And Still I Rise

You know it's Christmas when the Barrels from North America start rolling in. Forget about the sorrel,the gingerbeer,the black cake, ham soaking in a pot or Nine Mornings. Nothing heralds the arrival of Christmas as much as these goody bearing containers.

In November there was a trickle of barrels making their way to homes. Now,it is becoming a steady stream which will escalate into a torrent by mid to late December. Woe be unto the others who not so fortunate to have relatives overseas generous to send them stuff that they see on tv but would not necessarily buy

Nevermind that there is usually a mad rush at the Customs and sometimes persons have to wait hours on end before they finally get their hands on the precious commodity. They are still eagerly anticipated by the recipients who take pride in announcing to everyone that the daughter in New York or the son in Toronto will be sending them their C'mas goodies.

Even the Govts,at least the OECS ones recognise the value of these barrels and in the spirit of goodwill ofer some concessions. Then again it could be some potential votes not that the recipents care too much in the heat of reaping the benefits.

After all this talk I sure wish one was coming my way