Roatan Vortex© – It Pulls You in and You Never Want to Leave

The popular ‘reality’ TV series Survivor depicts contestants hanging out in the jungle and on a beach enduring the heat and humidity, getting by with limited resources (stuff), and vying for position in a tribe. Although it may never qualify to become a series on TV my ‘reality’ couldn’t be more opposite. Here’s what I’m doing now that I’ve chosen to vote myself off the Island of Roatan.

Lack of moisture in the air and keeping all the windows closed to hold in the heat don’t sit well with me; nor does readopting old, hard to break habits. Implementing and/or installing the following have helped immensely.

Environment /Physical
• Portable steamer – You know, the kind you bring out when someone in the house has a stuffy nose and you slather some menthol goop on the vent. Not wanting my home to smell like a box of cough drops I skip that part, but I do have the steamer going all day and all night; whatever room I’m in, so is the steamer; churgling out a warm, humid mist.
• Humidifier on the Furnace – that is in addition to (not instead of) the steamer. I haven’t noticed a dramatic result from having this going, but I’m sure if it wasn’t I’d get a static shock when I touched something metal or I’d hear a crackling sound coming from the cat’s fur when I pet her.
• Sauna – At least once a day for 30 minutes at a time. This was the most costly (but worthwhile) measure. It takes about the first 15 minutes to get a sweat going while pouring water on the lava rocks and the temperature gage reads close to 120 F. The first time I used the sauna I was disappointed; what the heck good is sitting in an overheated cedar box gonna do me? But, oh my… once I was finished the session, my skin actually felt soft and supple like skin can and should!
• Window open, Fan on – That’s right! To ensure a good night sleep I plug in the steamer (of course) at the foot of the bed; open the window—just an inch or so, no I’m not trying to heat the outside; turn on the overhead fan and snuggle down under a heavy comforter. Air circulation, humidity, and warm ahhhh—works for me.

Environment /Emotional
• Tropical Plants and fresh cut flowers – Okay, not quite the same as when they grew wild all around me, but waking up to gaze at potted greenery and colourful blooms beats the heck out of glancing at blank corners.
• Sunshine – The sun is shining! The sun is shining! I’m not a fan of going out in the cold but do make a point of getting out there on the rare occasions when the sun isn’t hiding behind bleak cloud-cover. Facing the glowing ball of light, my eyes wide open, a silly grin on my face soaking in that natural vitamin D. And even when the sky is grey all curtains and blinds are opened wide from early morning to night encouraging every spec of light to come oooon in!

Diet and Health
• Groceries – My favourite place to buy fruits and veggies is at the Asian Market, oh sure, they don’t offer the same vast selection as the large supermarkets do, and an abundance of blemishes and soft spots will be found—but just as I discovered when I lived on Roatan… it’s real food!
• Exercise – Not nearly as much as I should, real easy to not bother when every day I’m wearing twenty (okay, I’m exaggerating) layers of clothes and can’t see the jiggly bits.

Attitude – This is by far the hardest to maintain while being the most important. Pretty much every day a stack of flyers (enticing me to buy stuff) can be found jammed in my mailbox. I transfer them to the recycling bin without a glance. I avoid conversations that rate my (or anyone else’s) value based on what my job is, what neighbourhood I live in, or who I associate with. I try to not be late for anything I’ve committed to attend, but don’t book up my schedule just to keep busy.

When I first moved back to Canada, I caught myself flipping through the pages of those flyers pondering purchasing things I in no way needed. I seriously reconsidered that my value was based on external factors; easy enough to happen when taught from an early age these are the things that matter, but I know in my heart-of-hearts Just Being is all that matters. As for keeping busy for the sake of being busy; I may not need to keep room in my day for an impromptu visit to the beach, but I’m not rushing around trying to fill up time just surviving either. A Roatan Vortex state of mind is mine to keep no matter where I am!

Be sure to stop by Castle Muse oh sure, I’m not done building it yet, but worth a peak and while you’re at it how about clicking on the like button at Castle Muse on Facebook staying connected with Roatan Vortex family and friends makes me smile!

Okay, so I had said my previous story here at RoatanVortex.com was going to be my last posting, but what can I say… a wave of homesickness washed over me the other day.

It had nothing to do with the fact that the temperature read as a negative number or hearing the sound of tires spinning, outside my home, on the snow, compressed to a layer of hard packed ice on the roadways.

It had nothing to do with getting ready to go out for a while and having to pull on a bulky jacket, scarf, gloves, a toque to swaddle my head, or sitting on the bottom step in the front hall tugging boots over thick socks entombing my protesting toes.

It had nothing to do with moving the portable humidifier from room to room trying to maintain at least a hint of moisture in the air, or the stockpile of lotions and creams stacked on the bathroom counter that I need to slather on dry and chapped skin—in spite of the claims made by the manufactures that if I use their product my skin will never go flaky.

And it had nothing to do with noticing the weak sunlight emitting from the hazy orange ball suspended in the frosty afternoon sky and wondering—what’s that? Or realizing that I am gazing longingly at the potted herb plants on the kitchen counter not because I’m trying to decide what will go best in an omelette but solely because they’re green and alive and… plants.

I was homesick for my Island family and friends!

Since moving back to my hometown in Canada, I’m learning to cope with the conditions that I have no control over; weather, sleeping vegetation and minimal sunlight. And I’m appreciating advantages I haven’t experienced for a few years. I haven’t had to wipe mould off of anything, there is nary a hint of rust on the fridge needing to be hidden with a fresh coat of primer and none of the door knobs have fallen off because the lockset has crumbled away. There is no need to check under my pillow for scorpions, flick gecko poop off the freshly made bed or swat at the sand-flies nibbling on my ankles.

