tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56085935991985393542024-03-12T21:16:23.390-07:00Letters From RoyaltyMs.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.comBlogger927125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-44550112504242747152024-03-10T23:59:00.000-07:002024-03-10T23:59:41.269-07:00Okay where is 2024 rushing to?<p> Bruh I blinked and March is 10 days in?</p><p>We thank God for his many mercies o!</p><p><br /></p><p>Honestly I'm super thankful because this year has been -YEAR-ING. </p><p>But what does the good book say about deliverance from the many aflictions of the righteous?</p><p>If you don't know- its that they are delivered from ALL.</p><p><br /></p><p>My school work is progressing splendidly well, I find that I'm torn between coasting and putting my back into it. Due to updates in my knowledge of the visa system I decided to extend my program but accelerate it so that I finish in the same time as everyone else who started with me in a longer program, thats how I ended up doing 8 abi 9 courses this semester, and by some stroke of luck- also working full time.</p><p><br /></p><p>So when I say E CHOKE? </p><p>But asides that It's been good o. We celebrated 6 months in Canada with a party, well it was also PJ's birthday and it was SUCH A GREAT time. everyone was like- yall have been here only 6 months ke?</p><p>me- It's God ooo. </p><p>And the wisdom to space out the prep for the party and missing classes for a day to make sure everything was kosher. </p><p>Another super bright spot in my days is Bobby my neighbors dog who absolutely LOVES me.</p><p>Last week my neighbor said- I hope you have other people in your life as excited to see you as bobby is. And I was like- You should have met my dog Tiny. The absolute love of my life.</p><p>And YES, I am still always toying with the idea of bringing him home here. I know it sounds hard, but with God nothing is impossible.</p><p>So we move.</p><p><br /></p><p>Just touching base to say I'm really settling in, I even filed my taxes, honestly the process seems super simple for all the noise that people make about taxes, but you know, when in Rome and that.</p><p>I've even renewed my US visa, one thing about the living here is that there is a youtube video for everything. most of them are in hindu or something but you get the general gist. </p><p>Honestly God brought me here at the right time. </p><p>I feel like in the last few weeks I've been having such vivid dreams, that feature so many strange people and when I wake up its almost like its hazy. Honestly God should speak to me let me hear his voice well one time.</p><p>Okay I hope everyone is well. I'm running back to completing my paper due at midnight haha.</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-63431897461970961602024-01-13T20:11:00.000-08:002024-01-13T20:11:55.178-08:00Currently<p> <u>Listening </u></p><p>Non-stop to Jelo by Young John & Pheelz</p><p>One thing about this song is that both of them were actual BTS guys ( producers) in the music industry and have now gone on to release bangers non stop. The lesson here is not to let anyone pigeon hole you into a box because of what you have done. There is still so much you *CAN* do.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SISvJA1m6po" width="320" youtube-src-id="SISvJA1m6po"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Adupe fun eledumare</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Adupe fun olorun oba</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Na him give me the package</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So make nobody come dey buga</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Reading</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Morgan Housel's new book called " Same as ever"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmC6xYJ00OuFp34lOMknMcjOQa4tbWubDXG3oBEW30vVQiACoHlfj1UsAxIWNC2d6g9eOkAo69o0mxPNDyTmeHq3mKgeuu5hO5r9GsbyyvDeVks3SK2LI1mVy_mH6BiyMi0Wfdt-_Uz87QWwpcDRTCgsKiMbMIkJaBn3CGeGVMBoyV3TWbkUJIg5QtRmE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="332" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmC6xYJ00OuFp34lOMknMcjOQa4tbWubDXG3oBEW30vVQiACoHlfj1UsAxIWNC2d6g9eOkAo69o0mxPNDyTmeHq3mKgeuu5hO5r9GsbyyvDeVks3SK2LI1mVy_mH6BiyMi0Wfdt-_Uz87QWwpcDRTCgsKiMbMIkJaBn3CGeGVMBoyV3TWbkUJIg5QtRmE" width="159" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Life is lifing a lot right now so I am not going through this as quickly as I'd like, and honestly its not as interesting as the first book so its gonna be slow, but since I'm interested in knowing what is unchanging- I will finish it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Feeling</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Super grateful for how well this move has turned out. I can not lie, when people said moving will be hard I did not totally envision how hard, but the truth is that for us -God's yoke has been easy. and 4 months in, everyone is like OMG you are so lucky because wow, and truly I am so grateful</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Also Feeling</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">COLD. I low key chose my city based on how great the weather was supposed to be and this week something called Arctic blast came through the city and its been minus kini kan. Had to buy a space heater on amazon prime ASAP. And it was not on my list of things I planned to buy in 2024. Anyway...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Expecting</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lots of great news, My amazon delivery, some difficult conversations with my editor about my book.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">An easy path to settlement in Canada. Because being expectant is just the best way to be.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Honestly I am really excited about for 2024, I have more than a good feeling about this year, It just feels so much like the year where many things will come together. Like crystalize properly properly PROPERLY.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So my message for you this year is to GET EXCITED, Make big plans, then make steps on how to get them done, 2024 is a really auspicious year. Even the Chinese people have this to say about 2024 ( which is the year of the dragon)- To sum it up, 2024, the Year of the Dragon, encourages us to be ambitious, creative, and strong in facing challenges. By setting big goals, being imaginative, staying resilient, building good connections, and balancing our efforts, we can make this year successful- I mean.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><br /><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-63207683351048876502023-12-26T00:45:00.000-08:002023-12-26T00:45:34.648-08:00Merry Christmas<p> One thing about me- I'm not leaving ANYTHING to chance, Like I will plan my way around anything and everything and if things fall apart last minute I'd be like ah- God your turn, and he is like- I thought you'd never ask. and Boom - all things go my way.