Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
I wish for one hundred...
- Voice coaching sessions with Patsy Rodenburg.
- Witty comebacks in my arsenal to choose from whenever someone is rude to me.
- Kisses on the forehead from Viggo Mortensen whenever I'm feeling bad.
- Free months of rent.
- Prince songs on CD. (that's a big cd!)
- "Do Overs" redeemable for the past, present and future.
- Students in the YouthWorks program this year.
- DVDs in my home collection (or movie certificates, or theatre tickets-s'all good).
- Schools fighting over me to offer me a scholarship to do my Masters in Theatre Performance.
- Gift certificates for Popeye's Fried Chicken (spicy, of course!).
- Plane tickets to fly anywhere in the world.
- Honest men and women in the government (I know, don't hold my breath, right?).
- Visits from the Take Home Chef. (Have you seen this guy? He really can cook.)
- Posts on this blog.
- Lottery tickets.
- Sessions with a personal trainer. (To counteract the fried chicken consumption of course.)
- Solid gold toilets.
- Stage and film acting credits on my résumé.
- Days of paid vacation.
(c'mon, you didn't think I'd list one hundred wishes, did you? that would just be greedy.)
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Those were the days my friend...
There are not many things that I enjoy reminiscing about when I think back to the days of my adolescence. Being a bit overweight, a little geeky at times, not running with the popular crowd (I ran with the artsy kids) and basically mediocre at all sports...Never quite as snazzy on the fashion tip as my peers, it was irksome to be sure. I'm of mixed race and never could get the black swagger thing down pat, I seemed too "white" for black people to really want to claim me as one of their own. Mind you, I was dark skinned enough to get trailed by store security personnel and to be told, "Nigger, why don't you go back on your boat to Africa?" As my friend Quincy says, how can I go back to somewhere I've never been? Anyway.
Would that I had grown up in Montreal. When I finally managed to get popular enough to be elected to student council, I realized that it stopped being a badge of acceptance. Being different in Montreal, on the other hand, would have been a fine place to live, and the pursuit of popularity would not have been so important, I think. But then again, maybe not. Teenagers are notoriously stupid about stuff like that.
However, I did manage to make some awesome friends in Toronto during my teen years. I had a blast doing theatre and chilling with my friends. I had found early on in life the one thing I did better than anything else (although I wasn't aware of it at the time). I had really cool acting gigs that gave me the opportunity to travel to neat places. I had great grades without having to try very hard. But there was something that stands apart in the singularly wonderful things of my adolescence. One something that takes me back and makes that whole hellish period all alright.
Video games.
How many fabulous hours of hosing around did I spend in front of the Nintendo, playing all the Mario Bros. Games that were available, Metroid, Mike Tyson's Punch Out, Donkey Kong, Tetris (which would brand itself on my brain for hours after I stopped playing)...Whether playing alone or with friends, it was always all good. I never got mad at the Nintendo. Not even when my sister threw it at me during a particularly nasty altercation and it gave me a bruise did my love for the Nintendo ever abate.
And so, I spent hours playing Nintendo with Eileen yesterday and this morning, and I felt young again. But the good kind of Young. Not the young and socially stupid kind of Young, not even the tireless and physically sound kind of Young (I am suffering some backache and tension from pressing on the controller buttons with all my might), but the kind of Young when you really could forget all your pressing problems in the face of a brightly coloured virtual world and all of your mistakes are do-overs, even when you die you get to come back to life, and winning is the best thing in the world (but not the only thing in the world) but not so much that you ever tire of finding new challenges to beat. (Incidentally, Eileen's Korean name is Ye-Young. Coincidence? I think not.)
I feel good. I feel young. But I've hosed around long enough. It's time to get back to work.
It's time to grow up.
For now.
Would that I had grown up in Montreal. When I finally managed to get popular enough to be elected to student council, I realized that it stopped being a badge of acceptance. Being different in Montreal, on the other hand, would have been a fine place to live, and the pursuit of popularity would not have been so important, I think. But then again, maybe not. Teenagers are notoriously stupid about stuff like that.
However, I did manage to make some awesome friends in Toronto during my teen years. I had a blast doing theatre and chilling with my friends. I had found early on in life the one thing I did better than anything else (although I wasn't aware of it at the time). I had really cool acting gigs that gave me the opportunity to travel to neat places. I had great grades without having to try very hard. But there was something that stands apart in the singularly wonderful things of my adolescence. One something that takes me back and makes that whole hellish period all alright.
Video games.
How many fabulous hours of hosing around did I spend in front of the Nintendo, playing all the Mario Bros. Games that were available, Metroid, Mike Tyson's Punch Out, Donkey Kong, Tetris (which would brand itself on my brain for hours after I stopped playing)...Whether playing alone or with friends, it was always all good. I never got mad at the Nintendo. Not even when my sister threw it at me during a particularly nasty altercation and it gave me a bruise did my love for the Nintendo ever abate.
And so, I spent hours playing Nintendo with Eileen yesterday and this morning, and I felt young again. But the good kind of Young. Not the young and socially stupid kind of Young, not even the tireless and physically sound kind of Young (I am suffering some backache and tension from pressing on the controller buttons with all my might), but the kind of Young when you really could forget all your pressing problems in the face of a brightly coloured virtual world and all of your mistakes are do-overs, even when you die you get to come back to life, and winning is the best thing in the world (but not the only thing in the world) but not so much that you ever tire of finding new challenges to beat. (Incidentally, Eileen's Korean name is Ye-Young. Coincidence? I think not.)
I feel good. I feel young. But I've hosed around long enough. It's time to get back to work.
It's time to grow up.
For now.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Back in the Saddle Again
Howdy pardners!
Back at work, attempting to write my first grant application. So far, so good. I wish I was making speedier progress, but oh well. It's exciting to have this job, I've got to tell you. I feel like I'm actually doing somethng meaningful and worthwhile. It's a cool thing to bring theatre training to those who couldn't normally afford it. Now if I can only convince the people with money to pay for it and help them chilluns out, it shall be golden.
Also, I'm presently enjoying the amazing benefits of vegan eating. Whoa! I forgot how good it was. I love the summer for that. Lots of rain this summer so far (in fact, it's looking ominously gray outside this minute) but there's been lots of sunshine too. (Ooh! Spot the metaphor for my life!)
Summertime...and the produce is tasty,
Veggies are crunchy, and the fruit is so ripe...
Well I may not be rich,
But I'm still damn good lookin'
---Okay, enough of that. I'm getting back to work.
Big bisous for all of you,
T.
Anyway
Back at work, attempting to write my first grant application. So far, so good. I wish I was making speedier progress, but oh well. It's exciting to have this job, I've got to tell you. I feel like I'm actually doing somethng meaningful and worthwhile. It's a cool thing to bring theatre training to those who couldn't normally afford it. Now if I can only convince the people with money to pay for it and help them chilluns out, it shall be golden.
But I've got to tell you, I feel pretty optimistic. Sure I don't make a lot of money yet, but who was it that said: "Do what you love and the money will come"?
Come on, money!
Come on, money!
Also, I'm presently enjoying the amazing benefits of vegan eating. Whoa! I forgot how good it was. I love the summer for that. Lots of rain this summer so far (in fact, it's looking ominously gray outside this minute) but there's been lots of sunshine too. (Ooh! Spot the metaphor for my life!)
Summertime...and the produce is tasty,
Veggies are crunchy, and the fruit is so ripe...
Well I may not be rich,
But I'm still damn good lookin'
---Okay, enough of that. I'm getting back to work.
Big bisous for all of you,
T.
Anyway
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
But then again...
I may have been suffering from the heat so much because of the mass quantities of food I consumed over the weekend. I watched silly movies like Dodgeball and Galaxy Quest and 13 Going on 30 with Bill and it was jokes. I had every intention of eating healthy food with her you know. And if Baileys, Pepsi, pizza, chicken wings and ice cream did happen to pass my lips, I have a little comfort in recalling that there were also some carrot and celery sticks that got in there somehow. And wowee! the barbecued jerk chicken and potato salad at Dad's the next day! I also made Great Big Pitchers of Mojitos.*mmm...drool...*
However, I am perfectly willing to own that my discomfort may have been the result of some indigestion. You can't eat as cleanly as I did all week and then blast your body with that kind of salt, fat, wheat, alcohol, and dairy and expect to get away scot free. But what a way to go!