I’ve had the greatest pleasure of my son and grandkids stopping by and together we watch ‘Planet of the Apes’ on Netflix, getting together with my mom to work side by side on the book we are co-authoring, and spending an afternoon with my daughter when she drives down from Hanover and we go for lunch and shopping at the most exclusive boutique—Value Village! And most evening after a delicious home cooked meal, courtesy of my Steven, we snuggle on the sofa (yup, a real one) to watch a few episodes of our favourite HBO series, ‘Mad Men’.

Regardless of all that, I settled into my feeling homesick and longing for Roatan, wrapping it around me like a much needed fleece blanket to ward off the cold, at the same time the Roatan Vortex began pulling at me; warming me from the very core of my being. Now before you get any ideas, no, I’m not moving back to Roatan, but rather, re-embracing what I thought I had to give up. When I made the decision to move back to Canada there were many reasons (and there still are) but I thought I had to completely say goodbye to the Roatan Vortex; it had consumed an extraneous amount of my time when I lived on the Island and became a chore, a job, a, I thought I had to turn it into a business thing.

But, the thing is–the Roatan Vortex was never intended or destined to be any of those things—the Roatan Vortex is a state of mind!

A bunch of years ago I coined a phrase, “the Roatan Vortex—it pulls you in and you’ll never want to leave!” and I’ve come to realize that I don’t have to physically be on the Island to feel and share the positive effects—to stay connected with my Roatan family and friends. Although I won’t be posting stories nearly as often as I used to I still will be occasionally stopping by to say hi and satisfy my craving to blog. Time permitting I will also be re-launching the Roatan Vortex Book with a new look but exactly same content as I originally wrote it, plus additional bonus features! The RV Book will be available at my new website CastleMuse as a FREE downloadable ebook format and the book (paperback) edition will be available on-line to purchase at cost plus (of course) shipping. I also will bring books to the Island and donate them as prizes for various fundraisers—Clinica Esperanza Sundae by the Sea, Familias Saludables Sundays at Bananarama and others.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
If you’re in no hurry and can wait for my re-release of the Roatan Vortex Book… please do. I’ll announce it here at Roatan Vortex.com You may find (what appears to be) the book in its original state available for sale on the Island and floating around cyber-space. Thing is, even though it’s all my content and my name is on it—it’s not the real deal!

Now I’m not asking you to take sides or anything, heck, I’ve got a couple of ‘knock-off’ outfits in my closet, have watched a few illegally copied DVD’s and the sunglasses I bought on the beach may have the ‘Gucci’ logo embossed on the rim… but they sure aren’t ‘Gucci’.

On page 265 of the Tiny Buddha, Simple Wisdom for Life’s Hard Questions—by Lori Deschene, she asked: “What can we control in life?”

My answer: “The absolute only thing we can control in life is how we respond to everything we have no control of.”—@roatanvortex

I’ve got a lot of great things going on in my life that require my full attention right now, and other than the couple of weeks I’m going to spend (with Steven) enjoying the glorious warmth and sunshine on Roatan this month, I plan on taking full advantage of the cold dreary weather to keep me focused on writing content and recording audio books for my new website CastleMuse; that’s where I’m building the foundation for my ‘castle in the air’ while maintaining a Roatan Vortex state of mind.

Where I live, on Roatan, when I open the door to the bedroom there is an ancient termite trail etched into the floor–it’s only a couple of months old, but will be there for evermore. Perhaps scrubbing with a wire brush and a harsh chemical concoction will remove traces of it, but for me, in my minds-eye I will always see it–and that makes me happy–there was a time that I had no idea what a termite trail was, or how it may look.

More than seven years ago I heard the word Roatan, I had no idea what that was, but I was intrigued–why? I don’t know–I just was. Thanks to modern technology, I was able to Google it, which was a challenge in itself since I had no idea how to spell it. When sites started popping up describing an Island, off the coast of Honduras, nestled in the Caribbean Sea–I had found Roatan.

At that time I had a home (in suburbia Ontario, Canada), a loving husband, adult children making their own way, three amazing grandsons, a rewarding career, a two car garage, and a house full of–stuff–what more could I want.

Fast forward a year or so, family and friends had gotten very tired of hearing me talk of this Island I claimed I would be going to live on. My husband gently reminded me, while using a tone suitable for telling a two year old, no matter how hard you wish it–you will never be able to fly. He had no idea why, and tried to keep me grounded, but, he accepted what it meant to me–and encouraged my dream becoming a reality.

A year after that, I lost my beloved husband, his final words to me, “I’ll find a way to get you there.” For the next year I gave no conscious thought to Roatan, or anything for that matter. And then I came back to life and realized Roatan was patiently waiting for me. I quit my job, sold my house and all that stuff, said goodbye to my family and friends, boarded a plane and moved to Roatan.

My first encounter: stepping down a set of stairs that doubled as the door of a prop plane, to be greeted by a wall of humidity beyond anything I had ever experienced before, exiting through the only gate, to an area teeming with taxi drivers vying for my attention, followed by a drive through lush jungle, crowding the only paved road, to a village called West End. Along the way I saw: chickens scratching along the side, stray dogs, entire families on scooters, children walking along the edge of the road (no adults watching over them), land-crabs challenging each and every vehicle, and a man riding a bicycle balancing a propane tank on the handlebars.

My accommodations, at the time, I described as quaint, and now describe as typical. Honduran pine from ceiling to floor, a fan spinning in each room, no glass windows–just screens with wooden slats (that only a few of them will close), tropical print sarongs used as table cloths and wall decorations, a kitchen full of rusty utensils, a can opener that didn’t work, and ants. The bedding smelled musty, air-conditioning cost extra, and the TV worked–but everything was dubbed in Spanish.

