WHAT HAPPENS IN MIAMI..?

For as long as I can remember…the term "horn" has always been a common term in my Trinidadian household…but when carnival time rolls around…it becomes even more prominent during those seasons…what I'm trying figure out is do you think its okay to give horn or take horn during carnival? It means to cheat on someone, or get cheated on! Why are we willing to sacrifice our relationships for a couple of days of soca, carnival, and access to the sexiest men and women from all over the world? I have to be honest, years ago, I would purposely break up with my boyfriend during this time, worst off if he was Jamaican, he could never understand what this time of the year does to me…and of course he tries to come with this out of timing talk about "you not going anywhere". Are you mad! Its carnival time…I want to play myself! But when the time goes away, and we all go back to our normal lives, I realize it wasn't worth losing my relationship…so I'm wondering, from from my girls, who are in committed relationships…how are you dealing with being in a relationship during carnival time? There are some couples that have that agreement where they are single during carnival and back together after it ends…and like Rupee says, "What happens in the de party, stays in de party"…Do you live by this carnival "law"? Give me your opinion!!!!!!!!!!

ENTERPRISE CAR RENTAL

Whether you live in Miami or will be visiting this city for the carnival, having your own transportation is mandatory. If you are traveling with a group of friends or riding solo, it is highly recommend that you have a car available to get to and from the fetes. Riding in cabs can be extremely pricing and you would be better off renting a vehicle for the weekend. Whenever I decide to travel, I always rent a vehicle from Enterprise. They are always running their 50% off special when you rent only from Friday till Monday. I checked out their website at www.enterprise.com, and there are specific locations that are offering this special. Availability is based on a first come first serve, so reserve a car today!

MIAMI CARNIVAL FASHIONS

Miami Carnival is only 13 days away and it's not too late to start shopping for this eventful weekend. What I love is that the weather in Miami allows us to have the freedom to get creative with our style. Though we are in the fall season, the temperature is in the mid to upper 80's and its perfect to go all out whether it be a short sexy dress, denim shorts, or a pair of jeans and a tank top. Here are some clothing that I think will be perfect for this Columbus Day weekend!

Daytime Breakfast Party

1. Denim Overall, www.forever21.com, $19.80.

2. Brown Leather Bootie Sandal, www.dsw.com, $89.95

Evening All-Inclusive Party

1. Purple Jersey dress, www.asos.com, $36.47

2. Flat Print Sandal, www.dsw.com, $19.34

Night Life Party

1. Sequined Mini Skirt, www.asos.com, $82.07

2. Purple T-Strap Sandal, www.dsw.com, $69.95

MIAMI CARNIVAL ON CHATTY PATTY

Hey Chatty Patty Followers!  For the next 2 weeks, this blog will be turned into the officially Miami Carnival guide to all my local readers and especially those living abroad!  Miami Carnival is 13 days away and we must all be prepared for the excitement that awaits us.  Look out for blog postings on the hottest Miami Carnival fashion, West Indian & Local restaurants, Fete Reviews, Costume Reviews, Music Reviews, and everything and anything in relation to carnival.  Postings will be up before the end of the day.  Patty loves you!

Chatty Patty www.therealchattypatty.com

DRESS TO IMPRESS?

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to begin the task of re-decorating my bedroom. The first step was to get rid of clothes that no longer fit and were outdated.  Going through my closet, drawers, and trunks, I realized that I had more clothes than I had made myself to believe.  I reminisced on where I've been when I wore each particular outfit and realized that those memories were only short lived.  So many of my clothes still had tags, and it just saddens me to know that I had wasted so much money on clothes, trying to impress people that I don't like.  Again, memories of my childhood when I was picked on because I didn't wear name brand clothes until the later part of high school.  I always imagined that one day I would be the most popular girl and looking great was my way of showing people that I can be recognized.  All of these efforts went unnoticed in my mind, because at the end of the day, I have nothing to show for the countless amount of money I've spent trying to cover up my inner demons.  Many of you don't want to admit it, but it's an insecurity that allows us to feel that our outer appearance is what makes us who we are.  We spend money that we don't have to impress people that we don't like.  Does their opinion of us have any bearing on our personal lives?  No!  Many of the "fashionistas" you see flaunting in front of the video camera, will be scraping for rent money next day while trying to save their car from getting repo'd. Believe me, I've seen it for myself and that is why I'm no longer impressed by the hype. Everything isn't always what it seems.  I love fashion and shopping is something that I won't completely put to an end, but I have become a much smarter shopper.  With all the clothes that I was able to give away, I realized that I have still have so many that remained, and with that, I am able to incorporate them into new pieces that I buy.  When I would shop before, I would think to myself, "wait till ? sees me in this", not anymore.  It's all about me and how I feel in my own clothes.  Confidence comes from within, which then blossoms outside.  So whether you're wearing a $1,000 Marc Jacobs top or a $5.00 skirt from the flea market, having confidence in yourself is what really matters at the end of the day. 

