Jamaican Pet/Nick names

I made a post a couple of days ago about Jamaican names and someone said that I should should list the pet names of Jamaicans and those would sound more like Jamaican names rather than their regular names.

What are your thoughts? 

If you are reading this from another country other than Jamaica please share if any of these names are used in your country.

Do I need to also put the history behind each name?

Some of these are derived based on something that the person did, or physical features that they possess.

1. Chubby
2. Queenie
3. Footy
4. Juicy
5. Browning
6. Smelly
7. Get-shot
8. Oney
9. Back fist
10. Tin grin
11. Lippo
12. Smiley
13.  Twinny
14. Cawsey
15. Shorty
16. Parrow
17. Bawla
18. Stamma
19. Bumpy
20. Blacka
21. Sleepy
22. Droopy
23. Princess
24. Strength
25. Brains
26. skinny
27. Fatta
28. Bigga 
29. Likkle
30. Fatty
31. Bowlo
32. Samfy
33. dolla
34. Tall-man

Jamaican Baby names

 My friend was looking for a baby name that speaks Jamaican and at the time I could not think of one. Some time later I thought of the name "Errol." Is this a true Jamaican name?

What are your thoughts?

Can you think of another name that says that you are from the island?

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Someone read the blog and said I should include these names as well.  I'm not sure they all qualify as Jamaican names, do you agree?

1. Gavin

2. Kevin

3.

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Some said that the pet names are more Jamaican than they regular names, and I should list those . New post created.

How one Jamaican treats his toe fungus

 The truth is. This is a difficult one.

I guess I am required to say that this is not medical advise as a disclaimer. This is just what I did to treat my toe fungus.

Once the fugus was contracted my body immediately put up a fight and tried to discard the toe nail.

Eventually it did fall off. This was a good thing. I needed the nail to fall off so that I could have direct access to the nail bed. I applied a liberal supply of antifungal treatment daily directly to the nail bed. 

Mine went away for a while, but then it came back.

My cousin also had nail fungus and he did nothing until the nail grew back.

He went to the doctor and they prescribed something for him that was to be taken orally for the toe fungus.

The doctors warned that the treatment was harsh on the liver and could cause serious damage. So they did a test before prescribing him the medicine.

He took the medicine for about 6 months and the toe fungus did go away, but it came back.

It was then that he decided to go the natural way and soak his foot in apple cider vinegar and Epsom salt. The fungus growth slowed for a while but then came back with a vengeance. Not sure why.

It was then that he and I and concluded that our toe nail would probably be affected with fungus for life or until we decided to seek medical treatment again.

Hope this was helpful.

If you know of any other methods used that work, please jot them below.

Jamaican Transportation.

 No doubt Jamaican transportation has evolved significantly since it was first instituted.. The farthest my mind goes is back to JOS buses, but the name has changed several times since then.

What are the names that you remember. Name a few of the buses that were popular in your times as well. Like the Encava or quarter million.

Unemployment in Jamaica

 As the world moves closer and closer towards the use of technology smart jobs, no doubt jobs are being affected.

However it is not being affected in the way that most would expect. 

Even Jamaica is experiencing a labor shortage. That is un-employment is at a historic low.

 I was watching a documentary recently and the company said they could not expand because they did not have enough workers.

Although in Jamaica it is said that the shortage is for skilled or trained workers, but I dare to say that it is al workers that are short.

I don't know what the solution to this problem is.

The idea is being floated around that Jamaica should start importing workers.

can you imagine?

The Jamaican Market Place

 

You know in Jamaica it is common place to find these things sprawled out in front of almost every vendor.

Not so in the states. In the places that are referred to as market places. there is an abundance of processed foods. You have to go to a specialty store to pick produce items.

I had thought to do a video of a store here, but I realize that it is the scenario in Jamaica as well. Just walk into any store that claims to sell groceries and you will find that there is only a small section of the store that actually has produce/(i.e. real food) and the rest of the store is filled with man made food products.

It is not real food, but made from real food.

No wonder we are all getting sick. We are eating too much processed foods. We are eating chemistry and not food.

Long gone are the days when food came straight from the ground to the pot.

What are you thoughts?

Jamaican Ram Goat Liver

No doubt Pluto Shervington (rip) made this dish internationally know by the release of his song with the same title.

I have never really had it by itself, however I have had soup that it was in.

So I thought to myself why not see if there is a recipe for preparing this renown dish.

Here is what I found. 

Preparing goat liver is similar to preparing liver from other animals. 

Here's a basic recipe:Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) goat liver,

 sliced thinly1 onion, 

chopped2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons oilSalt and pepper to taste

Optional seasonings: thyme, paprika, curry powder, etc.

Instructions:Rinse the goat liver slices under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant.Add the goat liver slices to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.Season the liver with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the liver is cooked through but still tender.Serve hot with rice, vegetables, or your preferred side dishes.You can adjust the seasonings and cooking time according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your goat liver!