I really had no idea why… but I had found… home!

That was almost five years ago. I settled in the community of Sandy Bay, and learned how to battle bats, got used to making the mad dash in the middle of the night to close the wooden slats as a “Nor-Easter” roared in, did the heebee-jeebee dance when a tarantula landed on my head, and marvelled every moment at the hoards of hummingbirds and butterflies greeting me when I sat on the porch.

I eventually found a place to buy coat hangers, and came to know the best place to buy pillows and Nutella was at the hardware store. I sat on a curb (of sorts) handing out melting chocolates to local children while my neighbour and I waited for the guy to take our flat tire, by taxi, to be fixed after we had finished grocery shopping and found the vehicle un-derivable.

Ants, of all sizes and varieties, iguanas, monkey lalas, gecko’s chirping and pooping in my home became my norm, as did mosquitoes, sand fleas, and ticks. I never did get used to and will always check under my pillow when I go to bed–for scorpions!

Power goes out: fill buckets from the soon to be empty pipes, forget about checking Facebook, and go read a book by candlelight.

The ATM’s are empty or broken–no shopping today.

The road is under repair, or there is a marching band blocking the only route–oh well, go hang out on the dock until it passes.

The president has been removed (in his pj’s) all Hondurans cheer, knowing that he was going to set democracy back. Watch in disbelieve as the rest of the world condemns the rightful and just actions of the Honduran Government–Learned that the world media agencies settle for nothing less than sensationalism to broadcast–making it up or abandon the story when there aren’t enough people suffering and dying to boost their ratings.

Felt the full force of a major earthquake (7.3) jarring all inhabitants of Roatan awake in the middle of the night. I watched in horrific fascination as an easel back mirror walked across my loft bedroom, while my few wine glasses smash to the floor in the kitchen below, and I couldn’t walk a straight line to escape my cabana that I was sure would collapse around me.

Spent the day shopping with friends, stepping in deep puddles, finding fresh strawberries at one of the grocery stores–bonus! Only to later wonder if I hadn’t picked through the basket of strawberries perhaps we wouldn’t have been the victims of a head on crash that should have killed us all. Time to put the medical care of Roatan through the paces; broken bones, concussions, black eyes (that would do any boxer proud) torn ligaments, whiplash, and a host of other injuries, all treated with compassion, dedication, and a strong medical knowledge–even when there was no running water in the Emergency Dept. and you had to bring your own sheets to the hospital.

Buy oranges from a street vendor, the ugliest looking fruit I’ve ever seen, cut into one and try a taste… as the perfect orange flavour bursts in my mouth, I now know what an orange should taste like, it may not be pretty, but it is real. Mangoes, bananas, sweet peppers, and carrots, from the fruit and veggie truck, rice & beans with most meals, seafood, fish, chicken, Honduran beef and pork, and coconut milk.

I had no idea that I would learn how to slow down, and enjoy each moment for what it was exactly at that moment. Standing in line for hours to complete the simplest of tasks… oh well… bring a book to read while waiting, or better yet chat with friends also waiting their turn. Have a plan to get things done in the afternoon but abandon that when the call goes out to meet friends at the beach instead.

I had no idea how many lifelong friends I would make on Roatan; we became family. Together we celebrated special occasions and the simple art of getting together–just because. Speed dial on every cell-phone guaranteed no matter what’s needed the entire community would answer the call.

I got involved with various projects and programs: Public Hospital Benefit Concert, Miss Peggy’s, Familia Saludabas, The Roatan Daycare, The French Harbour Public Library, and most recently The Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program; and learned what really matters in life–I had no idea, but quickly discovered they gave me far more than I could ever give them.

On Roatan time stands still, while things change so fast. Five years ago the Roatan Vortex© pulled me in, I had no idea what laid ahead for me, and I thank the Universe every day for the gifts bestowed on me. I discovered a passion for writing, and sharing on Roatan Radio. And the time has come for me to take those passions to a whole new level, I’ve known that for some time now, but have been afraid to move forward and act on it. Then I went to Spain… and while there I found true love. I suspected I would, but resisted, after all to be with my love means I will have to leave Roatan, I will have to return to Canada and a way of life that is now foreign to me… How could I leave Roatan? How could I consider moving backwards instead of forging forward?

Sitting on the balcony of my hotel room in Malaga Spain, unsure what to do, a book that I had been meaning to read for some time fell out of my suitcase when I reached in for a sweater to ward off the cooling evening. I started to read “The Alchemist” the tale of a young man who embarks on a journey, in a quest to fulfill his destiny. He travels far from home, a specific location etched in his mind where his treasure will be found. Along the route he gathers experiences, makes lifelong friends, assists those he can, and learns from those who know more than he. Only to discover–being willing to take the journey–was the treasure!

I’m not going backwards returning to Ontario. I take great pride in the journey I took to Roatan; all that I’ve learned, all the strength in myself that I could have only found here, the lifelong friends I have made, and knowing that if I choose to come here again I will be welcomed with open arms.

The time has come for me to wind down Roatan Vortex©. Just like so many things that came my way as a direct result of moving to Roatan, I have loved sharing the Roatan I have come to know and love with everyone. But I have put off concentrating on writing memoirs and novels in order to keep up with Roatan Vortex©. The good news though is that I will be starting a new website devoted to my first completed novel, Family by Choice© and others that I am working on.

