Quiet

It is 4 p.m. here and all is quiet. There are few boats on this side of the channel. There is no music in the air. I am told that the younger folk are all down at Flamenco Beach for the afternoon having a pre-new year party.

Some are having a siesta, I am sure, because the party tonight starts about 7pm and goes on until about 4 am.

I am going to eat dinner at Annie's. What time I haven't been told yet, but her relatives from the big island are coming in on the 7 pm ferry, so I suspect it will be shortly after they arrive but who knows, certainly not me.

I am planning to get to the ferry dock area and spend a few hours there. I doubt that I will last until midnight. Perhaps I'll just come home and wish 2011 a fond adieu and raise a glass by myself and toast all my friends. That sounds like a good plan to me.

New Year's Eve is Coming

Yes, in two days at about 7 p.m. I will have to finally walk across the bridge and climb the little hill, turn left and head down to the dock for the celebration. Tommy told me that they expect about 5,000 people. The streets have been powered washed, all cars have been barred as of today, the bandshell is up etc. Wow, with a population of only about 1500 - 1800 + tourists who are the others? Many people come from Puerto Rico for this. Annie has three cousins coming in just for one night.

So yes, I have been across the bridge before. No, that is not true. I went half way to take some photos of the canal. Other times I was driven to the BIG supermarket or on our island tour. This time I will walk the walk.

A Homeless Dog Day

That is what it was, nothing more. I stayed home and enjoyed the endlessly changing scene from my balcony. In town there are so many people, as this is the biggest holiday week of the year.

Yes, my side of the bridge is the one to be on.

Today's specials

from the Homeless Dog:

Oh i forgot we also have Chicken & Cashews/ Kung Pao Chicken / & Fish & Chips!

On Wed, Dec 28, 2011 at 4:18 PM, The Homeless Dog Cafe <thehomelessdogcafe@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello Gail I have attached our regular menu and i will Add here our Daily Specials.....
Today's specials,
Vegetarian Curry!= Assorted Vegetables(Japanese Eggplant ,Sweet Potato, Sugar Peas, Zucchini, Etc) S/w Jasmine Rice


Chicken Breast stuffed= with Chorizo , Mushrooms & Cheese. s/w Papas Bravura(a sweet & Spicy Spanish Homefries) & Green Veggie


Canned Ham= glazed with Grand mariner, Crushed Pineapple,Cloves & Brown Sugar (I Know! Sounds wild.. but you GOT to Try it!)Potato Salad & Greens

The Homeless Dog Cafe

Yes, that is the name. I had read only good reviews about their food while researching the last few months, so

tonight was the night. I was hungry and just wanted a real meal. I found their email address and emailed them. Within in minutes I had a response with an attachment of their regular menu and then one with today's specials.

Now let me tell you that this is really not a cafe. As a matter of fact there is no place to go to. You phone or email with your order and specify a delivery time. There are two owners, Peri, female, cooks and Hector delivers. Yes, it is strictly delivery only. All food is cooked from scratch with fresh ingredients. Apparently Peri's baking is out of this world - next time.

I ordered fish, coleslaw, and potatoes with a side of corn bread which I am saving to have with my eggs for breakfast.

The large piece of fish was crumb coated and cooked perfectly. The coleslaw, homemade, had a lovely fresh dressing. The chips were not french fries, but very thinly sliced fried potatoes. The huge piece of cornbread was still hot out of the oven.

Hector arrive about five minutes before our agreed delivery time of 7:30. The total was 13.00 plus tax - the corn bread was on the house.

FYI I am including their menu here.

FOOD Delivery

939-452-9563

The Homeless Dog Café’

An Inventive and Eclectic mix of delicious foods and flavors, plus daily homemade desserts delivered to you anywhere you wish on Culebra.... Delivery starts at 4 PM until 2 AM!

