Harvey Travel Arts

This photo makes me want to relax!  I love the ocean in the distance, the balconies of rooms that are sure to please, the blue sky, soft sand and a beautiful flower at the center of it all.  I absolutely enjoyed our recent Jamaican getaway for my birthday....I think instead of writing, I'll add some additional inspiration for relaxation here: There's a boat and some loungers for you to enjoy, and a tree winding many ways to offer shade....And just a little peek of the swimming pool on the bottom edge.  Whatever life is offering you at the moment that may have you stressed, enjoy a little relaxing moment here.

Brian and I recently went to Jamaica to celebrate my birthday.  We went to Sandals Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, just down the road from where we got married almost ten years ago.  In fact, it was just a short walk down the beach to our wedding location.  Sometimes when we return to such locations, I wish I could have left something there, a handwritten note or time capsule so that I could capture the feelings I had on a given day.  I suppose that is why I enjoy blogging so much; it allows me to relive moments and reflect on life.  Anyway, this peacock was one of about twenty on the property and they were so much fun!  They provided entertainment with their nosy calls (sounded like a cat meowing very loudly) and they followed the food around when dining.  But they didn't get in the way, and the males even showed off their feathers!

Jamaica is where Brian and I got married. Since our wedding nearly six years ago, we have returned to Jamaica on various occasions. This photo stood out to me more than any of the others that Brian has taken. I sometimes wonder about the life of the islander that works at the resort. He is a symbol of the friendly Jamaicans that we have encountered--friendly despite the vast difference between the lush resorts and the local environment that often surrounds them. This serene beauty is a perfect example of God's creation. It thrives on the islands amid the heat. There is a verse that stands out in my mind right now. Proverbs 3:19-20 KJV states "The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew." Who else but a wise God could form such delicate flowers that grow despite the tropical heat?