And while the focus won’t be exclusively Roatan, there will be a broader overview of life in general, I think you will enjoy what I’ll be offering, links to The Roatan Vortex© Breakfast Program, and the Roatan Daycare will be carried over to the new site too. I’m not completely leaving Roatan Radio either, we are in progress of setting up for DJ Genevieve to narrate audio books, which will be aired on Roatan Radio in instalments and posted on my new website. Name & layout of the new website, dates & times for the new radio show, and assorted other details are yet to be worked out. I will update you as I have the info.

The day I arrived on Roatan almost five years ago I knew no one, DJ Genevieve and Roatan Vortex© were unimaginable dreams. Now, they are a part of my reality, known by many, more than three hundred thousand people have visited the Roatan Vortex© website, and read my stories about life on Roatan at Honduras Weekly, Trip Atlas, The Latin America Travel Blogger E-Book, Hecktic Travels, Tiny Buddha, and others. Even Fodor is including a couple of roatanvortex© quotes in their 2011 Honduras & Bay Islands Gold Guide!

Thursday, December 1, is my going away party, The Roatan Vortex Reversal Party, at Infinity Bay Resort, hosted by Roatan Radio, all are welcome, even Vladislav is stopping by to see me off.

 

 Vladislav: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

I’m happy, I’m at peace, and feel confident and strong about my decisions. Will there be hurdles, of course! Will I be freezing cold and my feet hurt squishing them in shoes & boots… oh yeah! Will I miss Roatan and everything it has meant to me–with all my heart–but I also know, I’ll be bringing the most important aspects of Roatan with me to Canada.

Listen in here to the final Roatan Vortex Hour Show broadcast live November 12, 2011 on 101.1 FM Roatan Radio.

This story can also be read at Honduras Weekly; retitled, I found Roatan

What did you have for breakfast today? That’s what I asked fellow Conference on Honduras attendees when I gave a presentation of the recently launched: Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program. The Conference was the 12th annual, held in Copan Ruinas, mainland Honduras. More than two hundred people attended the three day event, representing various organizations, or like myself, as an individual with an interest in participating in offering assistance to help the people of Honduras, help themselves.

I went on to ask, “Perhaps you had a croissant and glass of orange juice, a bowl of cereal, maybe you prefer something hardier to start your day, and go with the classic bacon and eggs.”

I then asked everyone, “How do you feel if you skip breakfast? You know those mornings when you’re running late, overslept the alarm, or looked in the fridge, the cupboard, glanced at the empty fruit basket on the counter… and realize you should have picked up a few groceries on your way home from work the day before…

So you head out, ignoring the grumbling in your stomach… you’ve got a lot on your agenda for the day… but somehow it just isn’t clicking… tasks that usually are second nature to you are daunting. Digesting what your Boss is saying isn’t happening… because your stomach is sending messages to your brain–give me some food to digest first, then you can listen to what your Boss is saying!”

We are all adults, have resources available to us, so we can choose to have breakfast (and be effectively productive) or we can choose to skip breakfast (and be less productive.)

But, what about children? Especially the children whose families don’t have the resources or funds to ensure their children have breakfast, before sending them off to school. Unfortunately, on Roatan there are a high percentage of children that is a daily reality!

Efforts are in place to ensure these children are benefiting from an education, but if they’re hungry how well are they able to digest what the teacher is instructing them on?

Numerous studies have shown that, “Missing breakfast and experiencing hunger impair children’s ability to learn.”
• Children who skip breakfast are less able to distinguish among similar images, show increased errors, and have slower memory recall.
• Children experiencing hunger have lower math scores.
• Behavioural, emotional and academic problems are more prevalent among children with hunger.

On the flip side: “Eating breakfast at school helps children perform better.”
• Children who eat breakfast at school–make fewer mistakes and work faster in math and number checking tests.
• Children perform better on tests of vocabulary and matching figures, after eating breakfast.
• Consuming breakfast improves children’s performance on demanding mental tasks and how they react to frustration.

The Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program, Roatan
I stopped by the Luisa Trundle School in Coxen Hole one day (a few months back) so that Val of Familias Saludables could give me the tour. I was very impressed with what I saw; well designed classrooms, a large courtyard, a play-ground with jungle gym equipment, and a sports-field–that the grass is now growing on thanks to the arrival of rainy season. I also noticed (what I would call in Canada) a Tuck shop, (known as a Comedor or perhaps Cantina here.) A few children were gathering around, purchasing snacks: junk food and soda pop.

I asked Val if nutritious foods were offered too, she let me know that the service was separate from the school, and although she had requested they did, the owners were supplying what the children were willing to pay for. She went on to say that it didn’t matter much since the majority of children attending the school couldn’t afford to purchase anything! And while some of the kids brought food with them to school, or ate breakfast before they came; quite a few of them had little, or NOTHING to eat most days.

You know how unexpected information stays with you–it swirls around in your head, day and night–until you act on it. All I could see in my mind’s eye was these amazing kids–wanting to learn–but some of them were coming to school–hungry! The scene had been set for them to have a future through an education–but hunger was denying them full benefit…

So I called Val, and asked if we could start a breakfast program at the school?

She immediately set to work; assessing costs, logistics, and ramifications–we had to revise the menu a few times; to stay within budget, and because it was (rightly) suggested that jumping right in to a full-fledge breakfast program could be overwhelming and confusing to the children and their parents.

How it works: Within a couple of weeks we were ready to go!

When the children arrive at school (between 6:30 and 7 AM) they are greeted (just inside the entrance to the courtyard) by grade 7 students manning the table; pouring glasses of milk, slicing the fruit of the day, spreading peanut-butter on toast or setting out healthy cookies or perhaps hardboiled eggs.

At first the children hesitated to take anything; fearing they would get in trouble when the time came to pay and they had no money. It took a fair bit of convincing that they didn’t have to pay–ever! The children are amazingly well disciplined in line–no pushing or shoving–some of them still are hesitant to take anything and have to be encouraged. The children who used to arrive just on time (or late) for class–are now coming in earlier too ensure they don’t miss out on breakfast.

