HAPPY INDEPENDENCE T&T

Today is Trinidad & Tobago Independence Day.  I would like to send a happy Independence Day shout out to all my Trinbagonian readers of Chatty Patty in the states and abroad.  Though I was born in the US, I consider myself Trinidadian because my parents are from this beautiful island.  I always grew up knowing where they came from and the culture is enriched in my veins.  The red, white, and black flag hangs high in my car.  Mas is a yearly tradition and beating pan is how I pay homage to my ancestors.  I love my culture and though I mix and mingle with other nationalities, I would never trade it for anything in the world.  Trinbagonians are proud people and though we may not show it often, we defend the twin island in anyway possible, whether it is football, track & field, cricket, or any other sporting events.  So on this day, I wear my red, white and black, standing tall and proud.  It’s our day!

MOVE ON!

People just hate to see couples in love.  It amazes me how people can criticize and be so opinionated towards something that they know nothing about.  Why can’t an ex just be happy and supportive instead of wondering why they never got to go certain places, or why they never got all the other treatment I received.  I would never expect someone that I dated when I was 16 to have the same characteristics at the age of 30.  Yes, there are some that fail to grow up, but for the most part, there is some sort of growth between the past and the present.  An EX is someone that has EXPIRED, in the sense that the relationship no longer exist.  Instead of being envious and grudgeful, be SUPPORTIVE.  A friendship can blossom, though a relationship couldn’t. 

COME AND TALK TO ME!

I have to be honest…my personal life is quite boring.  I have been struggling to come up with hot topics to talk about on Chatty Patty, and I can’t seem to come up with anything.  I’ve even resorted to opening up my journals, but the thought of rehashing old memories is too painful for me, and so I turn to you all.  I need to hear stories…embarrassing, depressing, struggles, happiness, and empowering.  Besides, this blog is about us...everyday women and men, doing the damn thing and falling down on our way to the top.  So email me at therealchattypatty@gmail.com .  It will be greatly appreciated. 

WHEN THE MONEY GOES

“When the money goes, will the honey stay, will the grey clouds replace the sunny days”, sung by Jay-Z in Fabulous new song.  I really love this song, because it just seems that lately, relationships seem to be defined by money and not LOVE.  If given the chance, would you prefer to be in an unhappy relationship with someone with money, or to be in a relationship with someone who isn’t well off but gives you the love that you deserve?  I personally, would prefer the second.  I have dated men with money and at the end of the day, they didn’t stimulate my mind.  We had nothing in common and money seemed to be all that he was focused on.  Besides, I make my own money and I don’t need a man to take care of me.  It would be nice to be wined and dined ever so often, but I think it’s important for a man to be able to take care of HIMSELF.  So if I had a man with money, and tomorrow it all disappeared, I will be there.  Love is a struggle and it never comes easy.  You take the good with the bad, and if God allowed it all to go away, God will allow all of it to return.

FALL FLATS!

Summer is coming to an end and with the leaves beginning to fall, I decided to feature some o the hottest flats for under 50.00!   I love to wear these styles with a pair of skinny or boot cut jeans.  Dress it up with a sweater or blazer for some extra flare.  1. Nine West $39.99.  2. Asos $33.10.  3. Aldo $45.00.

Coming Soon!

Hey Patty Peeps!  This week, I didn't have much to talk about due to the fact that I was trying to organize myself after my vacation, but I'm back and ready to get things started again.  I appreciate all the positive feedback on this blog and suggestions on what you would like to see in the future and believe me, you will see plenty new topics on the Caribbean, Carnival, Fashion, Relationships, Questions of the Day and many more.  Not to mention, I will be having new contest coming soon.  To the winners of the last contest, look out for your gift certificates next week.  Thanks for your continuous support!  Patty loves you!

