Happy 40th Independence Grenada!!!

From the time I returned to Grenada in January this year, it was clear that they were in a celebratory mood. Everywhere you looked there were flags and bunting displaying the national colors - red, yellow and green. Clearly Grenadians take Independence Day very seriously... there were more decorations seen than were visible for Christmas!

Most business places had decorations on the outside...

Even the small ones like the neighbourhood parlour

The cemetry was also resplendent with colors

My first Independence event was the launch of a booklet written by Sister Joan to commemorate the nation's 40th independence. In it she explored the spiritual significance of Grenada's history, and made some very insightful parallels to the 40 years that Israel spent in the wilderness before entering the promised land. It was here that I heard my first Grenadian folk songs :)

Sister Joan reading excerpts from 'Grenada: 40 years in spiritual wilderness'

Her grand-daughter reading a poem celebrating Grenada's culture

Then on Sunday our church joined with four other churches from the Springs community for a joint Independence service. There was a sweet time of worship with a joint worship team, some national songs and a poem, prayer for the nation, a timely challenge from scripture.

Everyone decked off in national colors

Greetings from the Prime Minister of Grenada - Dr. Keith Mitchell

Johannes, Sister Dale, Danielle and me after service

There is a nation-wide competition among the various communities to decorate their villages for Independence. It was really encouraging to see people coming together to repair potholes and beautify their surroundings in the national colors.

Creativity abounds in this country

Any open space was transformed into a sea of red, yellow and green

Coming from a country where we only display our national pride when a Trinidadian accomplishes a great feat internationally (like when we qualified for the world cup) or on Independence Day itself, I couldn't help but be caught up in the spirit of 'I love Grenada'

Representing with my hand band

Dey already accusing me of being a Grenadian, so why fight it?

Since I won't be in Grenada for the actual Independence Day tomorrow please God (heading to St. Vincent for a weekend missions trip) my Grenz sister Coleen made sure that I had my full of cultural experiences before I left.

Pre-school Independence treat in the mall

Of course we were decked out for Colors Day

Grenada's nation dish (oil down) for lunch with fresh golden apple juice

Stuffing my face

Big drum at Cultural Extravaganza in Grenville last night

Waited until the end of the show for the 5-minute spectacular display of fireworks

On the way home from the show at 1am this morning, I was stopped by police who were "conducting a routine check to search for illegal drugs and ammunition". I nearly dead trying not to laugh when they ask me if I had any cocaine, marijuana or illegal weapons in my car...I have lived in Trinidad for over 30 years, and have never been asked to step out of my vehicle while they search for contraband. I guess one of them felt sorry for me, because after a couple minutes of searching he said, 'Just let her go'

Got to love this country. HAPPY INDEPENDENCE GRENADA!!!!!!