I am visiting Trinidad and the Caribbean for the first time, staying with Auntie Babsie and Fr Moses. The lushness of the trees and plants and the wonderful tropical flowers are more beautiful than anything I ever imagined.

On Sunday, July 17, we were invited to the Harvest at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Talparo. What a memorable experience! We were so warmly welcomed in the church and Mass was a joyful, prayerful lifting of our hearts to God. The Church was beautifully decorated.

Marissa Thomas, winner of the rooster, in Taplaro harvest

The heavens opened towards the end of Mass, but when we came out to walk over to the school for lunch and entertainment, the sun was shining. What a wonderful afternoon we had, buying fruits and baked goods at the stalls, watching the children playing games and winning prizes, eating ice cream and then having a lovely meal cooked by the ladies of the Parish. I would like to know some of their secret recipes.

After lunch the Tamana Steel Orchestra began to play and I was fascinated by the whole spectacle. They played beautifully, putting their whole bodies and hearts into the music. The rhythm section danced the whole time as they played six pans each, while the three tenor pans skilfully produced the most beautiful melodies.

How great to see people of all ages from grown men to young ones making music together and so obviously dedicated and enjoying themselves. I hope they have a wonderful time at the international festival in Scotland next week.

Among welcoming friendly people, warm tropical weather (even the rain is warm), fantastic tropical plants and birds, I think Trinidad is a little bit of heaven.