LOST SOULS

Life is bigger than ourselves.  I truly believe that we are put on this earth to serve a greater purpose.  Many people aren't as fortunate as us.  They are unable to have the opportunities to grow up in a solid home, obtain education or a job.  Traveling to Grenada and Trinidad awoken me to a growing epidemic of young women growing up with a lack of self-esteem and self-worth.  AIDS is so rampant and yet many of our young Caribbean women are continuing to sell their souls and having unprotected sex without thinking of the consequences.  It saddens me to continue to see my Trinidadian women degrade themselves for the sake of being accepted or loved by men who lack respect for anyone but themselves.  I'm tired of talking about it and actually want to do something to empower my Caribbean women home and abroad.  Not sure where or how to begin, but I would like to know your input and would like your support as I begin to organize a support group to assist young women mentally and physically in knowing that there is more to life than having meaningless sex, but to allow them the opportunity to grow and learn to become a WOMAN.  A woman of respect, self worth and the opportunity to live an independent life.  I've never felt so serious about wanting to do something more about this issue.  Anyone who is interested in knowing more information or wanting to get involved, please email at therealchattypatty@gmail.com.  

ISLAND PEOPLE'S KUTCHELA

Unfortunately, I didn't attend Island People's band launch of their 2K10 presentation of "Kutchela", but I was able to check out the pics on both www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com and www.triniscene.com.  Of the many sections, 6 of them are contenders.  Mudra, Bindi, Taal, Kalpana, Chutney Bhaam, and Kundalini.  I love the way that Island People were able to stick to their theme and bring something fresh and exciting to bikini mas.  Despite some masqueraders that have vowed NEVER to play mas with them again, I have never had any major problems or horror stories.  I am always guaranteed the best road experience and costume and for that I will continue to support them, despite the fact that I was going to play with Tribe, who is now sold out.  So the debating begins and a choice must be made as to which is the chosen one.  Stay tuned!

FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES

Prior to my "vacation", I was able to go to 5 Guys Burgers & Fries and enjoy their famous burgers.  I have never heard of the place and actually came there by accident on my way to a day of shopping. Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries is located in The Shops in Midtown Miami.  I LOVED the location, the staff was great and the fries were the best I have ever eaten.  Unfortunately, they don't sell vegetarian burgers and so my sister and I had to resort to the grilled cheese sandwich, which left me satisfied.  From a scale of 1 to 10, I will give it an 8!  The restaurant is in a great location where there are so many shops near by, the food is great and the staff was very pleasant.  I do think that a vegetarian burger is greatly needed on their menu and more tables space inside the restaurant.  I felt a bit cramp and had to wait to get a table.  I highly recommend this restaurant for anyone going on a first date or a pit stop before you swipe your credit cards in the high end department store.  They are located at 3401 N Miami Ave.  Check them out!

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!

One thing that I hate more than anything is a man that wants to have a conversation in the middle of a party. So over the weekend, this guy decided to make a move on me.  First off, I was not interested in meeting anyone new, but I didn't want to be rude and so I continued to listen.  This guy decides to start the conversation off with how much money he has as if that is supposed to impress me.  He went on and on about how I am attractive and how he wants to spend more time with me.  What was even worse was that he tried to sweet me up with drinks thinking that he can take advantage of me.  I'm not 13 and I wasn't born yesterday and I was completely annoyed and turned off.  I quickly made myself disappear and realized how thankful I am to be in a relationship and not having to go through that dating shit.  This made me more sympathetic to my friends and family that are single and still looking for love.  These men have absolutely no clue as to what a woman wants and needs in life.  

GUESS WHO'S BACK!

It feels so damn good to be back.  I never thought it would be a day when I would say that I am actually excited about returning to work.  This vacation left me practically broke and right now, I have to get my hustle back on, because being broke isn't a good feeling and others may get the brunt of my depression, but I'm going to remain hopeful and positive.  This week, I will be writing about my trip to Grenada and Trinidad and along with the question of the day and other relationship dirt.  Thanks for your continuous support and don't forget to spread the word.  Patty loves you!

FREE AT LAST!

So, I finally escaped capitivity on the island of Grenada and have finally landed to my second home, Trinidad! Unfortunately, I didn't get to go to Island People launch last night, due to a lack of transportation, but I was able to check out the pics on Saucy's blog, www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com. There were a couple of costumes that needed to be burned, but I was able to find 6 costumes that I loved and I'm in the process of determining which one will be the choosen one. So stay tuned to that. The weather is rainy, but I don't seem to mind. My aunt is making macaroni pie for me, and I'm trying to organize myself to get a pedicure and go on a weekend beach lime with my cousin and friends. Hopefully, this can be the rainbow at the end of a stormy day. I can't wait to return to Miami, so I can show off my pictures and the fun things I did in Grenada and Trinidad. Don't forget to spread the word! Patty loves you!

