A tropical storm!

Oppressive humidity envelopes me and although the shutters are open for air and a fierce wind is blowing about the house, it feels so close that I am drenched in sweat once again. I crave a cool breeze on my hot body but the storm forbids me outside. In the darkness I hear banging – the howling wind and heavy rain dominate the air. In the distance I hear a lone car racing past on the road, eager for the sanctuary of shelter. I attempt to sleep but my room lights up in a flash – bright white and intrusive, like the spotlights on a football ground. It is joined by rolling threatening thunder which shakes the air. As I lay on the large bed looking out I watch the shadow of the mosquito netting surrounding my bed swaying like a giant misty cloud. It is impossible to sleep.

I hear another banging noise and get up to secure whatever is loose. I am surprised we still have power on the island during this tropical storm. The wind is literally screaming as it thrashes palms and trees. Even the surface of the swimming pool ripples and swells like a small lake in response to the unrest! The animals I am babysitting follow me from room to room for reassurance, including the bathroom where I have a black cat leaning onto my ankles whilst both dogs sit on the mat in front of me. There is no privacy! Their big doting eyes look at me anxiously and I tell them it’s all OK!

Actually I am not sure that it is OK – this is my first experience of a real tropical storm. It’s not a hurricane and I am grateful for that. It’s going to be a long night……………

The dawn brings a new day and a clear Caribbean sky. The storm has moved on or blown itself out. The sky is blue and a fresh breeze stirs the air. The animals greet me with loving eyes and anticipation of a morning walk. We all jump in the jeep and head for Valley Trunk beach. A very private beach accessed over some giant granite boulders. Long, white and wide it’s perimeter is lined by thick tropical shrubs, the azure turquoise waters wash up and back, beckoning me in. The sun is already hot although its only 7.45am. The water is deliciously refreshing without being chilly – just perfect; calm and clear – crystal clear. You could float in it all day. 'Bear' joins me for a swim whilst 'Belle' enters until tummy depth. Both dogs are laughing!

I am back on Virgin Gorda, a small island of pure magic in the Caribbean sea, part of the British Virgin Islands. It’s the summer here and the tourists are obvious by their absence. The “low season” allows one to work on property and catch up with those friends that are here. It’s quiet and many businesses are closed until the ‘season’ starts again. Whilst the temperatures are hot and humid, the water is calm and clear. In so many ways it is a third world country but to me........... it’s just heaven!