Jamaican Songs from the 1980s

 Here is a list of favorite songs that reflect the decade. You might be wondering why document these songs.

because if not written down they will be forgotten

I believe that the 1980's were just as influential as the 70's. It was during this time that legends like Bob Marley flourished.

If you think there are some singers or groups that I should have mentioned but did not

please list below in the comments section.

Be sure to check the year before you post your comments.

1. Sugar Minott

2. Freddie Mcgregor

3.VBarrington Levy

4. Third World

Jamaicans and Chess

I realize that there is a Jamaica federation for chess, and it has been around for a good little while.

This is indeed encouraging. I hope they will get some serious sponsorship and land some endorsement deals equal to that of Hussein Bolt.

The Jamaican Mind is nothing to play with, we are giants in our own right. we just need the right forum.

Just wait until we get the right competition.

Some Jamaican Parents have it so hard

 

Some Jamaican Parents have it so hard. Do you know what it is like to raise your child with all the values that you received as child only to have your child scoff a them.

For example a parent that has never smoked or drank no is talking to a rebellious teenager who both smokes and drinks. 

Better yet, which might be more common the child that you slaved to ensure that they had better opportunities than you have does not want to go to college becuase of peer influence.

Parenting is no easy task and lots of times the children challenge every wit moral and standard you have.

I have heard of parents that said if their child ever come home gay they would kill them.

Saying it is one thing, but living it out is a total other tory.

Remember these are the kids that you watched grow up. These same kids that you fed your food clothed with your clothes slept in your bed for years.

To suddenly and perfectly abandons them is out of the question. Not because your are not feeling hurt, but because ultimately what would abandoning them do?

Is there hope that they will stop the behavior when the only good in their life has left them tot he mercy of the world.

It is one thing for parents to have that challenge in America where the lifestyle is not just tolerated but legal.

Now Jamaica is probably dubbed the most homophobic place in all the world. Now consider the quandry that Jamaican parents find themselves in when their child comes out and says that they are gay.

A parent's world is turned upside down after such a confession. Life finance don't make sense after that...

What do you think?

I

Jamaican singers from the 1970's

I believe that the 70's was the era that music really took off in Jamaica. It was during this time that legends like Bob Marley Pluto Shrevington and Boney M shun the  most.

You might be wondering why document these songs. Once again in the general theme of this blog. If it is not written down somewhere , eventually it will be forgotten

If you think there are some singers or groups that I should have mentioned but did not

please list below in the comments section.

Be sure to check the year before you post your comments.

1.Jimmy Cliff

2.Burning spear

3.Peter Tosh

4.Toots and Maytals

5 Black Uhuru

6. Dennis Brown

7. Bunny Wailer

8.Gregory Isaacs

9. Lee "scratch' Perry

10. Desmond Decker

Jamaican Libraries

Back in the day people used to use the library as a meeting place. Forget about the  wealth of books that were present filled with interesting things to learn.

High school students just wanted to meet their friends after school in a somewhat safe environment, where they can hang out for a while.

I once went to the library during high school to do some research on a topic and my friends used to opportunity to hit on girls and goof off. 

I was somewhat disappointed that I did not get to do any work at the library with my friends, was I being naïve?

I may have been, nevertheless, the whole landscape of libraries have changed.

The last time I remember going to the library for a book was during the early 2000's when I was in college. I checked out a couple of books for a research paper that I was doing. My paper had to include a least 5 book in my references. That was the assignment.

I recently moved into an area and I was surprised at the number of books that I had in my possession that I simply don't use anymore. I just put them in the library's book drop.

I was surprised when I visited that library not long after and found that they had a sign that they don't need any more books.  Can you imagine?

A library refusing books.

Since my time in college a visit to the library has been about using their internet on my personal computer. 

The library to me is just a place to access wifi and read quietly.

In a few years these places may be extinct as people do all the research they need on the internet via their phones.

Do you think differently? If so please comment below.

Punjabi's and Jamaican

 

I wonder if there is such a combination.

I met some Punjabi's the other day, and I am convinced that these are the most accommodating people i have ever met.

I know that Indians tend not to marry out of their tribes, but I was just  wondering, especially since so many of them have migrated too the US, has any of them hooked up with a Jamaican?

If so please share the story.

Jamaican Gospel Singers

When I was a child the favorites were:

The grace Thrillers.

Carlene Davis

I know since then there have been many many more gospel artists that have popped up, like

I know we can now add

Pappa san

Lt Stichie

In my day  some of these artists used to sing secular music. I don't doubt the conversion may be real, but it is undeniable that tha was a radical shift in the genre of music being sang.

Who are your favorites?  

Jamaican Talk shows

 

When I was growing up there was a talk show that aired every evening to bring on the cartoons. It was called "Evening time." Is this even still on tv?

Mind you this was when Jamaica only had 1 tv channel. I think by now much has changed.

Do they still have a morning show and an evening show. If so how popular are these shows?

