Yes! She came to see me this week and it was fabulous!
She braved the journey from Detroit to Kingston on the 8th with a huge suitcase and backpack full of goodies for me, plus a gigantic box containing my guitar, paints, and wall posters, etc. The things our parents do for us! It was such a beautiful moment seeing her come through the airport doors smiling and in awe of the mountain scenery. It reminded me of myself when I first stepped foot outside of the airport almost 4 months ago, excited and nervous and flabbergasted by the gorgeous colors and sights of Jamaica.
It was such a pleasure to be mothered and spoiled by her again. We got to share some quiet, simple times together as well as laugh and have fun all week long. She checked out my new place and met my friends, took me shopping in the market for healthy foods, tried a patty and some Rastafarian food, treated me to home-cooked meals, helped me decorate my room, traveled on the ever death-enticing public transportation system, took a shot of tequila with me (I have proof, people), handled the sweltering heat like a trooper, relaxed on the beach, and showered me with love and support at a time when I really REALLY needed it. You could say that she packed in a lot this week. Having her here has been a joy and I’m really pained to see her go. But something tells me this won’t be the last time she visits Jamaica!
Here is a little reflection from her:
“As I prepare to go home I am finding myself planning how to return. It doesn’t do it justice to say that this landscape/seascape is beautiful. Perhaps the closest I could describe it is ‘Eden.’ I am pleased to find and report first hand that Grace is still the grounded and tenacious Grace we all know and love but with a larger aura of wisdom surrounding her. We at home are far removed from the challenges, sacrifice, and growth she has endured for the last six months of her life. But, I have seen with my own eyes that she is all in one piece and many people have accompanied her to this point with prayer, advice, inspiration, encouragement, and reality checks. She in turn has done the same for us and others in only the way she can do. I could list all the wonders I have experience here; sunsets on fire, bamboo-lined roads, Grace’s friends, limitless fruits, Miss ‘Dessa , Half Moon Beach, Red Stripe, vibrant flowers, and the Santa Cruz market. But my reason for this trip has been resolved. Grace is living day to day, for each day, just as she has been telling us. My lesson this week: she is even stronger and wiser than I last knew and I blessed to say that she is one of my awesome children. I love you Holly, Brad, Michael, Kristina, Thomas, and Grace.
Did I mention that it’s beautiful here? --Colleen”
Mom, I hope you had a great time here. I love you so much and thank you for everything!
**BIG UPS/SHOUT-OUTS TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO SENT ME PRESENTS WITH MOM***:
The Pope Family: You have made this blog legitimate because you gave me Birkenstocks!! Thank you so much! Also, the cheese-its and chocolate were so delicious that I basically ate it all in one day. I will make sure the Peace Corps sends you my medical bills after I come out of my chocolate coma. Thank you thank you!!!
Holly: So many goodies I don’t know where to begin! Thank you so much for the shampoo, deodorant, loofa body wash. It has changed my showering experience. I actually look forward to getting into the cold water now! And the SPF 23492849023849028 will come in handy when I travel to the sun. Haha, kidding! I really will be using it, and I love that little travel sized one… but I know your secret… dun dun dun. The Now’n’Laters” have not yet melted and turned into “Now’s” and the skittles are going to get gone real quick. THANK You thank you THANK YOU!!!
Aunt Mary Pat: Oh my goodness. Your supply of Luna bars is keeping me very happy and healthy! They are so delicious and they are exactly what I needed!! Thank you, it was so thoughtful of you
Tom: My face is melted off. That’s how good the CD you made me was. Thanks, big bro, love you very much! I will have to make you a sweet reggae mix so you can blast it as you roll around PoHo. You will be the envy of everyone, I am sure of it.
Well, that's all for now. I will update you soon and let you know how I celebrated Hero's Day, a national holiday honoring the great leaders and change-makers of Jamaica. Everybody keep on keepin' on! Love ya!
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