Expression of canine love

Nashauna Drummond, Lifestyle Coordinator

You know what they say, a dog is a man's best friend. This was clear as daylight recently when a small group of canine lovers took time out to shower their trusty pals with love.

The charity The Animal House, located in the cool resort of Ocho Rios, St Ann, was again the beneficiary of a Couples Tower Isle initiative aimed at helping animals.

Missouri natives Darcy and Jim Fangman, for the third consecutive year, outbid everyone else in an eBay auction for a special dinner prepared by the resort chain's executive chef, Stefan Spath; one of his masterpiece paintings, 'Hint of Innocence'; and a three-night stay at the resort. All proceeds from the bid will go towards the shelter.

They brought along their friends Sue and Karl Brackenbury and two other couples from the United Kingdom - Martin and Dianne Sakon, and JJ and Mike Finn-Jones, who were also staying at the resort.

The sun set in its awesome beauty as the group enjoyed refreshing rosemary soursop and ginger fizz before being ushered to the pool for the pièce de résistance of the evening - a feast by the master chef.

Dipping into his hat of tricks, Spath had everyone oohing and ahhing with every dish presented.

Later, with stomachs full, the guests exchanged dog stories over cups of coffee and lemongrass tea.

The Fangmans announced that after two years, they will finally be able to take home the three new members of their family. James, Maggie May and Leah will make it eight dogs for the Fangmans.

As a thank-you for the great meal, and company, the couple prepared a musical presentation. With Jim on acoustic guitar and Darcy providing the vocals, they swayed their guests with a rendition of Jimmy Cliff's Many Rivers to Cross and the king of reggae's No Woman No Cry.

Who knew showing you care could be so much fun?

Contributed Photos