There has been no need to control amounts–it seems to balance out that kids who are fed at home; either don’t take anything or take a small portion–while, kids who don’t get fed at home come back several times–it has also been noticed that occasionally a child will take something extra and hide it away for their lunch. That is totally okay and discreetly accepted.

To prepare for my presentation at the Conference on Honduras, I did some research to confirm the validity of operating a School Breakfast Program… Kind of like closing the barn door after the horse ran away. I was able to find many studies confirming that eating a nutritious breakfast improves the ability to learn.

I’m pleased to say, I did also find that many programs exist around the world–including developed countries. Unfortunately, I also found that although it is a known fact that children learn better with a full tummy–taking the initiative to set up programs is somewhat ignored, because the thinking is that it will be too costly to provide, and too difficult to organize and manage.

I’m proud to let you know they are wrong!

A need was realized and acted upon. Now, it helps tremendously to work with like minded people such as Val, and the staff, students and parents at Luisa Trundle School. Perhaps if a “proper study” had been done before launching the Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program, it wouldn’t have happened. I will admit as the sole sponsor, my only concern with proceeding was, “what if the funds run out before other contributors come on board?” I didn’t want to offer something that I would then have to renege on.

Fortunately, I ignored that little voice of doubt.

When potential food and milk suppliers were approached, their response couldn’t have been more positive: discounts on already well priced produce, half price milk, and dozens of eggs for less than a dollar a dozen–to name just a few. Keeping the menu flexible helps a lot as well, when ripe fruit and other foodstuffs such as day-old bread are donated. We all know that the best French-toast is made with stale bread.

And now you can participate too!

The funding and supplies are in place to complete this school year’s Breakfast Program; school ends mid-November in Honduras. The next school year starts in February, 2012. And while I will do everything possible to ensure the Breakfast program is ready to go the first day of class, your assistance could make the difference of it continuing.

Under the umbrella of the Dawn Land Foundation, tax deductable cash donations to the Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program can be made by clicking here. Just specify in an email to info(@)thedawnlandfoundation.com the intended use of the funds: The Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program.

While the Dawn Land Foundation has been in existence since 1990 and offers support to other worthy efforts, the Roatan Vortex Program is currently in process of being added to the website so will not appear yet as a separate tab–coming soon! That said, I personally guarantee that 100% of all monies received by Dawn land Foundation (on behalf of the Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program) will be transferred to Roatan for the purchasing of breakfast foods for the children that attend the Luisa Trundle School, Coxen Hole.

Absolutely none of the donations will be used for salaries, administrative purposes, or anything other than feeding the children Breakfast!

A wish list of food stuffs for visitors to bring with them when they come to Roatan for holiday will also be posted and updated regularly. Contact me here to arrange for pick up or where to drop off what you’re donating when you arrive on Roatan.

Number one on the list right now is Kraft peanut butter (very expensive to purchase on Roatan, and the kids love it best) and how easy would it be to bring a jar; in your checked luggage of course, or it will be confiscated at the airport–like my toothpaste is every time I travel!

Other items on the wish list include:

Ingredients suitable for making healthy cookies
• rolled oats
• wheat germ
• unbleached flours
• dried fruit (raisins, dates, apricots etc.)
• nuts, seeds, grains
- Granola bars (healthy & tasty ones please)
- Prepared cereals (healthy & tasty ones please)

Non-food stuffs we’re looking for:
- A juicer, to make real orange juice–not that sugary stuff pretending to be juice
- Reusable plastic cups and bowls
- Tea towels
- Mini snack-baggies
- Healthy, fun breakfast food recipes

The Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program, at the Luisa Trundle School, is the first one of its kind on Roatan–who knows–perhaps we can start a new trend!

***

Val joined me on the Roatan Vortex Hour on 101.1 FM Roatan Radio.com to share her perspective of what is going on with the Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program on a daily bases, Saturday Oct 22, listen here to what she had to say.

 

 The Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

I just got back from a whirlwind visit to Brunswick, Georgia (and surrounding area) and Copan Ruinas, Honduras.

My agenda for each location couldn’t have been more different–Georgia was to visit friends I had met on Roatan, and Copan Ruinas to attend the 12th annual Conference on Honduras.

I have a lot to share about both, so to keep it simple, and stay within an acceptable length, I’ll tell you all about the Conference on Honduras in my next posting, this one’s all about Georgia–with a Roatan Vortex spin on things–of course!

I met Tiffany, David, Cortney, and Lizzie, when they came to Roatan for the first time a few months ago. They were sooo Roatan–go with flow, laid back kinda folks–didn’t even flinch at how many mosquitoes there were, or the always sweating, humid conditions typical to Roatan. I now know why, the mosquitoes in Georgia are as plentiful, and each one big enough to carry away a small child. And although it cooled down in the evenings, most days were almost as warm and humid as on Roatan.

When they offered for me to go visit them in Georgia, I jumped at the chance to experience their world. Now, I didn’t know for sure they meant it; it’s not uncommon to invite someone (you hardly know) to your house, fully expecting they won’t take you up on the offer; especially when they live many hundreds of miles away from you. Noooo… I knew they meant it.

So I went to Georgia. I had been there a couple of times before, at the airport in Atlanta; waiting for a connecting flight, or the one night I had to stay at an airport hotel because I missed a connection. I don’t think those times really count! Here was my opportunity to see more, and clarify my geography misconceptions. I’m almost embarrassed to admit that prior to this trip, I had no idea that Georgia was on the US east coast… really! I thought it was landlocked on all sides. I can say almost embarrassed, because a few of my friends thought the same thing.

