Thanksgiving Newsletter

 Hello All, 

I’m sure we’re all asking the same thing….WHERE HAS THE YEAR GONE???

The month of festivities has arrived, starting with Halloween. It has been hectic socially. On the 11^th of November we celebrated Sint Maarten Day (the day Columbus spotted the rock as it is known to most islanders.) It was the first time in three years that the celebration program was not interrupted by rain. Thanksgiving Holidays is celebrated by America this coming week. We also have a Thanksgiving version here on Sint Maarten. On the 30^th of November, we’re celebrating the end of the Hurricane season. And what a season it was! All the way to Gamma.  We’ll all spare a thought to those that have not been so fortunate to escape the wrath of Mother Nature. 

St. Maarten is starting to buzz with anticipation of the high season. The weather is glorious this time of the year. Much development and construction is happening on the Dutch side. We have also been busy with the second phase development of our shop. Here are some recent pictures of the interior. Not only is Hans a Master Goldsmith, he masterfully creates his signature artistic displays for the store. It’s truly inspirational working in such harmonious and aesthetically pleasing surroundings. Add a perfect view and what more could one ask for?

  Latest Shop Interior Pictures 

 St. Marten Map Pendants

Not withstanding all the hard work and long hours that went into the cabinet making, Hans also spent time creating these new artistic designs with his usual flair.  He is busy developing Sea-Garden Themed jewelry, which captures the view through an aquarium. Here is a preview of the first two pieces in this range.  These jewelry creations are perfect Christmas gifts.  Please remember to place your order early for those of you who want a one-of-a-kind custom designed gift for Christmas.   

 Latest one-of-a-kind ring designs 

 Sea-Garden Jewelry Range

	14ct Yellow Gold bracelet with links that have shells, starfish, dolphins, a sea-horse and coral. – US$1500
	14ct Yellow Gold earrings with dolphins and dangling coral – US$550
	14ct Yellow Gold Kissing Dolphins in a heart shape form set with diamonds - $465
	14ct Yellow gold stylized Sea-horse pendant set with a diamond – US$425

Cartoon

We want to share with you this really apt cartoon that was published in the Daily Herald as many a visitor to the island will verify.

 It’s always a good thing when one can laugh at oneself. Which leads to the next story.

The other day I trotted off to do some errands, dressed in high heels. It always is Murphy’s Law that the car breaks down, when female driver is at helm. All of a sudden the car will not start. I phoned Mr. Handyman, who reminds me, that I’m an African bush-girl with tough training behind me and that he’s sure I can make a plan. If  I don’t manage, I should call back.  Humph…never one to say no to a challenge, I assess the situation. Great part about St Maarten is that there are hills….very useful for pushing a car. Unfortunately the downhill is in the wrong direction this time, which means push-starting in reverse. Not trying is not knowing. So rule number one (where many a man falters) is to switch the ignition on. Step two is to make sure the gear is in reverse. Okay, here we go! With one well-heeled foot sticking out the car, I lean with force backwards. Another shove and the car is rolling backwards. Now jump in and wait for the right moment to let the clutch out (sweat pouring down as no aircon is working until the motor runs). With much luck and some skill on my side I get the car started and off I go. Wow, was I proud to phone Hans to tell him that I was mobile once again. 

On that light note we want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and a joyous festive season in the coming month. Look after yourselves and your families!

Warm and sunny wishes.

 Hans and Anne