My first introduction to Liz was in LA, at her restaurant. Found quite by chance, located in a little cubby hole mini mall in Westwood, myself and my smorgasbord group of friends immediately made it a place to meet, celebrate and enjoy each other's company. We had going away celebrations, birthdays and graduation parties there, reveling in the food, music and conversation that created some of the most awesome evenings.
When the Cafe moved to Santa Monica, and me being a child of Jamaican heritage seeking additional employment, ('What!? you only have 2 jobs?!), Liz offered me my third job as a waitress at the Cafe. It was then that I really got to know this strong minded and frankly opinionated woman, as the Cafe became 'OJ Central'. She was glued to the small tv to watch the OJ Simpson trial, analysing every legal angle that was being thrown at that poor jury and judge and discussing it with patrons and friends with gusto!
When she eventually got divorced, through a lonely hearts column, she staged her hunt for a husband at the Cafe. Those were hysterical evenings, as she would arrange to meet potential dates and have the waiting staff veto/approve & quiz them before she 'appeared' at the door as if she was a regular patron, and once seated proceed to further quiz them about all manner of current events and life in general. Luck would have it that Steve was given the big thumbs up by all concerned and the rest is history.
Her genuine words of encouragement and thoughtfulness as a friend have been heartwarming to me over the many years, as we kept in touch over the miles when I eventually moved to London.
I really can't say enough to 'big up' this tremendously energetic and warm-hearted individual. She cooks with a passion that surpasses most Caribbean women, can hold a conversation about politics and current affairs like Jeremy Paxman, and has a heart of pure gold.
Liz, my dear, I am so sorry we are not physically with you to help celebrate this momentous occasion, but we are with you in Spirit. I hope this trip has been fantastic so far, and everyone is having a boss time. Looking forward to hearing all about it!
Many happy returns of the day, may you be around another 50 years to touch more lives and hearts.
God bless and keep you strong and healthy, and I hope South Africa has enough ice in stock to keep you happy.
All our love,
Charlotte, Christopher and 'Bubu' Nathan
PS. And someone for petes sake, please make sure she has more than a glass of Coke in her hand!
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