(By the way Bill, I mentioned Steve the Pirate to Solonor who affectionatly sends the usual "Hello Butthead" greeting.)
And little Jasmine slept over at our place last night. Stephanie is looking after her for Jenny to give the poor woman a badly needed night out. It's pretty hilarious. Jazzy has taken over the whole entire apartment. She's EVERYWHERE, man. She's like a puppy, running all over the apartment. But she's so sweet natured and affectionate and clever. It's so funny: Stephanie will say something to Jasmine, who will look back at her in puzzlement, and and then turn to me for the translation in French. Because Jenny always speaks to Jazzy in French and Jasmine's dad speaks English, but she doesn't see him that often so her understanding of English has not kept apace.
Man, looking at Jasmine this morning, I recalled a time when I was actually that small.
I was a fetus.
However, I am perfectly willing to own that my discomfort may have been the result of some indigestion. You can't eat as cleanly as I did all week and then blast your body with that kind of salt, fat, wheat, alcohol, and dairy and expect to get away scot free. But what a way to go!
(By the way Bill, I mentioned Steve the Pirate to Solonor who affectionatly sends the usual "Hello Butthead" greeting.)
And little Jasmine slept over at our place last night. Stephanie is looking after her for Jenny to give the poor woman a badly needed night out. It's pretty hilarious. Jazzy has taken over the whole entire apartment. She's EVERYWHERE, man. She's like a puppy, running all over the apartment. But she's so sweet natured and affectionate and clever. It's so funny: Stephanie will say something to Jasmine, who will look back at her in puzzlement, and and then turn to me for the translation in French. Because Jenny always speaks to Jazzy in French and Jasmine's dad speaks English, but she doesn't see him that often so her understanding of English has not kept apace.
Man, looking at Jasmine this morning, I recalled a time when I was actually that small.
I was a fetus.
Monday, June 19, 2006
It's too darn hot!
I love the warm weather of summer! Nor, really. I seldom complain about the heat.
For instance I'll be more likely to say "It's so hot," rather than "It's too hot," but last night was one of those nights. I couldn't bloody well sleep even with the fan on me full blast. It was blazing, Baby.
I confess to harbouring some resentment to wards my landlords for being so slow to re-install the blinking air-conditioner. I think I resent more the fact that to get anything done you have to play the helpless female act:
"It's just so hot that I can't sleep and the air conditioner is so big and heavy!"
Then come the magic words to seal the deal:
"...And I just don't know what to do!"
*grumblestupidboyheadedsnotfairgrumblegrowlsnarl!*
(Mind you, you've got to play it cool; you've got to not lay it on too thick. Cocking your head to one side, twirling a lock of hair around your finger with the requisite knock-kneed stance that points one foot inward is okay, or puppy-dog eyes barely brimming over with just a hint of a pout is okay, but you can't work them all together at once. That's just overkill.)
It's not the heat that gets you, but the humidity which, as any black woman will tell you, is murder for the hair. (The avoidance of a humidity-induced hair casualty is one of the benefits of braids, I gotta tell ya.)
For instance I'll be more likely to say "It's so hot," rather than "It's too hot," but last night was one of those nights. I couldn't bloody well sleep even with the fan on me full blast. It was blazing, Baby.
I confess to harbouring some resentment to wards my landlords for being so slow to re-install the blinking air-conditioner. I think I resent more the fact that to get anything done you have to play the helpless female act:
"It's just so hot that I can't sleep and the air conditioner is so big and heavy!"
Then come the magic words to seal the deal:
"...And I just don't know what to do!"
*grumblestupidboyheadedsnotfairgrumblegrowlsnarl!*
(Mind you, you've got to play it cool; you've got to not lay it on too thick. Cocking your head to one side, twirling a lock of hair around your finger with the requisite knock-kneed stance that points one foot inward is okay, or puppy-dog eyes barely brimming over with just a hint of a pout is okay, but you can't work them all together at once. That's just overkill.)
It's not the heat that gets you, but the humidity which, as any black woman will tell you, is murder for the hair. (The avoidance of a humidity-induced hair casualty is one of the benefits of braids, I gotta tell ya.)
Friday, June 16, 2006
Wakey, Wakey!
Aloha Darlings.
I figuratively only woke up about three hours ago. I've been in a bit of a haze for the last little while, deeply unmotivated to work and in general kind of fuzzy-headed about my responsibilities. I looked at the mountain of work and preparation ahead for all of the work-related projects I have initiated and then combined with some unresolved personal business concerns and felt those compelling stirrings of "ostrich-itis." You know that feeling when you get overwhelmed and want to run away and hide? Yeah. Had that going on in a big way. But dammit all, when you're a grown-up, you just can't do that. Crap. (Unless it's to your Mommy's house after you sign divorce papers.)
Anyhoo, the good news is, I'm all industrious again! Granted, I've got lots to do, and it's a wee bit daunting, but it won't go away until I attack it, so here I go. (except for this brief interlude to tell you all about it instead of actually working, but anyway)
I think that it comes of making a few resolutions that have relieved the weight off of my mind somewhat. Some weights I've exchanged for others, but those other ones are more bearable, if you know what I mean.
For example, realizing that there is a way to repair some of the relationship damage between me and some of my estranged friends that I incurred during the course of the icky past two years and to decide upon a manageable course by which I can tackle it.
It also comes of deciding that come hell or high water, I'm just going to stay right where I am in my present apartment and wait until I can get a decent roommate or until I can get a second job. Whichever comes first. I can't afford to move, pay a first and last month's rent somewhere and furnish an apartment (X got all the furniture). Sure, my landlords are a wee bit OCD, but they sure do take good care of the property. And they'll force me to be really responsible. No late payment of rent or else they'll toss my black booty out to the curb. And it's amazing how frugal and disciplined I can be when it's that or disaster.
Of course this means that I will be stupid poor instead of the broke fool that I am at present, but as long as I can pay for a roof over my head, metropass, electricity, the gym, and food (which I can, although the food thing won't be plentiful or varied for awhile), I'm good to go. This means that my hair will be crazy. I'm talking about nothing but braids. No pretty perm. The beauty regimen will simplify a lot. Like basically be all about me being clean and not having flaky skin.
So if you're feeling like you'd like to invite me over for dinners and whatnot, let me tell you right now I'm prepared to swallow my pride and your food with equal alacrity.
Social life that consists of me actually "going out" will come when aforementioned roommate or second job comes along. And really, how long could that be? (I know, I know, famous last words, blah blah blah) I'm young, talented, and cute. I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me! (Does anyone remember where that quote comes from? 'Cause I don't.)
I'm disappointed that I can't afford the therapy anymore at present, because it was so good for me, but since I was not in any danger of going postal, just of repeating my disastrous dating patterns--okay, okay, I know there are other disastrous patterns too, but first thing's first, and that thing is survival. The goodies will come later.
It's all a relief to just make that decision and commit to it because quite frankly, it's a loverly apartment, and I don't know that I'll never find a better one at such short notice. And I'll be able to have sleepovers again! (But not for you, fellas.) And for the first time in my life, I'm going to live alone! Which is pretty darn exciting, I've got to say.
Sadly, I'll have to take some gigs out of town with the casino band, to make ends meet. I've got two of them scheduled this summer. A weekend in July and a week in August. It's easy work, although at times demoralizing, but I really need the money. (Wow, why did I feel like I whore when I said that?)
And of course, I've been able to catch up with some friends that I haven't spent time with in awhile. And I'm going to spend some time with more of them soon. (Bill, I'm talking 'bout you, baby!) AND Father's Day is coming up, and 'though I don't say it nearly often enough, I deeply dig my Daddy, yo. He is where it's at. He's the Champion. He's my Champion. Yeah! So I can hardly wait to go over and hang out with him. One of the beauties of Father's Day with my Dad is that he too understands the inextricable link of the good times, the beloved people and the sweet, sweet goodness of FOOD. I have three words for you:
Spending time with the people I love really soothes my soul, you know? Missing the people I love is a weight, let me tell ya. And seeing them lifts the load.
So let's get lifted, Baby! (heh heh) You know who you are. Call me and let's chill.
Okay, I'm getting back to work.
I figuratively only woke up about three hours ago. I've been in a bit of a haze for the last little while, deeply unmotivated to work and in general kind of fuzzy-headed about my responsibilities. I looked at the mountain of work and preparation ahead for all of the work-related projects I have initiated and then combined with some unresolved personal business concerns and felt those compelling stirrings of "ostrich-itis." You know that feeling when you get overwhelmed and want to run away and hide? Yeah. Had that going on in a big way. But dammit all, when you're a grown-up, you just can't do that. Crap. (Unless it's to your Mommy's house after you sign divorce papers.)
