One Love

One Love: Bob Marley's Legacy and Our Family's Connection to Jamaica"

Bob Marley, the iconic reggae legend, is set to be immortalized in the upcoming movie "One Love," and my excitement knows no bounds. This film promises to be a tribute to the man whose music has been intertwined with my family's history and the beautiful island of Jamaica, especially the picturesque town of Negril.

My family's connection to Bob Marley runs deep. In 1968, my husband embarked on a journey that would forever change our lives. He moved to Jamaica, a land not yet fully developed for tourism, to establish a resort on the cliffs of Negril. With the endorsement of the Jamaican Board of Tourism, he collaborated with Air Jamaica and the local community to pioneer an eco-tourism experience that celebrated Jamaican food, culture, and the spirit of "One Love."

During those transformative years, my husband had the privilege of hosting Bob Marley at his resort, where thatched huts, authentic Jamaican dishes like ackee and saltfish, plantains, dumplings, breadfruit, and fresh fish were served. Together, they roasted breadfruit, drove to Sav la Mar to cash checks, rolled spliffs, and even helped build a hut in Little Bay for Bob's friend and photographer, Esther Anderson.

My personal connection with Jamaica came in the year 2000 when I decided to follow in my husband's footsteps and experience the island's magic firsthand. Although Negril had transformed since the '70s, I fell in love with the place. I immersed myself in Jamaican culture, learning the language of Patwa, embracing Rastafarian principles, exploring the lush wilderness, and even trying my hand at gardening.

Bob Marley's influence on the world of music cannot be overstated. He played a pivotal role in putting reggae on the global music map. His songs, filled with messages of unity, empowerment, and infectious rhythms, have left an indelible mark on countless hearts. As he once said, "You can't separate the music from the message," emphasizing that his music was a medium of enlightenment and peace.

Bob Marley's untimely passing in 1981 left a void in the music world, but his legacy continues to resonate with people worldwide. His words, like "On your way, take me up on your way down, don't take me down," remind us of his enduring spirit and his commitment to spreading love and positivity.

As we eagerly await the release of "One Love," I can't help but reflect on how Bob Marley's music and the island of Jamaica have touched our family's life in profound ways. This movie promises to be a fitting tribute to a legendary artist and the enduring message of "One Love" that continues to inspire us all.

I rode on the back of this Honda nighthawk with my friend Massive Lynch through the mountains to Little Bay to photograph this house⬇️.

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Little bay thatched hut next to the watering hole.

Jamaican Gemini twins Peter and Massive Lynch

Laundry Day in Negril
Negril, Jamaica known for stunning beaches, laid-back vibes. Locals gather, chat, do laundry at communal spots. Bright clothes add color to beaches. Laundry day unites community, highlighting everyday life in charming town.

Good Karma Donuts!

As we ushered in the promise of a brand-new year on this chilly New Year's Eve, little did I know that a spontaneous stop at our local Dunkin' Donuts would gift me an invaluable lesson in karma. It was a heartwarming experience that filled me with hope and optimism for the year ahead.

The day was filled with excitement and anticipation for the celebrations to come. I decided to make a quick pit stop at Dunkin' Donuts to pick up my dad's all-time favorite jelly donuts. Little did I know that this seemingly routine errand would turn into a beautiful encounter.

After placing my order through the drive-through, I eagerly pulled up to the window, ready to pay for the donuts. To my astonishment, the cashier greeted me with a warm smile and handed over the donuts, saying, "These are on the house." I was taken aback, surprised by this unexpected act of kindness. It was the perfect start to the new year, and I couldn't help but think of the spiritual teachings I'd been exploring in Deepak Chopra's "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success." This, I thought, was karma at its finest.

Gratitude swelled within me, and I knew I had to reciprocate this kindness. I reached for a five-dollar bill and handed it to the cashier, who graciously accepted it, remarking, "Now that's Karma!" We exchanged heartfelt blessings and warm New Year greetings, and as I drove away, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and positivity washing over me.

This encounter served as a gentle reminder of the power of kindness and the ripple effect it can create. The cashier's selfless act left me inspired and filled with hope for the possibilities that the new year held. It was a beautiful example of how a simple act of generosity can set the tone for a year filled with good karma.

As we embark on the journey of 2024, let's carry this lesson with us. Let's remember that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the potential to make the world a better place. May the year ahead be filled with moments of giving and receiving, and may the spirit of good karma guide us all toward a brighter and more harmonious future.

Happy New Year, filled with the blessings of good karma and the joy of spreading kindness!

2023 year in review

Homegig Creative Services Year-End Recap 2023

Author: Lauren Giglio

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, Homegig Creative Services is thrilled to reflect on the incredible milestones and achievements we've reached in 2023. The journey was exciting, challenging, and, most importantly, filled with creativity and innovation. Here's a glimpse of our highlights from the past year:

1. Unwavering Dedication to Web Design and Hosting on Webflow:

In 2023, Homegig Creative Services maintained its unwavering commitment to providing top-notch website design, hosting, and strategic solutions on our trusted Webflow hosting platform. We understand that in this digital age, a captivating online presence is essential, and we continued to deliver exceptional web experiences to our clients.

2. A Diverse Clientele:

Our diverse clientele remained at the heart of our operations in 2023. We were proud to serve a wide range of local businesses, both on and off the island. From luxury brands to transportation companies, high-end contractors to real estate agencies, flower farms to spa services, interior designers, and more, our portfolio expanded to include an array of industries. This diversity allowed us to explore different creative avenues and deliver tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.