</p><p>All of this is to say I am having a SMASHING christmas szn. Obviously not as fabulous as what I'd have had in lagos, BUT this is def one for the books.</p><p>I have seen the christmas lights two cities away, had dinner and drinks with friends, then ended up at a bar in a casino and met the loveliest babe who promised to take us under her wings.</p><p>Then had a christmas party that was so much fun, we were literally the last to leave. It has been such a glorious run, I wanna thank me for making these plans and following through.</p><p><br /></p><p>Merry Christmas to everyone, My skin is currently in shambles, for reasons best known to it, honestly at this point I don't know again- I'm handing it over to God because wetin?</p><p>Alsoooooo, my books I ordered black friday from lagos actually came, might spend tomorrow reading either one of them or maybe the alchemist.</p><p>One of the wildest things about moving here just feels like we have given ourselves permission to live the lives we want and now it is beginning to enter all the other area's of our lives as well. Crazy.</p><p>Another wild thing is- how much adjustment it takes to settle into a new country financially. And I don't mean like money to move, I mean learning the credit system, figuring out how investments work here, knowing what is a great deal on rates, optimizing for affordability in a city that thrives on information that is not easily accessible. And also knowing the opportunity cost of many things.</p><p>I'm also realizing my ability to get things gone- expertly, and its strange how my employer realizes this.</p><p>Perhaps I should really start looking for another job.</p><p>All of this is to say that as I'm sat in this chair, writing and looking at my foil decorations, I feel so happy, so thankful, so grateful that what is infront of me is soooo much better than what is left behind.</p><p><br /></p><p>Merry Christmas everyone. May we all experience joy & happiness unlimited this szn!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-71800795178135069922023-12-11T01:55:00.000-08:002023-12-11T01:55:30.453-08:00Detty December<p>*insert eyeroll here*</p><p><br /></p><p>This is the first christmas I am spending away from Nigeria as an adult and LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING... nothing can compare.</p><p>I'm prepping for exams- I admit very lackadaisically, but still prepping none the less and I am not feeling like christmas at all.</p><p>I have one Xmas party invite, I am not working that day - YAY, and I'm thinking of doing something christmassy but I have no idea what.</p><p>One of the strangest things about moving countries, is figuring out their financial system and FAST.</p><p>Unfortunately for me, It's giving complicated. Statement balances that do not automatically update when you pay your balance?</p><p>I had to walk into the branch to ask someone to walk me through it like i was 12. He didn't even understand it.</p><p>Then the mailing system, my province lost my ID and I had to call like 500 times to get a new one and eventually go and re-order it in store, only to get there and we had to take new photos, and I didn't wear a wig so I just lied to the guy that my turban is for religious purposes and now I'm stuck with an ID with alhaja esque photograph for the next 5 years.</p><p><br /></p><p>Then the health card nko?</p><p>OMG the admin wahala is much more than I bargained for make I no lie. But we are pushing through, what I find so strange is HOW LITTLE information exists about all these things. Super annoying.</p><p><br /></p><p>Anyway, that out of the way- I have like 3 things lined up for christmas, but I am seriously in the spirit because I've done my nails and put up the first decoration in the flat. will have to get some tinsel and put it around so it can feel slightly more christmassy. </p><p>One of the biggest wins for US though for this move, is getting off repatriating naira for our spending in Canada. Its such a blessing to be able to not panic about exchange rates or GTB moving mad, or our savings depleting. Like such a great blessing.</p><p>I remain overwhlemed with gratitude when I think of this move and how relatively easy it has been for us, I know that it is only God that could have swung it like this true true, I speak to my mum and she can not believe it. I speak to my friends and they tell me how lucky I am.</p><p>Random testimony to wrap up how good this month has been- My friend who lives in the US occassionally has people coming to my city so I often buy things and send them to his address and then he gets them to me, anyway since he was in Lagos and I wanted a new tote from a Nigerian brand see it <a href="https://www.motthelabel.com/products/spring-statements-tote-bag" target="_blank">here</a> and wanted to buy some books from narrative landscape- they never delivered on time- , he brought back the tote yay, and messaged to ask if I wanted anything else from the US. I was like nah I don;t wanna spend my USD because rainy day/who knows etc etc; anyway I sha go to amazon as I've been eyeing this enzyme face wash, and a random afro puff that my friend bisi had, both came to $17:75, while I was deciding I received a message, an airbnb host was offering me $18.75 to leave them a review approx £15. I was like okay Mr God the provider, you don't always have to show up so perfectly like this- you are spoiling me.</p><p>While I was telling PJ, he said- things always work out for you and you are always getting money.</p><p>Its true. what I do not know is if its a self fulfilling prophecy or I'm just one of God's favorites.</p><p>Anyway I love it, God I thank you, Long may it continue.</p><p>Still no christmas dress in sight because I can't find anything I really like in the stores here. Like NOTHING at all its so strange, and I'm pretty easy to please when it comes to clothes.</p><p>But the stores aren't delivering at alll. Its strange can't lie.</p><p>However IAM looking forward to creating a christmas tradition here, with all the people I will meet.</p><p>Who knows perhaps new friendships will emerge from that?