Let's Play Mas!!!

Ronnie and Caro - The Mas Band

2008-08-08T13:51:00.002-04:00

The Launch is taking place on Friday August 29th at the Ambassador Hotel on Long Circular Road in St. James. Show is starting at 10:00 p.m.

I hear cost is $100 and masqueraders get 50% off the ticket price (information should be mailed to you, if not contact the mas camp)

I look forward to attending and hope I catch some great pictures to share!!!!

I IS A JUMBIE ! ! !

2008-07-30T09:39:00.003-04:00

To everyone playing on Lakeshore this year, JUMP UP FOR ME AND GET ON BADDD!!!

The Joy of Carnival....

2008-07-25T09:43:00.000-04:00

So here I am at my desk at work when really I should be in Toronto with my friends preparing for what I anticipated to be the best Toronto Carnival ever!!!! Unfortunately or actually fortunately I had to hand over my headpiece in exchange for a new job I have taken on. But there is always a brighter side and to me that is Trinidad Carnival!!!

The excitement of Carnival is already in my blood and I am so excited to be here during band launchings. I yet to attend a band launching and would LOVE to go to Tribes tomorrow, since I am unable to attend personally I will take part through Saucy’s Blogg :). I definitely will be attending the launch of Ronnie and Caro so will report on that. Until then I look forward to waking up Sunday morning to see Tribes costumes!!! To my friends at home – jump up for me on the 2nd of August and hopefully you will join me on the road here in Trinidad for Carnival 2K9!!

Back to Reality.....

2008-05-08T01:34:00.003-04:00

Ok so I have been here in Trini for a good four five months now and realized hmmmm what happened to the gym - I've become such a slacker :) and I smile bout it haha. Sure I was boxing for a bit there last month but the hours weren't working out for me so I did nothing until now, I finally joined a gym and just after two days I feel great!!!

The one thing I must say is that the gym very much impresses me with the TV screens on the treadmills and the wide arrange of classes not to mention the BOXING BAG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Another thing I love is that back in Toronto Soca was played in my ear by me as I worked out and here it just blasts out of the loud speakers in the ceilings :) Today I took my first spinning class, to you guessed it SOCA, and I loved it!!!!

So here we go its May, 3 months to Caribana (yes I coming home to hit da road!!!! but just for a minute - can't miss great fete weekend) and so the countdown begins lets see how I can keep up in the gym for my costume....wish me luck : )

Some Time Has Passed Since I Last Blogg.....

2008-04-24T12:31:00.004-04:00

Well a little time has passed sine I last blogg (like almost 6 months) but I am still around and have been having a time.

Since Miami Carnival I got on the grind and starting organizing myself to reach Trinidad for Christmas and once there I managed to stay for Carnival and till this day I yet to leave the beautiful islands of Trinidad and Tobago :)

So this is a little backwards for most as I find many only looking to run from trini to go foreign but for me I coming here to make a home. It has been interesting to say the least and I find myself settling in very well :) One thing I must say is that the people of Trinidad and Tobago are beautiful people inside and out. Everyone has been very welcoming to me and I only came across a few bad apples but I would directly relate that to the few months I worked bartending in town (nuff said - I am sure all understand lol)

I have now landed myself working for a local magazine here in Trinidad and am enjoying it very much as things are starting to take course. Working here is a little more lay back then I am used to considering that if I choose i could have a smoke or a drink at my desk (hell I could have both!!!) working all week and being able to hit up a good (crowded) party in the middle of the week is a normal thing here and nothing can beat being able to go lime on the beach on the weekend :)

My parents came down to visit after Carnival (btw I played with Ronnie and Caro and will post some pics soon) and I got the final approval to continue my life here on the islands (trust me if they didn't approve they would of drag me back on that plane with them) whoo hooo glad to see they take a liking to my rasta man :)

I will continue to post as the journey continues to keep my blogger family in the loop until we all bounce up in the next Carnival (for me that will be August as I taking a trip home to visit my friends and play mas - but I quick one as August here also has Great Fete Weekend which I do not want to miss) Thanks to everyone for the support and the encouraging words and if you see me on the streets of Trini (since I stick out just a tad) make sure to call me out.

Till next time I blogg take care..........

Miami still on my mind.....

2007-10-26T09:28:00.000-04:00

My Presshha MAD MAD MAD MAD MAD!!!!

2007-10-11T15:24:00.000-04:00

Miami Carnival was pure craziness and since pictures are worth a thousand words I need not say more......

On my way to meet the band.....

Toronto Girls Represent!!!

Pon Da Drink Truck....

HQ spotted me.....

.....and then she catch me do craziness LOL

TRINIDAD REPRESENT!!!! If I miss out on a costume for TnT this is how I am going to do LOL

Till next year Vibrantionzzz...........

Dis Year Fuh Carnival It Was The First Time I Playin Mas....Now Miami...I Doh Give A Rasss

2007-09-14T09:41:00.000-04:00

I myself am counting 19 days till Miami!!!!!! Yes 19 days and me real ready, it's time to get on bad!!!

Carnival time is all about feteing and da road...so remember What Happens In Da Party Stays In Da Party AND Enjoy Yourself In Da Mas Cause You Never Know When It's Going To Be Your Last......

You can find me by de bar in any of these fetes....

Thursday Night Naughty Or Nice - me a naughty girl ;) I'll be in black

Then off to...

WAKE AND BAKE :)

Wave Your Flag Wave Your Flag

GET ON!!!!!!!!!!

AFTER MAS!

FETEING FROM MONDAY MORNING - ALL DE WAY TO LAS LAP TUESDAY!!!

To join us on da road

http://www.vibrationzz.com/

There's still time....

I've Got My Miami Mas Shoes!!!!!

2007-08-31T13:35:00.000-04:00

I am such a shoe whore that no matter what the next thing after my costume is always my shoes!!!!!

I opted out of runners cause Miami is only one day and my running shoe collection is getting too damn big!!! I'm sure these will be easier to reuse for me :)

Going Round Da World - Mashing Up Da Road - MAS AFTER MAS AFTER MAS AFTER MAS!!!

2007-08-24T11:35:00.001-04:00

Well its being a while since I blogged but let me tell you TO Carnival was NICE!!! And Hamilton was an amazing time - las lap baby!!!

So we started all off with J'Ouvert...

After that we hit da road....

...and partied like Rock Stars!!!

Then off to Carnival In Yuh Backyard.....

WE JUMBIED......

.....AND GET ON BAD!!!!

AND WE NAH COME HOME TILL THE MORNING COME!!!!!!!!!!!

Then The Grande Finale - HAMILTON!!!!

WHAT A TIMEEE!!!!

MIAMI NEXT ----- LOOK FOR ME IN VIBRATIONZZ PEACOCK....

HQ - GIRL I WILL SEE YOU PON DA ROAD!!!

Man Loses Leg After Falling Off Caribana Float

2007-08-09T15:46:00.000-04:00

I had not heard about this until now.....what a shame. I am thankful that for me this Carnival was a safe one. All the best to this young man as he recovers............

Man Loses Leg After Falling Off Caribana Float
Thursday August 9, 2007

A Toronto man lost his leg after trying to join the Caribana Parade on Saturday. Twenty-five year-old Chris Baptiste was watching the procession when he and a friend decided to jump the security fence and climb aboard a truck to join a band.
Baptiste's father, Kelvin, says his son missed and fell and the truck rolled over him. His friend got the driver to stop but the wheel was on top of him and by the time the vehilce was put into reverse, the damage had been done.
Baptiste says his son's left leg had to be amputated on Tuesday and doctors expect the single factory worker to face up to a year of physical rehabilitation. His father is angry that no report has been released about the incident, adding "when people are intoxicated", security has to be implemented.
Caribana organizers call the tragedy "a regrettable situation," but insist they've always discouraged onlookers from participating in the parade for their own safety.

Christina Get Brave.....

2007-07-17T13:39:00.001-04:00

So today I build the nerve to ask my boss for time off for Carnival '08. I well ask for a month but knew it wouldn't fly so I tried for 3 weeks but it look like they only giving me 2. But I will be happy with that - got to be greatful that I able to reach three years in a row.

