhVMprWPNT0RamFDWXSJW_cUFGAjTvyzpM/s1600/IMG_3062%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holland Bamboo</td></tr>
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The rain stopped by the time we got to Negril and that
little resort town was alive with activity. People were milling about, shopping, eating, or just "liming." Of course we had to go to the
famous Rick’s Café, where the brave dive off of tall cliffs into deep blue water and
you can watch one of the most breathtaking sunsets while being serenaded by a
reggae band.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrea and me at Rick's Cafe</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aaaahhh!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset in Negril</td></tr>
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A couple of hours later and we were back in Mandeville,
tired but feeling good. I was anxious for the next day – a trip to Montego Bay
to see Rose Hall, once home to one of the most notorious women in</div>
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Jamaican history –
Annie Palmer!Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-77954871342072143232014-08-15T18:33:00.000-07:002014-09-28T10:52:57.935-07:00Day 2 - Relaxing in Mandeville<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b>Day Two – Mandeville Town Centre!</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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I woke up early (Jamaica is one hour behind, but I still got
up at around 6 a.m.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went back to bed
when I learned that nobody gets up that early unless they have to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No problem, I can rewind it. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Up at around 8:00 a.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After breakfast, we headed to the town centre of Mandeville, which is
the capital of the Parish of Manchester. It was laid out in 1816, and still
maintains much of its historical charm. Walking around, I imagined where my
grandmother might have sold her produce in the open market or the library my
dad would’ve stopped at on his way home from school. It’s a bustling town, and
I can see why it’s a favorite destination for returning expats - cool climate, friendly
people, all the conveniences you need and some sweeping mountain views to boot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7I6_H8Kmq-RSnjXGi6Qh43StigiqMusDtTEYBCIZVtOMKfdTw7lvUVzKQSl0154nIjjK1Z9M6N18corkjpZWibao_6wJxdsH8CDshaEUdwtE1WOtkOxM7w_FeQ8R6pWnQcrXLaOkv3B4/s1600/IMG_3048%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7I6_H8Kmq-RSnjXGi6Qh43StigiqMusDtTEYBCIZVtOMKfdTw7lvUVzKQSl0154nIjjK1Z9M6N18corkjpZWibao_6wJxdsH8CDshaEUdwtE1WOtkOxM7w_FeQ8R6pWnQcrXLaOkv3B4/s1600/IMG_3048%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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Back home for oxtail and rice and peas. It’s amazing I
stayed awake after eating that meal (sorry folks, again, I was too greedy to
take pictures). But, stay awake I did and it was back down to Mandeville Town
Centre to check out the night life. We ended up at Mojitos Café Loft, an
upscale lounge managed by the laid back and friendly Dermot. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to know where Mandeville’s
professionals go, this is the spot. The vibe is easy here, where white
furniture and cool martinis set the scene for winding down the evening and
Dermot makes you feel right at home here.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FakcFY7aqM8k6WTOzFKSdss6oYmVabYC0aO_WhWmjo6YAMFY9dFHRrukws06pvTdJeVpHeli66TX5DPRfS5QAQpKZFH3La1meP3o6YBEWX-lRsUFaxB5lCdVXVS0Nv92-tTkPIrIPSU/s1600/IMG_3054%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FakcFY7aqM8k6WTOzFKSdss6oYmVabYC0aO_WhWmjo6YAMFY9dFHRrukws06pvTdJeVpHeli66TX5DPRfS5QAQpKZFH3La1meP3o6YBEWX-lRsUFaxB5lCdVXVS0Nv92-tTkPIrIPSU/s1600/IMG_3054%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-FakcFY7aqM8k6WTOzFKSdss6oYmVabYC0aO_WhWmjo6YAMFY9dFHRrukws06pvTdJeVpHeli66TX5DPRfS5QAQpKZFH3La1meP3o6YBEWX-lRsUFaxB5lCdVXVS0Nv92-tTkPIrIPSU/s1600/IMG_3054%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cousin Andrea and Dermot of Mojitos Cafe</td></tr>
