Guest Blog: "Maura the Lizard Lover"

BEWARE!! They might try to entice you to Antigua with promises of great beaches and plenty of sunshine, but what they don't share with you is what I have affectionately called 'Wild Antigua'. My first night here Amanda seats me under the lizard perch and next to the mouse run. As I warily try to avoid the lizard staring down at me, Amanda casually mentions the mouse has been doing laps up and down the tree behind me. When suddenly, out of nowhere, a small plane sails over the pool and lands on the side of the house. With the second fly by, considerably closer, we determine it's a bat-wingspan easily 12 inches. So much for relaxing on the patio. Other wildlife mis-adventures include, Preston getting bitten by an ant(?)-his hand was swollen and erupted, a village boy clocking his donkey upside the head with a stick and a grasshopper as big as a bird trying to nest in my mouth. And as I sit typing, a malarial mosquito trying to give me one final going away gift. Aaaah, but these are the things stories are made of.

Who really wants to hear about the fantastic house, exceptional pool, magnificent beaches and kind and gracious hosts. Madeline is, as always, a true joy to be around. Up and down are great new words and dance, hide and seek and round and round the garden great things to occupy her with. Preston and Amanda, ever accomodating and entertaining. Ask Amanda how far she can drive on a flat tire and pray she doesn't try and show you! Shirley Heights, Nelson's Dockyard, English Harbour and a myriad of beaches to keep you entertained. If you can't find it there, ask the locals how they pass the nights!!! A fabulous trip, don't worry to much about the critters, apparently they're leaving with me!