Sunday, July 31, 2011

Unofficial Toronto Carnival Results 2011

Congratulations Carnival Nationz!

"A" bands:

1. Carnival Nationz - Mythical Creatures
2. Louis Saldenah Mas-k Club - Secrets of the Outer Limits
3. Toronto Revellers - Welcome to Oz
4. Tribal Knights - Legends
5. Callaloo - Native Americas
. Mas Toronto - Mas in Atlantis - A carnival mythology
. TruDynasty - The Roaring 20's

"B" bands:

1. Connections - A Cultural Expose
2. Fantazia International - Come Dance with me
3. Bitter Lemon - Monsoon Wedding, Before the Storm -
4. Renaissance Mas Productions - Just Imagine
5. Blues Carnival Fusion - Time after Time
6. Black Sage Carnival - From Rags to Riches
7. Concept Costume Creators - Celebrations
8. Spirits of the Caribbean

Pan Alive 2011 Results

1. Afropan
2. Salah Steelpan Academy
3. New Dimension
4. Pan Fantasy
5. Hamilton Youth Steel Orchestra
6. Panatics
7. Symphonyx
8. Golden Harps
9. Silhouettes
10. (tie) Pan Masters & Jesse Ketchum
12. Metrotones
13. CCAH Steel Orchestra
14 St. Jamestown Youth Centre Steel Orchestra

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Unofficial King and Queen Competition Results

UNOFFICIAL KING & QUEEN 2011 RESULTS:

King of the Bands
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Callaloo
3. Tribal Knights
4. Saldenah Mas-K

Queen of the Bands
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas-K
3. Callaloo
4. Renaissance Mas

Male Individual of the Year
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas-K
3. Mas Toronto

Female Individual of the Year
1. Carnival Nationz
2. Saldenah Mas-K
3. Callaloo 

Upcoming Event: King and Queen Competition


Tonight is Kings and Queens!
See Below for Event Details


King and Queen Competition and Show
Place: Allan Lamport Stadium
Date: Thursday, July 28 at 7:00pm
Cost: VIP - $100 Stands - $38 (Adv $30)

Questions and Answers: Stormers & RespectTheMas campaign

2 more days until the parade!
For my last Q&A of the 2K11 season the topic up for discussion is STORMERS. In previous posts I have briefly touched on this topic but with the parade drawing near I think it is a perfect time to elaborate on it.




 (Prior to the Q&A as usual here is my disclaimer: The answers below is what I would say. If you were to ask someone else you may get a different response and that is ok. The intention of the Q&A is to provide information in addition to encourage collaboration and discussion of ideas/views.)

Now onto the Q&A

Q: Who or what are stormers?
A: The term Stormers does not refer to anything weather related. lol. It is a term used by many to describe people who make their way into your band yet technically should not be there.

Q: How to identify a Stormer?
A: Stormers in your band can be easily identified by observing...

Is he/she wearing a costume, your band's official wristband, t-shirt, or  identification?
If not, then most likely he/she is a stormer.

Q: How do Stormers get into the bands?
A: Methods used include jumping fences, slipping through barricades, masqueraders invite their  friends/family/significant other, etc into the band

Q: Where does Storming usually occur?
A: Storming most frequently occurs on the Lakeshore.

Q: Should something be done?
A: Personally I think Storming is an issue that should be addressed. Being in a band that contains 2,000 + masqueraders is congested enough, and Stormers magnify the congestion. What is worse is some stormers have no respect for the mas. For example last year my costume had wings with long feathers, and could you believe a stormer told me to get out of the way... That I should watch out because my feathers had accidentally poked him... He then proceeded to push my feathers as he walked by. Whoa!

First and foremost, Stormer you should not even be in the band! So you suggesting me to get out of your way is a problem. 
Second there is no need to push my feathers out of your way... a simple excuse me would have worked. Third hard earned money was paid for the costume and to enjoy playing mas, so personally I feel if he had wanted to be in the mix so badly he should have paid his money and got a costume, marshal or be security (Some bands offer last minute deals on costumes so options are available)

Many bands have security and marshals which help to address the issue of Stormers. Last year I witnessed a security man from my band personally escort about 20 stormers out! lol  It was quite funny actually to watch, because it was like he was on a mission. No stormer could escape him.
In previous years, another method that worked well was the hype man on the truck ask the dj to turn down the music. (The congestion at that point was really bad) The hype man proceeded to start a catchy chant "Show Dem Outta De Band" and all the masqueraders joined in. I guess 1000+ masqueraders chanting can be a bit intimidating, lol because those Stormers proceeded to leave.

