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The paintings of Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who made a profession of depicting the island in subdued, stylized settings that covered up the harsh realities of colonial control, were my first visual introduction to Dominica. However, as soon as I step onto its winding roads, which begin to twist shortly after I arrive, it becomes evident that this region, which is situated in the center of the Lesser Antilles’ curve, is anything but tame. The two-toned leaves of its bois canot trees, which change color from green to white when they sway in the wind, shimmer and bristle with the power of the volcano. It lulls with the erratic sound of its numerous waterfalls, scatters rainbows haphazardly across its breathtaking horizons, and enchants from the depths with its vibrant coral reefs. And it roars come storm season.
The indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica survived invasion by the French and British, who imposed slavery on the Africans who now make up four-fifths of the island’s population and left a linguistic legacy of English and French-based Creole, by mastering the lush tropical rainforest that covers more than 60% of the island. If you visit Trinidad for roti and Jamaica for jerk, you should travel to Dominica for green things like bush rum and flower teas. There are a ton of medicinal herbs in the forest.
The Jungle Bay Dominica resort, located smack dab in the center of the Soufrière jungles, leans into nature instead, maybe realizing the futility of fighting against the earth’s generosity. When I finally get there, the kitchen is closed. Joanne Hilaire, the operations manager, tells me that they never let guests go hungry, though, so I can feel the warmth of Dominica’s welcome. The cook is preparing an excellently stewed dish of beans with taro, rice, and plantain for our late dinner, off the menu, while I have a refreshing ginger-lime cocktail that is a local favorite. When I wake up the following morning, I find that my villa’s doors open onto a private veranda that faces southwest toward Soufrière Bay, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. I let the light wake me for the remainder of my stay by leaving my blinds open.
The Under-Cabinet Jar Opener: A Wholesome Reminder of Simpler Times
A basic tool that has lasted the test of time has a certain charm that is appealing in today’s fast-paced world where technology is always at our fingertips. The 1970s under-cabinet jar opener, hidden beneath the kitchen cabinet, is a veritable monument to utilitarian invention.
This jar opener may not look like much, with its plain dull metal teeth, yet it is filled with sentimental memories. It serves as a little reminder of the robustness and ease of use of earlier times.
The under-cabinet jar opener is really easy to use. Simply press the lid of a jar up against its teeth and allow it to be firmly grasped. The seal breaks with a pleasant pop and a simple twist. For decades, the sound has been a commonplace presence in numerous family kitchens.
You can’t help but sense a connection to the generations that came before you when you use this jar opener. Around kitchen counters, it has seen the preparation of countless meals and the creation of priceless family memories.
Amidst the ever-evolving trends, the under-cabinet jar opener remains a reliable option. It continues to stand the test of time, serving as a constant reminder of the value of dependability and simplicity. This technology acts as a link between our fast-paced, modern society and the independent past.
Thus, consider the legacy that the jar opener bears the next time you grab for it. Accept its simplicity and nostalgic meaning, and allow it to make you smile as you go out on your culinary journeys.
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