(Closed Tuesdays)

Tiger Steak-S/W Black sesame seeds & Jasmine rice $ 10.00

Chicken Fried Steak & Mashed Potatoes and pan gravy $ 10.00

Southern Fried Chicken, Cole Slaw & Corn Bread 10.00

Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich 8.00 / 10.00 w/ Dessert

Double Dip Chicken Sandwich w/Bacon, Avocado, Red Onion, Lettuce, Tomato and Cheese 8.00 with Dessert 10.00

Shrimp Po’Boy Sandwich Cornmeal covered Shrimp, Homemade Coleslaw, Remoulade $ 10.00 / $12.00 w/ Dessert

Daily Specials

Vegetarian, Vegan & Eastern Delicacies (Thai, Schezuan, Middle Eastern)

Dishes…Prices Vary

Do you want something lighter ask us.

All Breads used in The Homeless Dog Café are made in House, from beginning to end!

Homemade Cakes and Desserts

Please Call 939-452-9563

When you don’t want to go out and you want to stay in call ---

The Homeless Dog Café

FOOD Delivery

939-452-9563

Sushi 2 U

A blend of fresh local and imported delights carefully arranged and delivered anywhere you wish on Culebra… Delivery starts at 4 PM until 2:00 AM

(Closed Tuesday)

Sushi rolls

◊◊

Philadelphia Roll- Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese 8.00

El Ferry-Salmon, Shrimp, Tempura Flake, Spicy sauce, Mango & Avocado 14.00

Culebra Roll-Spicy Sauce, Mango, Avocado & Crab 10.00

El Giyao- Chipotle, Soy Sauce, and honey lime glazed Tuna, Cilantro and avocado 11.00

California Roll – King Crab Avocado & Cucumber 9.00

Spicy Rolls available Prices Vary

More extensive menu available by phone.

►Keep our creative juices flowing ◄

We take Ideas!!

Do you want a full meal ask us.

Homemade Cakes and Desserts

Please Call 939-452-9563

When you don’t want to go out and you want to stay in call---

Sushi 2 U

Serve-Safe Certified Serve-Safe Certified National Restaurant Association National

Great Day

Today I was truly fortunate because my neighbours asked me to join them for a drive around the island. These are some of the great views. In some photos you can see an island in the distance. That is St. Thomas. The beautiful beach is Zoni Beach.

Thank you and hello to Russia

I want to express my thanks to all of you who check my blog. I appreciate all your comments and emails, although only four of you have signed up as followers. This blog goes out not only to my friends, but to others in the world that I don't even know. In addition, it is a travel journal for me. There is someone in Russia who signs in daily. Welcome Russia, whoever you are. Please feel free to comment or to ask questions.

Neighbours

Just thought I had better mention my new neighbours. It was difficult to imagine someone living next to me, but they are a lovely couple. Jenna and Ron hail from northern California high up somewhere near Mt. Shasta. For sure they are nice people and I am happy to share "my space" with them.

They are so considerate. They ask if the TV is too loud, invite me to share their morning coffee or dinner.......of course, I decline with thanks. Today Jenna suggested that we take a picnic lunch out to Zoni beach one day. That I will accept with bells on.

Paso Fino horses

Everyday in 'my' hood

Here are shots of Milka's inside. It is interesting that the beer and liquor section is under the sign for cookies. In addition, on the same shelf one can also see mayo, peanut butter, and bread. Look at the great wine rack. They have a good selection too because there are some serious wine drinkers here.

On my few yards walk to Milka's today, I met a young iguana out for lunch, a rooster or two and some hens. Some behind Annie's car and some coming up to the dog who welcomes all to the marine hardware store. The hardware store is where I stop for a break, if it is too hot and also to have a chat with Lourdes (remember the limes). I asked her who the roosters and hens belonged to and she told me that they were free, belonged to no one !!!!!! You will also see two loose horses grazing up on the hill behind the library.

Then a few minutes after getting home two lovely young local fellows were out for a ride on their horses When I asked if I could take a photo from my balcony they were happy to oblige.