Anyhoo, the good news is, I'm all industrious again! Granted, I've got lots to do, and it's a wee bit daunting, but it won't go away until I attack it, so here I go. (except for this brief interlude to tell you all about it instead of actually working, but anyway)
I think that it comes of making a few resolutions that have relieved the weight off of my mind somewhat. Some weights I've exchanged for others, but those other ones are more bearable, if you know what I mean.
For example, realizing that there is a way to repair some of the relationship damage between me and some of my estranged friends that I incurred during the course of the icky past two years and to decide upon a manageable course by which I can tackle it.
It also comes of deciding that come hell or high water, I'm just going to stay right where I am in my present apartment and wait until I can get a decent roommate or until I can get a second job. Whichever comes first. I can't afford to move, pay a first and last month's rent somewhere and furnish an apartment (X got all the furniture). Sure, my landlords are a wee bit OCD, but they sure do take good care of the property. And they'll force me to be really responsible. No late payment of rent or else they'll toss my black booty out to the curb. And it's amazing how frugal and disciplined I can be when it's that or disaster.
Of course this means that I will be stupid poor instead of the broke fool that I am at present, but as long as I can pay for a roof over my head, metropass, electricity, the gym, and food (which I can, although the food thing won't be plentiful or varied for awhile), I'm good to go. This means that my hair will be crazy. I'm talking about nothing but braids. No pretty perm. The beauty regimen will simplify a lot. Like basically be all about me being clean and not having flaky skin.
So if you're feeling like you'd like to invite me over for dinners and whatnot, let me tell you right now I'm prepared to swallow my pride and your food with equal alacrity.
Social life that consists of me actually "going out" will come when aforementioned roommate or second job comes along. And really, how long could that be? (I know, I know, famous last words, blah blah blah) I'm young, talented, and cute. I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and gosh darn it, people like me! (Does anyone remember where that quote comes from? 'Cause I don't.)
I'm disappointed that I can't afford the therapy anymore at present, because it was so good for me, but since I was not in any danger of going postal, just of repeating my disastrous dating patterns--okay, okay, I know there are other disastrous patterns too, but first thing's first, and that thing is survival. The goodies will come later.
It's all a relief to just make that decision and commit to it because quite frankly, it's a loverly apartment, and I don't know that I'll never find a better one at such short notice. And I'll be able to have sleepovers again! (But not for you, fellas.) And for the first time in my life, I'm going to live alone! Which is pretty darn exciting, I've got to say.
Sadly, I'll have to take some gigs out of town with the casino band, to make ends meet. I've got two of them scheduled this summer. A weekend in July and a week in August. It's easy work, although at times demoralizing, but I really need the money. (Wow, why did I feel like I whore when I said that?)
And of course, I've been able to catch up with some friends that I haven't spent time with in awhile. And I'm going to spend some time with more of them soon. (Bill, I'm talking 'bout you, baby!) AND Father's Day is coming up, and 'though I don't say it nearly often enough, I deeply dig my Daddy, yo. He is where it's at. He's the Champion. He's my Champion. Yeah! So I can hardly wait to go over and hang out with him. One of the beauties of Father's Day with my Dad is that he too understands the inextricable link of the good times, the beloved people and the sweet, sweet goodness of FOOD. I have three words for you:
Bar. Bee. Cue.
Spending time with the people I love really soothes my soul, you know? Missing the people I love is a weight, let me tell ya. And seeing them lifts the load.
So let's get lifted, Baby! (heh heh) You know who you are. Call me and let's chill.
Okay, I'm getting back to work.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
I knew it couldn't last long...
*grumble!wail!snif!choke!sob!grr!*
It's one of those days. The particulars are not necessary (I'm actually too embarassed to relate them), but suffice to say that I'm feeling lower than "the pus that infects the crud that feeds on pond scum." (remember that movie?)
I'm living up to my profile description "jerky but well-meaning friend" in a deep way right about now.
I don't really have the heart to write anything more today. Maybe when the fits of the cringes and deep mortification pass I'll be able to say more.
Till then..
It's one of those days. The particulars are not necessary (I'm actually too embarassed to relate them), but suffice to say that I'm feeling lower than "the pus that infects the crud that feeds on pond scum." (remember that movie?)
I'm living up to my profile description "jerky but well-meaning friend" in a deep way right about now.
I don't really have the heart to write anything more today. Maybe when the fits of the cringes and deep mortification pass I'll be able to say more.
Till then..
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy....
I have been told of late by one of my dear readers that my tone in these blogs has been somewhat dark. That it sounds like I'm practically suicidal. That I've been whinging, in short.
Well, Darlings, I certainly don't want to be a downer, but neither do I want to be fake and superficial. I'd like y'all to have the straight dope from me, but I don't want to scare you off from hanging out with me for fear that I'll slit my wrists at the dinner table.
So allow me to share a few happy tidbits from my life:
Stephanie and I have commenced a 7-day detox to cleanse the system. The first two days are lemon water, herbal tea, and vegetable broth, but the following five days are all about lots of fruits, veggies, and rice. Yummy! It's so funny; what seemed a hardship at first (that of it being such a restrained diet) we now eagerly anticipate, and the diet seems above all reproach. It also helps that we hit the Jean-Talon Market on the weekend and that in my weakened and fatigued state, I have nevertheless been inspired to cook as I haven't been in a long time. There is tasty food aplenty awaiting us tomorrow when we get off the liquid part of the fast. A sumptuous vegetable curry, a hearty, savoury mung bean soup, fresh chilled gazpacho, homemade baba ghanoush and hummus with crudites, fress fruit salad, rice fusilli puttanesca! All fresh ingredients, herbs and whatnot. Yummm.....
You'd think the sight of all that food would discourage me while I've been drinking nothing but lemon water and veggie broth, but no! It's been nothing but pleasurable industry serving to take my mind off of being hungry. And a source of immense pride because I can say without conceit that I am a Dyno-mite cook.
I will be having a happy (healthy) binge-fest with with my beloved Bill on Saturday. I couldn't resist. Lord knows, there's something about her diabolical little smirk that just warms my heart to no end.
And off I go to band bractice, gotta show tomorrow evening for the Festival Rhythmes Du Monde. Somehow we ended up as the headliners for two years in a row. God bless Eva, she is a super champion of my talent and a much appreciated butt-kicker.
Ciao for now! I can't promise to keep the cheery thing going for long, because you know how hormones can be! (Actually, I guess you fellas would only know by proxy: sisters, girlfriends or whateva. Anyway.)
Well, Darlings, I certainly don't want to be a downer, but neither do I want to be fake and superficial. I'd like y'all to have the straight dope from me, but I don't want to scare you off from hanging out with me for fear that I'll slit my wrists at the dinner table.
So allow me to share a few happy tidbits from my life:
Stephanie and I have commenced a 7-day detox to cleanse the system. The first two days are lemon water, herbal tea, and vegetable broth, but the following five days are all about lots of fruits, veggies, and rice. Yummy! It's so funny; what seemed a hardship at first (that of it being such a restrained diet) we now eagerly anticipate, and the diet seems above all reproach. It also helps that we hit the Jean-Talon Market on the weekend and that in my weakened and fatigued state, I have nevertheless been inspired to cook as I haven't been in a long time. There is tasty food aplenty awaiting us tomorrow when we get off the liquid part of the fast. A sumptuous vegetable curry, a hearty, savoury mung bean soup, fresh chilled gazpacho, homemade baba ghanoush and hummus with crudites, fress fruit salad, rice fusilli puttanesca! All fresh ingredients, herbs and whatnot. Yummm.....
You'd think the sight of all that food would discourage me while I've been drinking nothing but lemon water and veggie broth, but no! It's been nothing but pleasurable industry serving to take my mind off of being hungry. And a source of immense pride because I can say without conceit that I am a Dyno-mite cook.
I will be having a happy (healthy) binge-fest with with my beloved Bill on Saturday. I couldn't resist. Lord knows, there's something about her diabolical little smirk that just warms my heart to no end.
And off I go to band bractice, gotta show tomorrow evening for the Festival Rhythmes Du Monde. Somehow we ended up as the headliners for two years in a row. God bless Eva, she is a super champion of my talent and a much appreciated butt-kicker.
