By Mi-Ling Stone Poole –

Recently, my husband and I joined friends on a cruise to celebrate those of us who turned 50 this year. The cruise was called Golden Jubilee and 16 or more friends attended this event which was organized by my old friends’ baseball great, Joe Carter and his wife Diana. There were a number of folks from Oklahoma City who attended and others from Kansas City and Texas.

We began our cruise in Port Canaveral, Florida and then visited the following islands; Labadee, Haiti; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico. I was excited about finding treasures on these various islands to incorporate into the décor of my home and inspiration for my next design project.

When the Royal Caribbean cruise ship pulled up to the port of Labadee I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was a little hesitant to depart the ship knowing that the people of Haiti just miles away were still dealing with the affects of the devastating earthquake and somewhat guilty that we were going to enjoy this beautiful private island.

However, after arriving on the island and meeting some of the local artisans at the Village Market it was obvious that they were delighted that we were there. I was amazed at all of the beautiful hand carved items, from large statues to trays, and boxes as well as beautiful paintings.

Wishing I had more space in my suitcases, I settled on a large hand carved statue of a man that will fill a space in my family room, a beautiful keepsake box perfect for my bedroom and several handmade bracelets and necklaces that will be placed in a vase in the dining room. A colorful dress that I purchased could easily be framed and hung on the wall as a piece of art.

Later that evening I met a young man who was born and raised in Labadee. He was a waiter on the ship. I told him about my day and he told me how important it was to the community that the ships stop at the port, and how the money they earn is crucial to their lively hood.

When it was time to leave this island paradise filled with gorgeous beaches, I felt better knowing that I contributed something to their well being and brought a little bit of Haiti home with me.

Have you visited this island in Haiti?