Wish me luck guys :)

Machel

2007-07-13T09:48:00.001-04:00

I know you have all heard about our meeting with Machel but I just wanted to share a few pics if you haven't already viewed them on my facebook :)

.....cleaning him up before his appearance

..............it ain't coming off - must be blood from Zen!!!

I nearly make him drop when he see what I want him to sign...........

.......but he likes it - but I the one who gets to keep it

My Mas Shoes

2007-06-23T14:09:00.000-04:00

I "stumbled" across these in the mall....

.....now to work them in

Possible Shoes....

2007-06-18T15:04:00.000-04:00

I seen these shoes at Payless for like $17 the other day. I think they are cute and a good alternative from runners and here in Toronto the parade only last hours not days (although I wish)

They also always have that buy one get second half price so I could grab them in white or black as well and I think I would use these shoes again before I would use pink runners....any thoughts????

They also had these available....

(they should reverse the colours here)

Now these ones below don't match but I wish the yellow line was orange (or pink) and the green was orange as well

Same here - wish there was pink in the shoe with some pink laces

Can you tell I got extra time on my hands at work today :)

The shoes for carnival must can't be expensive if you ask me cause its only for one day and the last thing I need is another pair of shoes LOL Online the only shoe store with non-expensive shoes is Payless - guess I got to hit the mall with my cam.

Block-O

2007-06-18T14:13:00.001-04:00

Sunday July 8th, 2007
Louis Saldenah Mas K Club presentsFOR THE FIRST TIME EVER...
"THE SALDENAH PRE-CARNIVAL WARM-UP BLOCKO"@ THE MAS CAMP
55 Nugget Ave, Unit 10 (1 Block North Sheppard, Off McCowan)
Music by: D'ENFORCAS INTERNATIONAL SOCA VIBES SOCA SWEETNESSMARXMANRENEGADE SQUADPLAYHOUSEDJ CHIEFBASS KOLD FUSION BLACKBERRY SOUNDCREWFARMERS RHYTHM SECTION Hosted by: BASS LINE, SKF, TRIKKI & FUTURE FROM 4PM-9PMAdm: FREE FOR EVERYONE!!!Info: 416-444-9118 www.saldenahcarnival.com www.carnivalempire.com VIEW FLYER

But before that this sounds fun, close to home and FREE LOL Always fun to see the crowds when there is free food.

Saturday JUNE 30th, 2007 (CANADA DAY LONG WEEKEND)~THE BIG FREE BBQ BLOCKO~@ Palazzo Patio & Parking lot – 99 Peelar Rd. (jane\hwy 7)Music by: SOCA MONARCHSCRYSTAVIBEZ (CELEBRATING THEIR 4TH ANNIVERSARY)MARXMAN – FROM THE KOSDOCCHIEFSKFIRON BY:DE FARMERS RHYTHM SECTIONGATES OPEN AT 6PM TILL ?????Info: 416-854-1306 416-884-8425 647-219-2645 tripleasoundz@hotmail.comALL COMPLIMENTS OF UNCLE B, SOCA BOYZ, PLANET SOCA, WE VIBEZ & TRIPLE A ENT.VIEW FLYER

So I've started a new diet.....

2007-06-18T14:12:00.001-04:00

HAHA - sounds good to say it

I will let you all know how it is going in a week - I don't want to speak too soon :)

J'Ouvert

2007-06-15T15:37:00.000-04:00

I wonder if there is really paint LOL if so I'm there :)

If anyone has been let me know what you think pf the party.

My Costume - I Done Buy That

2007-06-14T09:35:00.000-04:00

So I spent last night with Kara and Trini-In-TO visiting some of the mas camps and I must say there are some awesome costumes out there this year that I can not wait to see on da road. Kara took pictures so visit her blogg and have a look.

Well I yet to make it to being Queen of the band.....

And I will never be King....

but after much thought I have finally decided on the band and section I am going to play with this year.....

Louis Saldenah

Water Lillies of the Congo - by Bryant Sinanan

Photo from www.trinijunglejuice.com

Visit http://www.saldenahcarnival.com/ for information and to join the band!!!

Now to Frontline HO it!!!!

(not to mention gym it and diet LOL)

"I READY, I READY, I READY FOR MAS AGAIN!!!"

Ready for Mas Again......

2007-06-04T10:32:00.000-04:00

So Toronto Carnival is around the corner and for me it will be my first time playing mas in my own city, lucky for me I have my stock of trini rum for da road :)

For those interested in playing mas check out the links below as well as Kara and Saucy's bloggs for the latest info.

Toronto Mas Bands 2007 - In Order of Appearance on Da Road

#1 Mas Toronto (Errol Achue)
2007 Presentation: "PETIT MONDE"
Website: http://www.mastoronto.com/
2007 Launch Date: June 9 '07 @ Thornhill Community CentreLaunch

#2 Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club (Louis Saldenah)
2007 Presentation: "THE RAINFOREST"
Website: http://www.saldenahcarnival.com/
2007 Launch Date: May 19 '07 @ The Ramada Hotel

#3 Toronto Revellers (Jamaal Magloire)
2007 Presentation: "VIVA LAS VEGAS"
2007 Launch Date: May 12 '07 @ Shangri-LaLaunch

#4 Carnival Nationz (Curtis Eustace)
2007 Presentation: "THE BIG TOP"
Website: http://www.carnivalnationz.com2/
2007 Launch Date: May 26 '07 @ Next Level Nightclub

#5 Jessie Matthews & The Calabash Company (Jessie Matthews)
2007 Presentation: "RHYTHM OF LIFE"
Website: http://www.jessiematthews.com/
2007 Launch Date: TBA

#6 Arnold Hughes & Associates (Arnold Hughes)
2007 Presentation: "QUEST FOR GOLD"
Launch Date: TBA

#7 Callaloo (Marlon Singh)
2007 Presentation: "THE CONQUEST OF ALEXANDER"
Website: http://www.callaloo.net/
2007 Launch Date: May 12 '07 @ SIN CITYLaunch

#8 Toronto Caribbean Connection (Mervyn Skeete)
2007 Presentation: "FUSION"
Website: http://www.tocarnival.com/
2007 Launch Date: June 2 @ Sugar Lounge

#9 Scarborough Caribbean Sports Club (Alvin Adore)
2007 Presentation: "REFLECTIONS 2K7
Website: http://www.scsc.ca/
2007 Launch Date: TBALaunch Photos: N/A

#10 Bazodee Connection (Dr. Roz Roach)
2007 Presentation: "THE ENCHANTED GARDEN OF SOCALAND"
Website: http://www.bazodeeconnection.com/
2007 Launch Date: June 17 @ The Mas Camp

#11 Pleasure Players (Whitfield Balasco)
2007 Presentation: "AMAZONIA"
2007 Launch Date: TBA

#12 Evolution Carnival (Andre & Ken Defreitas)
2007 Presentation: "DREAMSEEKERS"
Website: http://www.evolutioncarnival.com/
2007 Launch Date: June 2 '07 @ Fox & Fiddle

#13 Mas Players International (Bridget Renne / Troy Logan)
2007 Presentation: "DANCING SPIRIT OF RESILIENCE"
Launch Date: TBA

#14 Nip Davis & Associates (Selwyn "Nip" Davis)
2007 Presentation: "IN FLIGHT"
Website: http://www.nipdavis.com/
2007 Launch Date: TBALaunch Photos: N/A

#15 Borokeete Canada (Frank Ramsaroop)
2007 Presentation: "ATLANTIS"
Website: http://www.borokeetecanada.com/
2007 Launch Date: June 8 '07 @ Valdrina's (14 Lebovic Ave)

#16 Tribal Knights (Dexter Seusahai)
2007 Presentation: "TRIBAL KNIGHTS"
Website: http://www.tribalknights.com/
2007 Launch Date: May 12 '07

Since I am a TO Virgin Masquerader I am under the care of Karabana and Trini-in-TO and looks like we will be playing with either Saldenah or Carnival Nationz. So who is everyone playing with???

I WISH WE HAD J'OUVERT!!!!