Ciao for now! I can't promise to keep the cheery thing going for long, because you know how hormones can be! (Actually, I guess you fellas would only know by proxy: sisters, girlfriends or whateva. Anyway.)
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
S'up, yo.
First of all, I'd like to welcome all the new visitors to the blog! As long as you don't need me to be diligent about phoning and hanging out with you to feel the friendly love vibe I'm sending y'all, we'll get along fine! Huzzah!
Anyhoo.
It's the first time I've been the office all week, and I'm not particularly proud of that. I am a lousy (awesome?) boss this week. Sure, I had work-related obligations on Monday that kept me out of the office, but what have I done since then?
Well, I'll tell you.
A whole lot of nothing.
Yeah, I said it.
Well truth be told, I ate a lot and watched videos too. That's something.
But not on the Sofa of Doom.
Oh no, not this time. It was on the Armchair of Disaster!
It's a little less comfortable for sleeping, you know, 'cause your legs dangle over the arms and it cuts off your circulation and you get a crick in the neck. So, although it's a nice place to visit at first, it's nowhere you wanna live.
But all in all, it's a good choice if you only want to take a short trip on the Debauchery Train.
Actually, to do myself justice, I did manage some light cooking and housework too, so I wouldn't be such a total slug and freeloader.
Sigh.
How did I fall off of the Wagon of Productivity, you ask? It's all about me and Steph being in mourning over her imminent departure. Instead of crying and getting depressed, we ate baba ghanouj, crackers, old-fasioned donuts and drank white wine while watching Def Poetry Jam. She provided all of the edible and drinkable goodies, I provided the entertainment. It was all about taking some time out for the kind of therapy that does a body good and doesn't cost $120 an hour. (Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.)
When you're waiting on a paycheck, there are not a lot of fun times to be had. Yeah, okay! I have no equity and live from paycheck to paycheck. I also haven't filed my taxes yet. What's more, I also can belch like a trucker on command. I do have immature and flaky dimensions to me. It's all part of my charm. Yeah, that's it! And on top of it, those people who look at me and feel superior because of it, well, shoot, I've just boosted their self-esteem, so that's sort of like a good deed, isn't it? Maybe I'm storing up brownie points in heaven!
The living situation is nowhere near resolution, I really wish I could just do the ostrich thing and hope the problem goes away. But of course, if I do that, I'll have gone beyond crazy black lady to crazy homeless black lady, and how does that uplift the race, I ask you? Sigh. Gotta make some more phone calls and start praying for a miracle, because deep down, I do believe that things have a way of working themselves out.
Wellllllp...
I've run out of things to say. Except this. I saw the latest version of The Producers yesterday, and although it was entertaining and I liked the new songs, nothing touches the original Mel Blanks movie. That may be because it's Zero Mostel and Gene-frickin-Wilder, it may be because I watched it with Bill and because we ate lots of Bar-B-Barn ribs and chicken (Okay, I ate lots of ribs and chicken, most of them, in fact. I'm surprised poor Bill didn't pull back a stump. You know, I'm occasionally shocked and appalled at the mass quantities of food I am capable of consuming in one sitting, but I'm getting off the point.) and drank champagne.
But then again, all of our movie fests took place during my year of post-surgery convalescence. That's when I learned to love the lazy, Baby. Lots of molasses cookies and vanilla soy milk, video games, movies, trips to the Jean-Talon market and other such fun have melted into a stream of con-fun-ness.
Okay, now I'm really finished talking. For now.
Anyhoo.
It's the first time I've been the office all week, and I'm not particularly proud of that. I am a lousy (awesome?) boss this week. Sure, I had work-related obligations on Monday that kept me out of the office, but what have I done since then?
Well, I'll tell you.
A whole lot of nothing.
Yeah, I said it.
Well truth be told, I ate a lot and watched videos too. That's something.
But not on the Sofa of Doom.
Oh no, not this time. It was on the Armchair of Disaster!
It's a little less comfortable for sleeping, you know, 'cause your legs dangle over the arms and it cuts off your circulation and you get a crick in the neck. So, although it's a nice place to visit at first, it's nowhere you wanna live.
But all in all, it's a good choice if you only want to take a short trip on the Debauchery Train.
Actually, to do myself justice, I did manage some light cooking and housework too, so I wouldn't be such a total slug and freeloader.
Sigh.
How did I fall off of the Wagon of Productivity, you ask? It's all about me and Steph being in mourning over her imminent departure. Instead of crying and getting depressed, we ate baba ghanouj, crackers, old-fasioned donuts and drank white wine while watching Def Poetry Jam. She provided all of the edible and drinkable goodies, I provided the entertainment. It was all about taking some time out for the kind of therapy that does a body good and doesn't cost $120 an hour. (Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.)
When you're waiting on a paycheck, there are not a lot of fun times to be had. Yeah, okay! I have no equity and live from paycheck to paycheck. I also haven't filed my taxes yet. What's more, I also can belch like a trucker on command. I do have immature and flaky dimensions to me. It's all part of my charm. Yeah, that's it! And on top of it, those people who look at me and feel superior because of it, well, shoot, I've just boosted their self-esteem, so that's sort of like a good deed, isn't it? Maybe I'm storing up brownie points in heaven!
The living situation is nowhere near resolution, I really wish I could just do the ostrich thing and hope the problem goes away. But of course, if I do that, I'll have gone beyond crazy black lady to crazy homeless black lady, and how does that uplift the race, I ask you? Sigh. Gotta make some more phone calls and start praying for a miracle, because deep down, I do believe that things have a way of working themselves out.
Wellllllp...
I've run out of things to say. Except this. I saw the latest version of The Producers yesterday, and although it was entertaining and I liked the new songs, nothing touches the original Mel Blanks movie. That may be because it's Zero Mostel and Gene-frickin-Wilder, it may be because I watched it with Bill and because we ate lots of Bar-B-Barn ribs and chicken (Okay, I ate lots of ribs and chicken, most of them, in fact. I'm surprised poor Bill didn't pull back a stump. You know, I'm occasionally shocked and appalled at the mass quantities of food I am capable of consuming in one sitting, but I'm getting off the point.) and drank champagne.
But then again, all of our movie fests took place during my year of post-surgery convalescence. That's when I learned to love the lazy, Baby. Lots of molasses cookies and vanilla soy milk, video games, movies, trips to the Jean-Talon market and other such fun have melted into a stream of con-fun-ness.
Okay, now I'm really finished talking. For now.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
La Da Dee Dowdy Dow, La Da Dee Dowdy Dow...
She's just like you and me-eeee...
But she's homeless, she's homeless!
And she stands there, singin' for monayyyy...
Can you believe this mess? Yes indeedy, I too am about to be like the homeless lady in the Crystal Waters song.
Sigh.
I've got two months to work out a new living situation.
Y'all know I'm a starving artist, albeit with a bitchin' job title, so I can't afford stupid crazy rent. Help a sister out, start spreading the word see if anyone you know is looking for a roommate. My American friends need not partake in the roommate hunt, thanks anyway.
If you haven't spoken to my beloved roommate yet, then I'm sorry to be the one breaking the news, if she hasn't told you yet. But don't worry, she'll be getting around to you soon. I guess you can play dumb until she tells you, I dunno.
Can you believe it? Stephanie has to move back to Chicago!
Crap!
Who will be my pally for late-night laughfests and bacon pizza binges! Who else understands my love of the Isley Brothers and the fabulousness of Prince? What will I do without her crazy infectious laugh? There are so many reasons that I'm miserable about this move that I don't have the heart to get into it all, although I'm trying to be unselfish and be happy for her and keep a positive spin on the whole situation.
Truth be told, I'd rather stay at home and sulk about it for a couple of days.
Instead, I'll make the most of these remaining two months (because I don't think I can afford the rent of that apartment by myself) and make some good memories with her.
So we'll be taking Salsa classes together! I went out last weekend with her and another girlfriend and we had a blast! What a nice vibe! I like the kind of crowd that just wants to dance. There is infinitely less slimyness afoot than in the typical club scene. And it's good exercise to boot. But first I have to learn how to do it well. Hence the classes. I've always wanted to be able to salsa.
Anyways, I should stop hosing around and get back to work.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
The postmortem
Mr. Abe the Babe has raised a good point. I never told y'all how the movie was. Well, suffice to say, the whole experience was an adventure. I bought a ticket for the first matinee at 12:30, and arrived nice and early, which was a good thing. The place was packed and the excitement in the room was palpable. I got a gorgeous seat, dead center, and sitting between some truly handsome fellas.