Before my first visit to Roatan I had no clue where it was either, and even when I found out it was an Island off the coast of Honduras… I still wasn’t sure where it was.

My first full day at their house (which is really cool by the way) in Brunswick, we went to “Coastfest” talk about a crash course in learning about the nature of Coastal Georgia: Turtles, Horseshoe Crabs, the Intercoastal Waterway, salt marshes, and more. My vision of Georgia (in general) had been taken from stereotypical… I’m almost embarrassed again… movies. I mean really, isn’t Georgia all about: Gone with the Wind, Forrest Gump, Deliverance… oh my, My Cousin Vinny, or one of my favourites; Fried Green Tomatoes. While these movies give tidbits of information, they really must be taken for what they are–tidbits nothing more.

Sure, there was the stereotypical Spanish moss hanging on everything, and yup–I saw me some alligators–and they weren’t in a zoo. But there was so much more to Georgia than any movie could have expressed.

If you’re planning a visit to Roatan, you may think you have a good idea of what it will be like here. You’ve seen the pictures of the azure Caribbean Sea (like in the magazines, it really is that beautiful) the underwater shots of the coral and sea creatures, the white sand beaches, and so much more. You’ve read the posting on blogs, and followed stories on the news; but only when you visit will you meet and appreciate the real Roatan–as I’ve come to appreciate the real Georgia.

My friend Tiffany gave me a souvenir to bring back to Roatan. Two things make it extra special–it was handmade by her, and it is both practical and functional on the Island–I use it every day!

Redneck Water Bottle Koozie! Take two standard size drinking glass koozies (preferably ones that have something you like written on them), turn both inside out, fold down the rim of the top one (to display text), cut the bottom off of that one, and then attach it to the bottom one with DUCT TAPE! Gotta love it!

Visit Roatan Vortex on Facebook to see many more pics, and be sure to listen in to The Roatan Vortex Hour, Saturday October 15, on 101.1 FM Roatan Radio.com for the inside scoop on how easy it was to get from one place to the next and back to Roatan again!

 

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I’m frequently asked for suggestions when visiting Roatan: accommodations, dining, attractions and entertainment. I even get asked about diving and snorkelling, which I’m not too helpful with, since I don’t do either. But, I have many friends on Roatan who do, and will gladly direct visitors to the people who I think can help them the most.

More often than not, I’m also asked—how can we help?

There are many opportunities to participate in helping the people of Roatan—help themselves. It can come in the form of: donating much needed supplies, volunteering your time while you are here, and/or, sharing your expertise: medical, technical, creative—whatever!

Living on Roatan, I’ve had the good fortune to get involved with various initiatives and see firsthand the positive impact they are having:

Roatan Daycare Center
Mission of the Daycare Center.
“Our purpose is to help children of working families learn and thrive, mentally, physically and emotionally.
Our program combines bilingual early education and nurturing childcare, with play, social skills, and a dedication to community. We provide a healthy environment within a safe and comfortable facility. This gives parents the ability to work with peace of mind, knowing their children are receiving the best of care. These parents work full time, as most live near or at the poverty level.”

Familias Saludables
“Familias Saludables is a non-profit, non-denominational organization devoted to fighting the AIDS epidemic on Roatan and the Bay Islands. Our major focus is on reducing the incidence of mother-to-child transmission of the virus both at birth and via breast milk. We run testing clinics for pregnant women, assign trained home visitors for mothers living with HIV/AIDS, provide education to the public, provide palliative training services and, when available, we provide infant formula, medications, and a host of supplies to support families struggling to cope with this disease. All of our services are free of charge and our staff consists solely of volunteers, both local and international.”

Clinica Esperanza
“From the apartment beneath her home – to donated space in the Son Rise Calvary Church in Sandy Bay – Peggy Stranges has given her life to building Clínica Esperanza, otherwise known as “Hospital Ms. Peggy.” Together, with Honduran physician Raymond Cherington, M.D. and Arizona-based physician Patrick Connell, M.D., and through the generous support from Roatán’s community leaders, Ms. Peggy has realized her dream of building a first class freestanding hospital.”

Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program
This one’s brand new, and I am thrilled to share with you! In conjunction with Familias Saludables (couldn’t do it without Val) and Louisa Trundle School—Roatan Vortex has launched a breakfast program for all the students at the school. When they arrive each morning, the first thing they are greeted by is a table (manned by the grade 7 students) where they are offered: a glass of milk, fresh fruit (of the day), and depending on the day: a healthy cookie, or toast with peanut butter, or perhaps a hardboiled egg.

I have so much more I want to too share with you about the program—it warrants a story all its own, and information on how you can participate. That will be coming soon; in the meantime here is a couple of: “Musings from a Breakfast Program.”

Positive reports from parents, teachers, and students. A hug this morning from a little girl who ate three eggs, but I know she doesn’t get food at home. She hugged me, and said, “breakfast was Delicioso!”

Today one of the grade six students had a seizure, and I took her to the hospital (don’t worry she turned out to be okay, she has epilepsy and missed her medication.) At the hospital, the nurse and the doctor asked her three times if she’d eaten breakfast. She kept saying yes, and I then asked why they were asking. They told me that almost every day they get some kid form school that faints from hunger. I was so proud to say our School had a breakfast program.

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There are many other on-going programs on Roatan and the mainland that are worth checking out, but finding them can be a daunting task—that’s where Project Honduras can help you out.

“projecthonduras.com is an alternative concept for development of Honduras based on using information and communications technology (ICT) to identify, mobilize and coordinate all the available human capital in Honduras and around the world. By “human capital”, we mean resources such as time, energy, expertise, experience, talent, and contacts… things that really only gain value when people become personally engaged.”