There were several talk shows that used to air on the radio. I remember very vividly Wilmot Perkins being the host of one of them. Are there any more such radio shows that allows the peoples voices to be heard? If so, what are their names? 

Chocolate tea in Jamaica

 

I was watching a program on how chocolate is made and I was surprised that the tree that I grew up knowing as the cocoa tree is actually the cacao tree.

To add to the confusion, this tree is the source of cocoa used to make a variety of drinks and snacks.

I was like what is the point of having the spelling so close?

On another totally related topic I remember waking up to the smell of the cocoa tea, which grand ma took all day to make.

First she picked the ripest of the cocoas she found

then she would dry the seeds

The then roasted the seeds

Then she crushed them

she used to knead them together to use later for tea. 

Do you remember how it is made? Did I miss anything..let me know in the comments section below.

Jamaican Tireshops

 It's funny how the  tire shops on the side of the road work.

I wanted to highlight a couple of the shops that I had been to in Jamaica, but then the names slipped me.

Did you visit any great tires hops that you want to give a shout out to?

A Rhyme about the Jamaican water company

I thought I would get a poem about A Jamaican water bottling company. Let me know what you think.

In Jamaica, a water promotion did glow,
It was dubbed the "Bob Marley's Flow," 

And it had lots of  jokes in tow.
Each bottle was  waterlogged and fun,
Bringing laughter to all under the sun.

Tourists marveled at this island delight,
Hydration and humor, a perfect flight.
With every sip, they felt the vibe so grand,
Jamaican spirit, spreading across the land.

The water, so refreshing and bright,
In Bob Marley's Flow, was taking its flight.

Just think what this or that old timer would say

We used to drink water straight from the pipe back in the day

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I visited the island recently and was astonished to find that bottled water companies were thriving there.

I am not sure if this is just a concept imported from overseas or there is a legitimate need for this system since the water quality has diminished.

Do you know the real story?

Jamaican Real Estate Agents

 Jamaican realtors bring Caribbean flair to property transactions, blending laid-back island vibes with professional expertise. Picture them, sipping coconut water while negotiating deals under swaying palm trees. With a knack for hospitality, they'll charm you into buying that beachfront villa with promises of endless reggae rhythms drifting through open windows. Need a tour of the neighborhood? No problem, mon! They'll whisk you away in a colorful Jamaican taxi, regaling you with tales of Bob Marley's favorite haunts along the way. Just beware: if they flash that irresistible smile, you might find yourself signing on the dotted line faster than you can say "irie."

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I saw this ad with a real estate agent and I thought it was funny. I was looking to see if I could find it again...but it was gone..

Jamaican Secret recipes

 If you have not figured out by now, I'm from the era that there were no smart phones. As a child I used to visit my Grandmother is the rural St Mary. ( I make mention of the beginning of my life in the blog post about the (Testimony of one Jamaican).

Grandmother would love to cook and bake and she had a drawer in the buffet with her special recipes. 

Mind you as a child when I looked at these recipes it just looked like a bunch of wrinkled paper. However later I came to find out that these wee actually grandma's secret recipes.

I ran across some of her recipes and decided that I would share.

Just in case you're wondering Grandma is long dead, but I guess by me putting up her recipes, her cooking style will live on

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Grandma's Christmas Cake

1 pound Margarine

1 pound dark sugar

4 eggs

1/2  tsp vanilla

4 tsp baking powder

6 cups flour

1 / 1/2 tsp mixed spice

8 tablespoon browning

3-5 cups red wine

1 pound mixed fruit blended

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Grandma's Banana bread

3- Ripe bananas

1/2 cup butter

3/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2/ cups flour

1tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 cup chopped nts

1/2 cup raisons

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Grandma's Oatmeal Cookies

1 1/2 Cup- Flour

3/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/4 cup sugar

1 - egg

1 tsp- vanilla

2 1/2 cup Oats

1 cup - butter

The New Jamaican Bob Marley movie

 I have not seen the movie yet, however it is receiving lots of media attention. Not to mention the iconic status that the actors depicting the lives of Rita and Bob Marley have achieved.

I have always been a fan of buying Jamaican, and now that such a beautiful product is coming from the island depicting the real Jamaican culture. It is definitely a must see.

It is just a pity that the entire cast could not have been Jamaican.

There was lots of Jamaican talent included in the film and I really like knowing that local talent was employed.

It is a win, although some may call it a small one, but it is a win nonetheless. I hope this will be a step in the direction of not only exploiting Jamaican acting talent, but also the the broad scale launch of a film industry from the island.

There have been several African movies circulating in the US, I long to see Jamaican share in this expedition as well.

After all we are not short of talent.

What are your thoughts? 

How to ship directly to Jamaica from Amazon

 I have never done this but I am sure it can be done.

So how do you get that product that you have been eyeing on Amazon to your door step in Jamaica?