Chatty Patty www.therealchattypatty.com

SPEEDY COURTSHIP

Khloe Kardashian is my girl, but she must be out of her damn mind to marry LA Lakers player Lamar Odom. It is impossible to know EVERYTHING about a man in only a month. I have been in my relationship for 4 years and yet I'm still unsure if I would like to get married. That relationship is destined to go to divorce court before the end of the year. Its sad to say. I think its an awful decision and I hope that this is all speculation. Do you believe that a couple should get married after dating for only 1 month? What needs to occur in order for you to know that he/she is the one?

IS THIS MAS?

Miami Carnival is soon approaching and I have yet to determine whether or not I will be beating pan on the road, or masquerading in a costume. If I do decide to play mas, I have already made my choice of which band I will be playing with. There aren't that many gorgeous costumes to choose from. To be honest, I am completely disappointed in the array of costumes I have seen, being presented. Anyone can have a band, but not everyone is a DESIGNER! I'm not sure if this is a fad to say "I'm bringing out a section", but if you decide to do that, you better be sure to be prepared for all that comes with doing so. I grew up in mas my entire life. My parents are the original founders of Miami Carnival under the band "Pat & Friends". They were very creative in the concepts they chose. From American Indians, Aztec Warriors, Barbarians, and even an Oriental theme. I would of loved to upload pics of their costumes to show some of these "designers" what is REAL mas! It takes more than a bikini and panty to thrill me, because I've been playing mas since I was 4 and I know that what I'm seeing lately is pure SHIT! I would hate for anyone to come to Miami for carnival and think that we are defined by t-shirt, and boy shorts. Bands like Pet & Pest, Party People, D' Gathering, Wassi Ones and The Untouchable (later known as First Dimension) defined Miami Carnival, and what it meant to pay your money and know that you have a great quality costume, and excellent customer service. It's sad to see the flood of people that think that they can bring out a band and not understand what it means to really be a bandleader. This is not a trend, for many of us, it is our life. It is all we know. I have taken a break from having my section, so that I can concentrate on my other projects, and yet I'm left contemplating whether or not, I should jump back in the mas arena. Situations have occurred that has caused me to rethink certain decisions and it also made me more aware of my mistakes and how I can correct them the second time around. Not sure what the future for Miami Carnival may hold, but so far, it isn't looking too promising.

LIFE IMITATING ART!

I feel a bit ashamed of an incident that occurred this week.  I said certain things on facebook this past weekend that was taken out of context.  Someone took it upon themselves to call my man and notify him of some "inappropriate" comments I made on my page.  To be honest, it was joke, but apparently, my life seems to be extremely interesting for certain individuals and they thought my comments were important enough for them to pick up the telephone and dial his number.  A man will always be a man, and mine in particular is very protective or me and what people say about me, and for that I understood his reaction to the "news".  But I took something else out of this ridiculous incident.  Its sad that people feel the need to attempt to break up a happy home, by causing chaos in a situation that was comical.  These individuals know exactly what they were doing and like a fool, I fell in their trap.  I said certain things on my page, that I wish I could take back, and like my boy Kanye, it needed to be said.  Sometimes, you bottle in all these feelings because you don't want these insignificant people to feel that they affected in you in any way, but you eventually reach to a point, where you're like FUCK IT, I'm going to go hard on these bitches.  In the end, nothing was resolved, and the MACO behavior will never end.  How we handle the situation in the future is what will be the difference.  I know that some of you are my friends on facebook and for that I apologize for allowing my situation to make you all think that I'm this mad angry black women.  I let it get the worst of me, and I know that in the future, I will handle the situation in a more appropriate manner.  My only reason for keeping my facebook page is to promote Chatty Patty and I would hate for my angry verbal insults to stir people away from this blog.  Of course there will be days when I will need to vent and say certain things that you may not agree with, but it will be on IMPORTANT issues.  In the end, Chatty Patty is for enlightenment, enjoyment, and informative information.  REAL TALK!  Hope that you continue to spread the word!  Patty loves you!