A Tamara Sandwich!
Anyway, you know how those commercials sort of play on a loop until it's time for the previews? Well, at 12:35, the same three lame commercials were playing on a loop. At about 12:50, they were still playing and folks were getting het up. It was the worst version of Groundhog Day ever. So at 12:55, an employee comes in and says, the projector is broken and they're trying to fix it, so we'll have to wait until it's fixed and they don't know how long it'll take. Anyone who wants to change theatres and see the next show at 1:10 can switch theatres. Everyone except for six other people and myself rushed the doors. I literally had only reached down to get my purse and when I looked up, three-quarters of the room were at the door. I knew I would never get a seat, and certainly, not such a perfect one as I had, bookended with beefcake.
Anyhoo.
Fifteen minutes later, the same dude comes in and says to the six of us, well, the other room is totally full, and they won't get the projector fixed that day, so we can see the 1:30 show upstairs and get a free movie voucher to boot.
I sprinted like a madwoman, hoping against all hope to get a decent seat, and there it was, waiting for me. Of course, there weren't beautiful men flanking me, but it was an entertaining place to be nonetheless. Mr. Macho on my right was so crying when certain people died. Uh huh.
The older lady on my left flinched a lot at the loud noises.
Oh, right, the movie.
Well, it was good, it was an X-Men flick, I went in with no expectations so I had loads of fun. Neat effects, Halle Berry was a lot less useless in this one as Storm, pity it took them so long to figure out how important a chacracter she is. But well, truth be told, it's not like Halle's a particularly great actress or anything. Fine as all get-out, but well shoot, some of my students could whomp her butt onscreen. In true Storm form, she does spend a fair bit of time getting her keester kicked, but she pulls through in the end with an awesome payback. I liked her new hairdo. They mention the new 'do in the script, I think she made the director put it in. Jean Grey has a new hairdo, and she doesn't have to have anybody remark upon it. Hmph. Oscar winners.
I won't spoil the end, but I'll say this: although there will apparently be no more X-Men films, they're setting you up for a buttload of spinoffs. Also: Vinnie Jones is the BOMB, I've loved him since forever (okay, since Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels), and I just wish he'd come to his senses and ask me out on a date.
Also, you should wait until the end of the credits, because there's nifty new twist.
Well, this is me, signing off. Meaningful content is surely on the way, but now I've gotta boogie and go meet my girl G for lunch.
Cheers!
A Tamara Sandwich!
Anyway, you know how those commercials sort of play on a loop until it's time for the previews? Well, at 12:35, the same three lame commercials were playing on a loop. At about 12:50, they were still playing and folks were getting het up. It was the worst version of Groundhog Day ever. So at 12:55, an employee comes in and says, the projector is broken and they're trying to fix it, so we'll have to wait until it's fixed and they don't know how long it'll take. Anyone who wants to change theatres and see the next show at 1:10 can switch theatres. Everyone except for six other people and myself rushed the doors. I literally had only reached down to get my purse and when I looked up, three-quarters of the room were at the door. I knew I would never get a seat, and certainly, not such a perfect one as I had, bookended with beefcake.
Anyhoo.
Fifteen minutes later, the same dude comes in and says to the six of us, well, the other room is totally full, and they won't get the projector fixed that day, so we can see the 1:30 show upstairs and get a free movie voucher to boot.
I sprinted like a madwoman, hoping against all hope to get a decent seat, and there it was, waiting for me. Of course, there weren't beautiful men flanking me, but it was an entertaining place to be nonetheless. Mr. Macho on my right was so crying when certain people died. Uh huh.
The older lady on my left flinched a lot at the loud noises.
Oh, right, the movie.
Well, it was good, it was an X-Men flick, I went in with no expectations so I had loads of fun. Neat effects, Halle Berry was a lot less useless in this one as Storm, pity it took them so long to figure out how important a chacracter she is. But well, truth be told, it's not like Halle's a particularly great actress or anything. Fine as all get-out, but well shoot, some of my students could whomp her butt onscreen. In true Storm form, she does spend a fair bit of time getting her keester kicked, but she pulls through in the end with an awesome payback. I liked her new hairdo. They mention the new 'do in the script, I think she made the director put it in. Jean Grey has a new hairdo, and she doesn't have to have anybody remark upon it. Hmph. Oscar winners.
I won't spoil the end, but I'll say this: although there will apparently be no more X-Men films, they're setting you up for a buttload of spinoffs. Also: Vinnie Jones is the BOMB, I've loved him since forever (okay, since Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels), and I just wish he'd come to his senses and ask me out on a date.
Also, you should wait until the end of the credits, because there's nifty new twist.
Well, this is me, signing off. Meaningful content is surely on the way, but now I've gotta boogie and go meet my girl G for lunch.
Cheers!
Friday, May 26, 2006
Rowr.
I'm going to see X-Men 3 in less than an hour.
It doesn't matter that I'm virtually broke, or that the movie is reputed to be crap.
Nosirree, none of that matters. And why?
Is it because I'm such a die-hard fan of the X-Men?
Is it because a superhero movie has never been a piece of exceptional cinema, and I therefore have no expectations whatever?
The answer, darling dears is right below:
Sigh...
It doesn't matter that I'm virtually broke, or that the movie is reputed to be crap.
Nosirree, none of that matters. And why?
Is it because I'm such a die-hard fan of the X-Men?
Is it because a superhero movie has never been a piece of exceptional cinema, and I therefore have no expectations whatever?
The answer, darling dears is right below:
Sigh...
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
When the moooon...is in the 7th howwwwse....
Ah do declare....
I hope those sparks I'm seeing aren't the beginnings of a migraine. I'm certain it's not a psychodelic drug trip (since those are so, like, last Tuesday). No, but seriously. This doesn't look good for the good guys.
Is it a subconscious desire to avoid work that is manifesting itself? Do I have Munchausen Syndrome?
Oh, actually, now that I've actually looked it up, it would appear that a major factor is the desire for attention and sympathy. Well, I've never used physical ailments to garner sympathy, I just talk about my failed marriage to get that!
I hope those sparks I'm seeing aren't the beginnings of a migraine. I'm certain it's not a psychodelic drug trip (since those are so, like, last Tuesday). No, but seriously. This doesn't look good for the good guys.
Is it a subconscious desire to avoid work that is manifesting itself? Do I have Munchausen Syndrome?
Oh, actually, now that I've actually looked it up, it would appear that a major factor is the desire for attention and sympathy. Well, I've never used physical ailments to garner sympathy, I just talk about my failed marriage to get that!
MWAH! HAH! HAH!
BWAH-HA-HA-HA-HAWWW!
Hyuk! Hyuk! Heeheeheeheehoohoohoohoohahaha!
WAH-ha! Wha-ha! Ha. Ha.
Hee hee hee hee.
woo.
(Okay, seriously though, you know I'm kidding about all that, right?)
Now I've gone and hurt myself with that little laughing burst. I hope it was worth it and you're all entertained. Now I need to go lie down.
woo.
(Okay, seriously though, you know I'm kidding about all that, right?)
Now I've gone and hurt myself with that little laughing burst. I hope it was worth it and you're all entertained. Now I need to go lie down.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Chillin' like a villain
Yes indeedy Dahlings, that's how it's been goin' down these days.
Been hanging out with Mom for the past couple of days, and it's been deeply wicked. I've been eating, sleeping, reading, eating and braiding my hair. Lot of eating, lot of braiding. Wait till y'all see me. I may be puffy, but I look good.
Under normal circumstances, braiding would have been replaced by shopping, but the sad reality is that I am once again po' and since I won't be able to afford trips to the hair dresser for at least another month, I figured it would be worth it to invest some time in a 'do that will last for a month, be lovely and time-saving in the mornings.
(Well, not that I actuallly get to work before noon since I'm completely useless in the morning, but you get my drift.)
Because if you know black women's hair, darlings (and I do) it is involved. Can I get a witness? Whether your hair is permed or you're rocking a natural or doin' the dreadlocks thing, it's a lot of work. Brigitte has neatly avoided the pitfalls of time-consuming hair by rocking a really short 'fro, but then again, she's petite and feminine, so it works. If you've got a big 'ol pumpkin head such as myself, a short 'fro looks like a short stop on the road to Transamerica, if you get my drift. Anyway.