</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-29915721086595463532023-11-24T00:44:00.000-08:002023-11-24T01:10:58.895-08:00More life updates and most recent rediscoveries- Thanksgiving<p> First Update, I can not believe I moved to Canada. Because NGL, this country as a whole is dry. As someone who has lived in Lagos her whole adult life, I am struggling to sort of find my rhythm and blues here, but mostly a rhythm. </p><p>In Lagos it was very Lifestyle-then work- then anything else but since I am yet to build a new community here, its giving " I'm indoor type", which I am not at alllll. But on the upside I really really really like it, if that makes any sense, kinda like love hate? I'm struggling to explain it but I think anyone who has moved countries in their 30's would understand. </p><p>Second update- I'm going to need the personal blogs to come back, I get that all of you are now influencing on IG, with your chat GPT captions and hashtags without the pound sign trying to manipulate the algorithm but come back to writing about your lives. I miss that. Spent the last few weeks trawling through blogspot which brings me to update number 3</p><p>3 absolutely random but stumbled across BankyW's <a href="https://bankyw.blogspot.com/2009/03/april-fools-quickie.html" target="_blank">Blog</a> and it has cracked me up SO SO SO much. he should go back to writing if this whole politics thing is a long thing. also absolutely re-discovered how much I still like Strong ting. That song was the background song to one of my most wholesome romance stories, ended one kind but was still such a great run while it lasted.</p><p>Fourth and final update, Since I moved here I have been introspecting without writing so all the thoughts are swirling around in my head, but one keeps floating to the top, and that is how much I have changed as a person. a few weeks before I left Lagos my friends and I were having dinner and a couple on the next table were struggling to get selfie photos of the sunset and themselves in it, so I asked them if they needed help with the pictures, and then when I came back, both of my friends were like " Omo you have changed o". And it is true, I have changed so much, my other friends have taken to calling me a positivity spin merchant because of how often I congratulate people. </p><p>But minus the good vibes, I think the biggest change for me, is the level of restraint I have managed to grow, I literally went from team nobody should test me, to abeg abeg na I no gree dey tear shirt. Like very few things faze me anymore. Also- surprise- I have now learnt to mind my business, which is strange because the way Eke used to be my hobby, now I'm just like live and let live.</p><p>I think covid had such a huge impact on this shift because I can't point to anything else.</p><p><br /></p><p>Okay I know I said 4 but here is the last one, I have a PACKED December socially, I have 3 exams, one film festival, one christmas carol, one christmas lunch AND I haven't actively bought tickets as per entertainment budget for the December.</p><p>One more last one, the people in this city are so dead fashion-wise, I wore a sparkly turban, everybody in my class is like- oMG so fashionable. I'm like guys... You people only know lululemon leggings of course a turban is fashionable to you.</p><p>I'm thinking of starting to work out, all the walking in doing in making me lose weight a bit too rapidly.</p><p>Watching my birthday flowers die and I'm realizing I really not a flowers girl. I have never been.</p><p>Is it just me or are all the new books- NOT GIVING? I'm yet to read a book that has me in a chokehold. publishers PLEASE NOW. shake body for me.</p><p>I need a facial, a mani pedi and a thorough wax session, and you know what would handle all these perfectly at once? A TRIP TO LAGOS FOR CHRISTMAS.</p><p>In conclusion, I'm not as home sick as I thought I'd be, I'm more shell-shocked at how individualistic the country is. I had a better time friend wise in Dundee. Here it's just everybody and their dog, and I just want to be like, guys I have a dog too, there is no reason for your dog to be inside the grocery store man. </p><p>That's just unsanitary. </p><p>I don't think I'd ever get used to seeing a dog being pushed in a pram inside a store whenever I'm shopping.</p><p>But the one time I'm happiest to see dogs with people here, is whenever I come across a homeless person with a dog, I always try to give them something small, I dunno the sight of them with a dog, makes me feel like they are less alone in this super isolating city. and it gives me too large a measure of comfort. Suffice all this to say, I really miss my dog, and the likelihood of someone calling pet protective services for us , if we eventually bring him over is high because na dog we get, these ones -its pet they have.</p><p>One last thing on a whim, we went to see Burna Boy and BOYYYY DID HE GIVE US A SHOWWWWWWWW. Personally I didn't listen to the past two albums so I obviously spent the weekend crash learning the lyrics before we will send me out for not singing- BUT he produced such a wonderful show, as i said in my recap- burnaboy may be very many bad things as a person BUT he is DAMN GOOD PERFORMER.</p><p>I hate to say it, I hope I don't sound ridiculous but I preferred Burna's show to Beyonce.</p><p>Okay enough rambling, just remember the 11th hour parable as the year comes to an end. there is still a lot of time for God to answer your prayers.</p><p>Happy thanksgiving everyone</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-48556266946071402922023-11-07T14:38:00.004-08:002023-11-07T14:38:52.858-08:00Issa Birthday Girlieeeeeee<p> NGL, I was just like I will have a quiet birthday this year just thankful I'm in my new country and I don't even know anyone to have a party or a pot to even cook jollof rice for party ( Long story but when we moved here, I hated the pots so much, and the ones we saw that I liked a bit more were like $750 full price and $550 on sale, so I just ordered the set I liked from Dubai, they came to roughly $60; then sent them to Lagos for like $40, and I'm now waiting for them to arrive) as I said Long story.</p><p>Anyway, It was such a lovely birthday, I did laundry, watched some TV, PJ got me flowers, cooked me sea food pasta, and we spent the rest of the day in a vineyard just outside the city.</p><p>Which I felt was auspicious BECAUSE, I've always wanted to own a vineyard and a wine brand. Anyway my class mates bought me a cakeeee. Ekk</p><p>Pj was like how many days have you even been in the country that you have found people to buy you cake?</p><p>Me: what can I say- everybody LOVES ME. No but for real, I am really enjoying being here. It is even more individualistic that I could imagine and it makes me feel so so much pity for elder family relatives that moved before social media.</p><p>Crazy.</p><p>Anyway I ended up having 2 people over because not only is our flat tiny- we have only one pan so we could only cook enough for 4 people. LOL</p><p>It was great because then we took out time to study lyrics for the burna boy concert. Which I'd attending today after a mid term that I have. Honestly what I find so amusing about this country is how funny they are, tell me why my midterm was supposed to be last week but then they pushed it because- it was halloween.. I was like???</p><p>What?</p><p> anyway mid terms in a few then Burna right after. Hopefully he gives us a GREAT show if not. Ela ojukan. </p><p>Also, It is SO quiet here.</p><p>I am thinking of beginning to foster dogs even though I have not adopted one yet.