BACK DOOR LOVING!

Dear Chatty Patty,

I've been with my boyfriend for 6 months and I have to admit that I never met his parents.  I don't know if he's ashamed of me or if he's just not feeling me.  I've been to his house many times, but only after 10 at night and sneaks me in through a back door, not the front.  One time, I over slept and woke up at 7 in the morning to see his mom in the kitchen.  I said hi, and though my boyfriend walked me to the front door, , he never introduced me to her.  I asked him why and he said that his family don't really care about who he's having sex with.  I've been so depressed since then and don't know what to do.  My friends tell me that I need to leave his ass, but I've kind of grown to love him.  I need your advice.  HELP!!!

Girlfriend, what the hell are you waiting for, take your friends advice and leave his ass!  I don't believe that you should instantly meet the parents, because these things takes time, but not 6 months!  That is ridiculous!  You need to let him know that you're not just a good FUCK, you want something more and if he hasn't shown that he cares about you by introducing you to the fam, then its time to move on.  The truth hurts and sometimes its needed to wake our asses up!  I met my boyfriend's mom after our second date and though it wasn't the perfect meeting, we were able to get to know one another over time.  You're too good to be some secret love.  Find someone that is willing to be with you in the day time hours too.  I hope you follow my advice!  Keep me updated!

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO UMMM!

I wake up this morning to find out that the news of Kanye's antics is still the number #1 topic on every morning show.  I hope that after I write this post, I can finally put this debate to rest.  First of all, this situation has nothing to do with a BLACK or WHITE issue.  If Lady Gaga had won that award, Kanye wouldn't have gone on that stage.  90% of the people watching the VMA's that night truly believed that Taylor Swift did not deserve that award.  Unfortunately, Kanye's reaction overshadowed the truth that MTV is full of SHIT.  If you are going to call it a VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS, stick to the name and not give out awards based on album sells.  I knew about Taylor Swift prior to this debacle and know that she along with Miley Cyrus are 2 of the biggest female selling artist.  But when  you talk about a music video, none of the other nominees had videos that crossed boundaries such as Beyonce's "Single Ladies", and Lady Gaga's "Poker Face".  Both videos were innovative, and needed for the slow demise of MTV.  Yes Beyonce won Video of the Year, but I truly believe that either Beyonce or Lady Gaga should of gotten Female Video of the Year.  So now we are sitting here 2 days after the spectacle and we are left wondering why this happened and if Kanye's career can ever be like it once was.  My bestfriend and I got into a bit of a cyber space debate on this subject, and she like many others are furious on the situation and believes that Kanye is out of control.  To me, I didn't take it that way.  I asked her this question, "what is the difference between what Kanye West did at the VMA's compared to what Pink said on the Today show, what Katy Perry and many other celebs said on Twitter, and what our very own President today"?  There is absolutely no difference.  Pink was quoted as saying that "Kanye was a waste", Katy Perry said "Fuck Kanye", and President Obama has said "He's a jackass".  All of these people are responding to something that they truly felt was wrong, the same way Kanye responded to Taylor Swift's win.  He felt that she was not deserving of the award.  If you ask me, their actions are hypocritical.  How can you wish death upon him, talk about his deceased mother, and call him a NIGGER?  Taylor Swift wasn't physically or verbally assaulted.  His mistake in my opinion was to voice a concern over something that had nothing to do with him, and in the end, Beyonce went against him and invited Taylor to say her acceptance speech.  He is left to continuously apologize to Taylor, and the media for actions that I'm sure he wishes he could take back.  I ask this to my readers, how long must we punish a man who has asked for our forgiveness?  Why is this country so hypocritical towards him, when we have made our own share of mistakes?  Is his actions worth blacklisting?  You have assholes like Bill O'Reily and Rush Limbaugh who on a daily basis say the most ignorant and racists comments known to man and at the end of the day, they have millions of followers.  So what does that say about our country?

CAN WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?