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Hanging out in Mandeville was a great way to begin this
vacation before we started to explore the island. I was ready to hit the road
though, so first on the list for tomorrow…Negril!</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-48294477299786195242014-08-08T20:19:00.001-07:002014-09-28T10:54:06.130-07:00Day 1 - The Caribbean is calling me!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Caribbean life…Jamaica bound!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Day one of my long awaited vacation found me up at an
ungodly hour heading to the airport so that I could arrive in Jamaica in the
morning. Well worth it! Even though it’d been so long since I’d been to
Jamaica, I felt an easy familiarity as soon as I made my way outside the
airport to find my cousin Andrea waiting to greet me.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The ride home along the coast was beautiful, but the trip up
the mountains to Mandeville, my dad’s hometown, was amazing. Seeing all those stunning
homes nestled in the hillsides almost made me forget the drive up on those
narrow winding roads to get there (yikes!).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidNrAFtQOmmq3oOqwhMwD2FROmx26hHI9NQWYcPGwEUncLsJHX8OAtSXFXZL54cl4nfFV1eIuyTgvbqJPUFnWtA6cRS4-BvweZ2AXIqqJnmknjdby6VCkbGCk6CMWPBeEiRDoggCyHFc/s1600/IMG_3042%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidNrAFtQOmmq3oOqwhMwD2FROmx26hHI9NQWYcPGwEUncLsJHX8OAtSXFXZL54cl4nfFV1eIuyTgvbqJPUFnWtA6cRS4-BvweZ2AXIqqJnmknjdby6VCkbGCk6CMWPBeEiRDoggCyHFc/s1600/IMG_3042%5B1%5D.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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A delicious dinner of curry chicken and rice and peas
awaited me when I arrived at the house (sorry, I was greedy – no time for
pics). But before that, we went out in the backyard and picked up a few things
for breakfast: ackee and avocados (look at the size of these!).</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfX07jH-qelFrfIuHmjJZ6wmRLTWKvBeKhTdHnd6NQVfhOH72wlgLlBT2k8V9wzvf3BfrgW0NeJgh4iiXhX6RT2ZHYmj6kwMmmo9n8jYADkYsTS-3nAlA581nlq_YPvfxnzxANBCHFc0/s1600/IMG_3045%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMfX07jH-qelFrfIuHmjJZ6wmRLTWKvBeKhTdHnd6NQVfhOH72wlgLlBT2k8V9wzvf3BfrgW0NeJgh4iiXhX6RT2ZHYmj6kwMmmo9n8jYADkYsTS-3nAlA581nlq_YPvfxnzxANBCHFc0/s1600/IMG_3045%5B1%5D.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a long day, so we wrapped it up by enjoying a glass
of wine and the cool mountain air out on the verandah. Island living - I
could do this.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next post...the Mandeville town centre!</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-54679360769728876812014-06-18T04:50:00.001-07:002014-06-18T04:52:17.140-07:00<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Catching up...</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s early morning and I’m sitting in one of my favorite
coffee houses in the H Street corridor in Washington, D.C. It’s Caribbean
Heritage Month and they are playing reggae (<i>The
Joint </i>on Sirius XM is one of my favorite stations). I don’t know if it’s in
honor of Caribbean Heritage Month or whether this particular barista just likes
this station but either way, it works for me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As an author, my mind is now divided between writing and marketing.
My first novel, Somerset Grove, is continuing to do well. Most recently I was
honored to be one of three featured authors at the International Reggae Poster
Exhibition hosted by the Embassy of Jamaica at the Organization of American
States that was held in May in Washington, D.C. I’m also really excited to be
going to South Africa in 2015 to do an author talk. (And ahem, if you're looking for a great summer read...)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Writing has also been productive for me – I finished the
first draft of my third novel, <i>The
Butterfly, w</i>hich is now with my fantastic editor. In the meantime, I’ve
started my fourth book and I’ve also written a couple of short stories.