</p><p>Also I miss my dog soooo much. Urgh</p><p>Thats my baby FR. I'm thinking of moving him to be with me, But his new mother has REFUSED to release him :(</p><p>I remember looking through what my 5 year plan was at 30 and what my life looks like now, and honestly could never have dreamed up this life for myself. And for that we say- Thank you Lord.</p><p>Happy Birthday to Me. Here is to hoping the next 365 days all have fantastic blessings in them!</p><p>Knowing the God I serve they probably do.</p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-18101376576474232552023-10-26T01:59:00.000-07:002023-10-26T01:59:28.862-07:00Life Update<p> </p>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="giphy-embed" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://giphy.com/embed/EP62J1CiCzgk8B1Spq" width="480"></iframe><p><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/TheDemocrats-democrats-dnc-dncgif-EP62J1CiCzgk8B1Spq">via GIPHY</a></p><p>If you are wondering why I have Kamala saying we did it Joe up there, its because I relocated to Canada.</p><p>And when I tell you it was QUICK. God said, okay girlie time to get out of Lagos, and he made it happen so fast that I got whiplash with how quick the move was. For us.</p><p>That aside, If you follow me on this blog, by now you'd know that I did a masters 10 years ago ( OMG it is 10 years- eek), and so I'm not really a stranger to moving.. BUT this move has been so emotionally jarring for me.</p><p>So much to learn about a new country, and I had to leave my dog behind, well not leave him behind, rehome him and I just did not realize how much I will miss him. And my friend who has him- has FULLY colonized him. Its crazy Fr. But I am soo happy he is so happy and loved.</p><p><br /></p><p>RE: settling in, no amount of reading can prepare you for settling in, and I think that is the wildest part about moving, like yes you need to do XYZ, but the order in which you do things here, is so important its crazy, but information will get you far.</p><p>My friends here have been SOOOOO helpful, the level of handholding has been out of this world- Lekan thank youuuuuuuu. Lekan absolutely created the softest landing for me and kept telling me not to worry that I will spend my money, readers, he was right, Canada is EXPENSIVE.</p><p>And I say this as someone who had started grocery shopping in the UK and flying it down to Lagos- Don't judge me, my inlaw used to go back and forth every few weeks and she was happy to bring in my tesco food shop. So me who was earning Naira in Lagos, was spending GBP for groceries and I still cant believe my eyes with some of these prices.</p><p>Garbage bag for $15? Canada please now.</p><p>But asides all this, the move has been great. I feel like I should have come a long time ago, but I also feel like I should be thankful I'm here with my husband.</p><p>We honestly toyed with the idea of moving separately initially, but THANK GOD wisdom prevailed because I'd never have been able to hack this. Shouts to everyone who moved countries alone. you people are the real MVP's. and I say this as someone who is super self sufficient and emotionally resilient and hardly ever has to rely on anyone including my husband.</p><p>Omo, since we moved we are entering the phase of "lean on me no be press me die", I hope he likes it because I am enjoying finally having someone to rely on 100% very exciting.</p><p>He has supported me so so much and honestly I think our marriage is all the better for it because It has really given him the opportunity for him to be there for me in a way that would never have been possible in Nigeria. </p><p>And the sex- Fiyahhhhhh. Being less busy would do that to you.</p><p>Over all I've been here a few weeks and I can say the move has been an overwhelming success. I admit that perhaps I moved a lil delusional thinking we'd find an apartment in 2 weeks, but we did it in a month and everyone is like - you guys are so lucky- and I'm like ehnnnnn. </p><p>But while I hate the lack of a community here I love how honey-moon like it feels for my marriage coming up on two years in a few days. </p><p>Time really flies, It feels like It was just yesterday we were running up and down for wedding and now two years, two dogs and a new country. All I can say is truly thank you God.</p><p>The one thing I didn't think I'd miss but I miss so damn much is planning my friends wedding, My friend is getting married and just not being able to be there with her is CRAZY. like whatsapp is great but it is just NOT THE SAME. :(</p><p>I miss my mum a lot too, we speak like twice a week and its just her sending me on international errands non-stop. LOL</p><p>My brother had another baby, missed his birth by a few days. I miss my children so so so much, Rich aunty for life yo, taking them out all the time and hanging with them was really the best thing.</p><p>I miss my nail tech and hair abroad is really expensive ( yes I've always known but what the hell are these rubbish braids for these prices?) I honestly should have taken a masterclass in crocheting my hair or at least pretending to learn to crochet my hair because- hmnnn.</p><p>One thing about living here is that my head is a lot clearer, it is so so clear, I used to feel like it was fogged up with random details but now its so so clear, I find it strange.</p><p>Like I haven't blogged since May and here I am churning out a post like its nothing.</p><p>Don't call it a come back.</p><p>I feel like my life is one giant testimony. I was telling someone that I am currently SOOOO happy, and I'm generally a happy person but here now in this moment, It really feels like God said, you have been strong for long enough, now you will be happy. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>
Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-32481409459194468102023-05-31T04:43:00.000-07:002023-05-31T04:43:16.585-07:00May<p> May really came clutch.</p><p>What can I say?</p><p>Alhamdullilah </p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-2978167688584626612023-04-06T07:12:00.001-07:002023-04-06T07:12:18.493-07:00Time flies like a thief in the night<p> Because how is my niece ALREADY FOUR YEARS OLD.</p><p>HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA.</p><p><br /></p><p>Absolutely crazy. </p><p>The days are really long but the years are so short, it feel's like just yesterday that I was mad I had to cut short my Brazilian trip to head to the US to go and support both of them when she was born.</p><p>and now we are discussing bicycles. God abeg.</p><p>Anyway, she is an Easter baby this year so you know we must do party.</p><p><br /></p><p>I can not believe she is 4! because I'm the family planner Im going to be up and down all weekend long. Not looking forward to it at all!