Toronto Mas

2007-05-15T13:44:00.000-04:00

So with the launch of Kara's new blogg (see right hand side of page) and my attendance at the band launch I am getting excited about playing mas again :) For anyone coming to Toronto for our Carnival I just wanted to post the ads for 2 of what I feel are the hottest parties every Carabana.

Fire Fete's have always been personal favourites of mine. Any Fire Fete I go to I successfully lick my head and get on bad like I really in Trini lol. The only thing I can't stand is how hot it gets up in the place which brings me too why I enjoy the next party as well...

This is the closest we getting to a Savannah over here :)

"I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait till August!!!"

YUM!!!

2007-05-03T09:32:00.000-04:00

The third Taste T&T will feature 12 chefs from Trinidad and Tobago’s leading fine dining restaurants and the best of local cuisine - making it an event not to be missed.

The Demonstration Kitchen headed by consultant chef Debra Sardinha -Metivier, a popular stop at last year’s festival, will form a major part of Taste T&T. Featuring live cooking demonstrations by participating chefs, seating capacity at the Demonstration Kitchen has increased to accommodate patrons interested in learning the chefs’ sumptuous secrets.

The Caribbean Village will feature 12 booths serving the best of local cuisine – from spicy shark and bake to generous servings of roti (curried meat and vegetables wrapped in roasted flat bread). It will also present many opportunities for sampling and giveaways.

For à la carte dining, there is the Gourmet area manned by Trinidad and Tobago’s top international chefs. Gourmet tickets cost $200 TT per day and entitle the holder to free entry and a selection of mouth-watering dishes from four chefs.

Tickets for Taste T&T are available at the TDC’s head office Level 1, Maritime Centre, Barataria, and IF House, 105 Tragarete Road, Port of Spain. General admission is free to children under the age of 12 and adults before 8 pm. After 8 pm, adult admission is $25 TT.

Things I Want to Do While In TnT This Time Around

2007-05-02T11:47:00.000-04:00

So now that I know I reaching I have been searching the net for any events that will be taking place while I am there. I have yet to find much but I will keep looking. If anyone has any input on an event I post let me know or if ou hear of anything - I will be there from the 18th - 27 :)

Cultural Festivals

Feel the energy of Central Trinidad as the Sugar and Energy festival takes centre stage at Gilbert Park, Couva, from Friday 25 to Sunday 27. Starting with a fun-filled children’s day, the festival ends with the traditional Cart Parade – a procession of bull carts traditionally used to transport agricultural produce and sugarcane.

Hungry for Adventure?
Taste T&T, the most delicious weekend of the year, is back to delight both local and visiting palates on the 26 and 27, at the Jean Pierre Complex, Port of Spain, from 6 pm to 11 pm. Hosted by the Tourism Development Company Limited (TDC), Taste T&T highlights the culinary traditions of Trinidad and Tobago’s multi-ethnic heritage and the gourmet finesse of its chefs and cooks.

In St James, the city that never sleeps, the We Beat Festival of cultural shows and performances – including calypso, steelpan and dance – kicks off with a massive street party on May 25.

So I thinking of the Taste TnT - of course LOL and the Street Party in St. James

I also hear it is time for Turtle watching hmmm maybe if I bring a bottle of rum with me it could be fun :)

That do you all think - thanks :)

Found a link for We Beat http://www.webeat.org/ but the dates are differnt AHHH Trinidad I tell you lol

I Reachin Again :)

2007-05-01T16:28:00.000-04:00

Well yesterday was my birthday and I got the best present you could think of - A TRIP TO TRINIDAD!!!! Like what is really going on here - seems that everything just working in good timing for me :)

My ticket was bought as a b-day gift and I knew these funds were available I just never thought in a million years my job would give me the time off (I only started here late March when I reach back from Trini) but guess it was just meant to be SO SWEET SWEET TRINI I COMING !!!

Changin My ULR - Please Update my link on your page

2007-04-13T12:07:00.000-04:00

Trying for www.letsplaymas.blogspot.com

lets see if it works :)

Just Blabing So You All Know I Am Still Alive

2007-04-09T14:13:00.000-04:00

(just in case you all think I freeze to death over here in TO)

Kara Fire Fete was good but let me tell you that the people here don't know how to Jumbie at all. I was doing the Jumbie in the crown and can you believe that people were giving me looks like I mad!!! (It was a site though, one of the few white girls and the croud and she one of the very few that knew the Jumbie LOL)

All though I had a good time it can never measure up to a true TnT fete. To start off I waited in the frickin cold for AN HOUR AND A HALF!!!! Yes 1.5 hours you are reading it correct. Thank God for the water bottle in my pocket that Megan filled up with White Oak, I just keep sipping that to keep my sanity. Then there’s the bar issue - it closes at 2!!! I forgot all about that LOL I was glad to see the corn soup man when I was leaving, it put a smile on my face.

But definitely had a time and with that said just want to let you guys know I grabbed the tickets for Soca or Die, Megan is coming along as well. So get ready to Jumbie :)

(Ok well I guess I could of just emailed you but my blogg needed a post)

How are all the other bloggers??? Hope you are all doing well. I just here working and ting deciding on plans for my next trip which I feel is going to be Vincy Mas YES - with a couple of days in TnT before or after :)

Let Summer Begin...

2007-03-26T14:35:00.000-04:00

So after spending a month is the sun its kind of hard to adjust but from the looks of it summer might just be on its way here in T-Dot (well at least spring, but I'll push it)

So with that said what better way to start of then with Fire Fete 5 on Easter weekend. So Kara, Sean and all the other TO soca lovers what do you say??? I looking to get my ticket tonight or tomorrow cause trust me they will sell out and this will be one big party (no Savannah but Koolhouse will have to do)

Here to reset the countdown for next year :)

2007-03-22T19:59:00.000-04:00

OUT OF BODY......

What a Carnival it was!!!!

If you haven't guessed I once again lost myself in Trinidad and have not even been home a week now - missing the sun and sand but glad to see the weather is warming up here.

After staying in Trinidad for a month its hard to look back and blogg about it but I just wanted to share some pictures and give you all an idea of the time I had as well as see how your everyone enjoyed themselves.

The morning I landed I headed up to Maracus Beach to spend the day and hit Customs by night. From there the rest of my trip was full with beach limes, waterfalls, drinking, fetes (Customs, Soca Monarch, Brass, Pigeon Point Wet Fete, Sunday School), J'Ouvert Morning, Monday/Tuesday Mas, Las Lap, Cool Down, Tobago and back to Trinidad to enjoy my last couple of days.

J'OUVERT MORNING

CARNIVAL MONDAY (never reach home yet - drinking right through)

TUESDAY MAS

**Thanks for the pic Kara via Saucy's Album

WATERFALLS!!!

TOBAGO...CHRISTINA WANTS WATER!!!

....BACK TO MYSELF

Beware!!!

2007-02-01T12:04:00.000-05:00

Have to be quick but just wanted to give you all the heads up in case you all plan on going to Tobago after Carnival :) - from www.trinidadexpress.com

9 More Tobago Tourists Fall Ill

County Medical Officer of Health in Tobago, Dr Mentor Melville, is threatening to close down the kitchen of the Rex Turtle Beach Hotel after nine more European tourists fell ill yesterday with symptoms of gastroenteritis after having dinner.
More visitors were treated for symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea yesterday.
This brings the total number of tourist affected to 60.
Some of them have already checked out and sought other accommodation on the island.
Dr Melville said a preliminary report from the Trinidad Public Health Laboratory was delayed, as food and water samples from the kitchen of the hotel, along with stool samples from the nine visitors affected yesterday was sent for testing.
Dr Melville said the results from the lab would determine the next course of action.

Now I Vex

2007-01-25T20:37:00.000-05:00

So I decided I was going to return my boots (well the voices around me decided actually) and so I followed up on a previous plan. A store had brown white and gold Adidas shoes that would have gone perfect with cow mas but they didn't have my size. So the girl called around (reluctantly) and said she found a pair at another store and that she would get them shipped over for me. I was so delighted and eagerly went to return my (already worn) cowboy boots. Once returning them I went to pick up the Adidas and guess what - they store shiped the wrong shoe STEUPS!!!!