Believe it or no the answer is simple. All you have to do is contact Amazon's global service and ship to them. They will make the arrangements to get that product to your door step.

There is actually another blog that goes into more detail about this. Check it out here.

https://www.joyofcreating.org/does-amazon-ship-to-jamaica/

Jamaican Obituaries

So in my travels I came across this one interesting parting poem written by Anne Lindgren Davidson's poem "I am Free!". It is probably very well known by now, however I feel I should still create a celebratory post for this poem because of the sentiments it expresses.

If you have come across some interesting parting poems please feel free to jot below.

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Here is another one. This one is entitled if tomorrow starts without me by David Romano.

When Tomorrow Starts Without Me When tomorrow starts without me, And I’m not there to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes All filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry The way you did today, While thinking of the many things, We didn’t get to say. I know how much you love, me, As much as I love you, And each time you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand, And said my place was ready, In heaven far above And that I’d have to leave behind All those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, A tear fell from my eye For all my life, I’d always thought, I didn’t want to die. I had so much to live for, So much left yet to do, It seemed almost impossible, That I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, The good ones and the bad, The thought of all the love we shared, And all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday Just even for a while, I’d say good-bye and kiss you And maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized That this could never be, For emptiness and memories, Would take the place of me. And when I thought of worldly things I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did My heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heaven’s gates I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne. He said, “This is eternity, And all I’ve promised you. Today your life on earth is past But here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, But today will always last, And since each day’s the same way, There’s no longing for the past. You have been so faithful, So trusting and so true. Though there were times You did some things You knew you shouldn’t do. But you have been forgiven And now at last you’re free. So won’t you come and take my hand And share my life with me?” So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, For every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart. 

. 

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Things every Jamaican should do at least once.

It is not uncommon to hear that those who have visited the island have visited the Montego or Ocho Rios Resorts. However there are people living on the island who have not visited these areas not even once.

While it may cost a handsome penny, each person living on the island should strive to experience the best of the island by visiting these resort at least once.

There should be no Jamaican that has never visited the beach. The island is simply too small to not have visited the beach. 

Where I am living now, it take a full 2 hours to drive to the beach.

While I was living in Jamaica I don't think it took me more than an hour to drive to a popular beach destination. 

It goes without saying that if you can't go the the fancy resorts you should at least have visited a local beach at least once.

On that note, "what is with us Jamaicans?"

Although Jamaica is a small island surrounded by water and feature many rivers, there are so many of us that cannot swim.

What is it with that? Is this a prime example of "nearer to church farer from God? 

Things every Jamaican should know

I was talking to a person recently who referred to themself as Jamaican. However I was appalled that the did not know the basics about the island; like how many heroes there are and what is the name of the National anthem. They had the accent so i did not doubt that they were native tot he island. But surely they lacked patriotism. How can you call your self Jamaican and not know the national emblems? I think such a person should not call themself Jamaica, what do you think? As it relates to the title I beleive that the every Jamaican should know these things. If you think I have missed a few items, please feel free to jot in the commnets section below. Every Jamaican should know: Some history about the island (not necessarily aout the Carib Idians but some history) What are the national emblems What are the National Colors What is the name of the Prime Minister of the island The name of the Chief of Police How many parishes are in the island What is a bulla How to speak the Language

Jamaican Old Boys association

 This is not as repulsive as it sounds. Maybe.

In Jamaica when a student graduates from a Educational high school system, (usually -all boys) they are called the old boy from the schools.

I was surprised to find out that there are many organizations out there.

Although I am biased towards this one, Kingston College has a very prominent Association, both in the the US and in Jamaica.

It is a little intimidating to go these function, especially when you don't consider yourself successful.

You wan to stay isolated in your little corner having never to answer the questions "What are you doing with yourself these days?"

It's exactly like going to your high school reunion, with the exception that it is not just one school year that is coming together but all who are moved to do so. The teachers, coaches well wishers of all walks of life from different years often show up to these meetings.

I know they meet once a year in a venue of choice, a person only has to search for it on the web to find the next meeting. It is indeed commendable that the school  has even organized a facebook group so that all may stay informed with happenings at the school.

From what I can remember these meetings are a blast as you get to relive those youthful years when you run into classmates. It's actually quite entertaining to watch, as grown men, some boasting white beards, act like teenagers and make immature jokes as they interact with each other.

Can you think of any reason to go to your high school reunion, if you don't consider yourself successful?

Fifo Dido in Jamaica

 

Does any one remember the famed cartoon character that advertised 7up?

It was all the craze back then. Boys in my classroom used to draw the character, just because they could.

It is funny how this character just vanished. Maybe its owing to the fact that the drink is not as popular as it once was. 

While I am on an old Jamaican cartoon, it was be remiss to not mention Kool cat from D&G soft drinks on this totally Jamaican Blog.

Do they still use that icon?

No I'm n

Jamaican birds

 

I was thinkin that the only bird indigenous to Jamaica was the national bird the humming bird. However when I did a search I found that there were over 42 species of birds that are native to the island.

