Wuk Dun Fi Di Day

(Translation: Today's Work Is Complete)

For Janice

This bracelet has been completed for several days now, but I didn't want to post a picture of it until it was delivered. Mark migrated to America today to be with his lady love, Janice. He is going to deliver the bracelet to her for me.

The last time she was here in Jamaica, we came up with the design concept for the bracelet. It is beaded using the N'debele stitch, with brick stitch end-tabs for stability. The closure is a large snap. To remind her of home, I put a Jamaican flag on either side of her name.

I thought I would be making it to keep it here until she visited again. Little did I know, he would be on his way up to marry her before that. Their plan is for April nuptials.

I met Janice when she came home for a visit from Tennessee. Our sound system, Rootsman International Sound, was playing at her Auntie's shop. Since then, she has become such an important part of my life. We only get to see each other once or twice a year, but what a gift it is to be around her! A beautiful smile and a generous heart are just two of the many things I love about her. That wicked sense of humour doesn't hurt, either!

My prayer is that she and Mark will make a wonderful life together, be very successful in their chosen careers, make a bag of cash, and then move back home to Jamaica, where their talents are needed and they both really belong.

Session Flyer

I don't usually post images of the flyers used to promote the various sessions where our sound system plays because, quite frankly, most of them use quasi-pornographic images of young women. I strongly believe that our young ladies need a more positive self-image.

This poster, for a session this coming weekend, is one of the less offensive ones.

My husband says that when someone else is paying to promote the session, they get to choose the artwork and my personal feelings about feminine modesty don't enter into the equation. I will reluctantly concede that point. We have been hired to play music and generate a money-spending vibe for the session promoter.

I am glad, however, that he shares my distaste for the filthly, misogynistic lyrics so prevelant in dancehall today. Our selectors and DJ's know that we only play clean, conscious music. They also know that dutty wuds nuh fi flow. (translation - no cursing)

Rootsman International Sound going mobile

Unable to find reliable box lifters for his massive sound system, Rootsman is converting a 16-foot Isuzu box truck into a mobile sound system. It will be one of the largest mobile sounds in Jamaica.

For bookings, in Jamaica, call 999-ROOT (999-7668).