Overall, everyone should have the right to enjoy themselves at the parade!
 What I think isn't fair is when the actions of others infringe on that enjoyment.
If you aren't playing mas this year, no worries you will still have a great time: There's people, food, sights, sounds... You can still jam down and "Wine to the Side" (just keep it behind the barricade lol ; )

A new initiative started by a friend which relates to toady's Q&A Topic is the RespectTheMasCampaign.
Here is information obtained from their facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/update_security_info.php?wizard=1#!/event.php?eid=120122681404378

"It seems like every year those of us who choose to play mas at Caribana get more & more annoyed and frustrated at having to push our way through thousands of people who aren't playing mas, trying to jump up with the band. This year, let's try to make a difference.

Social Media (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, LiveProfile, BBM, etc.) has the ability to reach just about everybody, if not directly, indirectly and instead of using it solely to promote parties or other random events, it's time we used the power of social media to make a positive change in our community.

Respect The Mas is a campaign that transcends mas bands, groups and any external affiliations in an attempt to make Caribana a more enjoyable experience for everyone - masqueraders & spectators alike.

The idea is simple. Tell a friend to tell a friend, just respect those who have paid to enjoy their experience. When you look around, most of the people interfering with the band are people who you know, or who probably know somebody you know. By numbers alone, if every masquerader just told their friends "please just stand off to the side when the band is coming through," we would have reached over 90% of the people who effectively ruin the Caribana experience for the masqueraders.

EVERY masqueraders has the right to feel annoyed by the fact that after spending money to join the band and enjoy the day with fellow masqueraders, you have to literally "fight" for space with people who haven't. Well, instead of whining, cursing and complaining and complaining, let's actually DO something about it. It doesn't take much. Word of mouth goes a LONG way. ALL masqueraders from EVERY band just tell a friend to please Respect The Mas.

Even if you aren't playing mas this year or even attending the parade - invite your friends to this page just to raise awareness. ANY support is appreciated and ALL support is welcome.

If you support the idea, join the event page, post it your friends' pages, hash tag #RespectTheMas on Twitter, DO something. The more support we have, the better the experience. "


Sunday, July 24, 2011

Pick-Up Schedules

Here are some of the pick up schedules for a few bands:


Carnival Nationz:

Tues July 26th: DRAGON, MERMAID, PEAGASUS | 6pm - 10pm

Wed July 27th: BANSHEE & QUETZAL | 6pm - 10pm

Fri July 29th: OYA, UNICORN, SPHINX, ANGEL, PIXIE, PHEONIX, CENTUAR, OUT OF TOWNERS | 11am - 6pm

Saldenah:

Solar Flare Pickup Sunday from 6pm to 10pm and Monday from 6-10pm-- All Frontline and Male Costumes will be handed out on Tuesday from 6-10pm

Cosmic Bliss...Wednesday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Thursday 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Friday 1:00pm to 8:00pm

Umbriel - Wednesday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Thursday 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Friday 1:00pm to 8:00pm

Milky Way - Wednesday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Thursday 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Friday 1:00pm to 8:00pm..

Keepers Of The Universe - Wednesday 12:00pm to 4:00pm. Thursday 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Friday 1:00pm to 8:00pm


Blackhole - July 25th 6-10, July 26th 6-10

Vixens of Venus - July 25th 3-10

Galactic Tango - July 26th 5-10
...
D Visitors - July 26th 5-10

Solar Flare - July 23th 6-10, July 24th 6-10, July 25th 6-10

SuperNova- July 27th 3-10, July 28th 3-10, July 29th 3-10

Cyborg - Male July 24th to July 29th All Day. Women July 27th All Day, July 28th 10-3