Competing with all of that is that lost second novel - that prodigal son that
disappeared on me when I was a quarter of the way through writing it. I let it
go and just like the parable, it has returned to me and I’m welcoming it back
with open arms. Maybe the time wasn’t right for me to work on it when I had
started it, but I feel that time is coming closer now. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what’s on tap for the summer? I’m planning a visit to
Jamaica with my wonderful cousin, Andrea Peart. Part research trip, part reconnecting and
part relaxation, I’m looking forward to embracing the sights, sounds and aromas
of that beautiful island once again (though if Andrea has anything to say about it, we'll be balancing that relaxation out with some good live music!). I will definitely post pics when I’m back!</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
In the meantime, I can’t leave this post without telling you
what I’m listening to, can I? It’s <i>Superman</i>,
by Tarrus Riley. It’s a song that should be enjoyed on a rooftop on a sunny
evening. It has a relaxing vibe and Tarrus Riley has such a soulful voice, you
can’t help but lean back and think about the good life. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s it for now…</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-60634289428593966762013-09-08T08:26:00.001-07:002013-09-08T08:26:20.602-07:00The best laid plans…<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I meant to start blogging on a regular basis, but my plans
conflicted with my reality. Life, work and other priorities have gotten in the
way. Not all of it is bad though. In fact, I’ve accomplished quite a bit as far
as the writing is concerned; earlier this year I published my first novel, <i>Somerset Grove</i>. It’s a family saga about
three generations of women from a small Jamaican town. The story takes them on
a journey between Jamaica and Canada as each woman struggles with family conflicts
and personal challenges that keep them from living the lives that they want.
Check me out on Amazon: <span style="background-color: white; color: #4f81bd; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">http://amzn.to/14H7BaA</span><span style="color: #4f81bd;"> </span>or Barnes and Noble: <span style="background-color: white; color: #4f81bd; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">http://bit.ly/XfZf5s</span> and Kobo
for my fellow Canadians: <span style="color: #4f81bd;">http://bit.ly/15EYkfC</span>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As far as my other novel is concerned (the one that I lost –
see my last blog entry, “<i>Back again…”</i>),
I had every intention of getting back to work on it, but it was slow going. I
think I was struggling with trying to remember what I wrote word-for-word or at
least scene-by-scene, but it didn’t work. I finally had to admit to myself that
I wasn’t really ready to get back to it yet, so I let it rest and started a new
novel. It turned out to be a good
strategy. I’m about two-thirds of the
way through the rough draft of this third book and equally important, I’m
actually getting excited about returning to the second story. Now that I’ve let
go of what it was supposed to be, I’m able to think about where else I could go
with it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In the meantime, the book promotion for <i>Somerset Grove</i> is going well (yay!) and I was finally able to take
a much needed vacation to the Dominican Republic this summer. I can’t say
enough about taking time to rest and rejuvenate, so more on that later. Most
importantly, I’m learning to enjoy the journey.
There will always be bumps along the road. Being able to navigate them
and move beyond them is the key, so off I go…again.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Of course, I’m not going to leave you without letting you
know what’s on my iTunes today – it’s <i>Positive
Vibrations</i> by Bob Marley and the Wailers. I’m in a good place and enjoying
life, so I’m following the advice of the first line of that song. “Live if you want to live!”</span></div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-8103080107841032552012-10-06T08:06:00.001-07:002012-10-06T08:08:11.392-07:00Back again...<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, it’s been a long time since
my first blog entry. I was very proud of myself for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finally</i> getting my blog started and planned to do an entry every
week. Then tragedy struck. Well okay, it wasn’t a tragedy in the real sense of
the word, but it was for me and so that’s how I’m defining it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
So here’s what happened: I had
just finished the draft of my first book and was feeling all good about the
feedback I’d received from an editor. Buoyed, I delved headstrong into the
second novel I was working on, having been told that I should not have any real
down time between the first and second books. Momentum was the word of the month and not
even the distractions of the home buying process were going to derail my focus.
Only one thing could do that and it did – I lost my manuscript. Yes, I mean the
whole thing. I like to work on my netbook and because Wi-Fi access is not
always a guarantee when I’m out and about, I was saving my work on a flash
drive. So organized was I, that I even kept the two novels on separate drives.