Jamaica is truly a blessed place.

Did you know that so many birds called Jamaica home?

Jamaican Hairstyles

Nothing beats the good old weave and wig.

It is funny how women hair styles have basically remained the same over the years, but men have been cutting an styling and coloring their hair in many creative ways.

Do you agree with me that women hair has remained the smae?

Universal Jamaican saying

 Are there any words that you hear Jamaicans use whether in song or everyday talk that is actually used correctly?

Well  just recently I was listening in on a conversation and hears the term "coot" come up. 

I went to do some research on the word and was surprised that the word was actually used correctly.

Definition of coot

noun

1. an aquatic bird of the rail family, with blackish plumage, lobed feet, and a bill that extends back on to the forehead as a horny shield.
2. a foolish or eccentric person, typically an old man.

There are other terms, that come to mind that Jamaican slaughter, and are not used correctly.

Take for example the first printed front page article in the Jamaican Gleaner about the killing of Phillip by the notorious gangster Wappy.

Although the expression is usually used correctly the words uttered are never usually correct. For the most part the name Phillip is brutally mispronounced.

There is also other theories, to follow this you can watch this video below.

Jamaican Garbage Disposal

 Collecting the garbage in Jamaica has always been a 3 man job. Two on the back and a driver.

However here in the states we have only one man picking up the garbage and driving the truck. This is all done with mechanizations attached to the truck. Will Jamaica ever import these trucks or better yet order some of these trucks, so that garbage can be picked up efficiently?

Apart from D&G are there any other recycling plants in Jamaica that are concerned about he environment.

Truly Jamaica is a nice play to live, but if the garbage situation is not addressed soon it will become one great dump.

What are you thoughts?

Jamaican Relics

 I was delighted to find out that the "Hope zoo" is still operational and they still provide viewing of exquisite animals.

I raise my glass to the management of this long time Jamaican Relic. Thank God for the investors and managers that has kept this Jamaican Relic going.

Common Jamaican Household items

 There were several products that I used as a child that I wonder if they are still available. Namely

Sudsil

Blue Bomber

Ajax bleach

Since the Grace company is still around I'm guessing all the Grace products that I used as child are still around.

I made a post about some of the old advertisements that were used to market these products.

Are there any products that you can think of that were around as a child but are no longer available?

Different ways Jamaicans play with marbles.

 As a child I never grew to like this game because when I would flick the marble

 it would peel the skin back at the edge of my fingernail. 

It was a game however that I loved to watch. I learned the rules of the  of two games I will share that below.

If you know of any more games that are played with marbles, please feel free to share below.

Game 1

Each person comes to the game with the intention to win marbles. ( a little like gambling)

A ring is drawn on the ground with chalk a stick or anything that is available. In that ring a choice of marbles are placed. Each person takes turn to throw their playing marble close to the ring.  The objective is to get marbles out of the ring. Whatever is hit out of the ring is pocketed.

If you marble lands in the ring you would technically lose a turn since your thrown piece now becomes a part of the marbles to win, and you have to throw again when it would have been your turn to play.

To keep in the game you have to have marbles in the ring. If all your marbles have been taken out you have the option to put more marbles in the ring or drop out of the game.

But this was the long way. the short way was just to hit your opponents piece that way you could take out their marbles out of the ring. Because of this rule nobody usually wanted to throw first.

It was usually determined by drawing straws, or by age or height.

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Game 2 was a little less popular.

The objective of this one was to score points.

The game starts where players throw their marble from a starting spot then taking turns try to hit their opponents piece.

Every hit gets one free play.

Double points if your opponent's playing marble is broken.

Some boys would cheat by using steel marbles to play.

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If I have not mentioned the rules of the marble game you used to play, please do share.

Jamaican Dad Jokes

 Before there were named Dad's jokes", some used to label them "Frequently asked Questions" or FAQs.

Some of these have become very popular on the internet, others not so much. These are  just the ones I can remember from my childhood. Please feel free to leave the ones you can remember from your childhood in the comment section below.

Q. What do you call a Jamaican without a nose or a body?

A. Nobody knows

Q. What is so delicate that if you say it's name you break it?

A. Silence

Q. Why do zebras have stripes?

A. To confuse their enemies.

Q. Why did the bee get married?

A. He found his new honey

Q. What did the carpet say to the floor?

A. Don't move I got you covered

Q. Why do bees have sticky hair?

A. Because they be using honey combs.

Q. Why was six afraid of seven?

A. Because seven eight ate) nine

Q. Why did the chicken cross the road?

A. The same reason you do, to get to the other side.

Q. What do you call two people who would like to run away and get married but cant?

A. Cant-elopes

Q. What is black and white and Read all over?

A. The news paper

Q. Why did the detectives stay in bed?

A. They wanted to stay under-cover.

Q. Why did big boy tip toe past the medicine cabinet?

A. Because he did not want to wake the sleeping pills

Q.