Lunar Eclipse - July 25th All Day

Toronto Revellers:

Tuesday July 26, 2011 After 5pm 
  • Courage
  • Emerald 
  • Glinda
  • Over the Rainbow
  • Yellow Brick Road
  • Weathering the Storm
Wednesday July 27, 2011 After 5pm
  • Dorothy
  • Ruby
  • Wicked
  • Wizard's Fury 
Thursday July 28, 2011 NOT OPEN FOR COLLECTION (King & Queen Competition Day)

Friday July 29, 2011, Noon until 11PM
  • Out of TOWN GUESTS 
  • Heartless
  • Lullaby

Friday, July 22, 2011

Roll Call!!! Part 2

I posted a similiar post a few months ago (thanks to everyone who participated!). But with the anticipation building and one more week until the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto 2011, I think it's time to do another ROLL CALL : )

Rep your band and section by leaving your name or  (if you choose to be Anon# that's fine too!) by adding it to the comments section
Who are you playing with this year?
(Note: I tried to find all of the logos for the bands, but was unable to find a few)















Thursday, July 21, 2011

Questions and Answers: How much is that Bottle of Water?!?

10 more days until the parade!
In continuation of the previous Q&A posts, the topic up for discussion is the prices for items purchased at the parade or on the CNE grounds. (Trust me they can get a bit pricey) 

 (Prior to the Q&A as usual here is my disclaimer: The answers below is what I would say. If you were to ask someone else you may get a different response and that is ok. The intention of the Q&A is to provide information in addition to encourage collaboration and discussion of ideas/views.)

Now onto the Q&A

Q: How much is that Whistle? Flag? or Bottle of Water?
A: Much Higher than what you would regularly pay! lol

This past weekend I spent $5 on a whistle for my nephew who was participating in Junior carnival. Though the strap for the whistle had our flag on it, $5 is a bit pricey! (imo) Especially when I could have bought a whistle from the dollar store. Yes, I know it may come down to wanting to represent where you are from, so sometime prior to next Saturday I encourage you to find the whistle/flag/rag you bought last year and bring it with you!

While playing with your band during the parade, masquaraders are provided with cold drinks (water, juice, maybe energy drinks) and also food. But!!! During the walk back to your car, TheGo or TTC you might get a little bit thirsty (especially with the heat we have been having). And this is where things can get a bit pricey. Last year after a long and tiring walk back to the gates, my friend and I wanted to get some water from a drink stand... After waiting in the long line, my friend asked "How much is a Bottle of Water"? And to our surprise she said $4!!!!! (As my friend laughed outwardly at that price and threw in a few words here and there lol, we walked away from the stand and found a young gentleman that was selling water and gatorade out of a bin. I purchased my blue gatorade for $3, while she purchased her water for $2.


It is definitely important to stay hydrated, but the prices will likely be a bit more expensive then you are used to. If possible, try to find someone who is selling the item you are interested in (whether water, flag or whistle) for a fairly reasonable price. I know the parade is definitely a great time for vendors, but $4 for a bottle of water!?!? That's a bit overboard (imo)
P.S. Remember to walk with some money!



Things to get/bring for the parade:

Sunscreen
Money
Towel/Rag (optional)
Flag (optional)
Whistle (optional)
A few Safety Pins (optional- but comes in handy in case of emergencies/costume malfunctions)
Blanket/Chair (for spectators that want to sit and watch)

Please feel free to add to the list. Can you think of others?





Upcoming Events- 2011 ScotiaBank Toronto Caribbean Carnival


Here is the Official Calendar of Events for the 2011 ScotiaBank Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

 
Royal Ontario Museum and the Gladstone Hotel Toronto’s Carnival 1967 to Today
Place: Royal Ontario Museum
Date: Saturday, July 16 to Monday August 1
Cost: ROM Entrance fee
This duo-location exhibit marks the world premiere of the work of artist Nation Cheong. In this exhibition, Cheong's contemporary work captures and communicates the myriad of exp eriences that have been a part of the Carnival experience in Toronto from its roots in 1967 to today.

