Returning to his Roots
(click photos to enlarge)

Norman Hedman left Jamaica in 1952. He was seven-years-old, and though he has traveled the world playing music influenced by his native land, he has never been back.

Recently, Hedman made it back, inspired by the enthusiasm of his children on his 33rd wedding anniversary.

"They told me it was time to go back, and it certainly was" said Hedman.

Fifty-four years later, a lot went through Hedman's mind in preparing for this trip. But, upon arriving, Hedman says "my memory woke up. "

Hedman says that he was revitalized by natural beauty and offerings of the island rarely seen by tourists. In fact, he avoided most tourists spots and food outlets, focusing on authentic music, food and recreation.

"We did so many wonderful things," notes Hedman, "like drinking the fresh juice of hand-picked coconuts through natural bamboo straws we made ourselves. We ate fresh mango, bananas, and the most incredible jerk chicken prepared right before our eyes."

Hedman paid close attention to the indigenous animals and strolled the beach in a very unique way - crashing through the waves on horeseback!

"It was all so soothing - such a natural way to enjoy this beautiful place," Hedman added. "We even rub natural limestone, which is very prevalent in Jamaica, on our skin, which is very soothing and great for the skin. I even brought some back! It's just so expensive in the United States."

Most of Hedman's family is now located in the U.S., Canada and Europe. But his newly-found connection to his homeland will not be forgotten and this will be the first of many more visits in the future.

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