STRANDED DAY 3

So its day 3 of me being stuck on the island of Grenada. I've been spending my time blogging, watching tv, and taking an occasional drink to ease my mind. The events that occurred in the last couple of weeks have overshadowed the fun I had for carnival, and all the great people I have met since I arrived almost 2 weeks ago. Its reached to a point where I am not sure if I will return next year. This trip has been plagued with arguments, selfish and out of control behavior, and a lack of organization. Its sad that something that was meant to be an exciting week and a half, has cost me hundreds of dollars, money that I took for my carnival savings and emergency savings. Were the days of feting worth all of this headache and stress? NO! I regret making this trip, but I'm here and I'm trying to make the best of my situation. I have a tremendous of amount of catching up to do. I just pray that my job will be waiting for me and I pray that I can come up with the money to go to school this semester.

LESSONS TO BE LEARNED

When it comes to friendship, you take the good with the bad. When the bad occurs, if that person is really your friend, they will be able to overcome the obstacle and continue to be there, but friendships aren't what they use to be and who we think are our friends, are in fact our enemies. Lets be honest, people are selfish, looking out for their own interest. I have to learn to let go of the past and the people that are trying to bring me down. NEVER let anyone steal your shine or make you feel less than who you are really are. If something isn't working out, let it GO! No sense in holding on to something that isn't there. In life, we learn many lessons and I've learned mine. I will not make the same mistakes again. I will not be taken for granted. I will not be put down or criticized. I will not allow the words and actions of others stop me from living life. Who don't like it can haul de ass! I answer to 3 people...God, mother and father.

DON'T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME!

If you only know how much I miss you all. I hope you haven't forgotten about me, while I have been away. Well here's the story..I'm still in Grenada. My flight was overbooked and I was unable to board. American Airlines is the WORST airline. There was no one to assist us in getting another flight to get off of this island. So I had to put my past travel agency experience to the test and try to get a flight by any means necessary. Unfortunately, there is only one flight out of Grenada and all of them are overbooked until the 25th of August, and would cost me 600 US, and so I had to think of an alternative, and so Trinidad was my only option. So I had to buy a ticket on Liat Airline out of Grenada to Port of Spain on Friday and then leave on an American Airlines flight on Monday. The worst part of this situation is the fact that I may lose my job over this whole ordeal, so kissing ass will be a plus, because no vacation is worth losing my income. The best part of this situation is that I get to make a weekend pit stop in Trinidad to see my family and hopefully get a chance to attend Island People band launch on Friday. So, when I return on Monday, I would hope to give you a play by play of Grenada carnival, and IP launch. Take care, and be safe. Patty loves you!

AWAY ON VACATION!

Going on vacation.  I will try to blog while I'm away, so until then be safe.  Patty loves you!

SAVING FOR CARNIVAL!

Trinidad Carnival 2K10 is soon approaching. I remembered the times when I would come for carnival with about 500.00 US and had a time. I didn’t play mas in Trinidad at that time, but I was able to go to every fete from PNM fete to Insomnia and never worried about running out of money. Well those days are long gone! The prices of everything from car rental, drinks, costumes and fete tickets have skyrocketed out of control! If I don’t go to Trinidad with at least 1,000 to spend, then I might as well stay in Miami. Last year, was a reality check for me. After paying off on my costume and car rental, I barely had enough money to go to any fetes and since playing mas was more important to me then hearing the same music in every party, I was fine with staying home and waiting till Carnival Monday and Tuesday to play my mas. But I was still left disappointed and feeling that Carnival 2010 had to be a different year, so I made a promise to start saving from the time I returned to Miami until next year, and I have to admit that I started off slow, but now the pace has picked up full speed and I am hopeful that I will be more prepared. For those of you who are veterans to carnival, you how it can break your bank and have you coming back empty handed, and so here are my tips to start saving so you can enjoy a great carnival season.