</p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-72943256307460956942023-01-23T04:44:00.003-08:002023-01-23T04:44:47.737-08:00Election Szn and why I'm voting Peter Obi<p> It doesn't feel very election-y for one there is limited campaign activity. usually the 2/3 months leading to elections in Nigeria sees the air charged with some fervor, either from the candidates themselves or their youth supporters. Hosting debates or penning feverish articles in support of their candidates.</p><p>Instead there is an unsettling but very fragile calm. Only one candidate seems to be campaigning aggressively and thinking about the demographic to which I belong- aka young people, and that is Mr Peter Gregory Obi.</p><p>In case you don't know anything about me, you should know that I am passionate about education, I think it is the best way to change the course of a family's life. So when I heard that PO who had worked magic in the Anambra educational system had thrown in his hat to be president, I said "TELL ME MORE"</p><p>But he also happens to be the healthiest and most coherent candidate contesting for president.</p><p>The Yoruba one is sick, and anyone that tells you otherwise, wants to rule from the shadows a la Yaradua.</p><p>The Northern one has 31. THIRTY ONE CHILDREN. I don't even think Nigeria has 31 parastatals for him to share amongst all his children like is customary among Nigerian's in leadership.</p><p>Finally, it is time to Zone the presidency to the south east. And I let me tell you how serious Zoning is to Nigerian politicians, it is so serious that they encoded it into PDP's constitution. Section 7(2)(c) of the party’s constitution says: “… In pursuance of the principle of equity, justice and fairness, the party shall adhere to the policy of rotation and zoning of party and public elective offices.” </p><p>Its a shame the party members do not even honor what they have put in the constitution.</p><p>Finally, I'm genuinely tired of business as usual in Nigeria, Let me list all the current issues that we are currently experiencing:</p><p>Fuel scarcity</p><p>Police brutality</p><p>Kids out of school</p><p>Insecurity</p><p>Electricity</p><p>ASUU strikes</p><p>Violence against women and girls</p><p>Poverty</p><p>Unemployment</p><p>Mass migration</p><p>Division</p><p>Injustice</p><p>and to think that a candidate is saying that, I want to build on existing infrastructure of the current government.</p><p><br /></p><p>Finally, to all the people who say Anambra is no Lagos and that PO may be unable to replicate the success he achieved there in Nigeria, all I have to say to you is that neither is Lagos.</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-89164840214215060952023-01-13T12:38:00.004-08:002023-01-13T12:38:57.994-08:00Happy New year<p> AH 2022 is gone.</p><p>and it was one of those years that had SO much inside it. thinking about it now has me like ???</p><p>Anyway in 2022 was a really good year, if I'm being honest there were some things I slept on but I've woken up to them in 2023.</p><p>To plan 2023 I decided to do the thinker, prover method to set my year goals and I have arrived at 3 things and a 4th one in maybe maybe not.</p><p>I am very excited about 2023 sha I can't lie.</p><p>If I had to do a review of 2022, I think I travelled so much, Hercules actually said " you are strong sha".</p><p>I went to Togo & Cotonou in February, then Dubai in May, Then Abuja in October, and Then India & Thailand in November and Rwanda & Abraka in December. </p><p>The less I speak of my visa woes- the better.</p><p>Being the planner is not easy but I need to get somethings done and can't be sitting around waiting for other people to do them.</p><p>One of my 2023 goals is to say No to everything that isn't what I want. which is odd because It appears what I have long thought of as responsible is actually people pleasing and I'm divesting.</p><p>Weddings- So many. I had a day trip to Ibadan for H's friends wedding in May, then we had our 60 people black tie wedding celebration in February, My friend Jade's wedding where I was chief whip, Kris wedding in Lagos. Tuvie's wedding in Rwanda. </p><p>The older I get its become more important to not miss the important bits of your friends lives if you can. Its's something I'm making concerted effort to do. </p><p>Dog Mum- We re-homed one of our dogs, and I am still slightly resentful about that, but I think that was a very big lesson for me, in life, capacity and just willingness to prune. Also sunk cost fallacy is a thing. Anyhoo I miss that lil crack head every single day. and I think my second dog is lonely.</p><p>Reading- I have never set a reading goal, but last year I set out to building a reading community. I'm happy to announce we had a physical meeting! and I'm hoping in 2023 to take it to the next level by hosting an actual show once a month about the books I love but we'll see. I really think more people should read</p><p>Career- Honest to God my Career stalled in 2022. But I have decided to boost visbility on Linkedin and also just relocate because I feel like workwise, I'm over it in Lagos. Not over the money sha, because I had two pay raises and I'm not even mad. Ha.</p><p>Working out- Meh. I'm hoping to commit to twice a week for the 52 weeks in 2023. Honestly I think the best time to work out remains the mornings FOR ME. unfortunately I''m struggling to optimise that with my current lifestyle and commute.</p><p>Ive been writing this for over a week now and let me tell you that I keep seeing messages to have difficult conversations with people who have offended me and I'm like- Hmnnnnn.</p><p>I'd rather not. </p><p>In 2022 I had ONE difficult conversation and I felt like it was such a waste of time but did I feel better afterwards, also no. Turns out forgiveness is not my strong suit.at all. </p><p>I'll do better in '23. </p><p>Anyway Happy New Year. Here is to us achieving all our goals this year! </p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-22818591971184541062023-01-04T05:17:00.003-08:002023-01-04T05:17:57.109-08:00One time for the Birthday Girl<p>*FOUND THIS IN MY DRAFTS FROM THE 3RD OF NOVEMBER* so im posting as is. </p><p><br /></p><p>I had the most delicious birthday yesterday and let me tell you, You all had better stop working on your birthdays!!!!!</p><p>My day started off with me on the phone talking to my friend who just had a baby and catching up with our other friend and it was just a great chat.</p><p>After which I went back to bed, then headed to the spa for a couple's massage, then headed to an all you can eat and drink lunch THEN went to the cinema to watch Black Adam- LOVED IT.</p><p>Then went to a new spot opening in Vi, Terrible location but lovely owner, hopefully he can swing the crowd to show up.</p><p>Then headed to dinner and had the most delectible seafood pasta, super loaded, but still can't touch the house.</p><p>THEN wanted to go see woman king but was so tired so I went home instead.