ONE WOMAN BAND...

...so as this was my first Trinidad carnival experience, I wasn't fully aware of all the specifics in the tradition. Just when I thought I had done my research in constructing a costume to be a part of the festivities, I failed to realize that traditionally you actually have to be a part of a band in order to parade around in costume. When I first arrived, I was so exciting about telling family I made a costume, and when I did, they were like "oh yeah- and what band are you playing with???", and I was like "huh???" and they were like "yeah you have to be in a band to wear a costume...", and I was like "Oh no!" and they were like "ahhh ha ha ha ha ha!!!" So I was the laughing stock for a few days but in the end, they loved it! And they appreciated my efforts and a great time was had by all! Stay tuned for more from Trinidad Carnival 08...