Last Saturday we decided to go on the DDI Hash. DDI is short for Down D' Islands.
Language Note: North Americans would say "Down To The Islands". However, Trinis tend to drop a word or two as they speak so the "To" is often left out. eg, the students will say to me -- Sir, we going Savannah today? Ultimately, it is a much more efficient way of speaking! Also, as general rule, "the" is changed to "D'". This is even the case in formal business names -- There is a roti shop called, "D' Bess Roti". So "Down To The Islands" is "Down D' Islands" or often just "DDI".
DDI refers to a group of small islands off the western coast of Trinidad. Going DDI to weekend at a second home or on a boat is a common pastime. This was our first trip DDI.
The 10 am boat ride was a loud Soca dance party. I am not 100% certain that everyone on the boat actually went to bed before getting on the boat. The trip was about an hour and a half. We arrived to find out that the hash had not yet been set. So we waited another hour for the "hares" to make the course.
At a little after 1 pm we started our jungle trek through the rain forest. This island was a leper colony until the 1960's so there were some interesting old buildings, a grave yard and lots of cactus.
As always the run was fun. I like being part of the lead group. That means you are leading or "Checking" -- trying to find the right trail. It also means that you are at least on the wrong trail for 50% of the time and then you have to catch up!
After the hash, we swam and Gayle and I hiked a little more. The boat ride back was an even louder Soca dance party. By this time people had had lots to drink and everyone was having a great time.
Next Hash is Dec. 6. 3:30 pm SHARP. Don't be late.
I was standing in the office and happened to look up and who should I see! YOU...on the screen in the gym. It was great to hear and see you. Not a nice thing to do on your part...giving us a weather report when we're sitting here at 2 degrees Celsius.
ReplyDeleteMiss you
Betty, PECI