And let me tell you, hanging out with Mom and Fabian has given me tons more material for the dictionary. I've gotta write it all down before I forget.
I actually feel a wee bit guilty because I haven't gotten much work done and I really did intend to get some stuff done. What can I say? It's the hair. In fact, I am altogether too ashamed to admit how many hours of work have gone into this coif'.
But doggone it, I look good.
Heh heh.
And how am I doing lately, you may ask? Ahhh....
It's worth mentioning that Mom is proving to be, as usual, a wonderful balm for all that ails me when life gets lousy. Not everybody gets a supafly mom like mine, as we all know. Supafly moms aren't perfect, but they are so, well...supafly, that even their flaws are a part of their charm. It shows you how to bear up under your own with grace and fabulosity.
Yeah, I'm so chill that I wonder if I'll be able to bring it back home with me. I guess we'll all find out.
Been hanging out with Mom for the past couple of days, and it's been deeply wicked. I've been eating, sleeping, reading, eating and braiding my hair. Lot of eating, lot of braiding. Wait till y'all see me. I may be puffy, but I look good.
Under normal circumstances, braiding would have been replaced by shopping, but the sad reality is that I am once again po' and since I won't be able to afford trips to the hair dresser for at least another month, I figured it would be worth it to invest some time in a 'do that will last for a month, be lovely and time-saving in the mornings.
(Well, not that I actuallly get to work before noon since I'm completely useless in the morning, but you get my drift.)
Because if you know black women's hair, darlings (and I do) it is involved. Can I get a witness? Whether your hair is permed or you're rocking a natural or doin' the dreadlocks thing, it's a lot of work. Brigitte has neatly avoided the pitfalls of time-consuming hair by rocking a really short 'fro, but then again, she's petite and feminine, so it works. If you've got a big 'ol pumpkin head such as myself, a short 'fro looks like a short stop on the road to Transamerica, if you get my drift. Anyway.
And let me tell you, hanging out with Mom and Fabian has given me tons more material for the dictionary. I've gotta write it all down before I forget.
I actually feel a wee bit guilty because I haven't gotten much work done and I really did intend to get some stuff done. What can I say? It's the hair. In fact, I am altogether too ashamed to admit how many hours of work have gone into this coif'.
But doggone it, I look good.
Heh heh.
And how am I doing lately, you may ask? Ahhh....
It's worth mentioning that Mom is proving to be, as usual, a wonderful balm for all that ails me when life gets lousy. Not everybody gets a supafly mom like mine, as we all know. Supafly moms aren't perfect, but they are so, well...supafly, that even their flaws are a part of their charm. It shows you how to bear up under your own with grace and fabulosity.
Yeah, I'm so chill that I wonder if I'll be able to bring it back home with me. I guess we'll all find out.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
What's your flavour?
**blissful sigh**
Do I ever like y'all a LOT.
I should put you in a jar and pickle you.
I could also salt you, smoke you, or candy you, according to your personal tastes.
All I know is that you must be preserved.
*m'wah!*
Do I ever like y'all a LOT.
I should put you in a jar and pickle you.
I could also salt you, smoke you, or candy you, according to your personal tastes.
All I know is that you must be preserved.
*m'wah!*
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
All Points Bulletin...
Calling all friends:
Today, I signed the papers (yes, those papers) and I'm a bit of a mess.
Today, I signed the papers (yes, those papers) and I'm a bit of a mess.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
We Shall Overcome...
Ah yes, dahlings, soon, will come a day that I get to bed at a decent hour, when the madness of work slows down a wee bit (not because of me being reasonable or anything, y'all know I'm a workaholic, but when my system just crashes) and you know what that means, don't you?
Yeeeah, baybee...I've decided to just accept that this is my pattern for now. Why fight it?
So, sign up now to join in my Festival of Sloth and Debauchery next week. Bring yourself and some DVD's and let the good times roll! I'm serious! My whatless hours begin on Tuesday, May 9th at whenever I roll out of bed and onto the sofa, and basically will last until Friday. Saturday is the beginning of grocery day and housecleaning day, and organizing my files day and other responsible type things. I'm taking appointments right now. Y'all know my cell number, call it! Drop me a line in comments! Send me an email! But do it before next Monday night when I finish the final strike of the set for our super-D-duper Youthworks show (May 6th and 7th)
or else I may not be awake to take your call. I'm just sayin'
I've begun a swear jar last week because my potty mouth got out of hand and when I got up to 10 dollas, I said to myself:
"Self, this is getting expensive, You obviously need to stop stressing and learn how to surrender. You can't control everything, what will be will be, do what you can, and let the rest take care of itself."
And then I respond (oh yes, we've gotten to that point, I'm in deep trouble, I have conversations with myself now, I'll have to bring it up with my therapist. Crap.) :
"Shut the *&$#&*@^ up, you. I'm working here."
JUNK FOOD EXTRAVAGANZA
ON THE SOFA OF DOOM!
ON THE SOFA OF DOOM!
Yeeeah, baybee...I've decided to just accept that this is my pattern for now. Why fight it?
So, sign up now to join in my Festival of Sloth and Debauchery next week. Bring yourself and some DVD's and let the good times roll! I'm serious! My whatless hours begin on Tuesday, May 9th at whenever I roll out of bed and onto the sofa, and basically will last until Friday. Saturday is the beginning of grocery day and housecleaning day, and organizing my files day and other responsible type things. I'm taking appointments right now. Y'all know my cell number, call it! Drop me a line in comments! Send me an email! But do it before next Monday night when I finish the final strike of the set for our super-D-duper Youthworks show (May 6th and 7th)
or else I may not be awake to take your call. I'm just sayin'
I've begun a swear jar last week because my potty mouth got out of hand and when I got up to 10 dollas, I said to myself:
"Self, this is getting expensive, You obviously need to stop stressing and learn how to surrender. You can't control everything, what will be will be, do what you can, and let the rest take care of itself."
And then I respond (oh yes, we've gotten to that point, I'm in deep trouble, I have conversations with myself now, I'll have to bring it up with my therapist. Crap.) :
"Shut the *&$#&*@^ up, you. I'm working here."
Friday, April 28, 2006
My Trini Dictionary (soon to become The Definitive TD)
When Eric at work showed me this today, I felt such a powerful longing for Mummy and Fabian that my heart ached. There may be only four or five of these I haven't heard in my lifetime.
Hyeah nuh, if allyuh have any additions for dis here dictionary, lemme know, nah?
(hee hee!)
Ah: Substitute for "I"
Ah-Ah: Expression denoting surprise, indignation. Said quickly or very slowly for effect.
Ah I Ah Eh Able: Give me patience. I can't keep up with you. You're too much.
Ah Never See More: An exclamation of surprise, anger, bewilderment. (I've never seen anything like that)
Alla-All-Yuh: Every last one of you.
All Kinda Ting: All kinds of things. Everything imaginable, including the proverbal kitchen sink.
All (Every) Man Jack: Everyone without exception
Allyuh: All of you people
Atall: Not at all
Ax: Ask
Aye-yah-yie: An expression of anticipation or pain, etc.
Bacchanal: Scandal, heavy quarrelling, big party, confusion
Back chat: Insolent response, especially from a child to an adult
Bad eye(cut-eye): A look of anger, especially when looking from the corner of the eye
Bad talk: To malign or slander
Ba-John: A bully or a really tough customer
Bamsee (Bam-bam): The rear end, what you sit on
Bam-se Lambe: Rather attractive bamsee
Bawl Dong De Place: To cry excessively. To be in a state of grief and to display it unrestrained.
Bawlin': To cry, yell or howl
Beat Yuh Wit A Wo'k Stick: An expression used about someone who is a work-a-holic. One who works constantly.
BeeWee: British West Indian Airways (BWIA--some say this is actually an acronym for: But Will It Arrive?), the national airline of Trinidad
Behin' God Back: A very distance place. Remotest part of the country.
Bim An' Bam: Like two peas in a pod. Very much alike.
Bol'face: A pushy person, unreasonably demanding
Break Away: When one "cuts loose"
Broughtupsy: Showing that a person was properly brought up, decorum
Buh wha de jail (or ass) is dis? An expression denoting annoyance, surprise, incredulity
Buh wait nah: But wait a minute
Cheups(Stcheups): A noise made by sucking your teeth
Chinkee: Very tiny portions of anything
Coki-eye: Cross-eyed
Commesse: Confusion associated with arguments, gossip and slander
Cuff: Hitting someone or something with a clenched fist
Cut-ass: A beating, physical punishment
Cyah: Can't
Da is yu? Is that you?
