Yvonne Celebrates 70 Years Young
We were delighted to be able to accept Yvonne’s invitation to her special day. Yvonne; mother to Martin Goodwin, Makers Site Manager has always joked with us about her Jamaican cuisine, but it was all on display during her birthday celebrations.
Martin joined Makers during COVID and his mum’s reputation proceeded her as she kept us in food during those tough times. It’s taken 6 years to finally meet face to face after several messages, but with annual return visits to Jamacia to work on her house her birthday celebrations presented the first opportunity to meet face to face and what a delightful bundle of energy she is.
Yvonne has suffered with her walking, spending long spells in hospital but like all matriarchs she has her 3 sons drilled in military fashion.
“I was delighted to receive an invitation to Yvonne’s 70th Birthday so much so that I arrived at the stipulated time of 18:00. Not wanting to be late or miss anything I duly arrived in Catford at the named venue just a tad after 18:00. My first impression was nervousness as apart for 2 dear old ladies not a soul was to be seen. Quick introductions confirmed that they too were also invited and so we proceeded to share a couple of bottles of wine.
After about 2 hours and full of festive spirit we became a little concerned as to the day and venue, but just as our concerns were heightened more guests began to arrive together with the catering.
I was later informed that times are merely suggestions and that Jamaican protocol is not to appear too eager and so the trickle of arrivals turned into an avalanche especially when the catering was ready.
The venue itself was a restaurant upstairs but in the basement, it provided a self-contained bar, dance floor and facility to serve your own food.
The quality and quantity of the Jamaican cuisine was amazing and the first time I had sampled Yvonnes curried goat. It appears there is fierce rivalry and closely guarded recipes for Jerk Chicken which I have to say was incredible and admit a second visit was warranted.
Yvonne belies her years with a youthful look and discerning smile that disarms you immediately. Although struggling to walk she remained totally glamourous and in control throughout the evening, as 1:00 am approached and the party in full swing I made the journey home.
On announcing my departure, I was presented with a number of Jamaican Patties to take home and I must say they were amazing!
Yvonne on behalf of everyone at Makers, we wish you a spectacular 70th year, we thank you for allowing us to share your birthday celebrations, here’s to many more.
Simon Lamb, MD