November 24, 2024 - Week 44

8 weeks to go.

As the Christmas season is ushered in, these festivities also signify the end of 2024 and soon my one year here in Jamaica. Santa Clause, his elves, and reindeer decorate plazas and even inflatable gingerbread houses adorn the entrances of supermarkets. Of course, the constant bell ringing of the Salvation Army asking for donations also fills the air. A hot non-snowy Christmas is reminiscent of my Aussie days, along with the contradictory Santa Clause in snow gear.

The rain, however, has been unrelenting, making it difficult to go to beaches and maintain my 'tan'. My rain boots have been used well, and I've even had to use my giant golf umbrella. As more rain is expected next week, I feel more Canadian as I eagerly place myself in the path of any momentary rays of sunlight.

Along with air-frying breadfruit, this week I checked off making ackee directly from the tree. This has been a huge accomplishment, as I have always been scared of making ackee (Jamaica's national fruit), as it is poisonous if picked from the tree at the wrong time. Ackee reminds me of scrambled eggs, and breadfruit (if fried) reminds me of potato wedges.

Braving the rain, I headed to Lysson's beach to catch a sunset - and was blessed with a beautiful one.