So, who is the new face at WWLOR you may be asking. I know that Chrissann gave you some details about me in her lovely introduction a few weeks ago. I am originally from Canada (Ontario to be exact) and moved to Grand Cayman on January 4, 1994 with one suitcase and a bike to follow. My idea was to spend a year to 18 months on the island and then to return home to the Great White North. Well, Cayman definitely had a different plan for me. I have come to learn over the past 26 years that many islands seem to have different plans for their new transplants. They make it almost impossible to leave after enjoying island life and all it has to offer!

I could never have begun to imagine on that day back in January 1994 all the blessings that my three (yes all three) islands would bestow upon me: an amazing husband (from the UK), two pretty fantastic kids (they will always be kids to me although one just crossed the threshold into adulthood and the other is right behind him), great friends from all over the world, a couple of cool dogs, numerous beverages of all shapes and sizes, countless parties and happy hours, wonderful visitors (some who have stayed too long and some who never seem to visit often enough!), various jobs with great coworkers, spectacular sunsets, breathtaking seas (enjoyed from both under and on top) and of course, a couple of hurricanes thrown in to keep it all in perspective. I am so very lucky to call Cayman my home!

Now, I told you I would share with you some of what I have learned over the past few weeks from you, the women of WWLOR. First, I have always admired the passion and fortitude of women who live on rocks and you have not disappointed. The Cayman Islands grew from a very matriarchal society as men went to sea and women were left to care for and tend to all that remained at home. This history is still apparent in Cayman as strong Caymanian women remain key stakeholders in Cayman society. Island women all over the world are passionate and strong and are keen to make it known. Keep it up, island sisters!

Second, I have been overwhelmed by your warm welcome and kind hospitality. Most islands rely on hospitality for their livelihoods (whether good or bad), so kindness and welcoming are commonplace on so many islands but must never be taken for granted. Thank you kind island souls!

And finally, islanders are resilient and their resilience seems to be continually tested. We all know that island life is not always easy and that is why islanders are a hardy bunch. Resilience is an island’s middle name. As islanders may we continue to band together and make our lives better collectively. Together we are always stronger – one love!

I invite all those current writers to please submit any new pieces you have ready. I am ready to start reading them and getting to know you all. If you are curious about writing for WWLOR, please reach out. There is always more room on the boat!

I have some new ideas that I will be sharing with you over the next few weeks. Stay tuned to emails, our Facebook page and Instagram.

Sending sunshine, hugs and fishes!
Jacqueline

Originally from the Great White North of Canada, I am truly blessed to call the Cayman Islands home since 1994. Since here my life has been full with an amazing husband, two pretty fantastic kids (who are actually adults now), great friends from all over the world, a couple of cool dogs, numerous beverages, countless parties, wonderful visitors, various jobs with great coworkers, spectacular sunsets, breathtaking sea and a couple of hurricanes thrown into the mix to keep it all in perspective. I now share my little piece of paradise on one of the “sister islands” with my husband and a “Cayman mutt” from the local Humane Society and the kids when they need to thaw out.