Dan-dan: Any sharp looking outfit
Dat good for yuh: Serves you right
Doh: Don't
Dotish: Silly, stupid, foolish and dumb
Dougla: Mixture of East Indians and African parentage
Drevait(dree-vay): Wayward person who likes to "knock about"
Duppie: Ghost, Spirit
Dutty: Dirty
Eh: What did you say?
Eh-eh: No, no way, oh no
Eh-heh: Oh really? I understand. Yes
En'less: Plenty
Ent? Is that not so?
Expectin a flood / Plantin rice: when one's pants are too short above the ankles
Fall out: To stop speaking with someone or to terminate a friendship
Faddah: Father
Fete: a party
Flim: Film
Founkie: Foul-smelling, stink odour
’Fraid: Afraid
Fresh Water Yankee: A Trini who goes to America and comes back acting and talking Yankee (Originally someone acting Yankee without even going overseas, or crossing salt water).
Fuh so: So much, Plenty of anything
Gallery: To show off
Gallivanting: Out and about
God blame a mule: An expression of exasperation
Goin'orf: Someone who appears to be going out of their mind
Gun talk: Fighting words, to threaten verbally
Gyul: Girl
Harden: Disobedient
Hyeah nuh: Listen
Hototo: A very large amount of anything
Hut: Hurt
Ice Water! An expression of triumph
I Come Out To Play: I aim to have a good time.
I eh payin' tax fuh mih mout': I could say anything I want
In ting: To be involved in current activity
In Trut': In truth and in fact.
Is De Wus: It's the worst. The pits. No good; very disappointing.
Is Me An' You Today: The show-down between us takes place now. I shall be observing you all day.
Is so? Is that so?
Is You To Ketch: You will be the one left holding the bag. You will be outsmarted. You're the one in trouble now
Jam: A big noisy party
Jeez-an-ages (Jeez-an-fiyah): Used for any reason where an outburst is appropriate
Jingay: A hex or spell. To try to confuse an opponent with Mumbo-jumbo.
Jokey / Jokey-Fied: An amusing person or incident.
Jook: To stab at anything
Jumbie: Ghost
Jump-up: Dance to calyso at Carvnival
Jus' Dey: Just there. Very near. Not far away.
Jus'now: In a little while
Jus'so? Just like that?
Jus'so: Out of the blue
Ketch: Catch
Kicksin': Fooling around, having fun, being a source of amusement.
Klim: Any brand of powdered milk
Lef dat: Leave that
Leh: Let
Leh go: Let go
Leh we: Let us
Lick dong: To accidentally hit someone or something
Licks: A beating, physical punishment
Like t'ing: To be somewhat mischievous
Lil'bit: In small portions
Lime: When a small group of people engage in a sometimes pre-arranged activity
Long eye: A person who is envious of the possessions of others
Look nuh! An expression of annoyance
Maco: A person who minds other people's business; To spy on
Macocious: A person having the trait of a maco
Maga: Very thin, skinny
Mamaguy: To make fun of
Mama Yo! Expression denoting shock and surprise
Matter Fix: Everything is well organized
Mih han' slip: An expression used when too much of an ingredient is used
Mook: A man who is a pushover for his woman
Mooma: Mother
Mosquito drumstick: Very thin legs
Mudda: Mother
Mout'er: A boaster
Much up: To pamper, to butter up
Nah: No
Nastiness: An expression of disgust applied to a good-for-nothing person
Never see come see: Someone who has recently been exposed to something new and
who overdoes it to ridiculous proportions
Ning ning: Tired eyes
Now fuh now: Instantly
Nowherian: A person who does not have any fixed place of abode
Obzokee: Awkward in appearance, anything bent or twisted out of shape
Oh geed! An expression used when an offensive smell arises,
Oh gosh!-
Oh gorm man!-
Oh shimps man!- These are all expressions denoting shock, surprise, indignation
Oh ho? Is that so?
Ol' talk: Idle chatter, social chit-chat
One set ah: A lot of anything
One time: Immediately
Own-way: Stubborn person
Pallet: Frozen lolly
Papa yo! Exclamation of surprise
Party Done: Go home
Pesh: Money
Pissin' tail: A person of no class or importance
Planasse: To hit someone continuously with the flat part of a cutlass
Playin' social: Someone who pretends to be of a higher social strata than they are
Pong: Pound
Po-po: Very small child, baby
Pouhpse: To expel gas from your nether regions
Prim-prim: Disgustingly proper and formal
Provision: Term used for any or all root vegetables
Quenk: An irritating person
Qualeybe: Withered, dried up
Raff: To grab suddenly
Ragadang: Broken down
Ram-cram: Packed to capacity
Rumfle: Ruffled or wrinkled
Saga boy/girl: Flashy dresser, dandy
Salop: A disgusting person.
Sapat: Chunky wooden clog with a canvas or discarded tyre upper.
Shades: Sunglasses
Shif' yuh carcass: Move over, get going
Shub: Shove, move or cast aside
Shut: Shirt
Simidimi: A lot of small ritualistic movements. Titivate.
Skinnin' yuh teet': Grinning
Skin up yuh nose: To turn up one's nose at anything
Sof' Man/Sofy: Effeminate man. Spineless.
Sometimeish: Moody
So-So T'ank You An' Yuhself: I am all right thank you, and how are you.
Stchupid: Stupid
Stchupidee: A foolish person
Strims: Shrimps
Surprise De Water: To finally have a bath after a long time.
Sweet Drink: Aerated beverage. Pop. Soda.
Sweetie: Any confectionary
Swell up yuh face: To look angry, to pout
Tabanca: The forlorn feeling one gets when a love affair is over
Tabanca, Tarange, Foofooroo: Advancing stages of Tabanca
Tanty: Aunt
Tellyphone slap: When you get cuffed in the head so hard, your mouth and ears ring
Tight: Intoxicated, drunk, stoned
T'ing: Thing
Titivay: To waste time or stir up trouble
To Besides: Besides which
Too bad: Used at the end of a statement to indicate very or plenty
Too-tool-bay: A confused state, in a daze, also head over heels in love
Tot tots: Female breasts
Vampin': An offensive smell
Vaps: To suddenly behave excitedly or in a strange manner
Vex: Angry
Warahoun: A quarrelsome annoying person
Wajang: A roudy, uncouth person
Walk wit' yuh two han' swingin: To arrive empty handed especially when contributions are expected
Warap: A very weak mixture
Well: Used in a statement to emphasize a point
Well yes! An expression of disbelief
Whappen? What's the matter with you?
Wha-happenin' dey? What's happening
Whatless: Worthless
Whey: Where
Whey yuh? Where are you?
Whey yuh say? What did you say
Wine: To dance to soca calypso, to rotate the waist and hips
Yampee: Mucus, found in the corner of the eye
You an' all? You too?
You so: People like you
Yuh faddah head: An expression of annoyance
Yuh faddah is a glassmaker? You are blocking my view
Yuh foot hot: You can't keep still, always going somewhere
Yuh look fuh dat: It's your own fault
Yuh makin' joke! You can't be serious!
You still alive? Long time no see
You 'tink it easy? Can you believe it?
Zopse: The horizontal mambo
Zug-up: A rough and uneven cutting of anything
Hyeah nuh, if allyuh have any additions for dis here dictionary, lemme know, nah?
(hee hee!)
Ah: Substitute for "I"
Ah-Ah: Expression denoting surprise, indignation. Said quickly or very slowly for effect.
Ah I Ah Eh Able: Give me patience. I can't keep up with you. You're too much.
Ah Never See More: An exclamation of surprise, anger, bewilderment. (I've never seen anything like that)
Alla-All-Yuh: Every last one of you.
All Kinda Ting: All kinds of things. Everything imaginable, including the proverbal kitchen sink.
All (Every) Man Jack: Everyone without exception
Allyuh: All of you people
Atall: Not at all
Ax: Ask
Aye-yah-yie: An expression of anticipation or pain, etc.
Bacchanal: Scandal, heavy quarrelling, big party, confusion
Back chat: Insolent response, especially from a child to an adult
Bad eye(cut-eye): A look of anger, especially when looking from the corner of the eye
Bad talk: To malign or slander
Ba-John: A bully or a really tough customer
Bamsee (Bam-bam): The rear end, what you sit on
Bam-se Lambe: Rather attractive bamsee
Bawl Dong De Place: To cry excessively. To be in a state of grief and to display it unrestrained.