</p><p><br /></p><p>Absolutely loved the day I had because, </p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-65076230636145609092022-09-01T07:33:00.002-07:002022-09-01T07:33:11.003-07:00Life lately & a Divinely Helped September<p> Before I get into it, Pj ( aka my husband) wants to give away the dogs because they shed so much. </p><p>Insert the meme of the woman crying in court about her husband. I'm in severe pains.</p><p>My heart can not take it, but I get it. :(</p><p><br /></p><p>Anyway, I'm sure he is just saying that because I don't work from home and he is with them all day.</p><p>Be that as it may, I am happy flourishing and spending as much time as I can with them because if they leave then all I will be left with are memories.</p><p>the housecleaner came yesterday and she cleaned the house so well that even after I hosted people when I showered & settled into bed I sighed a huge sigh of happiness and gratitude. The house was clean, the dogs were, walked, fed & sleeping at the foot of the bed. my lava lamp was gently illuminating the room, the candle- that I repotted & burnt for 4 hours lent a scent to the space, as I laid my showered body onto the bed, I sighed and thought, can it get better than this?</p><p>and I said it can but this is pretty damn good. </p><p>Off course I woke up late today but I went to bed very happy.</p><p>I love my life and I am now ready to relocate. Canada we are coming.</p><p>Also I partook in a 28day writing challenge and it was soo good I did not write the last day because I did not want it to end but I'm so proud of myself, and It just showed how important having some community accountability is in meeting set goals. </p><p>I am definately taking that lesson into this next phase of my life.</p><p>I hope you all are having a good time!</p><p>and Happy new Month</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-27280062926197898542022-07-28T05:16:00.001-07:002022-07-28T05:16:07.221-07:00Influence of Geography<p> Stream of consciousness/ random rambling spurred by an insignificant happening that is now making me curious as to how much of your actions are influenced by what is acceptable in the area in which you find yourself living?<br /><br /></p><p>I have a non Nigerian friend who moved to Nigeria and I met randomly on a night out and we hit it off, anyway fast forward to drinks and her swearing vehemently about how she could never and scoffing at all the Lagos girls frockling with married men- because where she was from such things are frowned upon.</p><p>Fast-forward to 3 months later, she is telling about how she wants to go on vacation with a married man she has been seeing on , but her friends from her home country are telling her its wrong and Nigeria has changed her.</p><p>Her defence? They are not here, they do not see everyone doing it. When she asked me, I told her, in Nigeria, it is not a big deal, but you are not Nigerian so you might struggle so reconcile your actions with what you have been taught is the right way to be/ do things.</p><p>Anyway what is it about Nigeria that makes people lean into grey area's more than they would have if they lived anywhere else in the world? And it is not just the women with married men, its the Married men who come back here from the West and act so out of turn, I find it mildly amusing, but I am also slightly concerned because I know what erosion of a person's moral fibre can do to a person.</p><p>My friend thanked me for not judging her, and I was like- girl get in line. However, on the vacay she did not act like Nigerian girls and do one or two cryptic posts and call it a day, instead she has content for days and reels speaking about #softlife and blessings, and now I'm like girl rest.</p><p>Is there a way things are done in a place that make you adopt their practices whether or not they are at odds with your personal values? </p><p>and why is Nigeria so prone to making people swing so far out and not recognize themselves? </p><p>Also, is this something that people coming to Nigeria should be aware/wary of?</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-3595345746276294722022-07-05T04:05:00.008-07:002022-07-05T04:05:44.027-07:00Currently<p><u>Reading</u></p><p>ALL THE GRAYMAN BOOKS. Honestly I have not been so sucked into a series like this since maybe The Coroman strike series. I absolutely LOVED That. But this, I adore it so much.</p><p>Last week someone asked me how I could manage to read so much, and I was like- what? I enjoy it so much I even run an online book club where I pick a book every month and we discuss it. Its such a great way to get people to read.</p><p><br /></p><p><u>Listening</u></p><p>TO THIS SONG NON STOP. Its absolutely crazy how much I love it. </p><p>Cobams is a musical genuis. I actually really like him. I remember an interview of his I listened to, where he said, sometimes sight can be distracting. That his wife may go into a store at the airport to get ONE thing and come out with stuff she didn't plan for and that really struck me as profound. If there is anyone in the music industry I'd love to see uber sucessful. It's him.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dV_FeXAcvaY" width="320" youtube-src-id="dV_FeXAcvaY"></iframe></div><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Send down fire, bless my ota</div></span><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Give them long life to see me prosper</div></span><span jsname="YS01Ge" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><div style="text-align: center;">Make dem see say me I no dey suffer again</div></span><p></p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><u>Watching</u></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYFgMGWtzPObH-D3crlLB1xVad1AeACBGr21XEwJG9erXby39a5hvdxYBLjzZqABt_bgT4cIIsy2FTtS_g2EP_GUMtKmz7PcCwgHJrlpCRHGP20wdKrrs_vKm1b-9-BgqTcyNGJcGJ6ZlR32K3WHufwrjp0aIl2gXZX7oNuPhVCi1G-aRxoR2gX0SC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="189" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYFgMGWtzPObH-D3crlLB1xVad1AeACBGr21XEwJG9erXby39a5hvdxYBLjzZqABt_bgT4cIIsy2FTtS_g2EP_GUMtKmz7PcCwgHJrlpCRHGP20wdKrrs_vKm1b-9-BgqTcyNGJcGJ6ZlR32K3WHufwrjp0aIl2gXZX7oNuPhVCi1G-aRxoR2gX0SC" width="170" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div>Actually just finished watching the Strike series, Its an adapation of the Coromon strike series written by JK rowling using a pseudonym. It was done by BBC one and I watched it using the Amazon Fire stick. It was so so good. British TV seems more intentional and less showy than American TV. cant explain it. Anyway if you ware looking for something great to watch, it is a mini series, so ranges from 3-4 episodes per season like sherlock and its great. Also use subtitles because the accent get as e be.</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Thinking</u></div><div><br /></div><div>About how all my life in Lagos, I've been experiencing fuel queues. Also about how because all of my friends have relocated I either have to make new friends ( Yuck), fly to see them often ( wahala) or move myself ( sigh). God has to punish Buhari for me, its awful, my friends kid turned 1 and I haven't even set eyes on her. How can this be life?