CTV/CP24 BBQ
Place: 299 Queen Street W
Date: Thursday, July 21 at 12:00pm
Cost: Free
It was so successful last year that they’re decided to do it again – an outdoor BBQ from Queen Street to Richmond Street that celebrates the festival with costumes, music, and of course, delicious food.

Annual Gala
Place: Liberty Grand Entertainment Complex
Date: Friday, July 22 at 5:30pm
Cost: Ticket $160 | Table of 10 $1,600 - All prices include HST
An elegant evening at the Liberty Grand that showcases masquerade models, music, dancing, exotic food, signature drinks – sensational sights, sounds, and tastes.

"Kaiso 365" Calypso Monarch Finals
Place: P.C. Ho Theatre, Chinese Cultural Centre, Scarborough
Date: Saturday, July 23 at 6:00pm
Cost: Adv: $35.00 | Door: $40.00
The storytelling tradition gets the red carpet treatment when nine finalists compete for Canada's top Calypso prize. Music lovers experience a unique expression that is delivered with humour, double entendre and wit.

Toronto Pearson Launch
Place: Pearson Airport
Date: Wednesday, July 27
Cost: Free
It’s another year for the Greater Toronto Airport Authority partnership with the Festival Management Committee to promote the festival at the gateway to the City of Toronto with Caribbean entertainment and tastings.

Mixology
Place: TBA
Date: Wednesday, July 27 at 6:00pm
Cost: TBA
Expert bartenders show their skills with Appleton Rums.
Calypso STARS ShowcasePlace: Harbourfront Centre, West Jet Stage
Date: Wednesday, July 27 at 7:00pm
Cost: Free
The showcase presents top Soca artists, Garth Burgess (steel pannist), and iconic Carnival Arts characters – Moko Jumbies..

Citizenship Ceremony
Place: North York Civic Centre
Date: Thursday, July 28 at 8:00am
Cost: Free
New Canadians being sworn in as citizens of Canada within a welcoming flavour of the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival and Festival

King and Queen Competition and Show
Place: Allan Lamport Stadium
Date: Thursday, July 28 at 7:00pm
Cost: VIP - $100 Stands - $38 (Adv $30)
A spectacular display of the talent and artistic skill of the designers and costume..

Pan Alive
Place: Allan Lamport Stadium
Date: Friday, July 29 | 7:00pm – 12:00am
Cost: Adv -$25.00 Door - $30.00
This event showcases the talent of steel pan performers ranging in age from...

Grand Parade
Place: Exhibition Place & Lakeshore Blvd
Date: Saturday, July 30 at 10:00am
Cost: Free/VIP - $50/General - $15.00
This is the marquee parade that is the showcase of the Festival.

The Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival Lime
Place: Ontario Place
Date: Sunday, July 31 to Monday, August 1
Cost: Free
Continuing the tropical Caribbean ambience of the festival, cool down on the south beach..

Canada Rugby League International Test Match - Team Canada Wolverines versus Jamaican National Team
Place: Fletcher’s Field
Date: Sunday, July 31
Cost: $25 (Parade and Match); Match $15
This new event adds the sporting dimension to the festival. Growing in popularity in Canada, it is the most high speed, high impact field sport in the world.

Festival Official Launch
Place: Nathan Phillips Square
Date: Tuesday, July 12 at 12:00pm
Cost: Free
It’s the event that attracts wide media coverage especially by our media sponsors – television, radio, print media, and social media. It presents a snapshot of what’s on for the Festival.

Junior Carnival
Place: Yorkgate Plaza-Jane Finch
Date: Saturday, July 16 at 11:00am
Cost: Free
The kid’s version of the Marquee parade attracting over 30,000 spectator visitors comprising families and featuring 2,000 mini masqueraders, some as young as two years taking place in one the city’s priority neighbourhood..

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Makeup- Featured Look

Are you wondering what to do about makeup for the parade?
Today's featured artist Taysh may be of some help to you!

The inspiration for today's look was Carnival Nationz Pegasus

 
Here is the makeup look:

Description:
My model was given a very simple look using white concealer creating a feathered look around one eye oppose to both while the other eye stayed simple and classic.

Both eyes were then contoured with grey shadow and given a hit of back glitter shadow to create intensity especially because the costume has hints of black and white feathers.