I like life on this side of the bridge. My 'yard' and surroundings have some of the finest views - boats, giant iguanas, horses, roosters and hens, and the rare human being.

Christmas Dinner

Annie and Tommy graciously shared their typical Puerto Rican specialties with me.

We had roast pork, rice and peas, and pasteles. Annie made the filling for the pasteles and Tommy finished the process by adding a few special ingredients, then wrapping them in banana leaves and parchment paper. He then tied the 'packages' up with string. Just before eating he heated them in boiling water. They are untied, the parchment removed and then served in the banana leaf. They were delicious. Thank you Annie and Tommy for a special time.

Milka's Santa time on Culebra 12/24/11

More

While I am waiting for the photos to load let me tell you a little about a traditional Christmas here. They acknowledge Santa Claus, but he does not bring presents. On January 6th, the Epiphany or Three Kings day, is when the presents are given. That makes sense doesn't it. That was when they brought the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. On January 5th the children go out and cut some grass and put it in a shoe box. The grass is to feed the camels. When the three kings come to your house they take the grass and leave a gift in the box. Today, I think that kids here also expect ipads etc. I need to check into that.

Here in Culebra the three kings will arrive by boat down at the dock on January 6th.

Christmas Eve

Remember, click to enlarge any photo.
Wishing you all a joyous Christmas Day.

Last evening Annie and Tommy took me to church for the Christmas eve mass. I wanted to go because I knew this would be an authentic celebration. WOW it was incredible. Yes, it's me Gail saying that a mass was incredible. What I was a part of last night could even make me a church goer again. I will try to be brief. The photos are not good, but all I have and are above and also the next post.

Annie is the one who does the readings. She was all decked out in red. Unfortunately she had to go home right after the mass because she was not feeling well.

Upon arriving it was lovely to see a nativity scene outside and all lit up. Very soon a group of young people gathered by the door. They were the actors and actresses Mary, Joseph etc.. It was wonderful because they were a part of the whole service in one way or another.

The priest, a young fellow, was great. Although he spoke in Spanish, he added enough English to make it easier to follow.

The congregation, about 100, perhaps 20 guests, were attentive and with all songs they clapped to the rhythm.

Aside from the basics of the mass, there were a few intimate differences. After the mass was said, the priest welcomed visitors and asked where we were from. There was a gift for all the children (small package of mixed candies) and they went up to the priest to receive it. There were prayers for the sick and they were named. The children put on a small skit. At the end all the kids were up front singing Feliz Navidad and then burst into English with I Want to Wish You a Merry Christmas. The finale brought tears to my eyes.

After the service we went outside where a buffet table of food was laid out and on the other side a guitar player and conga drum player started the music. A wonderful time was had by all, mostly me.

As Tommy was driving me home we took the long way (two blocks) down by the ferry dock and I got a few shots of the Christmas lights. As we were driving by the cafes and bars with the tourists, I couldn't help but think how much more fortunate I was to have been part of the church service rather than out there listening to the latest tunes and drinking rum punch.

NO NO NO

This is the last night of me having my very own little piece of paradise. Annie has rented the unit next to me to a young couple from California for two weeks. I met them and gee I don't think I was very friendly!!! Well, come on, they are 'invading' my space. No seriously, they seem like a really nice couple.

There are small groups of drummers and singers all over. Yesterday Milka's was crazy. There were cars parked all up and down the road, a real traffice jam. I didn't go to the children's giveaway today as I needed to rest - lol.

In two hours I am going to church to attend a real Puerto Rican Christmas Eve mass. Do hope I get some good photos.

Oh, no carollers at my door last night.

Happy Christmas Eve everyone!

Almost a disaster

This just came through on The Mailing List.

A good samaritan, for sure.

"Yesterday at Flamenco Beach a local body surfer aided a young woman who got caught in the undertow. She and her family would like to thank him.