Bawlin': To cry, yell or howl
Beat Yuh Wit A Wo'k Stick: An expression used about someone who is a work-a-holic. One who works constantly.
BeeWee: British West Indian Airways (BWIA--some say this is actually an acronym for: But Will It Arrive?), the national airline of Trinidad
Behin' God Back: A very distance place. Remotest part of the country.
Bim An' Bam: Like two peas in a pod. Very much alike.
Bol'face: A pushy person, unreasonably demanding
Break Away: When one "cuts loose"
Broughtupsy: Showing that a person was properly brought up, decorum
Buh wha de jail (or ass) is dis? An expression denoting annoyance, surprise, incredulity
Buh wait nah: But wait a minute
Cheups(Stcheups): A noise made by sucking your teeth
Chinkee: Very tiny portions of anything
Coki-eye: Cross-eyed
Commesse: Confusion associated with arguments, gossip and slander
Cuff: Hitting someone or something with a clenched fist
Cut-ass: A beating, physical punishment
Cyah: Can't
Da is yu? Is that you?
Dan-dan: Any sharp looking outfit
Dat good for yuh: Serves you right
Doh: Don't
Dotish: Silly, stupid, foolish and dumb
Dougla: Mixture of East Indians and African parentage
Drevait(dree-vay): Wayward person who likes to "knock about"
Duppie: Ghost, Spirit
Dutty: Dirty
Eh: What did you say?
Eh-eh: No, no way, oh no
Eh-heh: Oh really? I understand. Yes
En'less: Plenty
Ent? Is that not so?
Expectin a flood / Plantin rice: when one's pants are too short above the ankles
Fall out: To stop speaking with someone or to terminate a friendship
Faddah: Father
Fete: a party
Flim: Film
Founkie: Foul-smelling, stink odour
’Fraid: Afraid
Fresh Water Yankee: A Trini who goes to America and comes back acting and talking Yankee (Originally someone acting Yankee without even going overseas, or crossing salt water).
Fuh so: So much, Plenty of anything
Gallery: To show off
Gallivanting: Out and about
God blame a mule: An expression of exasperation
Goin'orf: Someone who appears to be going out of their mind
Gun talk: Fighting words, to threaten verbally
Gyul: Girl
Harden: Disobedient
Hyeah nuh: Listen
Hototo: A very large amount of anything
Hut: Hurt
Ice Water! An expression of triumph
I Come Out To Play: I aim to have a good time.
I eh payin' tax fuh mih mout': I could say anything I want
In ting: To be involved in current activity
In Trut': In truth and in fact.
Is De Wus: It's the worst. The pits. No good; very disappointing.
Is Me An' You Today: The show-down between us takes place now. I shall be observing you all day.
Is so? Is that so?
Is You To Ketch: You will be the one left holding the bag. You will be outsmarted. You're the one in trouble now
Jam: A big noisy party
Jeez-an-ages (Jeez-an-fiyah): Used for any reason where an outburst is appropriate
Jingay: A hex or spell. To try to confuse an opponent with Mumbo-jumbo.
Jokey / Jokey-Fied: An amusing person or incident.
Jook: To stab at anything
Jumbie: Ghost
Jump-up: Dance to calyso at Carvnival
Jus' Dey: Just there. Very near. Not far away.
Jus'now: In a little while
Jus'so? Just like that?
Jus'so: Out of the blue
Ketch: Catch
Kicksin': Fooling around, having fun, being a source of amusement.
Klim: Any brand of powdered milk
Lef dat: Leave that
Leh: Let
Leh go: Let go
Leh we: Let us
Lick dong: To accidentally hit someone or something
Licks: A beating, physical punishment
Like t'ing: To be somewhat mischievous
Lil'bit: In small portions
Lime: When a small group of people engage in a sometimes pre-arranged activity
Long eye: A person who is envious of the possessions of others
Look nuh! An expression of annoyance
Maco: A person who minds other people's business; To spy on
Macocious: A person having the trait of a maco
Maga: Very thin, skinny
Mamaguy: To make fun of
Mama Yo! Expression denoting shock and surprise
Matter Fix: Everything is well organized
Mih han' slip: An expression used when too much of an ingredient is used
Mook: A man who is a pushover for his woman
Mooma: Mother
Mosquito drumstick: Very thin legs
Mudda: Mother
Mout'er: A boaster
Much up: To pamper, to butter up
Nah: No
Nastiness: An expression of disgust applied to a good-for-nothing person
Never see come see: Someone who has recently been exposed to something new and
who overdoes it to ridiculous proportions
Ning ning: Tired eyes
Now fuh now: Instantly
Nowherian: A person who does not have any fixed place of abode
Obzokee: Awkward in appearance, anything bent or twisted out of shape
Oh geed! An expression used when an offensive smell arises,
Oh gosh!-
Oh gorm man!-
Oh shimps man!- These are all expressions denoting shock, surprise, indignation
Oh ho? Is that so?
Ol' talk: Idle chatter, social chit-chat
One set ah: A lot of anything
One time: Immediately
Own-way: Stubborn person
Pallet: Frozen lolly
Papa yo! Exclamation of surprise
Party Done: Go home
Pesh: Money
Pissin' tail: A person of no class or importance
Planasse: To hit someone continuously with the flat part of a cutlass
Playin' social: Someone who pretends to be of a higher social strata than they are
Pong: Pound
Po-po: Very small child, baby
Pouhpse: To expel gas from your nether regions
Prim-prim: Disgustingly proper and formal
Provision: Term used for any or all root vegetables
Quenk: An irritating person
Qualeybe: Withered, dried up
Raff: To grab suddenly
Ragadang: Broken down
Ram-cram: Packed to capacity
Rumfle: Ruffled or wrinkled
Saga boy/girl: Flashy dresser, dandy
Salop: A disgusting person.
Sapat: Chunky wooden clog with a canvas or discarded tyre upper.
Shades: Sunglasses
Shif' yuh carcass: Move over, get going
Shub: Shove, move or cast aside
Shut: Shirt
Simidimi: A lot of small ritualistic movements. Titivate.
Skinnin' yuh teet': Grinning
Skin up yuh nose: To turn up one's nose at anything
Sof' Man/Sofy: Effeminate man. Spineless.
Sometimeish: Moody
So-So T'ank You An' Yuhself: I am all right thank you, and how are you.
Stchupid: Stupid
Stchupidee: A foolish person
Strims: Shrimps
Surprise De Water: To finally have a bath after a long time.
Sweet Drink: Aerated beverage. Pop. Soda.
Sweetie: Any confectionary
Swell up yuh face: To look angry, to pout
Tabanca: The forlorn feeling one gets when a love affair is over
Tabanca, Tarange, Foofooroo: Advancing stages of Tabanca
Tanty: Aunt
Tellyphone slap: When you get cuffed in the head so hard, your mouth and ears ring
Tight: Intoxicated, drunk, stoned
T'ing: Thing
Titivay: To waste time or stir up trouble
To Besides: Besides which
Too bad: Used at the end of a statement to indicate very or plenty
Too-tool-bay: A confused state, in a daze, also head over heels in love
Tot tots: Female breasts
Vampin': An offensive smell
Vaps: To suddenly behave excitedly or in a strange manner
Vex: Angry
Warahoun: A quarrelsome annoying person
Wajang: A roudy, uncouth person
Walk wit' yuh two han' swingin: To arrive empty handed especially when contributions are expected
Warap: A very weak mixture
Well: Used in a statement to emphasize a point
Well yes! An expression of disbelief
Whappen? What's the matter with you?
Wha-happenin' dey? What's happening
Whatless: Worthless
Whey: Where
Whey yuh? Where are you?
Whey yuh say? What did you say
Wine: To dance to soca calypso, to rotate the waist and hips
Yampee: Mucus, found in the corner of the eye
You an' all? You too?
You so: People like you
Yuh faddah head: An expression of annoyance
Yuh faddah is a glassmaker? You are blocking my view
Yuh foot hot: You can't keep still, always going somewhere
Yuh look fuh dat: It's your own fault
Yuh makin' joke! You can't be serious!
You still alive? Long time no see
You 'tink it easy? Can you believe it?
Zopse: The horizontal mambo
Zug-up: A rough and uneven cutting of anything
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