A.

Iconic Jamaican characters

I know the sketches I am about to mention have probably been discontinued a long time ago. It is probably the case that even the actors who play the roles mentioned might themselves have passed. Neveretheless I think it would be remiss to make a  list of  famous Jamaican actors and not give a shout out to the characters they played.

 Mrs. Uptown.

Titus

Jukky Jam

I know I did not name them all, but keep it going. Which character did you watch as a child that made an impression on you?

Jamaican mornings

Back in the 1980s and even part of the 1990s it was common place to hear roosters announce that morning was here.

This is only the case in some rural places now as it seems that all the roosters 🐓 have gone extinct.

If you live in a place where roosters are still heard in the morning  please comment below.

How to make classical Jamaican toys

 Did you use the following toys as a child. If so do tell how you built them.

Gig

Skate

I did not find the instructions to build the toy that I know. However upon searching YouTube I found that there is a very similar item built in Africa even till present day that has evolved into a very necessary part of everyday life. In Jamaica back in the 80's and 90's we referred to it as a skate. Here they call it a scooter.

Here is the video below. There are tons of video online of them using the gadget, but this was the only one that O found where they actually built it on screen.

  

Box truck

If I have left out an old favorite please feel free to jot it down in the comments and I will ensure to add it.

The Jamaican teacher problem

 I still don't understand it. How can a profession as important as a teacher be undermined under paid for so many years?

It seems that no matter where you look, i.e. in countries al around the world the cry is the same.

There is a shortage of teachers because of the pay offered. While some will accept the pay because of a love for kids, sometimes the love grow cold. No doubt, additional compensation would only sweeten the pot.

Here is the solution I propose. Each athlete in the world should sponsor a teacher's salary. Especially those who make millions a year. Raise base salary of teachers to US$100,000.

No more teacher shortages, because the funding would be available to pay teachers. 

Call it the teacher tax. 

What do you think about my solution?

What Jamaicans used to know

There are things in society that somehow is an awakening to the reality that you really are old. Just recently I was reading and I recognize that there are things that I was used to use as a child that are distant history. 

For example, the rewinding of a cassette tape with a with a pencil, or dial up internet. I don't know if the current youth of the day will even know what that is like to actually get up to change your TV channels. As funny as it may sound, this was something that I was used to as child.

You know to come a little closer home. You know to pass the time. Almost every woman in Jamaica knew how to crochet or how to knit.  I don't even know if that's a thing anymore.  You'll probably find some crocheting and knitting, but it seems that soon it will be a thing of the past. Maybe just maybe in the tourists  areas and sites tour sites there are some who still do it.

Can anyone confirm this is the case?

Probably even sewing in general is going to be a thing of the past because who has time to sew and the stitch anymore? I mean I went to men's warehouse recently and they still have a tailor on site so I guess that is something that will never grow old. But man I remember those when those things were commonplace for the for the everyday housewife.

As our picture above implies, there are methodologies of making tea and food that have gone extinct. The older generation is dying out and with them the knowledge of how things used to be done naturally.

What things do you know that have come and gone simply because there's no more need of it.

Old Jamaican Toys

 As technology slowly takes over the world, everything becomes digitized even the toys used in Jamaica is affected technology. Are the days truly gone when children would use their creativity to make manually operated toys to entertain themselves?

Nowadays it is  commonplace to hear a child say he or she is bored. We as adults should realize that this is just a cry that they need something to do. 

When I was a child you know your creativity was your best friend and you would use your creativity to make toys for your entertainment. So you were never really bored at any time

There are toys that we enjoyed as children that I don't think the present Jamaican youth will ever really appreciate. I watched a couple of videos online and I see that some of the toys I am referring to was actually were made in other countries. For example the skate where you get a an old bearing to use as a wheel for a make shift bike. See picture below.

I Africa it is called a scooter and there are many images on youtube and the like that show pics of it.

How can we ever forget the classical box truck. Oh my goodness that was all the rave to see who could fix up  their box truck or car the best. 

Not to mention the bottle stopper games.

As a child I used bottle stoppers to play soccer using an old shirt button as the ball. Is this still done by anyone?

If you couldn't get enough bottle stoppers to make a full 11th side team, there was always money football. I think this must still be employed by the youth of today.

 But then again maybe not because all the games are on phones.

We have two large coins hitting a small account and you use the fudge sticks to do it move the pieces taking turns to play. 

You know those were the days. Then you have the gig. You know how many times would you'd wrap the gig out around and you know throw it on the floor just to see it spin out.

I guess the toys that evolved from this one are the fidget spinner and the yo-yo. The yoyo is probably still around, cause I have seen some kids play with it. But I remember when there was the Coca-Cola competition in Jamaica then yoyos were all the craze . 

What toys did you use as a child that you no longer see being used?

The most expensive houses in Jamaica

 

It wasn't unitl I migrate into the states that I understood that there were building codes and a team of enforcers for this.