In addition to on-line support, and information; there is the annual Conference on Honduras:

“For the past eight years, Copán Ruinas has served as the site of an annual pilgrimage by people from all walks of life, various faiths, and different countries. The purpose of the pilgrimage has been to come together as a community to find ways to become more enlightened and learn how to work as One. The ultimate aim has been to better support the poor and underprivileged within Honduran society by empowering them through education, healthcare, and a variety of community building projects. And to do so in a positive spirit of compassion, harmony, and joy.”

Read the full story at Honduras Weekly – Pilgrimage to Copan.

I look forward to attending this year (October 6-8) where I will get the opportunity to meet people I greatly respect, to hear about their programs, and present the Roatan Vortex Breakfast program. I also will be reporting details back to 101.1 FM Roatan Radio;—Bringing Roatan to the World and the World to Roatan.

Perhaps you’re think you can’t offer enough to make a difference? Check out this story about Bennett; a five year old boy, who lives in Canada. He asked his friends coming to his birthday party to not bring presents for him, but for the children at the Roatan Daycare Center.

And remember… “If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito.” – Anita Reddick

 

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I’ve had my fair share the past few weeks, having just returned to Roatan from Ontario, Canada.

While these are typical modes of transportation; the distinct differences and unique qualities between the two areas are notable.

Planes
Obviously, since Roatan is an island surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, flying was my best option for getting to Canada in a timely fashion. A friend got me to the airport early enough so I could stand in line with fellow travellers—for an extended period of time. It’s kind of like a game of Poker; will the line move quickly (didn’t have to show up at the airport three hours ahead of my flight) or, if I bluff, will it get down to the wire and risk losing the jackpot of jetting away.

For the most part—call me weird, I don’t mind hanging out at the Roatan Airport—admit it, you’re thinking—she’s weird.

The Roatan Airport is small by most standards; one arrival gate, one exit gate. Well, there are two exit gates, but they are right beside each other, and which one you go to is based on where the most people are lining up. Once you complete your check-in, you have to go to the bank line to pay your exit tax. However, keep in mind that the day you are flying they may have changed the rules and you can pay your exit tax (have the person behind or in front of you in the check in line, shuffle your luggage along, so you don’t loss your spot) while you wait to check in.

Confused yet? Just wing it—haha!

Anyhow, I was saying, I like to hang out at the Roatan Airport. Thing is, Roatan is small town living; chances are I’ll meet many friends there. Some are picking up family, friends, and guests to their resorts; while others are sending off the same. Then there is the time of year (mid-November until after Easter) when Sunwing Charters arrive from Toronto and Montreal. That’s when you will find me at the Roatan Airport saying; Welcome to Roatan! to all my fellow Canadians coming for a visit. Just call me the Walmart Greeter of Roatan!

I’ve shared what it is like when you fly to Roatan and the unique qualities of navigating through immigration and customs; when my dad came for a visit a few months ago, so I’ll let you peruse that story rather than repeat myself.

When you are leaving Roatan, there are some features you should know about. Once you are in the “secure” area (you’ve gone through the metal detector and haven’t set off any alarms) you will find: a souvenir shop, and a lunch counter, but, no Duty Free shop. At this time you might assume that you are done with “security” checks, ah… no. When you line up to exit to the waiting plane, you will once again pass through a “security” check—uhuh! Any and all liquids; bottles of water, sodas, etc. that you purchased will be confiscated, and that half tube of toothpaste that got through the first “security” check will be removed as well—or maybe that was just me.

Trains
No, there are no trains on Roatan, but, there will soon be one that will take you on a tour of the glorious flora and fauna on the Island. Roatan Radio’s own DJ and gardening guru, Helen Murphy, is working on that as you read this.

In Canada, trains have a long history, you could even say, our very existence and evolution was based on them. In recent years (sad to say) rails are being removed and replaced with more highways—I don’t get it. That aside, in my hometown of Waterloo, Ontario (where the Blackberry was born—I know, pretty impressive—eh!) there are still some rails intact, and you can often hear the distinct whistle as one passes through. On one particular evening, my mom and I were enjoying dinner on a restaurant patio, when a train approached (the rail line runs right beside the restaurant.) The train engineer was ready—he blasted the whistle when only a few feet from us. Yah, he got the reaction he was looking for; we all jumped in our seats—I think my poorly timed sip of wine came out my nose. Then he had a water gun ready and shot our waitress in the butt, as she was clearing a table—good clean fun! We could see, and hear him laughing as he guided the train on past!

Automobiles
One of the things I was most looking forward to when visiting Canada was driving fast—I admit it, on the long, straight, stretches of highway. A million years ago in a former life, I drove those highways every day to and from work, it wasn’t uncommon to drive to the office, thirty minutes from my home (on a good day), then from the office, head out to see a customer in another city three hours (on a good day) from there. I got pretty tired of doing that, but, hey, it was part of my job.

Whereas here on Roatan, the entire island is only thirty-five miles long.

Even with keeping in mind; the twists, turns, ups & downs; I’m certainly not doing a three hour commute—and I’m sure as heck not driving fast.

I arrived to the Toronto Airport, and made my way to the rental car area. I had reserved a basic economy car for my two week stay in Ontario, well I got upgraded at no extra charge, and with keys in hand, I headed out to claim the brand new, candy apple red, Ford Focus—I know, doesn’t sound too impressive, but, oh my, they’ve come a long way (according to a friend, these are being raced at the track.) And the most bizarre feature is that I was driving a car that thought it was a computer—really! Not one, but two, touch screen computers booted up when I turned the key in the ignition—oh, oh, where are my reading glasses! Anxious to hit the road, I wasted more than a half hour trying to figure the thing out. Finally, I’m on my way; exit the garage, head for the open road—not! First I have to remember which ramp to take to get to the highway I need to travel, but the choices are extensive—and, damn—now I need my glasses for distance so I can read all the signs!