The lifesaver was described as appearing to be from the States, a local or at least Puerto Rican wife, around 60 with two kids, a teenaged boy and younger girl.

The family would really appreciate knowing who this is and being able to speak with him.

Please send any helpful info to:"

A first hand account of the accident I posted on the 22nd

DECEMBER 22, 2011

A Tragic Christmas Cruise

by Tim Zimmerman

Last night I watched a sailboat die. It mistakenly cut the corner on a windy night off the eastern tip of Culebra, and went hard aground on a reef that juts out just below the house where I am staying with my family for Christmas. We saw its navigation lights approaching, wondering whether the crew was crazy enough to try to run the narrow, unmarked passage between the reefs that protect Manglar Bay. Suddenly, the lights stopped moving. The genoa started flapping madly in the 20-knot tradewind breeze. The masthead light heeled crazily.

It was wrenching to watch, and a reminder that when you are on a boat—even Christmas cruising in the relative safety of the Caribbean—a moment’s inattention can mean disaster. In this case, there was no redemption, no way out. The 3-foot chop and gusty winds quickly drove the boat, a 32-footer with a canoe stern, hard onto the shallow reef. There was no danger to life. The passage between Culebrita and Culebra, known as Canal Del Sur, is protected from ocean swells, and the water over the reef is no more than waist-deep, meaning the crew could easily walk ashore if need be. We didn’t have a working VHF to reach the crew, but within minutes called the wreck into the local marine police, who said they were on it.

We saw flashlights stabbing through the dark of the night, and heard the engine going to maximum revs, as the crew desperately tried to reverse their error. It was sad and sobering to imagine what had taken place: a happy ship headed for safe harbor a few days before Christmas, a nighttime passage through relatively protected waters, perhaps a little wine and music, and then a sickening crunch, and a dawning awareness that in a split second everything had changed.

Every sailor, deep in the subconscious, fears that little mistake, that brutal transition from the pleasure of a passage aboard a sound vessel to the harsh reality of a shipwreck. So it was hard not to feel tremendous sadness and empathy for the crew in that terrible moment. The wind and chop quickly drove the yacht—inch-by-inch, foot-by-foot--further up onto the reef, until it was laying on its keel and starboard side in very shallow water. The window in which the crew might have reversed or kedged off the reef could be measured in minutes if it existed at all. Three hours after the boat went aground, a Coast Guard helicopter clattered overhead, and with impressive efficiency and purpose, winched two people off.

Daybreak revealed a bleak tableau. A foundered yacht—“Morning Mist”, USVI the stern read—grinding itself toward oblivion against hard coral, a small scrap of genoa snapping pathetically in the breeze. A well-used vessel, a source of countless memories, and maybe even the owner’s only home. Abandoned.

Christmas Carolling

News flash from The Mailing List

And, I just happen to have photos of the library which is a few steps from Milka's. I have no idea if they will come door to door or not.

They also show films here - Cine Culebra.

Christmas Caroling-6:00 Friday at the Library

Bring a flashlight & snack.

A visitor

A visitor outside. This is just a small one, but still I hope they don't climb ramps or stairs. I have been sleeping with the door wide open. Can't even imagine waking up with this is my bed.

4:00 a.m.

A Christmas Tradition in Culebra.

Around 4 in the morning the sounds start. First there is the clanging of the bell, then the roosters start to crow, and finally the music. A truck makes its way around the island playing an assortment of Christmas music. Tonight I woke to O Holy Night and it was beautiful. The music is not too loud, just right. Every so often the clanging of the bell starts again. I suppose this is just to make sure you didn't go back to sleep! This continues for about an hour. I must find out more about the tradition of the music truck. Do they have a volunteer list of drivers? How many nights does this go on? Will it ever come right up to my house so I can get a photo?

It is now almost 5 a.m. and I don't hear the bell or the music coming my way. Perhaps a few hours of sleep are still going to be possible.