So anyway to make a long story short I just pick up the shoes below because I give up. I can't stress no more!!!

What you all think?? - the lighting is bad in the pic so the colour looks a bit off

I figure if I find something I like better between now and the time I go I get them and just return these ones but at least I got something.

Can You Believe This Set of Madness???

2007-01-24T09:14:00.000-05:00

Today I get asked if people speak English well in Trinidad???

People really that ignorant???? It good thing I not really Trini or it would be one cuss for she - but not to worry I did but her straight for all of you and informed her that English is your mother tongue.

Lawd

With that said, back to work – enjoy your day everyone!

Trini-In-TO I found you Monday Wear

2007-01-18T10:23:00.000-05:00

What do you think Kara???

and...

Gee we get you a matching set too :)

My Boots

2007-01-17T09:40:00.000-05:00

Let me start off by saying that before the discovery of Saucy's blogg and the creation of my own I was going to wear my costume for 2 days and most likely would of just painted an old pair of sneakers gold but you guys have done it to me and I must say thank you :) Thanks to all you guys I am on top of my game - what other foreigner knows about Monday wear and that boots are the shit :)

With that said let me present you with my Carnival boots!!!!!!

Comments please......................

I think I can work the heel now that I see the boots that Saucy and SocaDiva getting have heels too!!

Really it only one day since I have Monday wear and the feel comfortable.

Now I ready :)

"....get on bad and misbehaving"

Had to Share Ha-Ha

2007-01-16T16:46:00.000-05:00

An email I got in the office :)

Exercise Routine New exercise routine. If you're over 40, you might want to take it easy at first, then do it faster as you become more proficient. It may be too strenuous for some . Always consult your doctor before starting any exercise programme! SCROLL DOWN...

NOW SCROLL UP.. . That's enough for the first day. Great job. Have a glass of wine.

Safety

2007-01-16T12:38:00.000-05:00

So with Carnival just around the corner I wanted to take a minute to reflect on that fact that amidst all this fun there are many dangers. We have all talked about the fact that Trinidad is not that safe but as a foreigner I want to say that during my many visits to Trinidad I am very glad to say that they have gone with incident (well major incident at least) and that is why I can return without hesitation.

Please let us all be safe during this Carnival season. Never travel alone, use your head and trust your gut feelings.

Even still, with this said, don’t be scared – HAVE FUN!!! Free up yourself and get rid of the stresses we deal with the rest of the year.

I wanted to bring your attention to my local news hear in Toronto, please take the time to browse the sites. I read the Trinidad news almost every day and keep up to date since I spend a good amount of time on the island (last year 5 weeks plus!!!)

Things are crazy all over nowadays. - BTW, the head story re: the shootings - I work in that building.

http://www.citynews.ca/
http://www.torontosun.com/
http://www.thestar.com/

If I Could Do It In Heals!!!

2007-01-12T14:12:00.000-05:00

....for the record I talking about Carnival :)

I would love to cross the stage (oh no stage damn!!) in these but I will break my foot :) I think they would look amazing with the costume. I feel to but them and bring them just to put on my foot and pose up and take pics and then return them to the store when I come Canada!!!

heehee I use my camera phone :)

So I have my shoes now!!!! Not these ones but I find a pair of gold and tan/brown cowboy boots!!! YIPPIEE I SO EXCITED!!!! They have a bit of a heal but not much, the damn little cowboy boot heal - you guys think I can do it, remeber I have Monday wear so it really only Tuesday I worried about and I'll get my man purses (like the plural) to all hold down a pair of flip flops or runner. Plus forget that my 2 girls wear the same shoe size - they will have to watch my back right :) or in this case my foot.

I will take a pic as soon as I get them, they are shipping them so I will show you all on Thursday.
I'm better now :)

I leaving in one month tomorrow !!!!

Shoes Shoes Shoes

2007-01-10T17:30:00.000-05:00

Ok here I am in the office working late - unable to attend boxing :( and I am actually waiting for work. You see overtime in our office is not that bad because you spend most of your time waiting for when the lawyer needs you, thus why i am blogging :)

So just a little over a month to Carnival and me the Queen of Shoes does not have anything to wear come Tuesday!!! Half the problem (well more then half) is that I do not want to spend much on these shoes considering I will wear them only for that one day and the odds of them having to be retired after that is like 99.9% - you see I won't wear scuffed shoes so I know they will be garbage.

So lets start with Payless - what do you all think of the shoes below - help me fellow bloggers vote!!! (thanks for the idea Kevian!!!)

***Please note that I am doing this at the office and have not made any kind of decision what so ever and Saucy, girl you have seen the costume in person - help :) They are in no particular order, remember I playing cow mas - Tribe website blocked at work so I can't post the costume pic.

Shoe # 1 - too brown :(

Shoe # 2 - not sure about comfort...

Shoe # 3 - orange DUH

Shoe # 4 - maybe, need to look at costume again

Shoe # 5

there is none!!!!!

This ain't helping - I need to go to the mall :(

Got a pic

Fete in TO Before We Go !!!

2007-01-04T12:08:00.000-05:00

So with Carnival fast approaching and all the pre-jump ups happening in TnT what are we foreigners to do???

Saturday February 3rd, 2007"DCALXII" - 12th Annual edition of DOH CRY AH LEAVIN'At: KOOL HAUS - 132 Queens Quay West2 day pre-purchase opportunity December 22nd & 23rdOne-time special price of $12 for the 12th Annual DOH CRY AH LEAVIN'Play De Record (Downtown) - 416.586.0380A Kut Above (Scarborough) - 416.839.1489 (ask for Jeff)Drupatis (Etobicoke) - 416.745.4189Charlie's (Mississauga) - 905.896.3663Modern Edge (Ajax) - 905.426.6894regular priced tickets will be on sale January 12thToronto's official farewell fete before T&T Carnival - THIS IS THE ONLY FETE TO BE SOLD OUT EVERY YEAR SINCE ITS INCEPTION 11 YEARS AGO!"time to show you the power of the DJ now..."Info: 416.245.6411 www.myspace.com/socatherapy

Year In Review

2007-01-03T16:49:00.000-05:00

Ok so I see you all writing and no one visiting my blogg anymore

Guess it my fault, I sticking on the posts

So to recap on my year 2006 started off good for me – kind of like this year. Holidays were done and over and the countdown for Carnival was on!!! My 2006 Carnival experience was amazing!!! I managed to stay down in the Caribbeans for an entire month and spent my time between Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago – was really liking myself in Feb/March of 06

Well I reach home to good old cold Canada in mid march and was not happy – cold lick me hard since when my plane landed some construction caused me to be shuttled from one terminal to the other to get my luggage, I was unprepared and had to do this in my shorts – not a good welcome back!!!

Then was April - Kara I celebrate 4 birthdays in my family in April, my moms on the 8th, mom’s husband on the 15th, my big bros on the 25th and then me on the 30th!!!!

So that was April – them May, June, July and August hit – Canadian summer!!! Had my own apartment this year so I partied it up through these times and took in as much good weather as I could. Still stuck hard to my boxing throughout the summer and played recreational soccer in the evenings. Summer ends here with Toronto Carnival/Carabana – this year was a good one, can say I really had a time. Hit up fetes every night and stormed the parade on lakeshore with my bottle of black and white whisky from TnT :) Booked my ticket for Trinidad Carnival 2007 and not long after was the birth of my blogg!!!!

September/October things settled down and I finally decided that I wanted to fight – I have been boxing for 2 years now and never seriously though about getting competitive until now. My coach was thrilled, he has been trying to twist my arm from day one. Haven’t had my first fight yet but if I can get one in during the first part of next year I will be more then happy. People tell me all the time that I’m nuts – but trust me it doesn’t hurt all that bad getting knocked in the face LOL. One time I thought I got whiplash with Carlos. I’ll update my feelings on this issue after the first time some ko’s me :) Things have changed at work – for the better, but I’ve been super busy thus why you don’t all see me on a daily basis but I trying!!! I am sure this will pick up as Carnival gets even closer!!! 54 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

November was just as busy as the previous months so I decided to cancel my Christmas vacation and take time off at the end of November. Holidays can be quiet in the office so I thought I rather be here then and skip out in November. November I reached Trinidad but my fellow bloggers have already heard about that. Didn’t make it across to Tobago but its alright, I will be there after Carnival.