</div><div>I think about it so much and I hate that I think about it so much.</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Wondering</u></div><div><br /></div><div>If my stoic approach to most of my relationships makes it difficult for people to accept that I am mostly unrufflable. I also wonder if being the go to person in my family taught me very early that people mostly do not change and relying on myself is a good way to go. ALSO wondering if this has dulled my need to tussle.</div><div>I wonder- actually I know that most of them HATE that I let things go very easily- offences AND relationships. So I wonder if its almost like they are always walking on thin ice with me. Like yes she will forgive me, but is this the one that will make her drop me?</div><div>Who knows these things</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Manifesting</u></div><div><br /></div><div>A new life in a new country with my family.</div><div>Reconciliation with my cousins, I can't think of a heart break worse than my cousins not speaking to me. And to think the crux of the issue was a fight our parents had. LOL ( but its not really funny)</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Laughing</u></div><div><br /></div><div>Mostly about the CBA attitude I am serving at work. Honestly lately I can not be arsed about anything work related.</div><div>I need time off</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Planning</u></div><div><br /></div><div>A bridal shower. And wondering what the fuck is this even about? how does this even make any sense.</div><div>But planning it anyway because- THAT IS WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR.</div><div><br /></div><div>My next Holiday- because what else to do except look forward to a big trip</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><u>Mulling</u></div><div><br /></div><div>over the phrase "That is what friends are for" and wondering if it is giving doormat.</div><div>over if getting NDLEA clearance makes any sense. </div><div>over why more Nigerians do not document visa struggles as much as the experience. </div><div><br /></div><div><u>Loving/Enjoying</u></div><div><br /></div><div>My latest manicure. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfZkoby3TJ5ZjMf7HT04-oLmZFEu5ejmrpH4tQXexwEUg-TDD2HlXrCVVXHta_jsLWsMLQ0iQABUjoFa5BMi3dcr-rDI_5l3LJxppEpZKQ-wGD_lSZLYPcZ4gJ8_ULDPvQUqZ98nW8ow3cZGREf7tszt4e-_X9XKpsl_cuWo_AJWlNEZNoO6EuInOA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfZkoby3TJ5ZjMf7HT04-oLmZFEu5ejmrpH4tQXexwEUg-TDD2HlXrCVVXHta_jsLWsMLQ0iQABUjoFa5BMi3dcr-rDI_5l3LJxppEpZKQ-wGD_lSZLYPcZ4gJ8_ULDPvQUqZ98nW8ow3cZGREf7tszt4e-_X9XKpsl_cuWo_AJWlNEZNoO6EuInOA" width="180" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div>It is absolutely divine. </div><div>My latest fashion nova haul that took 10 days to get to me from the US. OKAY Global village</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><u>Still Enjoying</u></div><div>Being a dog mom. And people say people can't change. Ha!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-38584455304958746882022-06-06T05:21:00.004-07:002022-06-06T05:21:31.819-07:00Weekend for the books<p> The weekend that just passed was so lovely.</p><p>On friday I went by my friend's airbnb to pick up wedding access cards for his wedding the next day at oriental. </p><p>On saturday morning, it was raining so I took the car to the mechanic to do some body work, the power came back just as I arrived home so I quickly vacuumed the flat instead of sweeping because I wanted to mop the house.</p><p>Because we have dogs, more frequent vacuuming and moping of the flat means that the floor stays sand free and it smells fresh. Although I think one of the dogs reacts to the bleach I use to do the final re-mop.</p><p>Anyway just as I had finished vacuuming Nepa took the light and I mopped and took a nap.</p><p>I called my tailor at least 50 times on saturday, she did not pick up. </p><p>Power came back and we started watching strike in the living room. while the dogs napped.</p><p>I made Tomatoe based pasta with tuna and mushrooms and paired it with Red wine. Pj said " You have a way of turning everything into a special occasion" . I agreed. No point waiting for the best day to do things when you can just enjoy the things now, everyday you are alive is a special occassion.</p><p>The mechanic finally called us to get the car, so we went to get it, then came home & got ready for the wedding.</p><p>Went to the wedding then came home at past 12 and washed my face.</p><p>Sunday</p><p>We had susages and stir fried veggies with buttered cous cous. I hardly ever cook so when I do, PJ is slightly aroused & very amused at how good it tastes. You'd think being a Nigerian babe I'd cook more for my husband. BUT LOL, The less I see of a kitchen- any kitchen the happier I am.</p><p>Anyway, we ate, watched some strike, Nepa took light so we just fooled around playing with the dogs in the flat and then I got dressed for my friends Bridal Brunch.</p><p>One of my friends is getting married in September and has asked that I be on the train, as a matter of personal principle, I don't do bridesmaids. But I am more than happy to be your chief whip to get your girls ready for the day. I'm more than happy to miss the church service and I am more than ecstatic to show up late but to fully support you in all the ways that matter so your wedding can be an instagram show down, If that is your hearts desire.</p><p>Anyway bridal brunch was great from there we went to see sunday lunch at my in laws place where our dogs ran away on more than one occassion and we forgot our take away.</p><p>After catching the dogs, and since the link road to VI from the mainland is closed, we decided to pass Yaba and then stop at my Father in laws house.</p><p>Great time catching up with Alhaji as I call him. Loads of teasing and he has just started gardening so we talk shop about flowers and plants and the magic of growing things with our hands.</p><p>We return home and send an uber for the food we forgot at Sunday Lunch. Before the food comes we settle in season 2 of Strike and we fall asleep on the couch.</p><p>When I finally wake up to pee at 2 in the morning, the dogs are sleeping on me and PJ has moved to the bedroom.</p><p>I think a lot about all the things that are good in Nigeria and how much of them I'd be able to take away when I eventually leave the country. And I am slightly concerned that I won't be able to take a lot away.</p><p>The long weekend is coming up and I had planned to visit a city in the neighbouring state but since the shoot out at the church in a close by state, I'm rethinking my plans.</p><p>Nigeria is really a strange country. </p><p>Everyday my mind is made up even further to leave.