First off, set a BUDGET! If you are going down with a group of people, set a plan in motion. Elect someone to be responsible for the funds. Many of you are often tempted to go in the cookie jar and because of that, I say either open up an account designated only for carnival or have a trustworthy friend, be responsible for the cash. Once that is done set a cut off price of the money you are willing to spend. Under no circumstances should you go over your budget. This budget should include hotel/guesthouse, car, food, drinks, fete, costume and souvenirs.

If you are planning to play mas, then set a price of the most you will be willing to pay for a costume. If the price for example is 500.00, then look for costumes within that price range, it makes absolutely no sense in playing a frontline costume for 700.00. Launch season is in the summer and when registration begins, you are required to put down a down payment, so make sure if you have some available cash to put down, so you can get in your costume of choose. This set price should also include shoes, accessories, and make-up.

If you are not as fortunate as me to have family living in Trinidad, then begin early to look for hotels and guest houses. Most places are booked a year in advance, but if you are able to find one, then its best to have a group of you, so you are able to split the cost of the room.

Transportation for carnival is insane! Years of traveling by taxi or maxi are long gone for me. I have resorted to renting a car every year, not only for the freedom to come and go as a please, but especially for safety reasons. Car rental prices are insane. Last year, I paid 300 TT per day, which I found ridiculous, so it’s best to have a group of friends/family who are willing to split the fee. Rent from a credible source. Many of you know private owners who are willing to rent out their car for the season, but those sources aren’t always the best, my car broke down on my Carnival Monday and I was left buming a ride with family.

Unless you have someone that will cook you some sweet Trini dishes, during your stay, then you better include food in that budget. I’m sure that many of you will be doing more drinking then eating, but if you don’t want to end up in the hospital with dehydration, then you better make sure to include a good meal while you partying. Drinking is an important aspect of carnival and when done responsibly, everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time. Set a price for drinks and what you are willing to spend at each fete.

Fetes can be very expensive! Ranging from 200 to even 1400 TT, so my suggestion is to buy your tickets in advance. You save on over priced door admission and scalpers harassing you as you walk towards the entrance.

If you are playing mas, chances are, you are in an all-inclusive band, where food and drinks are included. Take advantage of the 2 days. Have fun and meet your fellow masqueraders. There is no other feeling in this world then putting on that costume Carnival Monday and Tuesday and enjoying the mas.

Have a great carnival, and remember to take plenty pictures!

SPICE ME UP!

So on Friday, I am embarking on yet another destination and this time it will be the spice island of Grenada. Grenada (pronounced /ɡrɪˈneɪdə/) is an island nation and sovereign state consisting of the island of Grenada and six smaller islands at the southern end of the Grenadines in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. Grenada is located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, northeast of Venezuela, and southwest of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Its size is 344 km² with an estimated population of 110,000. Its capital is St. George's. The national bird of Grenada is the critically endangered Grenada Dove.
I have to admit that this is one of my best summers. Not only am I doing a lot of traveling, but I’m taking in Miami’s day and nightlife. The weather is beautiful and the city is mine and I’m making sure to take advantage of the weekends and I’m just willing to try new things. Yes it takes money to do these things, and at times, I’m left scraping to find 2 nickels, but damn, the feeling is great. Summer is almost over and I have plenty photos and memories of this summer that will live with me forever. So on Friday, I will be visiting this Caribbean island for the first time and experiencing Spice Mas. Grenadians often boast about their jouvet and say that it is the best. I’m not a fan of jouvet whether it is in Trinidad or for Labor Day, but I surely hope to have a time while I’m covered in mud. I want to be able to sight see and visit some landmarks while I’m down there. Internet access is unknown at this point, so I’m not sure if I will be able to blog, but I will be taking plenty pictures and uploading them on Chatty Patty. Do any of you have summer plans or wanting to do sometime before we get back to school and work?

MS INDEPENDENT?