December was a busy month – landed back here on the 3rd or 4th and had to settle back in and deal with the craziness of the holidays – had no shopping done at all but I made it as always :)

Well that brings me to present day – preparing for Carnival again!!!!

“So wave your hand high, up in the sky…..”

“One thing about my country, where ever we go we love to party, there’s my cousin get at her, show me your rag…..”

“They see baccanical – we see Carnival….”

“I want you to spread out your wings and fly…..taking off like an airplane……”

“When you see me whining in a band, it’s the best thing in the land, hop on up, hop on up!!!!”

Now to start off the New Year. Next 6 weeks dedicated to me and getting fit for Carnival (along with anything else that relates to same)

All the best to all of you in the New Year and God bless!!

What I ate for Christmas.....and believe me I was not a good girl :)

2006-12-27T14:19:00.000-05:00

Ok so since we are confessing here is goes…..

Christmas Eve – this is when my family celebrates

Breakfast – 2 Eggs with toast and cheese

Lunch – Turkey Sandwich and an apple

Last Minute Mall Shopping Snack – Slice of pizza (by this time I already figuring damn it it’s Christmas)

Dinner – was still full from the pizza – silly me so I had to skip my grandmas lasagna and had some chicken, salad, peas and broccoli – so really I wasn’t that bad :)

Evening Snacks – some homemade cookies – not much though only probably 3 throughout the night, fruit and chocolate :)

Drinks – I only had a glass of wine with dinner :)

Physical Activity – not only did I run around the mall but I spent the morning (from 8 – 2) moving. I know it sucks I had to move on Christmas Eve but it’s the only time that worked so I feel I deserve all I ate on this day since I did a lot of lifting and there was no elevator and I was moving out of a third floor!!

Christmas Day

Breakfast – well I am guilty of waking up at 1:30 so I had an English muffin with butter – count it as whatever you wish :)

Lunch/Dinner – it was healthy – I had turkey, sweet potatoes, rice and salad :)

Evening snacks – some more chocolate (oh ohh) and Baileys :)

Boxing Day – this was the worse day, guess because it was the last day to blow my diet

Breakfast – Tim Horton’s egg and sausage breakfast sandwich (sure some of you know what I am talking about)

Lunch – went to East Side Mario’s had Italian Wedding soup and Pasta with Asparagus.

Dinner (now this is bad!!!) went to the bar with my girlfriend to watch the hockey game where we drank (only one cooler for me - REV) and munched on chicken wings and shared a poutine!! OUCH!!

Now that was all bad of me but I am going back to the gym tonight and will behave between now and New Years (on which day I will indulge again) but after that NO MORE!!!

Hope everyone enjoyed themselves and let us now really get ready for we carnival!!!

Now that I look at it I could have been a lot worse, you think???

Merry Christmas to All!!!!

2006-12-23T10:09:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to take the opportunity to wish you and yours all the best during the holiday season. Let us not forget that we will be on da road in like less then 8 weeks so mind your diet and try to fit in some exercise :)

If your in TnT please have a drink for me :)

All the best and God bless !!!

buublenut

Getting Ready For A Time!!!

2006-12-18T19:49:00.000-05:00

Well Christmas is almost here and soon after that is Carnival - oh shit I mean New Year and then CARNIVAL!!!

Since I just reach back from the island I find it easy to start packing as I am only returning my clean clothes back to my suit case where they belong and guess what I am guilty of trying on my Monday wear once again :) what can I say, I'm excited - I'm sure you all do it too every once in a while. So here is my dilemma - I have a pair of black adidas shoes I was going to wear with my Monday wear which is made up of hot pink and black but I have now come across a pair of adidas shoes in the store that match my hot beaded pink bikini exactly!!! What to do - like how many shoes am I supposed to buy for Carnival LOL I already have to get a pair for my costume, a J'Ouvert pair to demolish (probably a pair I already own) and now these Monday wear ones??? Mind you I for one do not mind buying shoes - I LOVE SHOES but I feel like I buying these shoes to kill them on the road so when is enough enough. Ok the black ones I have look fine but I now the pink ones will look like 100 times better :) so to weigh my pros and cons - save money and wear my old shoes or spend a bit and be truly happy with my Monday wear. I am sure after a few drinks I won't care whats on my feet anyway but on the other hand isn't this where I show case myself to the world :) Help me out guys - what do you think - when is enough enough - buy the shoes or give them up........

What A Time :)

2006-12-09T11:42:00.000-05:00

Well I am back guys and boy did I have a time. I reach early last Saturday morning (like 5 AM) drove myself straight home drop my stuff change my clothes and off to Marcus I went. Spent the day between Maracus and Las Cuavas Beach and spent the evening at a friends house who lives in the nearby village – they welcomed us by cooking us dinner and we spent the evening drinking and catching up on old times. Sunday I spent the day at Macurip (sorry about all the spelling guys – remember I am foreign, saucy, hottie help me out here) I enjoyed myself at this beach because you can really swim out far – it was a good work out, ventured through the cave in the water, climbed the rocks and took some dives and joined in a friendly game of soccer/football with the guys :)

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and the rest of the week I forget :) but I went into town a couple of times, hit some more beaches, spent a couple of nights in St. James at S&B’s and went to some new club they open up – Glamour I think. Friday evening I joined the after work crowd at Mangos in town and drank off a bottle then made my way to Niabingi. Saturday was my last full day so I decided to settle down and spend some quiet time with my boy before I left and then Sunday by mid day I made my way back to the cold.

You can really sense that Christmas is coming on the islands and I love it. Now I just need to hold on and wait till February – The thought of how I will feel when I break out J’Ouvert morning gives me goosebumps and makes me shriek and giggle like a little child – but I will TRY to wait patiently

I Reach Back Safe

2006-12-05T09:18:00.000-05:00

Well I come back to the cold and the snow :( Had a time !!! Busy as ever here though so will reach back the post soon. Until then hope you are all doing well and keeping up the Carnival exercises and diet - Carnival 2K7 almost here.

2 More Days and We Have Lift Off 8)

2006-11-22T10:40:00.000-05:00

OH GOSH OH GOSH!!!

Wetting Up in Fetes

2006-11-18T11:32:00.000-05:00

So just to get some discussion going on here how do you all feel when the water bottles come out at fetes??

You see me I look at it all as fun. Whenever I reach a fete in Trinidad I keep in the back of my mind that yes the clothes I put on may never be the same again, the earring in my ear – well they might not be there by the time the night done, my shoes yes my PRECIOUS SHOES are going to get jumped on and can probably never again be worn in daylight hours…..but it all in the fun of the season nah!

Last year I went battle of the sexes and these two girls are posing up see, it must have taken them a good couple hours to but themselves together, and one the men we were with bust out some water and can you believe a couple of drops reach the two girls skin, one cut eye they give. Like where did they really think they were going??? So my turn now J when the next big tune bust out I grab a bottle of water and go jump on behind them and splash the entire thing on they J

I find these things happening all the time – especially in fetes here in Toronto at Carabana time. So what’s really the story with the water, acceptable or not??