I made it! I’m now on Highway 401 WEST. Ah, this is what I was looking forward to (it’s Sunday so traffic isn’t too heavy) cruising along a straight stretch of highway; knowing where I am and where I’m going, so I can set aside my two pairs of glasses, and slip on my sunglasses. Three lanes wide in both directions (not including the various exit and entrance ramps) I pass other drivers, and some pass me, I’m listening to music, sipping my half decaf, just milk, Timmy’s (Tim Horton’s coffee, for those of you that aren’t familiar with this Canadian staple.) With at least, an hour of driving ahead of me, I settle in… But, wait, this isn’t as much fun as I thought it would be… it’s pretty boring actually, and I think my backside and legs are going to sleep.

What’s wrong with me? I was looking forward to this moment!

I glanced out the driver’s side window as a fellow roadster passes me in the fast lane—I smile, I wave—my reward—a blank stare, and a quick jerk of their head to face forward again—pretending a stranger didn’t say hello.

That’s what’s wrong—on Roatan driving isn’t just a means to get from point A to point B. It’s like hanging out at the airport; a place to say hi to friends—old and new. Or even to do a little shopping when the fruit & veggie truck is parked next to where you are driving—just lean out the window and buy some oranges, pineapple, perhaps some carrots or a cabbage. Low on phone minutes? No worries, the phone card guy will probably stroll by and you can buy some.

You’ve got time (haha)—you’re probably stuck behind two taxis, facing each other blocking the road–in a standoff, anyway!

This story can also be read at Honduras Weekly.

I’ve been pretty busy the past while, and most has been very enjoyable, mind you… being busy isn’t a way of life I’m accustom to anymore since making the move to Roatan.

Speaking of moving, recently I’ve done just that. I’m still on Roatan (of course I am) but I’ve changed things up quite a bit—hey a change is good. Mona’s okay with the new digs, settled in fairly quickly, Baby on the other hand is not so sure, he’s trying to decide if he should risk using up one of his nine lives to go exploring.

One of the best things about living on Roatan is meeting new friends, and sharing all Roatan has to offer with them.

We went on a day trip to the east end of the Island, celebrated a marriage vow renewal, let the guys cook dinner, and got donations (from ECR4Kids, distributed by the Roatan Daycare) delivered to the Luisa Trundle School.

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Speaking of the Luisa Trundle School, I’m ecstatic to announce that the Roatan Vortex Breakfast Program was launched this week!

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Celebrating Canada Day, and the wild and wonderful antics of another Sand Road Hockey Tournament added to the fun! Video of Hockey Tourney coming soon.

Once again a great time had by all, with proceeds going to Sol Foundation.

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Somehow I managed to push the right buttons to record my most recent Roatan Vortex Hour on 101.1 FM Roatan Radio.com

 

 Story Time: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

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And the ultimate spectacular keeping me busy was when my son Jeff, daughter-in-law Jumana, and amazing, super-duper grandsons – Zain, Aaqil, and Kaisan came for a visit!!!

Yah, there has been a lot going on and each warrants a full story here on Roatan Vortex, and time permitting I’ll get them posted. In the meantime you can check out pictures on Roatan Vortex on Facebook.

Take your time… I’m going to go on a little vacation of my own now, I’m off to Canada for a few weeks to visit with family and friends, catch a movie or two with my mom, hang out with my sister, and relax… I admit, I’m a little tired, but I’ll be baaack!

Roatan is… ah… UNIQUE! At least compared to a typical North American lifestyle. Here are a few random pictures and a couple of videos to give you an idea of what I mean:

Emergency Route signs at airport

Roatan Deer

The Roatan Vortex Pulls You in and You Never Want to Leave!

You know—that drawer!

Usually in the kitchen, it’s the catch-all for stuff. It starts out harmless enough, everyone has those things that you want close at hand but don’t want to leave them out cluttering the counter, or chancing them being moved and not at your fingertips when you need them.

For my household it has always included: the scotch-tape (I know that’s a brand name, but if I kept Jello packets in that drawer… I’d call it Jello even if it wasn’t the Jello brand.), kitchen garbage bags, scrap paper, a pen or two, maybe a flashlight, batteries, and matches.

Even on Roatan where stuff isn’t as important to me anymore, I do have a Junk Drawer, and somehow it has managed to get stuffed full of stuff! And now that I have sold the cabana and will be moving on to a new slice of Paradise on the Island (not leaving Roatan) it’s time for me to clean out the Junk Drawer.

So how the heck did this happen? I mean really… what is half this stuff? And why did I keep it?

I’ve got Canadian Tire money for gosh sakes! Probably thought if I hung on to it long enough a Canadian Tire would open on the Island… hahahaha! The plug doesn’t fit any of my drains, the push lights don’t work anymore, and the stack of business cards are useless cause everybody changed their phone numbers. The wine bottle corks??? No idea what I planned on doing with those, besides I’m a boxed wine connoisseur now.

So this is it—time to get rid of some junk!

Oh my, did I mention it’s kind of warm today, and well, friends just posted on Facebook that their heading to the beach… maybe a full Junk Drawer isn’t such a bad thing… I’ll take care of it mañana!

That is, of course, after the Roatan Vortex Hour on 101.1 FM Roatan Radio.com starting at 10 AM (Roatan Time.) Be sure to listen in for tips on making the move to Roatan… you know you wanna!