I'm sure that many of you saw the fiasco that occurred at last nights, VMA show.  I wasn't really expecting much of anything since I've become unamazed at the flow of tasteless awards shows that have flooded our television set, but the fact that MTV decided to do a tribute to Michael Jackson was the reason I decided to tune in.  I loved Janet's performance.  Again, she proved that MTV made a huge mistake of practically black listing her from their network after the Superbowl incident and she proved to the world, that she is a force to be reckoned with.  So I begin my debate on Kanye's reaction towards Taylor Swifts win of the Best Female Video of the Year award.  Call me a rebel, but I can certainly agree with Kanye's reaction.  He acted on what the world thought to themselves when they announced this country singers name.  As far as him going on stage and completely voicing his opinion, was a bad move for his career.  Unlike many pop/country singers of our time, Taylor Swift is the cookie image of the "ALL AMERICAN" teenager, and at the end of the day, and it made Kanye out to be this big bad NIGGER.  Kanye has had to endure so much scrutiny for his often outspoken views on former president Bush, the gay influence over his fashion, and his views on the music industry.  Though he has a lot of money, does that mean that he must censor his thoughts and views when it comes to something that he truly believes in?  I love the fact that Kanye is so outspoken with his "I don't give a fuck attitude".  As a young person, it gives me the strength to know that I have a voice and I can be heard, but at what expense.  Sadly to say, the country has had enough of his tantrums and though his viewpoints are valid, the words out of his mouth is sounding like unnecessary NOISE.  Kanye has since apologized and I wonder if this country will forgive him for frightening this country/pop princess.  We've all made mistakes and none of us are in a position to judge no one.  How long must he be crucified and will his career come to a halt?  Only time will tell.  I hope that the public can see past last nights spectacle and move on.  In the words of Rodney King, "can we all just get along".

NUDE PUMPS

I love to see celebrities sporting nude pumps from Christian Louboutin or any other high end designer.  If you are like me, those pricey heels are way out of your budget and so I bring to you affordable alternatives for the same hot trend.  What I love about nude toned pumps is that you can wear them with just about anything.  Hilary Duff sported it with a pencil skirt and light blue buttoned blouse.  Blake Lively, took it to a more casual level and wore them with a pair of skinny jeans, white tee, and added a sequined jacket to get it a bit of color.  Which ever way you choose, you will realize that a pair of nude pumps can compliment any look.  You can find less affordable pairs at www.stevemadden.com $59.97 and www.ninewest.com $71.06.  

DON'T YOU FORGET ABOUT ME!

Hey everyone.  I know its been a while, but you can imagine my busy schedule for the past couple of weeks.  I've been juggling work, the gym and pan practice all while maintaining my sanity.  Chatty Patty has been suffering which was never my intention when I began this blog, and for that, I do apologize.  I'm back on my grind and ready to take on the world.  I have a lot of new features lined up.  I will be doing some interviews with artist, dancers, dj's, and many others from the Caribbean.  Though we are in a recession, that doesn't mean that we have to look like we are suffering and for that, I will be focusing beauty on a budget.  I will continue to write about relationships but I will have feedback from the public on certain subjects.  Look out for this and many more.  You will not be disappointed.  So in the meantime, spread the word on Chatty Patty.

FORBIDDEN FRUIT

Last night I sat in front of my laptop looking at some old dancehall videos like Super Cat “Ghetto Red Hot”, and Beenie Man’s “World Dance” and began reminiscing of the times when I was a young teen and realizing that I no longer wanted to play with Barbie’s and instead became attracted to the forbidden fruit of Jamaican men.  Back then, they would rock Cross Colors, Fish Net Tops and I can’t forget that obvious pony tail in the middle of the head.  Though most rock and pair of nice skinny jeans, fitted tops and the latest footwear, better believe that no other set of man are more fashionable than the ones from Yard.  There is something about Jamaican men that to this day, can make me feel frightened and thirsty at the same time.  I’m not alone.  There are so many of my Trinbagonian sistrens that prefer to date Jamaican men, then our own.  I often wonder the reason why and I wonder if their reasoning is the same as mine.  Jamaican men carry a certain swag and confidence that I don’t find in many Trini men.  I’m not saying all Jamaicans, because there are some that I wouldn’t even give a second look, but there are those that have that it factor.  They can walk in a room, know what they want, and have the confidence to step to you, give you some sweet words, exchange numbers and have you thinking about them the morning after.  At the same time, most of my infamous and not always pleasant relationships have been with a Jamaican men, and though I vow never to date one again, I found myself back again in their arms.  Dating them requires confidence, trust, and the ability to deal with their sometimes controlling personalities, but the benefits can be worthwhile, if you happen to be lucky like me...Lol.  Not to leave out my sexy Trinbagionian men.  I still love you.  In fact, my best relationships were with them, unfortunately, I kept returning to what kept my interest going, my hardcore yardie men!  Patty loves you all! 