Wild...yes I am 8)

2006-11-11T12:32:00.000-05:00

So at first I thought when I reach Trinidad I would take the time to catch up on my sleep at the beach but when I think of it - it ain't happening :)

So I came across this party (with he help of Saucy) that is going on the night that I reach. I am considering going but have not been to this venue before. Any information regarding this would help me out guys. Thanks so much

buublenut :)

WILD
Date: Saturday 25th November, 2006 (10:00pm)
Event:WILD
Venue:Tsunami Beach Club - Chaguaramas

Promoter:Other

Theme: "Wild" transports you to a jungle paradise where your animalistic desires can be revealed without prejudice. Come down to Tsunami on the 25th of Nov where free rum, beers and scotch would be served for the entire night. Complementary premium drinks such as brown cows and tequila would also be periodically given away! 2-4-1 specials on Johnny Walker Black, Baileys, Hypnotic and Malibu all night long... Great people, wild competitions, wild outfits and first class entertainment!
For more info contact the party hotline 331-7789

So I've Meet My First Fellow Bolgger

2006-11-10T14:09:00.000-05:00

....and cowgirl too :)

We getting ready for the road :) Karabana joined me last night in my boxing class and let me tell you the workout we had - Kara I know you feeling it today LOL

Funny, it's a small world - see how Carnival really get us. It was good meeting you girl. Hope you enjoyed yourself :)

A Must While I am on the Islands

2006-11-08T11:17:00.000-05:00

Going over to Trinidad before Carnival I find I will have tome to enjoy some of the finer things in life……like WATERFALLS. Have you ever went swimming in a waterfall?? It absolutely amazing. I love the long trek that you share with friends drinking and laughing – these times are unforgettable.

I remember one time when I going to – believe it was Paria Falls (pardon the spelling) – I had to choose between climbing up some kind of cliff over the body of water or swim through it – 2 of us climbed 2 of us swam. I swam!!! At first I was reluctant to go in the water but when I see the sexy dread jump in all I could do was follow :) I have also made the hike up to Maracus Falls which is more tourist friendly if you want to put it – there is actually a path, so if your not that adventurous try this route and make sure to stop to drink some of the fresh water that comes down from the mountains. Regardless of which falls you visit I guarantee you will have a good time :)

***Little trick of the trade – when you get to the waterfall lodge your bottle of rum under some rocks in the water and that will cool down in no time

For a whole new experience make sure to go bath in a nice river at the side of the road. Unbelievable that this is coming from my mouth but trust me – I made up my face the first time but once I got in that water and it touch my skin nothing was getting me out of there until night fall.

and for the recored I have no idea who the man in the photo is :)

Me Nah Stick ! ! !

2006-11-03T11:09:00.000-05:00

Oh gosh – guess who have ticket in hand now :) I reaching end of November to work on my Carnival tan ladies :)

Now al I have to do is contain myself – which is extremely hard so we will she how it goes.

The Greatest Ting I've Heard All Year - at least for me :)

2006-11-01T14:58:00.000-05:00

I could not be happier :) I am sitting at work bloggin here drinking the best drink in the world FRUTA!!! Nah you see my girl reach home from Trinidad last night and bring me back a whole bunch of things (including a 24 case of Fruta!!!) – assorted in flavor. Much to my surprise Fruta has a new flavor (who ever thought it could get better then Guava Pineapple, but it has)……now you ready for this if you haven’t been home in a while………..now available in a blue can is PINEAPPLE COCONUT FRUTA – what the ras took them so long!!!!!

What!! Me feel like heaven last night. I was sitting up in front of my girls TV watching Soca Monarch 2006, drinking Fruta with rum, surrounded by Trini cheese, my guava filled Dixie crackers, catch and coco crisp bars (all of which I am saving for a rainy day) smoking on some of your press.

Had to share :) there’s my fix until Carnival (or end of this month if I can organize something)

I GOT MY MONDAY WEAR!!!!

2006-10-31T11:47:00.000-05:00

Ok well I really was not going to do this Monday wear thing only because I spent so much $$$ on my costume already but Carnival fever lick me this weekend and now I have Monday wear accessorized and all!!!

So basically I am coming out on the road in a beaded thong bikini (from La Vie en Rose) in my favorite colour (if you haven’t guessed its PINK!!!) but I am going to wear a black shear wrap over my backside until I reach the stage – or finish 3 bottles of rum to myself – which ever comes first :) – so what do you all think, is that appropriate Monday wear. My colour theme would be mostly pink with some black (i.e. wrap and shoes) probably going to end up braiding my hair for Carnival Monday.

Actually to tell you the truth I don’t think its really a bikini – probably falls more in the lingerie department but it’s Carnival nuh??

117 More Days!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-10-24T16:43:00.000-04:00

"I CAN'T WAIT, I CAN'T WAIT, CAN'T WAIT TILL MORNING (well February, but whatever) PORT OF SPAIN WILL NEVER BE THE SAME....."

All I can do is grin guys - imagine what we all going to be like once Christmas pass - oh gosh oh gosh

How You All Plan On Getting Mad On Da Road??!!??

2006-10-22T10:33:00.000-04:00

So I was taking a vote to see what you all like to drink on the road AND TO BE QUITE HONEST WITH YOU - for a bunch of trinis you all got me real disappointed here with the results....

RESULTS

What is your Favourite Drink(s) while on the road?

18% Black Label with cokes
0% Black Label straight

3% Black Label with Frutia

12% Black Label and Red Bull :)
6% Punchin
6% Rum Punch

0% Carib
15% Stag

29% Water - the people want water

12% I rather smoke the herb

What is going on with the water here!!! Now I know it is required on the road but how can you say it is your favourite!!!!

So saucy as soon as I figure out how to change the voting options on that poll I will add your drink (scotch with coconut water) and remove the water!!!

I really don't know what is going on here.........Ok ok, maybe I didn't have enough choices, I take the blame for this one. So please tell me then, what do you like to drink???

Mash Up Da Place!!!!

2006-10-19T16:19:00.001-04:00

Ok so since we are all talking about getting fit and ting it brings to light the fact that our bodies need to stand up to the pressures of Carnival. Your size does not necessarily always relate directly to your fitness level – trust me there are nuff skinny girls that people would call fit that have NEVER stepped foot in a gym and trust me I could go outside for a run with them and they will well be huffing and puffing you know.

Carnival is almost here - time to work it girls!!! No time to stick!!!

Come Carnival you really need that stamina if you plan being on da road for 3 days (Sunday night till J’Ouvert bruck out and then Monday and Tuesday) Shit 4 days when you count Ash Wednesday. For me it well go one from there – let us not forget the fete at Pigeon Point come Thursday!!! Best thing for this I feel is to build endurance – give them a run nah. Start jogging ladies – aim for 3 times a week and you will love the results (come on and try it for a month). For all you in the hot sun you best not find no excuse – I do it here in the damn cold you know :)

Best to have your body strong come Carnival - squats, lunges, push ups, dips (reverse pushups)
really do wonders. Carnival can well mash you up. By the time I done last year I had bruises on my body that till today I can not tell you where they came from – mash up the place??? Indeed!!!

Another great form of Cardio is skipping. Remember to try things in circuits, causing your heart rate to speed up and back down can really give your workout that oomph it needs.

Now I am not no personal trainer but I keep in shape, I work out a good 4 times a week so if you need advice re something, go ahead and ask and lets see what we can come up with.

Lets all help push each other so that we feel hot and are confident with our bodies and then I feel Carnival will take care of itself on the road and 2007 will be the badest/maddest year ever!!!

Time to Start to Tan :)

2006-10-13T16:23:00.000-04:00

So Trinidad Carnival is now like 4 months away and I think it is a good idea for me to start tanning. I am not lucky to be living in a country that is blessed with the sun so I must resort to the good ol fake and bake!!!!

Last night after the gym I came home and shower and by the time I dry my hair and thing (reaching 10:00 at night – tanning salon open till 11:00 Bless them!!!) it was too damn cold to go back out on the road to reach the tanning salon. You see over here in Canada we saw our first bit of snow yesterday – now that is some crazy shit – it only October you know!!!!!

So off I go – hoping I stop by the salon on my way home – I will let you know how it all go tomorrow. Got to love me – I have no problem going to work my ass out in the gym on the regular but I lazy to go lay down in a tanning bed – guess because its been a while. I must start and keep it up because in case you have not all figured it out by now I am foreign, real foreign and I will not be caught on Carnival day skinning up my pale ass in the streets of Port of Spain.

Does this look appealing to you island girls LOL....

I can bet it dosen't :)

I am assuming not a lot of foreign people (like me) play in Tribe unless they are really on top of their game (band sell out quick) – can anyone confirm this???

Let’s Vote on Fetes

2006-10-07T11:13:00.000-04:00

For those coming to Trinidad for Carnival 2007 let me remind you that before J’Overt, before Carnival Monday and before Carnival Tuesday there are the countless fetes that fill the savannahs across the land. There are so many on one night at times it is had to choose which fete you actually will attend, lets all share our experiences about the fetes we’ve reached.