Eyes were then rimmed in black waterproof eyeliner.

Grey shadow was used as demarcation to break the white and add flare to the eyes giving people different points to look at throughout the face.

With a little silver on the lips mixed with some gloss you have a makeup look that will last the entire day.
To add more drama on the road lashes and jewels with carry the look.

Taysh will be doing makeup for $20 on caribana
Contact Information:
http://taylashes.wordpress.com​/

P.S. Any artists that would like to be featured, please contact me at The.Collabo.Inc@gmail.com

Monday, July 18, 2011

Questions and Answers: Where do I find... (Part 2)

With 12 more days until the parade, the countdown is on!
In continuation of the previous Q&A post, the topic up for discussion is where do you find some of your parade essentials.

 (Prior to the Q&A as usual here is my disclaimer: The answers below is what I would say. If you were to ask someone else you may get a different response and that is ok. The intention of the Q&A is to provide information in addition to encourage collaboration and discussion of ideas/views.)
Now onto the Q&A
Q: Should I bring a bag to hold my stuff?
A: For this question my response is it will depend on what you plan on bringing...

1. Small Contents (such as keys or money)
For contents that are small, you may be able to get away with not carrying a bag or pouch. Items such as money or a single key can be placed in your shoe (although this might be a bit uncomfortable)


3. Rag/Flag
If you plan on bringing a rag or flag with you, you might not need a bag/pouch to carry it. These items can be tucked into your waist belt, boots, or anywhere else you like.

2. Cell Phones or Camera
In previous years I have avoided bringing a cell phone out of fear that I would loose it at the parade. I have seen individuals place their cell phone in their bra strap, but this might not be the most secure of places (imo). Last year I held my camera in my hand, with the strap secured across my wrist. I was extremely careful though and always did a double look to see that I wasn't forgetting it or anything else in the bathroom, CNE grounds or lakeshore.


 Q: What options do I have for storage on the road? Where can I find a pouch/bag?
A: For masquareders who may prefer to bring a bag on the road here are a few options: 

1. Your Band
Several bands provide their masquarders with drawstring bags to match their costume.This is definitely a nice touch and also a great keep sake/souvenir. Most importantly, it can be used to hold essential items.

2. Local Stores
Last year I purchased a small pouch from the dollarstore to hold my contents during the parade. Though the pouch did not match exactly, I decorated it with jewels and glitter and it did the trick. Other than the dollarstore, there are likely other stores around the city that sell small bags or pouches that can be used while on the road.
3. A Friend's Pocket
If you are playing with a few male friends, their costume may have pockets which can hold a few small items. One thing to be mindful of with this option, is in the event you are separated from your friend during the parade they may have your essentials (eg. car keys) with them.

4. The Collabo
This year I decided I wanted to have a pouch made to match my costume. After a few friends were also interested in pouches, I thought this may be a great opportunity. 
 Here are a few of the pouch styles and colours available:






If you are interested in a pouch please email The.Collabo.Inc@gmail.com and specify the colour and the style. : )

What do you use to carry your essentials?

Stayed tuned for the next Q&A!


Unofficial Juniour Carnival Results

Band of the Year
#3 Carnival Nationz
#2 Tribal Knights
#1 Toronto Revellers

Female Individual of the Year
#3 Mas Toronto
#2 Tribal Knights
#1 Toronto Revellers

Male Individual of the Year
#3 Tribal Knights & Mas Toronto
#1 Toronto Revellers

Queen of the Bands
#3 Fantazia International
#2 Carnival Fusion
#1 Tribal Knights

King of the Bands
#3 Toronto Revellers
#2 Mas Toronto
#1 Carnival Nationz

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Upcoming Event- Junior Carnival!

Today is Kiddies Carnival!!!!


Junior Carnival

The kid's version of the Marquee parade attracting over 30,000 spectator visitors comprising families and featuring 2,000 mini masqueraders, some as young as two years. The event is taking place in one of the city's priority neighbourhoods with partners such as the 311 Division of the Metropolitan Police and Yorkgate Plaza. The three kilometre parade ends at Yorkgate Plaza.

