The Caribbean lifestyle, viewed as a harmonious, tranquil, idyllic paradise aspiration, is that, but it has its shortcomings. Taking early retirement my husband and I decided to move to Tobago to change our lifestyle and enjoy the island’s way of life. Twenty years later, we are still here and happy despite the limitations we have…
Expat grandparents cherish visits from their grandkids, bonding through love and laughter. Though they become accustomed to missing birthdays, school events, babysitting, visits, and affection, these visits create lasting memories. During a recent visit from our one-year-old and two-year-old grandkids, we ensured the house met their needs by installing stair gates, removed reachable, colourful and…
Hey, Baby Boomers, we are fast approaching the big 7 0. Don’t ask me how, because it was only the other day, we were 50. I’m choosing to approach it by playing more, not taking life too seriously, but embracing it with humour, style and a sassy attitude. No longer considered ‘hot’ in the physically…
A legacy is not merely about the assets and possessions left in a will; it is varied and can have different meanings for different individuals. In the main, it relates to your life, encapsulating your values, virtues, life lessons and your journey. Two apt legacy quotes are: “It’s what we do, not what we have,…
Sisters, are you game to undertake a ten-day sugar-free detox with me? It can involve good, bad, and ugly moments, but together, we can do this, reclaim our self-care and avoid Type 2 Diabetes. The action plan for the challenge is: Preparation: The Good is going cold turkey regarding sugar intake and healthy food choices,…
Today, etiquette is looser and less obsessive. As a consequence, social courtesy has declined in ever-changing social norms. It begs the question: Are social media, texting, technology and liberalism causing a change in politeness? Or is being bombarded with news, communication and a fast-paced life engendering apathy to basic civilities? Common courtesy and respect seem…
The timeless power of love songs to communicate emotions. We all have our favourite classic love songs. Unforgettable is ‘I Will Always Love You’ (Whitney Houston). ‘Endless Love’ (Lionel Ritchie & Diana Ross). ‘I’m Still in Love with You’ (Al Green). ‘Signed Sealed Delivered’ (Stevie Wonder), to name a few. In some cases, expressing love…
Christmas is a joyous time full of festive celebrations and traditions. It is synonymous with connecting with family and friends when altruism is at its peak. Compared to the past, Christmas has evolved and the importance of its Christian origin, celebrating the birth of Jesus, has weakened. With consumerism now at its core, it emphasises…
Criticised for its authoritarian parenting style and use of corporal punishment, Caribbean parenting nonetheless has constructive aspects. This deep-seated cultural practice sets clear boundaries, fostering independence within limits and instilling respect, discipline, guidance, accountability and obedience. Some of the practices mentioned in this post relate to the parenting style of the Silent Generation, the parents…
British-born women who decide to live or retire in the Caribbean are not, in the true sense, conventional ex-pats. The Caribbean, after all, is part of their heritage, hence, they do not follow the standard categories of trailblazers, career women (though some are), adventure seekers or corporate spouses. Still, though every ex-pat’s journey is unique,…