Here is a recap of ’06 for me, mind you I was well under the influence so please bare with me, reciting these is going to take some work!

Last year as I soon as I land I took a shower and made my way to Brass Festival – boy did I have a time. From what I remember this was the Saturday a full week before Carnival, same night as Alternative Concept. I loved it and hope I reach Trinidad in time to go Brass again. The huge flags are definitely present at Brass and this year I think I want to bring a huge flag of my own.

Battle of the Sexes was a concert that I also enjoyed. On stage were Destra and Machel Montano. The venue wasn’t as crazy as the other parties which was nice because I whine up so close to the front that I was actually using the stage to rest my drink upon.

GLOW – unfortunately it was raining the night of glow so I wasn’t going to find myself in a muddy savannah wearing my best, anyone attend?

INSOMNIA!!! Need I say more? This is a must!! I was tore between Insomnia and Dawn but choose Insomnia over the two and by no means was I disappointed. I party till the sun came up!! When the fire hose came out I ran up in that water for what seemed like a good two hours. This was the Saturday night following Kiddies Carnival – the weekend leading up to J’Ouvert (Kiddies Carnival all should attend as well). If you attended Dawn let me now how that went…

Soca Monarch – Sad to say I didn’t reach – had total intentions to but don’t remember what happen – but I was jamming in some local bar and they did have the competition on television. This one is on my list this year.

ManZan Cool Down – this took me for ever to travel to (well so did Insomnia but I just caught a 5 in the car) but was well worth it. I partied for the day and was able to cool down in the water many times during the fete. Maracus has a cool down o but I feel the water too rough – only time will tell where I find myself this Ash Wednesday BUT I DO KNOW that on the Thursday you will find me at Pigeon Point’s beach party, Tobago.

WASA Fete, Girl Power, Hilton Poolside – Enlighten me

Well This Answers My Question For Me...

2006-10-06T11:10:00.000-04:00

I was wondering why it ain't showing that they got my $$$. To me my spot is not 100% secure until I see payment posted :)

Just settling in, will be back to my blogg soon

WE ARE PRESENTLY UPDATING CUSTOMER PAYMENT RECORDS. PLEASE REVISIT YOUR USER ACCOUNT AFTER 9TH OF OCTOBER 2006.
OPEN REGISTRATION ...All are welcome

Our ONLINE inventory has been sold out and ONLINE Registration has been closed off. We apologise for any inconvenience. Costumes are still available in some sections at the Mas Camp (see Sections Page for availability).
Anyone wishing to register can visit the Mas Camp between the hours of 12noon and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

I’ve Been Out of Commission :(

2006-10-04T16:54:00.000-04:00

See what this blasted Canadian weather does to people - I have been sick for days and unable to reach the computer but none the less Carnival has been fully on my mind. I've managed to keep up the diet and the exercise routine.

I'm starting to feel a bit better now so let me take a look at my blogg and I should be back to posting soon :)

J'Ouvert - Opening Day

2006-09-30T15:20:00.000-04:00

"J’Overt, where mud play, to start the bacchanal, Monday and Tuesday, we play mas all day, enjoy the festival…."

So now that we’ve covered all the Carnival bands and who is playing with who and in what section why don’t we talk J’OVERT!!!

Now I didn’t play mas when I was in Trinidad for Carnival last year but I did play with a J’Overt band (No Draws) and yes I was liking myself :)

So anyone have any suggestions for this year???? I heard yellow devils are good and some word of a chocolate band of some sort. I really want to be in a band that plays with a lot of colors (I'm loving the blue and yellows) last year it look like mud I got paint up in - but nevertheless I enjoyed myself.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

SEE YA ON THE ROAD!!!

Trinidad, Let Me Hear Ya !!! Bust Out a Line from A Fav Soca Song...

2006-09-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

“It’s Carnival in TnT, it’s so special to all of we, like we need blood in our veins, that’s how we feel about Port of Spain.…When the band they come in town, the man beat on the bongo drum, there’s madness everywhere, Carnival is about true freedom so give a jump and a joyful shout, jump up in the air!!!!!”

“Macco me man!!!”

“And when your departing from the islands make sure to stomp your feet on the soil of the soca ground” – this one makes me cry if I hear it when I’m leaving lol

“From one island, to another Island”

“We coming from up the street….chip chip chip, to the savannah, move out the way right now right now!!!It’s time to jump, time to jump, jump and wave jump and wave”

“Tell me how you feel when its Carnival time, WE GET THIS FEELING!!! Let me see the bacchanal reaching the sky”

heehee, I love this one:

“You don’t know me so don’t judge how I’m dancing, you don’t know me so watch how I’m wining , I see you staring but you are fraid of asking, why is that big flag in the air celebrating??? Cause this is what we trinis do when we come into the dance and appreciate you, throwing up the rum and beer – who get wet, well we don’t care……make a trust by the parlor, who send you its your mother – don’t stay long by the corner ner ner”

“I’m in Trinidad Trinidad Trinidad Trinidad”

Come on now sing along in the comments box….

oh yes and someone please post the one that goes something like this "I can't remember my husband name, cause I'm...." its a classic :)

You wan do yuh ting - Learn wah fi bring

2006-09-26T10:25:00.000-04:00

Ok even though it is my first time playing mas it is not my first time being on the road, last Carnival I just jump up with everyone and during those days I learnt what one should carry with them while on the road. Please let me know of anything I should add. (Please note that the list is in no particular order)

Condoms - sorry had to, but its the truth - you never know and you should always be prepared
Sunblock or you will bunn your ass, literally
Aloe gel - this stuff is such a relief when it hot out
Hand Sanitizer - I refuse to explain why
Feminine Wipes - toilet paper run out you know
Panty Liners
Vex Money
Name, address and phone number to who/where you are staying
Lip Gloss
Extra pair of earrings
Hair tie fir sure, little brush if you can
Deodorant

And don't forget your rag.................................

"Wave your rag when the big truck pass"

Trini Slang

2006-09-23T14:05:00.000-04:00

Now whenever you travel in the world you will find that people have different ways of saying and doing things. When you flow with them on the same vibe it makes things allot better. Below is a chart I put together of trini slang that I have picked up over the past years while visiting the island. Please fell free to correct me and advise me of anything I am missing out.

Lime - To Hang Out
It’s no scene - No big deal
What the scene? - What’s going on?/What’s Up??
Order - How some man dem answer the phone
All ya liking yourself - Your having a good time
Fete - Party
All Inclusive - Drink as much you can as fast you can because the beer truck going to be done soon
Parlor - Store
Junction - Corner
Just 5 minutes nah - You will be waiting an eternity
You Catch It !!! - You drunk or high
Partner - Close friend
Don't Stick - Don't take to long, Don't waste time, Hurray up
You Stickin - You are taking too long
You're Stuck - You well over do and taking to damn long
Whitey - White Person
Red Skin (Reds) - Light skin trini
Bacchanal - Trouble (as further defined by hottie hottie as scandal, controversy, intrigue. Is a word with plenty nuance!!!)
Dotish - stupid, silly and generally out of whack!

more to come...

We Reach the Stage, We Warming Up, Put Your Hand Dem In De Air.....

2006-09-21T16:24:00.000-04:00

Well it looks like it just might be cow mas for me.....just waiting on the approval from 1 more masquerader....

For Trinidad Carnival 2007 it looks like I will be lookning so....that's ok, I'll be liking myself

Once confirmed, the fun begins - ACCESSORIZING!!!!!!!!!!!