Event Details:
Place: Yorkgate Plaza-Jane Finch
Date: Saturday, July 16th, at 11:00am
Cost: Free

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Questions and Answers- Where do I find... Part 1

With about two more weeks until the parade, now might be the time at which you are starting to round up your supplies (glitter, stockings, jewels, etc).

For the fourth Question and Answer for the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto Newbie the topic up for discussion is where do you find some of your parade essentials.

 (Prior to the Q&A as usual here is my trusty Disclaimer lol. The answers below is what I would say. Mind you if you were to ask someone else you may get a completely different response. And that is ok! I am definitely encouraging collaboration and discussion of ideas/views. So if you agree/disagree with me, feel free to add in your two cents : )

Now onto the Q&A
Q: Where do I find glitter?
A: For this question my response is it will depend on what the use of the glitter is for.

1. Glitter for Boots
This year the glitter that I used for my boots was purchased from Michael's craft store. I have also previously purchased glitter from Walmart and the Dollarstore. The type of glitter that I used is fine glitter. 

2. Glitter for the Body
The glitter I purchased to use on my body was from Mac and also from an online company called Glimmer body art. The type of glitter from Mac is "Glitter Brillants" and I plan to use it to make body glitter. (I will post D.I.Y body glitter instructions at the end of this post) In previous years I have also bought glitter from the dollar store.  

The type of glitters I purchased from Glimmer are cosmetic grade glitter and I will be using them to do glitter tattoos.  Here are a few pictures of the colours I got:






You may be wondering what are glitter tattoos?
Glitter Tattoos are temporary body art tattoos applied with glitter.
Here are a few pictures of the glitter tattoo stencils I purchased:





(I bought a lot so feel free to contact me if you want one : )

Here are a few pictures of what they look like applied:


 


Q: Where do I find jewels
A: You can find jewels to use on your face or body from the Dollarstore or craft stores such as Michaels. Another great place to find flatback crystals is on Queen Street.


Q: Where do I find skin color stockings/tights?
A:  The decision to wear stockings with your costume is a pesonal one. Some may choose not to, others won't play without them. It's definitely up to you. The brand of stockings I purchase each year is DIM and I get them from the Bay.

So where do you find some of your supplies???

Stayed tuned for Part 2 : )


Body Glitter D.I.Y

Supplies Needed: Pure aloe vera gel, fine glitter, essential oils (optional), empty jar
  1. Thoroughly clean and dry a small jar with an airtight lid.
  2. Put 4 tablespoons of aloe gel in the jar.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon of fine glitter in your choice of color to the aloe gel and mix well.
  4. If you want to add a scent to your body glitter, add 1 or 2 drops of essential oil to the jar and mix thoroughly.

Monday, July 11, 2011

Upcoming Event- Official Launch

Tomorrow marks the official launch for the Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto Festival. The launch will be taking place at Nathans Phillips Square. Check out below for more details.



Date: Tuesday, July 12 at 12:00pm
Place: Nathan Phillips Square
Cost: Free
Location: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON

Will you be attending the launch?
What are you most excited for this year's carnival?

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Order of the Bands

Hi Everyone,

So here's an update on the Order of Bands going down the road for 2K11.

1. Mas Toronto (A)
2. Saldenah Mas-K Club (A)
3. Tru Dynasty (A)
4. Callaloo Mas (A)
5. Tribal Knights (A)
6. Toronto Revellers (A)
7. Carnival Nationz (A)
8. Mas Players Int'l (A)
9. Fantazia Int'l (B)
10. Black Sage (B)
11. Connections (B)
12. Concept Costume Creators (B)
13. Bitter Lemon (C)
14. Blues Carnival Fusion (C)
15. Renaissance Mas (C)
16. Spirits of the Caribbean (C)

Upcoming Event- Carnival Nationz Blocko

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Makeup Monday (But it's a Thursday)

Hey Everyone,

Here's the second installment of the Makeup Monday series. Yes I know, I'm a bit late lol  But I was too excited to wait until next Monday.