There seems to be a growing trend these days with women claiming to be “Ms Independent” and are indeed far from it. Nothing disgust me more than going out to a club and seeing women standing by the door hoping that some desperate man would pay their admission fee. Let me not forget about the women who stand on the dance floor with their mouth dry and no money to spend at the bar. STAY HOME! We all get broke sometimes and when that time occurs, modern girls like myself, will make it a blockbuster night. I refuse to assume that someone will take care of me! Men are turned off by that, and your “friends” are talking shit about you too! Women, lets get our shit together. An independent WOMAN would never walk to the club or anywhere else, expecting to be a charity case. We pull out our money, get what we want and keep it moving. Cell phone bill, car payment, and rent are on us! I refuse to be pimping for cash or to become a money hungry hoe! Sorry not Patty! Leave it to those youngsters who are confused and trying to find themselves, not our hard back self! Let’s get it together sisters! For those of you that this post doesn’t pertain to, then put that crown on your head, because you deserve it!

GOING NUDE!

I wanted to get the nude lip look that all the women seem to be sporting these days and a friend of mine showed me a trick of getting that affect without having to purchase the lip stick. She simply stated that I should dab a little foundation on my lips and add lip gloss to give it a little balance and shine. I tried it and it worked, but I didn’t like how it made my lip feel and so I resorted to going to the drug store and purchasing the color myself. I picked up L’Oreal’s lip color “nude” and I have to say that I LOVE it. I’ve never liked any kind of color on my lips so going nude was the best option for me. It is a great day time look and if you’re like me, you will do it at night too.

RHIANNA STYLE!

Love her or hate or this girl got STYLE!!!!!!! Rhianna is my fashion addiction and I envy the fact that she can put on just about anything and look flawless! Rompers are all the rage this summer and Rhi Rhi was spotted in NY City looking hotter than the summer afternoon. The shades, hat and bracelets added a great touch to a simple yet sexy summer wear. You go girl!!!!!!!

PUT A RING ON IT!

Every woman these days seem to be walking around with a ring on their finger. No need to get envious, its not an engagement ring, it’s a cocktail ring. The cocktail ring is worn as a, sophistication piece to add glamour and style to the often neglected finger. The prices range from as low as $3.00 to as high at $300.00. While shopping in NY I was able to go to the city and find a variety of sizes and shapes and really get creative as I build up my collection of accessories. Cocktail rings are my fashion item of the week!

CHATTY PATTY UPDATES!

Hey peeps!!!!!! I’ve been so busy within the last couple of weeks, but I’ve been working hard and enjoying life at the same time. Again, I have to thank those that have participated in my challenges and this being the third one, I was excited, because we’ve hit a 5,000 viewing milestone. The purpose of the challenge was to see what you thought of my blog and what you felt was missing. With my 2 winners, they wrote some beautiful words, both having a different view point and with that, I couldn’t just hand over 1 prize, so I’m willing to sacrifice a trip to the spa in order to give that gift to someone else. One of the winners noted that she would love to hear my news on the Caribbean whether it been nationally or locally, and I will certainly add that to the mix. With Labor Day, Miami and Trinidad Carnival on the horizon, you will be seeing more information on that. With my search to find a mas band, to registering in a band, to interviewing women in the mas camp, all of these things will be featured on Chatty Patty. Don’t worry ladies and gents, the relationship and advice columns, to all my divas will not be left out. I have been hitting some nice restaurants and boutiques and will have those reviews up by the end of the week. My trip to NY last week was great and I will be posting my diary on that trip too. Let me not forget my upcoming trip to Grenada on Friday for Spice Mas! Yes, I’m doing some major traveling this year! I hope to have some kind of internet access while I’m there so I can give you some daily blog updates. Again, I will be doing some changes on the blog and hopefully it will happen before the end of the month, so stay tuned. As you can see, Chatty Patty has a lot in store for the month of August. Thank you for your continuous support. Patty loves you!

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

The “I Love Chatty Patty” contest has officially come to an end and with that, I would like to send my congratulations to 2 winners. Yes, I said 2 winners. Both entries were so great and yet very different that I couldn’t choose one over the other. The winners are Clivia who has 2 of her blogs listed on my blog list, There’s A Brown Girl In The Ring & She Writes and Read. Not to mention she is part of Vibrationzz Band for Miami Carnival. Melissa is the other winner who has a section "Skandalous Mas" in the One Island band for Miami Carnival. Congrats to you both! To all my other viewers, good luck next time.