QUESTION: Does anyone know if theses chaps are detachable - I need to skin up more then that :)

My Favorite Things To Eat While In Trinidad

2006-09-20T14:32:00.000-04:00

Yes today I am craving so I couldn't think of a better topic :)

Hands down I must show my respect to ROTI :) The only thing that get me on the island though is that you all keep bone in everything and I prefer my roti with boneless chicken, but who knows maybe that is foreign of me. I will never forget the first time I was in Trinidad I got a chicken sandwich in town - I was drunk, as I usually am while on the island - and all I remember is taking a bite of that sandwich and almost chocking to death - there was bones up in the sandwich, like who does that. But yes back to me roti, roti with chicken and pumpkin and I'm happy for the entire day :)

Then there is my favorite Trinidadian chocolate - actually its my favorite chocolate in the world. My friends in Trinidad mail them to me when I have been away from the island for a while. It is no other then:

When it comes to juice, I give it hands down to

hehee :) as you can see I still have a stash from my last trip

You have to try the chiny style chicken when you are in Trinidad along with their KFC - they have great corn :)

Now I am not a fish eater at all but for those who do eat fish of course you need to have the bake and shark. I stick to bake and veggies or alloo pie (not sure how to spell it - I'll leave that to my editor). My all time favorite is coconut bake and egg in the morning :)

Any must haves or favorites you would like to share????

Machel Montano

2006-09-19T16:27:00.000-04:00

THERE ARE NO WORDS !!!

Click on his name in the title to reach his page.

I'll meet him at the junction any time :)

Where I plan to stay in Tobago...click here to view website...any feedback would be great

2006-09-19T12:09:00.000-04:00

So this is where we plan to stay and recover after the greatest show on earth (Tobago Island Suites - click on the title of the blog to access there home page). Please let me know if you have stayed here or know anyone who has. Usually when in Tobago I stay at Mikes or Johnstons but have done the occasional night at Arthurs and Rainbow. Would you recommend renting a car for the stay???

Thanks to everyone

btw, this is my out most favorite view in the whole world... oh so peaceful

"SWEET SWEET TnT, OH HOW I LOVE UP MY COUNTRY"

So to pick a band from overseas....

2006-09-19T11:24:00.000-04:00

Get in your section, get in your section, get in your section. This is carnival timeee, free your mind and party, leave your worries behind, take a whine.......................

So picking a costume from over here can be a little hard....you finally find one you like and before registration even opens to you, guess what SOLD OUT!!!! whats a girl to do - I vote for jumping up in my bra and panties with glitter all over my body and throwing baby powder in da air - but somehow I don't believe my friends will go for that one :)

Well here are my top choices so far - and please remember that my options are limited over here because certain bands (and I won't mention names) don't have the costumes posted on the web yet. It if wasn't for saucy divas page I think I would be out of the loop. (and saucy if you see this I would love to link your page to mine - just want to get your permission first)

From Pulse 8....

well ok, never mind that one apparently my work has now blocked the sites pertaining to carnival costumes and they are filtered under "swimsuit and lingerie" oh my imagine if they ever saw the real Carnival action, they would drop lol but for the record from pulse 8 I like the costumes with the hats - either the yellow or the blue, Can't wait for IP's page to be up and running to have a look and from Tribe I like the fireman and the Jean & Delilah- but not into wearing the white on the road - but SOLD OUT anyway. Really I guess I am going to have to wait until registration opens here so I don't get excited about one section and find out it sold out by the time registration open up to me.

I will work on this blogg when I get to a computer I can access the pics from..........

Until then should I blogg about BWIA lol, I well bought my ticket for Carnival season, now they want to go out of business :) All I concern about is my ticket down there, cancel my flight home - it no big scene, I'll just stay on the island and live happily ever after with a dread :)

Minus the belly - BWOY TUCK IN YOUR BELLY................

ok ok today I will post

2006-09-19T10:21:00.000-04:00

stay tuned....... :) give me till lunch

Some Info for the Newbies

2006-09-15T15:07:00.000-04:00

What is carnival???

It is an annual celebration of life found in many countries of the world. And in fact, by learning more about carnival we can learn more about ourselves and a lot about accepting and understanding other cultures.
Where did the word “carnival” come from?Hundred and hundreds of years ago, the followers of the Catholic religion in Italy (VIVA ITALIA!!!! - those are my roots, explains a bit why I am a nut about TnT Carnival)started the tradition of holding a wild costume festival right before the first day of Lent. Because Catholics are not supposed to eat meat during Lent, they called their festival, carnevale — which means “to put away the meat.” As time passed, carnivals in Italy became quite famous; and in fact the practice spread to France, Spain, and all the Catholic countries in Europe. Then as the French, Spanish, and Portuguese began to take control of the Americas and other parts of the world, they brought with them their tradition of celebrating carnival.

African influences on carnival traditions

Important to Caribbean festival arts are the ancient African traditions of parading and moving in circles through villages in costumes and masks. Circling villages was believed to bring good fortune, to heal problems, and chill out angry relatives who had died and passed into the next world. Carnival traditions also borrow from the African tradition of putting together natural objects (bones, grasses, beads, shells, fabric) to create a piece of sculpture, a mask, or costume — with each object or combination of objects representing a certain idea or spiritual force.
Feathers were frequently used by Africans in their motherland on masks and headdresses as a symbol of our ability as humans to rise above problems, pains, heartbreaks, illness — to travel to another world to be reborn and to grow spiritually. Today, we see feathers used in many, many forms in creating carnival costumes.
African dance and music traditions transformed the early carnival celebrations in the Americas, as African drum rhythms, large puppets, stick fighters, and stilt dancers began to make their appearances in the carnival festivities.
In many parts of the world, where Catholic Europeans set up colonies and entered into the slave trade, carnival took root. Brazil, once a Portuguese colony, is famous for its carnival, as is Mardi Gras in Louisiana (where African-Americans mixed with French settlers and Native Americans). Carnival celebrations are now found throughout the Caribbean in Barbados, Jamaica, Grenada, Dominica, Haiti, Cuba, St. Thomas, St. Marten; in Central and South America in Belize, Panama, Brazil; and in large cities in Canada and the U.S. where Caribbean people have settled, including Brooklyn, Miami, and Toronto. Even San Francisco has a carnival!

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago (THE MOTHER OF CARNIVALS!!!!!)

Trinidad's carnival is a beautiful example of how carnival can unite the world. For in this small nation, the beliefs and traditions of many cultures have come together; and for a brief five days each year, the whole country forgets their differences to celebrate life!
Like many other nations under colonial rule, the history of Native Americans and African people in Trinidad is a brutal, sad story. Spain and England at different times both claimed Trinidad as their colonies. Under British rule, the French settled in Trinidad, bringing with them their slaves, customs, and culture. By 1797, 14,000 French settlers came to live in Trinidad, consisting of about 2,000 whites and 12,000 slaves. Most of the native peoples (often called the Amerindians) who were the first people to live in Trinidad, died from forced labor and illness.
Carnival was introduced to Trinidad around 1785, as the French settlers began to arrive. The tradition caught on quickly, and fancy balls were held where the wealthy planters put on masks, wigs, and beautiful dresses and danced long into the night. The use of masks had special meaning for the slaves, because for many African peoples, masking is widely used in their rituals for the dead. Obviously banned from the masked balls of the French, the slaves would hold their own little carnivals in their backyards — using their own rituals and folklore, but also imitating their masters’ behavior at the masked balls.
For African people, carnival became a way to express their power as individuals, as well as their rich cultural traditions. After 1838 (when slavery was abolished), the freed Africans began to host their own carnival celebrations in the streets that grew more and more elaborate, and soon became more popular than the balls.
Today, carnival in Trinidad is like a mirror that reflects the faces the many immigrants who have come to this island nation from Europe, Africa, India, and China. African, Asian, and American Indian influences have been particularly strong.
Carnival is such an important aspect of life in Trinidad that many schools believe that sponsoring a carnival band is a way to teach young people about their roots and culture. In Trinidad’s Kiddies Carnival, hundreds of schools and community organizations participate! In this way, communities work together to develop stronger friendships and greater respect for the many cultures that make up Trinidad.

Setting Up My Blogg :)

2006-09-15T12:41:00.000-04:00

Today I am trying to set up my blog – so we are going to have to bear with me, I am a little new to this. I was reading the bloggs of other members with respect to Trinidad Carnival 2007 and decided to start one of my own to help the time pass by and yes, like many others keep fitness on the mind – GOT TO SKIN OUT ON CARNIVAL DAY

So with that said – let’s see what happens