Lucky for me I guess, because I lost the one with the second novel on it and
not the one with the completed manuscript. Still, I was devastated and searched everywhere
for it; I turned over furniture, tore through my office at work, called every
coffee shop I had visited over the last few days and searched my car every day
for a week (like maybe I just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">missed</i>
it the third, fourth or fifth time I looked).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I finally gave up searching for it
(for all of you readers of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Secret</i>,
please don’t judge. I really tried to summon it to me). So, I just went back to
the drawing board, but every time I started to rewrite those chapters, I got frustrated
and sad. Now I know what it feels like when a pet goes missing (briefly
contemplated putting up lost and found posters for the flash drive, but came to
my senses). I continued to work on revising my first book and getting it ready
for market, but essentially starting from scratch on that second book was just
too difficult.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It took me a long while before I
could get motivated to write again. Thank goodness for writing workshops. I
attended the Black Writers Reunion & Conference in Fort Lauderdale at the
end of August and it was exactly what I needed. Seeing my old friends and
meeting new ones lifted my spirits and hearing about the paths their writing
careers were taking them definitely was the shoulder shake I needed. Writing is
my passion and if I don’t sow, I won’t reap.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
So, I’m back at it again with a
renewed spirit and a willingness to let the loss go (though I must confess,
after seeing the movie, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Words</i>, I
think I might react more along these lines if I found out somebody did that
with my manuscript: <a href="http://youtu.be/z4gN_yc_7ug">http://youtu.be/z4gN_yc_7ug</a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But no, I’ll think more positively and
believe this second start will be better than the first one. I’m committed to
finishing it, so stay tuned…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Oh, so what am I listening to for
motivation this time around? Today it’s Peter Tosh’s version of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Johnny B Goode. <a href="http://youtu.be/q8WRzdN43BI">http://youtu.be/q8WRzdN43BI</a> </i>I
remember my dad playing that one a lot when I was young. Peter Tosh’s raw,
soulful rendition of this song conjures images of my main character making his
way through the hillsides of Jamaica. Running..."What is he running from?” you
ask. You’ll have to wait and see.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Until next time!</div>
Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1905653971285985903.post-75944974058830112422012-04-23T09:25:00.005-07:002012-04-23T09:31:21.186-07:00In the Mood to Write<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
How do I get in the mood to
write? (You’re dying to know, and if you’re not, just play along). Music does it for me. I find it hard to write in complete silence,
probably because music has always been a prominent feature in my life. When I was younger, my parents always had
some sweet reggae playing at home on the weekends. Our house was always filled with the sounds
of Bob Marley and the Wailers, Third World, Gregory Isaacs and many other
classic reggae artists. As I got older,
my brother became the main source of noise around the house. His heart was always in R & B and later
Hip Hop, though he was forever in my father’s reggae collection and got busted
several times for disturbing the settings on the stereo. “Who turn up the bass so loud?” was always a
frequent question, to which my brother would always raise his shoulders and
shrug innocently in response.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
After a bit of a struggle, I got
used to studying with the bass thumping through the basement as my brother
honed his deejaying skills. “But I have
to practice!” he would yell in response to me yelling, “I’m trying to study for
my exams, do you mind?!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
Now, I find myself using music as
a source of inspiration. The novel I
just completed, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Somerset Grove, </i>is
partially set in Jamaica and I often relied on those reggae rhythms to
transport me to the island, to help me create imagery and to shape the mood of
my characters. From the soulful sounds
of Beres Hammond singing of S<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">weet Lies</i>
to Michael Rose singing of a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shine Eye
Gal, </i>they all influenced me and make me smile when I think of my heritage.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
So what’s playing on my iPhone
now? <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Affairs
of the Heart</i> by Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley.
Love a good Marley tune! It makes
me realize that I’m long overdue for a trip to Jamaica. Until then,
I’ll just keep the iTunes going so I can keep the words flowing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;">
I’m interested to learn what
inspires you. If you’d like to share,
please leave a comment below.</div>Dionne Pearthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00571249080104021948noreply@blogger.com5