From the Island mailing list

From Joanna at the Tourism Office: Todo vehículo estacionado en el área del Frente Portuario hasta el Restaurante Chino, deberán ser removidos desde el día jueves 29 de diciembre de 2011, debido a la limpieza y celebración de La Despedida 2011. Los vehículos que no sean removidos, serán multados (Ley 22 de Vehículos y Transito) In preparing the street and main dock area (Ferry Dock) for the New Years Celebration, all vehicles parked in the dock area or street up to the Chinese restaurant must be removed by Thursday, the 29th of December, 2011, Vehicles which are not removed, will be fined (Act 22 of Vehicles and Roads)

Limes

A few hours ago I went to Milka's to buy groceries and on my list were limes. Well, there were no limes today. Tomorrow, after the ferry comes there will be limes. I cannot understand this. Limes grow everywhere on this island.

Things never change, I guess.

Usually, when I go to Zehrs or Sobey or other, looking for fresh produce all I find is imported. Even when it is stawberry season in Waterloo Region, the strawberries are imported. Exactly why I go to Herrlie's.

Ok, I left Milka's without limes (these are the lovely yellow limes - like Key Lime). A few metres later I stopped at the Marine Supply Store and had a chat with Lourdes (sp?) and asked her if any of the trees I could see were lime. She said no, but called her husband and told me to wait. Within ten minutes he came with a full pail of limes. She told me to take what I wanted. I was not too greedy and only took about 20. She does not sell them, but gives to others who do not have lime trees.

I am happy. These limes are sort of sour and sweet and are great squeezed in a glass of water, but even better is water, lime, and a few shakes of Don Q Cristal Rum. No more rum and coke for me as long as I can get these limes.

Hope you have had a good day with last minute preparations for Christmas.

Some news from The Mailing List

>> DATE: December 22, 2011 9:51:37 AM EST
> Coast Guard rescues 2 boaters from grounded vessel off eastern shore of Culebra Island, Puerto Rico
>

> SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The crew of a Coast Guard MH-65 dolphin helicopter rescued two boaters Wednesday night, after their 37-foot sailing vessel grounded on a reef in "Puerto del Manglar" just off the eastern shore of Culebra Island, Puerto Rico.
>
> Joseph Lobs, 24, resident of Jacksonville, Fla. and Sarah Duncan, 18, resident of Silverton, Ore., where travelling aboard the sailing vessel Morning Mist from St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands to Puerto Rico, when the vessel grounded.
>
> Coast Guard Watchstanders in Sector San Juan received a May Day call at approximately 7 p.m. Wednesday via marine radio, on VHF-Channel 16, from the master of the Morning Mist, who reported running aground 10 nautical miles east of Vieques Island, Puerto Rico. Coast Guard Watchstanders were able to investigate and determine that the vessel's reported position was incorrect and proceeded to coordinate with the boaters and a Puerto Rico 911 Emergency Service operator, who was able to triangulate the sailing vessel’s correct position to Culebrita Reef just off the eastern shore of Culebra Island.
>
> Coast Guard Watchstanders received another communication at 8:10 p.m. Wednesday from the master of the Morning Mist, who reported that the sailing vessel had been freed from its’ grounded position and that they would continue their voyage to Puerto Rico. Shortly thereafter, Coast Guard Watchstanders were contacted by the master of the Morning Mist, via a 911 Emergency Service operator, who reported that the sailing vessel had run aground a second time on a reef in "Puerto del Manglar" and was now taking on water.
>
> Sector San Juan Watchstanders launched a Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-65 Dolphin helicopter to rescue the boaters in distress. The crew of the Coast Guard helicopter arrived on scene, deployed their rescue swimmer and hoisted the boaters safely onboard the aircraft.
>
> "This was a great response thanks to the close coordination between the boaters, our watchstanders and the 911 Emergency Service in determining the vessel's grounded position, which allowed our aircrews to arrive rapidly onscene and hoist the boaters to safety," said Cmdr. James Sutton, Sector San Juan chief of response.
>
> The master of the sailing vessel is making arrangements with Sea Tow Puerto Rico Thursday to salvage the Morning Mist from its' grounded location.
>
>

Do you judge a book by it's cover?

