The other day I was out at night driving in the city and while I was simply staring at the lights and the buzzing of cars, God knows what was on my mind, I heard a familiar noise. Not so familiar that I’m accustomed to hearing it, but it was just a potent memory of what was once familiarity. When I was a little girl this whistle was like hearing the ice cream truck in the summer days. “I know that sound, they are selling peanuts”. In that breath, my friend signaled the man and there I saw the familiar cart. He pulled out a neatly rolled up carton and when I undid the top, I poured out delicious warm peanuts and tossed them in my mouth. May I add here that I was on my way to Strawberry hills again?

The experience was equally as good as the first time- except we spent part of our time by a fireplace. Yes, Jamaica even have fireplaces! It gets cold in the mountains. Somehow this strawberry hills story sounds like “another world” because the way one would picture Jamaica is certainly not in the painting of fireplaces, elegant restaurants that serves exquisite meals, and beautiful spas.

Earlier that day, I walked into this haven of solitude. One turn off a busy street and into a quiet sanctuary where birds are chirping and palm trees are everywhere. Walking along pavements lined with flowers and into the reception area, we are greeted by friendly staff. We placed our order and minutes later we are climbing staircases to relaxation. Somehow it got quieter and the air may have gotten cleaner. Another garden lined the second floor of the building. And by the time, I removed my shoes and entered into the chambers of solitude, it got even quieter. I followed the instructions given by the masseuse and waited. I fell deep in thought- thoughts of how life can be so perfect, and wishing that life could just stay this way. I allowed myself to just lay in total surrender and allowed the masseuse to do the trick. When the time came to an end, it was hard to believe. I walked out a new being.

I hardly have this many good moments packed together at home, but this is vacation so I suppose it’s to be expected. It’s why it’s a vacation because you don’t often get the chance to enjoy life as much. Oh, if my life could just be one long vacation! ahhh