In Jamaica at teh house where I lived for 7 years we just modified the property as we saw fit. Afterall we were paying for the house and the house technicqlly belonged to us.

I think this is the typical mindset of every Jamaican. Just recently (2023) I visited Jamaica and was shown some grandeus houses that had 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. 

I thought to myself surely some "Big Shot" must live here. Afterall who needs so many bedrooms and bathrooms except the very rich.

I was made to understand tht it belonged to a taxi driver who had 4 adult daughters living with him.

"How much money must this taxi man be making?" I thought. 

My Jamaican companion told me, "no more than regular!" 

I was amazed, "Then how was he able to build this mansion of a house?" I enquired.

"Oh Likkle likkle. It was orinally a 2 bedroom 1 bathroom house. But over time theyy added the additional bedrooms and bathrooms.

It is quite posible that the most expensive house in the island does not belong to a wealthy person, but instead a family that stuck together and transformed their little home into some thing grand.

Don't get me wrong I know the DJ's and entertainers build nice expensive houses with all the latest fixtures, however I'm sure John Average is still competing with those house becasue there are not as many enforcers in Jamaica as there is in the States.

What are your thoughts on the subject?

The Jamaican Environment

 

There is a tendency to highlight the worst when talking about a country's environmnet. Hopefully I  can get some people to highlight the gold old things about this country.

I'm talking about the economic climate. Although the scenario is the same for this. I'm not talking about the work ethic of the people nor am I talking about the genral climate of the island. 

When I say environment here, I'm talking about the general culture of the people. The usual tendencies.

Here is your chance to say what you think is good about the island.

If you rely on the news only you get, such a glum sorry story is usally presented; and it is the case that no where on Earth is all bad.

There is a little gem which goes...

                                                There is so much good in the worst of us 

                                                And so much bad in the best of us

                                                That it little becomes any of us

                                                To speak ill of the rest of us.

Usually when I think of the Jamaican environment I think of downtown Kingston. But is downtown kingston really a good representation of the island?

Usually in the local news they highlight the tourist areas as the best spots. Is that truly the case though.

Jamaican swamps

 

I remember many years ago there was the boy who strayed too far into swamp lands in St Catherine and was eaten alive by an alligator. The news made JBC now the famed TVJ. 

At the time I was wondering," why this little boy went into the swamps alone?" However I know the answer. Children will just be children, sometimes doing the things that their parents warned not to. Sometimes they escape, and in this case sometimes the don't escape the foreseen danger that parents warn about. Unfortunately this little boy paid for his stupidity with his life.

Does anyone remember this story?

On another note the place where I now live in the states has been zoned a wetland (swamp). However builders are buying it out in droves. They have been dumping it out and building houses like crazy. I can't help but wonder where does the wild life go that once inhabited these wetlands. Occasionally I will drive by and see all types of animals lying on the road slaughtered but I'm still wondering, probably hoping that some have made a seamless transition to other lands. But the rate at which these houses are going up it has become a little concerning to me. 

What will happen when all these wetlands are converted into a concrete jungle?

I did a little research and found that my speculation was right.

All these wetlands do act as a healthy habitat for several animals, and as the wetlands are destroyed, so too is the livelihood of the animals.

When will construction be enough? 

I know that in Jamaica several wetlands were converted into homes. While this maybe something good in the short run, is there an environmental factor that is not being considered?

I was happen to find out that the sale of one of Jamaica's islands (goat Island I think it is called) to China was turned down owing to environmental concerns. They had plan to bring in heavy construction equipment and convert the island into a port, but the environmentalists one this time.  I'm not sure they will always win this fight because construction always goes on.

 The story is no different in the states. I was surprised to find out that the Continental United states still has 55% of its land uninhabited, but will the construction ever stop? Are we truly stretching towards 100% inhabited?

Surely someone must see that this is not good, not just for the animals and the environment but for the people too.

A couple of  years ago we had a big rain event here and I was so surprised to see the amount of homes that went under water.

I had this colleague of mine tell me she went to bed as normal and woke up with a foot of water in her house. The nearby lake had overflowed right into her house.

No doubt her house was built in one of the wetland areas. This is where the water run off used to go, but since the swamps have been dumped up and built on, there is no where for the water to go but into the houses.

Thankfully I live at the top of a hill, so all the surrounding areas are going to be flooded before it gets to my house, but it does not give me a good feeling.

If all the houses around me were to flood, then my house would become an island, and I would not be able to get to and from the store.

These are my few thoughts.

Jamaican Dentists

 There are many revered practitioners in Jamaica. In my travels I have met two that I think are worthy of mention.

Namely Doctor Hunter and Beck who operate a private practice on the premises on Dental Associates located on Half Way tree Road.

These Dentists have been masters of their craft for many many years. I have personally known of people who travel from the States just to visit these Dentists, just because of the quality work performed.