This week's featured artist is Pureness


The inspiration for this week was Saldenah's Cosmic Bliss:


(Picture of costume from Tdot Exposed)


Makeup Look:

I think this look is very versaltile and can also be applied to:


Blues Carnival Fusion: Seduction

Goddess Spotlights: Mas Players International For Caribana 2011
Mas Players International: Under the Sea

Special Thanks to Pureness for your look this week.
Here is her contact information:

makeup@FacesByPureness.com



Hope you enjoyed this week's makeup post  : )

P.S. Any makeup artists who are interested in taking part in Makeup Monday's please feel free to contact me @ The.Collabo.Inc@gmail.com

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

D.I.Y Boot Update

Less than 25 days to go!!! How is everyone's preparation going?

Here are a few update pictures on my D.I.Y. boots for my costume.




It's definitely coming along. Still have a bit more to do : )

Upcoming Event- Afrofest

Friday, July 1, 2011

Fitness Friday- Keeping track...

A Fitness Friday post has been long overdue! Hope everyone is doing well with "Making that Change" in their life and incorporating "Healthy Measures"  For this weeks post, the topic I wanted to discuss is being active and also tracking progress. With less than a month to until the Scotiabank Toronto Caribbean Carnival, I have heard many friends state it is time to get serious with their workout regimen and eating habits. In my opinion, an important part of starting a workout regimen, is having a plan and keeping a track of progress. 



An analogy I would like to propose relates to cooking. I myself am not the best of cooks, as such this is an area in my life that I am working on. Something I find beneficial, as do many others, is the use of a recipe. At the grocery store a variety of ingredients and appliances are available for purchase; however by writing down the recipe it helps to prevent me from forgetting which ingredients I need to buy.  In the event I am unable to find or unfamiliar with the ingredient or appliance I am looking for, I can ask one of the staff for help or assistance. In relation to actually cooking the meal, the recipe is useful because it keeps me on track with how much, how long, and overall what exactly I should do to prepare the meal. In the end, with any new recipe, I may find that the directions may be more difficult than anticipated or that the results were not quite the same as those pictured in the magazine.  However with time, practice and effort, I eventually get the results I have wanted. Additionally, once I have mastered the recipe I could start to incorporate variations (such as alternative spices or seasoning), to switch it up a bit.


Soooooo what does that have to do with exercising???  Well, often when a person is ready to start a workout regimen, he or she might feel compelled to head down to the gym (analogous to the grocery store in my example). Once at the gym, various equipment (analogous to ingredients) are available to achieve the desired results. However, if the person is unfamiliar with how to use the equipment, or does not ask for help, this could potentially result in dissatisfaction with the results or the person potentially injuring himself/herself (analogous to results that were not hoped for). Furthermore, if the person did not keep track of what they were doing in the gym, it will be difficult to pinpoint what exactly contributed to the observed results. As such, similar to the use of a recipe, I would suggest the incorporation of a workout plan is beneficial.

Benefits of writing down a plan:
  • Articulating a plan verbally is great, however writing down the plan helps it become more concrete and provides the opportunity for one to refer back to it
  • Establishing a plan incorporates a form of accountability.  As such the individual may be more inclined to adhere to the schedule
    • Example: "Sorry can't make it to the mall tonight. I have to go to my weekly Tuesday evening Socacize class"
  • Allows one to track individual progress overtime towards goals.
    •  This will allow for comparison of progress from the onset of the regimen to the present time. Tracking could include improvement in duration of activity performed,  number of repetitions, cardiovascular improvement, or even noting any set backs.
Overall, keeping/ writing a workout log is one way to help an individual  track their progress towards their physical activity and fitness goals.  Here is an example of a log:



Though this post focused on physical activity from a gym perspective, Toronto Public Health has proposed several steps one can take to being active some of which included: starting small, setting realistic goals, doing something you enjoy and remembering every effort counts. = )


Happy Friday!

Happy Canada Day

After a two week hiatus due to school, computer malfunctions, birthdays, you name it lol, I'm happy to get back to posting!

First item on the list...
 Happy Canada Day to everyone living in Canada. Hope you have a safe and enjoyable long weekend!


Here are some events taking place this weekend:



(This long weekend, the Pride Parade is also taking place)

Summer events is definitely in full effect.
Next upcoming cultural event... Afrofest