A few days ago I told you that two of the best dining establishments on the island are right by me.

Susie's is one of them. It is right next door to me. Actually in the photo on their home page and in this photo too, if you look at the coconut palms in the background, they are the ones at my door.

Here is Susie's winter menu.

Appetizers

Aperitivos

Egg rolls with zesty pork

served with “Kimchee” & Sichuan sauce

“Eggrolls” de cerdo con “Kimchee” y salsa “Sichuan”

8:50

Zesty turnovers combination of beef, chicken & Spanish Chorizo

Pastelillos tierra Adentro:

Chorizo, carne & pollo

9.50

Codfish fritters served with tartar sauce

Bunuelos de bacalao servidos con salsa tartara

8.50

Ensalada de Pulpo con vinagreta de china agria

Octopus salad in Seville orange vinaigrette

9.50

Caesar salad small 6:50 large 9:50 with chicken 12:50

Ensalada Cesar: pequena 6.50 grande 9.50 con pollo 12.50

Soup of the Day

Sopa del dia

Selecciones varian Favor preguntar

Choices vary daily Please ask us

6.50

Sides: rice & beans, fried plantains, plantain or Island Mash

Complementos: majada Islena, Arroz & Habichuelas, tostones

Entrees

Entradas

Octopus salad in Seville orange vinaigrette

Ensalada de Pulpo con vinagreta de china agria

1900

Chicken crepes accented with a tarragon scented Mornay cream sauce

Crepas de pollo servoa con crema “mornay” y estragon

17.00

Surf & Turf 10 oz skirt steak topped by battered jumbo Shrimp

Mar & tierra churrasco de 9 oz. con camarones empanados

24.00

Skirt steak 9 oz. marinated with roasted garlic & balsamic

Filete de Churrasco 9 oz. Marinado con ajo asado & balsamico

1900

Mahi-mahi filet served with a roasted garlic,ginger & scallion curry

Beurre-blanc

Filete de Dorado con salsa de mantequilla de ajo asado cebollines y curry

19.00

Sauteed shrimp served with a tamarind coconut glace

Camarones salteados con salsa de tamarindo y coco

20.00

Rack of lamb with pinot noir au-jus & crimini mushrooms

Chuletitas de cordero

Con salsa de vino Tinto zetas

23.00

Shrimp tempura served with Sichuan sauce & wasabi

Camarones tempura servidos co salsa estilo Sichuan & wasabi

20.00

Grouper filet served with a classic caper cream sauce

Filete de mero en crema de alcaparras

19.00

I haven't eaten there yet, but will before I leave because all the reviews are excellent and the menu looks great. The Mahi-Mahi always gets rave reviews.

The Ferry Dock

On Sunday, Annie and I went down to the dock in her car (still haven't walked over the bridge) - the busiest place on the island. I can hardly believe that my quiet, serene beach is just the other side of the canal from this ferry dock. Remember the other day I put on a photo of the dock from my beach.

There are a few cafes, people waiting for the ferry, a little stage with music, and Christmas decorations. Tommy works a few hours a couple of days a week as bartender at this little shop across from the dock. Annie was in a dancing mood.

Here are a few photos.

Yipee!!!!!!!!!!!

Tommy just brought me a USB cable and it works. I don't know where it came from, but still suspect it was picked up along with the speaker wires. He just said "don't ask".

Will have a few photos soon.

Cable update

My USB cable has not returned home. I am trying to get another one. In true island form I am using that email system to try to locate one I can borrow or buy here on Culebra. Also asking if there is a store on the big island I can buy one and get it here.

My, oh my, I am hoping some solution comes through. The Christmas eve and day festivities are fast approaching and I truly want some photos on here.