In these days some dentists practice without licenses and their work is questionable. Ensuring that you come back so they can milk either your insurance or pocket.

I think that if you know any good Dentists you should give them a shout out and let them know they are appreciated.

Jamaican Puzzles

 

I don't know of any Jamaican puzzles, do you?

I'm sure that with the technological advances in the world and consequently in Jamaica there are somethings that Jamaican have invented that have gone world wide.

But I just don't what.

What about you? Do you know any different than I?

Jamaican Universites

 

How much do you know about Jamaican Universities?

There are two prominent University of The West Indies (UWI) and University of technology (U-tech). I'm not sure if they are privately run or public at this point. All I know is that the school fees are astronomical. 

I don't think John average can attend these universities without some serious financial connections.

Has there been a move to connect the poor man with the learning opportunities offered on these campuses.. 

Why is it always the case that it takes someone outside of the local community to discover the treasures that we have on this island.

Maybe we will sell it like we did all our other treasures on the island.

There should be honorary mention of the colleges on the island.

No doubt they have helped "John Average" to achieve financial stability in the island and get the desired educational status needed.

What do you have to say about this? 

Adult entertainment in Jamaica

 No this is not what you think it is. However no doubt the sex industry is a big topic, but one I will talk about in another posting.

When I say the Adult entertainment industry, I am actually talking about gaming. The gaming industry no doubt has taken a strong hold of people of all ages.

As a result there is a massive money making app industry on cell phones. I have been often playing a game on my phone only to see an advertisement for another game pop on on my phone. Like "Gee Whiz!" How many games can I play in a single day?

It would seem that the advertising industry does not care that you may be limited to 24 hours. Some of which you have to use to eat sleep and travel. Maybe they have more than 24hrs in their day.

Probably they want to capitalize on those extra seconds we get that is the cause of our leap year for our calendar. Whatever the their reason no doubt there is no shortage of ads.

The thing is that we have been made to see more ads on our games because each games features ads. The more games you have the more likely you will see more ads.

Sometimes these ads are aggressive and won't close either. Talk about forceful advertising. Makes me go hmm should I even have this many games on my phone.

However you can't blame the advertisers. The want to get their products in front of eyes, and there is no other place which eyes are glued more than to devices these days.

In times gone by it was the television, hence the reason for the story "county of the one eyed giant. But now we have another one eyed giant aking over our society and it is our cellphones.

The struggle to keep our eyes off our phones have become even greater, with the introduction of such apps as YouTube. Now endless eyes are glued to their phones all day long.

Which brings me to the topic at hand.

In times gone by games and to a lesser extent television were things associated with children, but now everyone is playing games. And with the introduction of the different gaming consoles; adults have been incorporated into the gaming industry.

It seem that the marketing strategy is to not get weaned from the games. 

When I was young it was Contra , Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat that were the games for teens. I am surprised that these games are still around and are still being played, by the same kids now grown to be adults. There has been so much more added in to that genre of gaming. I hear Grand Theft Auto  is all the craze now.

Talk about a successful marketing plan. Not losing the existing customers while gaining plenty of new ones.

I think it is this very concept that Apple has employed why their phones are still being used today.

No doubt the Android has more apps and  features but still there is a loyalty to I-phones because apple chose to market to the young.

But we will see how long this will last, as Android continues to create bigger and better phones.

At the time of me writing this Apple still has not put out a foldable phone, but their process are still competing with the other android devices.

We will see how long it takes the I-phone users to catch on.

What are your thoughts on the android vs iPhone battle? 

Homosexuality in Jamaica

 If this site is truly to be all things Jamaican, I guess I have to express my views on this as well.

I know we are heading towards the conditions that were in Sodom and Gomorrah, because the bible says so.

Its just interesting to see how it is that the minority has slowly taken over the majority.

In the words of a pastor that I listen to "It is one thing to have the blind lead the blind, but it is all together a travesty when the blind lead the sighted."

This is all I have to say for now.

Father's day in Jamaica

"Like what!? Father's day! I never knew they had a day."- said no one ever. Well maybe it was said before the day actually existed, but no one probably said that following the day's commemoration.

Then again I might be wrong. What I am sure about though is that the day for the mothers is generally more celebrated and recognized than the day for fathers generally is.

Although even this is changing. As society experiences a shift, more and more fathers are being celebrated and father's day is actually becoming a thing.

I wonder with the discussion that are looming about gender identity, will these days come under attack as well?

The latest and greatest cell phones in Jamaica

 I know there is a booming market for cell phones in Jamaica, but do they have all the new ones that are in the states?

What are your thoughts?

Jamaican Apps

 I have left the island many many years ago; when beepers were still a thing and the Nokia cellphone was the phone of choice. The only colors on the screen then were black writing against the green background. Something similar to what's shown below.

I know we have jumped leaps and bounds since then. But I'm curious, is there any one phone dominating the phone market and what about apps?

Are there any truly Jamaican apps servicing the Jamaican population?  If you know any do tell.