FALL MUST HAVE JACKETS/COATS

Fall is upon us and though I live in a sunny South Florida, it doesn't stop me from browsing the latest jackets/coats for the new season.  This item of clothing is a must have in every woman's wardrobe and though we are living in tough economic times, it's something that I consider an investment.  It makes no sense in buying a jacket for $10.00, when it will fall apart before the end of the winter season.  Make an investment and splurge in something that can last you a lifetime.  As I caught up on the latest fashion trends, I realized that all the celebs are sporting jackets and dressing them up or down.  Check out Jessica Biel with a frilled style leather jacket, over a white tee and casual jeans.  You can dress it up by wearing it over a hot cocktail dress and knee high boots or look ultra sleek by wearing it with a pair of leggings and sequined top.  No matter the avenue you choose, allow the jacket to be the focal point of your outfit.  Check out www.asos.com for some hot affordable jackets and coats.  

STARTING OVER!

Thursday, September 3rd

The task of trying to lose weight can make anyone ever regret putting it on!  After months of sitting on my ass, I decided that I had enough of the excuses and it was time to take back my life and go in a direction where I will feel healthier and look sexier.  So Thursday, was the first day and I decided that I wouldn’t work myself too hard.  I went on the bicycle for 5 minutes to warm up my body.  I did some stretching before I did some weight training.  I was there for about 15 minutes and finally ended my workout on the elliptical machine, in which I did a 10 minute run.  It felt good to complete my first day. 

 

Friday, September 4^th

I returned to the gym after work.  Didn’t expect this many people, but I guess it’s because we have a 3 day weekend.  I decided to spend less time on the bicycle and more time lifting weights.  I worked on my abs, legs, thighs, and arms.  Damn, I’m sore!  I went back on the elliptical and decided to go for 20 minutes instead.  The soca music in my ipod had me more than motivated to lose weight.  I visualized myself in my Island People costume and saw myself with toned abs!  After working out, I decided to go to Publix and buy some healthy snacks to get me started on my diet.  I’m trying to look for things that are less than 100 calories.  I brought some green grapes, peaches, yogurt, low calorie ice cream, and I did put a box of my favorite pizza.  I know it’s not within my healthy living plan, but I was craving it.  And so it went in my cart!

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TV LOVE

I'm going to be a bit bias and feature a video/song clip from my significant other Whitey featuring Soup "TV Love". Check out this new track. I will be doing an interview Whitey and other up and coming local artist in the South Florida area.

CRABTREE & EVELYN

My brother introduced me to this product and I've been hooked every since.  I've used other body scrubs but none have made my skin feel like velvet the way that "Crabtree & Evelyn Natural Botanical Body Scub" has done to me.  I use this product 2-3 times a week.  It will have your skin feel rejuvenated!  Retailed at $26.00, its worth every cent.  Check out their website, www.store.crabtree-evelyn.com.

WORKOUT DIARY!

I'm happy to say that I've finally started going back in the gym again!  I truly had to stop the procrastination and get up off my ass and do the damn thing.  It feels so damn good!  I guess, looking at that Island People costume and my pics from my vacation was the reality check I needed to get the workout back in fast mode.  I've made a vow that this time around, I will make it a 4-5 day workout week and stick to my low calorie diet.  With this new attitude.  I decided to create a new feature, "Workout Diary" section of Chatty Patty!  I will be writing weekly on my progress and all the trials and tribulations that come with losing weight.  I want you to write me too about your workout and what you're doing to shed the pounds.  This will be a diary for ALL OF US!  This will bring us closer and it will be evident that we are not alone.  We have the same common goal.  So email me at therealchattypatty@gmail.com.  I will include your entry and hopefully we can have a fun little contest at the end of the year.  Good luck ladies and gents!  I'm with you in the struggle!

THE CHOSEN ONE!

Registration for Island People's Kutchela began on Saturday, Aug. 29th.  It was hard for me to choose a costume this year, but I decided to pick Kundalini.  Kundalini is different from all the other costumes I have played mas in and I loved how this section really goes with the theme of the band.  My sister will be playing mas with me this year and she thought that this costume was a better suite for her figure.  Unlike previous years, the footwear of choice will be a pair of sandals and so my task begins.  New masqueraders will be able to register on Thursday, September 3rd.  Check out the rest of the sections on www.islandpeoplemas.com.  

FREE SHIPPING!

Looking to add more eye shadow to your already growing make-up collection?  MAC Cosmetics is having free shipping on all their products from August 31^st – Sept 7^th if you order online.  Check it out on www.maccosmetics.com.