I'm Upset

A few hours ago I went to upload yesterday's photos from the camera to iphoto and the cable was missing. I searched everywhere - gone.

Saturday the plumber was here just checking something - no problem in my space. Anyway, he and Tommy came to my room because Tommy was going to give him the external computer speakers I was trying which didn't work. The speakers and my camera cable were on the table together. We suspect he picked the cable up with the speakers, but he says he doesn't have it. I am now waiting somewhat impatiently for the time when he goes home to check and hopefully sees it. If not, I am in a really big pickle. No cable means no more photos. Remember, this is Culebra and there is no store to buy a new one.

Oh, those photos from yesterday were from across the bridge!!!

A little prayer here would not go amiss.

Christmas Wishes

Friends, soon it will be Christmas Day. My heartfelt wish for you is to enjoy this blessed day with family, friends, or savouring on your own.

This year, as last, I will not share with family or friends in the traditional sense. I will, however, share because of the many memories of Christmases past. Being away does not mean that I don't care about or want to forget Christmas. Actually, it is quite the opposite because without the commercial bombardment I get more time to reflect and to appreciate the times past and to enjoy the new.

I have my Christmas music with me and of course there is email, skype, and this blog.

A dear friend, half way around the world, says his favourite song of the season is Jingle Bells. This is a Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra version. If the screen is black, just click.

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S E V E R Y O N E

Relax, it's Sunday

Friendly folks waving hello as they cruise by my front yard.

I like this side of the mangroves because it is less busy and still enough traffic to be interesting.

Hmmm, wouldn't this be easy to get used to?

Island Telegraph, Jungle Grapevine, Drums or...

Things have changed, that's for sure.

As you all know, this island is small enough that the spoken word could travel at the speed of light, but no. It is almost 2012 and Culebra embraces technology. There is a woman who forwards email to a mailing list. I thought I would give you a sample of some news from the last few days. Remember, I thought the ferry was cancelled both Thursday and Friday - no the Friday ferry came and

1. Luis is there now with fruits and vegetables. Pass it on.

Annie picked up a huge papaya for me.

This woman makes bread for pick up on Fridays. She usually sits outside under an umbrella to shade her from the sun, but...

2. Hopefully a few will see this, thanks Pam!

Bread people!

It's raining, so I'm inside WITH your bread. Just beep and I'll bring it out, thanks!

3. Do you know of any knitters on the island? I need help with a sweater.
Thanks,

This system works. I know. I sent a request for a place to rent on this very mailing list and this is why I am where I am today.

Interesting neighbours moving in!

A man was just here looking around at what Annie may have available for rent. I say may because the workers are still working on the studio that was supposed to be mine. That's why I am in a room only. Ok, the interesting part is that this gentleman is looking to rent for some men in the U.S. Army who will be here for clean ups, controlled ordinance detonations. There have been many such clean ups here this year.

What I haven't told you all is that Culebra was a favourite of the U.S. military for target practice.

A little history:

Army Corps slates Culebra hearing

By CB Online Staff

cbnews@caribbeanbusinesspr.com

he U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has scheduled a meeting for next week to inform the public on cleanup efforts on Culebra.

The Army Corps is conducting a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study to determine the extent of contamination on Culebra after decades of live-fire military exercises there.

The meeting is scheduled for May 5 at the Ecological School on Culebra. The federal agency will provide an update on works and future plans.

The Navy began using Culebra as a firing range in 1939. Public opposition to exercises and a proposed expansion of the range reached its peak in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In 1971, an agreement signed by the Secretary of the Navy, the governor of Puerto Rico, and the mayor of Culebra marked the end of ordnance use on Culebra and the surrounding cays, and on September 30, 1975, all ordnance use on Culebra ended.

All property formerly held by the Navy was eventually transferred back to the Puerto Rico government and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and all ordnance operations were moved to Vieques. The Navy abandoned training on Vieques amid widespread protests in 2003.