3. Crafting Engaging Social Media Campaigns:

In a world driven by social media, Homegig Creative Services understood the importance of creating compelling online content. In 2023, we took our clients' digital presence to new heights by designing captivating social media campaigns. We ventured into the world of Reels, TikTok, and other emerging platforms, crafting engaging content that resonated with our clients' target audiences. Our commitment to staying ahead of digital trends ensured that our clients remained relevant and visible in the ever-evolving online landscape.

4. Content Writing Excellence:

In addition to creating stunning visuals, we continued to excel in the art of content writing. Our team of talented writers produced high-quality content that complemented our clients' brand identities and resonated with their audiences. Whether it was crafting blog posts, website copy, or social media captions, our content writers left no stone unturned in delivering exceptional storytelling that captivated and informed.

As we look back on this remarkable year, our team at Homegig Creative Services is both proud and inspired. We are proud of our accomplishments, grateful for the trust our clients have placed in us, and inspired to push creative boundaries even further in the new year.

As we step into 2024, we are excited to continue our journey of innovation, creativity, and client-centric solutions. Here's to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2024, filled with endless opportunities to create and inspire.

Wishing you all a fantastic year ahead!

Lauren Giglio, Eileen Reilly and Eivar Montanez

Homegig Creative Services

Title: Rock Docs and Reviving the Energy of the '80s: A Journey through Music

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! I'm Lauren Giglio, the content creator at Homegig, and today, I want to take you on a musical journey that's been close to my heart. Being a music and entertainment fan  has always been a part of my DNA, and it all started when my mom and dad introduced me to the magical world of music at an early age.

My childhood was filled with the sounds of vinyl records and the excitement of unwrapping those new records we got for Christmas, our birthday or with our own babysitting money. Our favorites included Elton John, The Partridge Family, and eventually Queen thanks to my sister Jeanne! But the real treat was when they took us to theater performances, Broadway shows, and allowed us to attend rock concerts. Fast forward to today, and I find myself addicted to rock documentaries, reliving the glory days of iconic bands and artists.

One recent cinematic gem that captivated me was the Talking Heads' "Stop Making Sense" movie, directed by the legendary Jonathan Demme, screened at the MV Film Center. Revisiting this masterpiece was a trip down memory lane to the early '80s, a time when music was a pulsating force of creativity and expression. What struck me the most was the sheer amount of energy that was poured into each of those shows on tour. I can only imagine how exhausting it must have been for the band members, yet they left it all on the stage, giving their audience an unforgettable experience.

David Byrne's iconic performance is a testament to his innovative artistry and stage presence. This concert film captures Byrne's charismatic energy as the frontman of the Talking Heads during their 1983 tour. With each song, Byrne's magnetic persona and unique vocal style shine through, making it a transcendent experience for music enthusiasts. "Stop Making Sense" is not merely a concert film; it's a showcase of David Byrne's brilliance as a performer and a reminder of the band's enduring impact on the music world.

Speaking of the Talking Heads, I can't help but sing praises for Tina Weymouth. She's an incredible bass player who added a unique groove to the band's music. Her presence on stage is magnetic, and she's a testament to the talent that graced the music scene during that era. The documentary includes a show break to introduce The Tom Tom Club- a musical side project that was formed by drummer Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, both of whom were founding members of the Talking Heads.

But my musical journey doesn't stop there. I recently delved into the latest U2 concert experience at the Sphere in Las Vegas, and let me tell you, it's now firmly on my bucket list. The Sphere takes entertainment to a whole different level, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in live music. It's a testament to how technology can enhance the concert experience, immersing the audience in a sensory overload of visuals and sounds.

As I continue my exploration of music, I'm reminded of the power it holds to transport us through time and space. Whether it's revisiting the classics of the '80s or embracing the cutting-edge innovations of today, music remains a source of inspiration and joy.

So here's to the rock docs that let us relive the past, the legendary bands that defined an era, and the future of music that continues to push the boundaries of entertainment. Keep rocking on, my friends!

Until next time,

Lauren Giglio

Content Creator, Homegig

Island style

🌺🎶 Last night at the PA club, we experienced an uplifting performance by none other than the Grammy-Award-winning Hawaiian legend, John Cruz! 🎤✨

In an intimate setting, we were privileged to witness John Cruz truly in his element – performing live in a premier listening room where you could see, hear, and feel every note. It was a night filled with the spirit of "Island Style," as he shared the Hawaiian way of life, echoing the seminal words of his timeless hit song.

John took us on a musical journey "from the mountain to the ocean," and along the way, he talked story about his Hawaiian heritage, his beloved family, and his son Zane. The crowd felt like an extended family, sharing in his stories and songs that touched the heart and soul.

His setlist was a beautiful blend of songs, including a poignant rendition of Van Morrison's "The Water," which carried even more weight in light of the recent Maui fires, referencing the lack of this precious resource. He wove his own masterpieces into the night, with "One of These Days" being a particular highlight. And of course, he paid homage to the great Bob Marley, leaving the audience swaying to the rhythms of reggae.

What truly stood out was John Cruz's energy and the power of his voice, which told stories through each song. But this show was more than just music; it was a fundraiser for the Maui fires. John, together with his family, is generously donating their land and resources to adolescents in need of a holistic environment and wellness. The show collected funds for the @halepule John's foundation, ensuring that the spirit of aloha continues to flourish in times of adversity.

As John Cruz serenaded us with his melodies and shared his heartfelt stories, we were reminded of the beauty of Hawaiian culture, family bonds, and the importance of giving back. Last night was not just a concert; it was an experience that left our hearts full and our spirits uplifted. 🌴🌟#JohnCruz #IslandStyle #MauiFires #Fundraiser #HalePuleFoundation

John Cruz