</p><p> </p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-88918551781734678432022-05-18T01:07:00.001-07:002022-05-18T01:07:18.940-07:00Mothers day<p> It's clear how I feel about having children, but it is so strange because I absolutely adore my dogs.</p><p>I love having them around even though the wahala is too much and because of them I sometimes feel like I never stop working. because I come home after a long day of work and then I have to attend to them because my husband has been with them all day and so he can get a breather.</p><p>And whenever I want to whine about it I remember women who have actual children and can't afford to be tired.</p><p>Honestly the UX of children leaves a lot to be desired.</p><p>I think one of the hardest parts about raising children is how no matter how terrible they are you are stuck with them for life. LOL</p><p><br /></p><p>Anyway my uncle keeps telling me I did not want dogs and now I have two I love, maybe it'll be the same for kids.</p><p>And I'm like- can I board my child when I go away for the week?</p><p><br /></p><p>*crickets*</p><p>Anyway happy mothers day to all the momma's in the building. I hope you realize that you people are doing the lords work and should be handsomely rewarded for it.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-79678817792835404352022-04-08T06:28:00.002-07:002022-04-08T06:28:33.137-07:00Currently<p><b><u> Listening</u></b></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7WU__JQuB8g" width="320" youtube-src-id="7WU__JQuB8g"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>To non stop Sungba and Omo Ope. by Asake. My friend vanessa thinks he has a certain sexy je ne sais quoi, and honestly after watching the Sunga video a total number of uncountable times, I'm forced to admit she is absolutely correct. The way he caught the stack at 0:35 seconds. Whoever cut the video did such a fantasic job because, that shit was sexy AF.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>Wondering</u></b></p><p>How the hell Olamide discovers these acts and how he is able to nurture them so decently and not eclipse them with his ego and greatness, I mean YBNL has churned out Adekunle Gold, Fireboy and now Asake. That man has the midas touch.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>Reading</u></b></p><p>Nothing for leisure and it shows, but I have queued up the Pakistani retelling of pride & prejudice to read this weekend although I have a ton of work and a birthday party at home because my niece is 3!!! it was just yesterday I went to yankee to look after her- but still will be nice to be able to read something.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><u>Contemplating </u></b></p><p>The state of Nigeria and just saying, it is well o.</p><p>ALSO CONTEMPLATING GOING FOR CARNIVAL IN 2023.</p><p>also seriously contemplating taking my husbands last name, but logistically its a Nightmare. and I really like my own name but I have double barelling. Women really go through it.</p><p>Alsooooo thinking of asking my boss for a raise. Because I dey work die.</p><p><b><u>Enjoying</u></b></p><p>Being a dog mum. I can not bloody believe I have TWO dogs. They are really the best thing except they shed so BLOODY MUCH. It's sickening. there is dog hair everywhere. I am considering giving them one of those non shed potions. But I really really really enjoy having them.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryBHrn8XQGywy5LHMMdOh7iI_dtf7TAei9OBIvmk3m2qRDoc5MWmnyCVe11-Caa5azUCjDpEeH5WFA4Kq6sqUucCnVDCG7gDK0KvFh43d9hmTpAXXPi--pT6miZumgR-z_ot5-JX03sNtLc_qs3iczm9q_NK3i8bnNkvWCH6uvxm0J05adhKwR1uv/s1024/Che%20Tiny.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryBHrn8XQGywy5LHMMdOh7iI_dtf7TAei9OBIvmk3m2qRDoc5MWmnyCVe11-Caa5azUCjDpEeH5WFA4Kq6sqUucCnVDCG7gDK0KvFh43d9hmTpAXXPi--pT6miZumgR-z_ot5-JX03sNtLc_qs3iczm9q_NK3i8bnNkvWCH6uvxm0J05adhKwR1uv/w214-h286/Che%20Tiny.jpeg" width="214" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Being married. Honestly it makes sense why the first one did not work. It simply could not have.</p><p><br /></p><p>That's about it.</p><p>Hope you are well, I am also looking forward to the public holiday next week and in May as well!!!</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-46269494776934719852022-04-01T05:03:00.001-07:002022-04-01T05:03:34.010-07:00Thanksgiving and Life lately<p> The randomest thing happened to my household last night.</p><p>The former help in our house came with a team of armed robbers to attack the house.</p><p>Fortunately he was apprehended and is going to jail for life with an attempted murder charge.</p><p>My mother is obviously so shaken up, and more than that deeply disappointed and also seriously considering what she did wrong, and I keep telling her nothing but she does not believe.</p><p>Its rough. But we had a thanksgiving, and we have gone to court, so its over and done with.</p><p>And frankly crazy.</p><p>Lately I've been feeling the need to learn how to sew.</p><p>I love clothes and I'm ready to get serious with it to be honest.</p><p>So maybe a weekend class?</p><p>Who knows? but I am ready sha.</p><p>Whenever lent comes, I get so introspective, It is probably the best time for me to plan the whole year.</p><p>or at least my travel for the whole year...</p><p>Be that as it may..... we have a short list:</p><p>Jamaica- Yes again, I know but I love it so sorry</p><p>New York- Because Jamaica commute</p><p>Dubai- Because why not</p><p>India- Because I have a conference AND hello Taj Mahal</p><p>Rwanda- Because I have a wedding I can not afford to miss</p><p><br /></p><p>Honestly I am very happy with that list, also might make a quick trip to porto novo to do the luxury lodge <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/bj/nature-luxury-lodge.en-gb.html?aid=356980&label=gog235jc-1BCAsoGkITbmF0dXJlLWx1eHVyeS1sb2RnZUgzWANopwGIAQGYAQm4ARfIAQzYAQHoAQGIAgGoAgO4Ao6q8ZEGwAIB0gIkY2UwZTk0NzYtZWNiMy00ODg2LWFmMDktODAxZTkzNDYzNGNm2AIF4AIB&sid=bdaa264f5022818cc82da0879f43bfdb&room1=A%2CA&sb_price_type=total&type=total&changed_currency=1&selected_currency=USD&top_currency=1&activeTab=photosGallery" target="_blank">here </a>so I'm hoping and praying that it comes through, maybe a girls trip or maybe a wellness trip? the lodge sleeps 6 and honestly it'll be nice to get away. but we'll see.</p><p>Asides these I can not believe it is April ALREADY!</p><p>This year is FLYING.</p><p>and I'm ready to start flying too. I'm feeling overwhelmed with gratitude & happiness. :)</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-51754038077133969062022-03-31T09:57:00.002-07:002022-03-31T09:57:54.801-07:00On life moving forward whether or not we want it to.<p> If you have read this blog long enough, you'd know my mother raised me and my siblings.</p><p>You'd also know my father has his new family and he did not look after my siblings and I.</p><p>My father who I have seen a grand total of maybe 6 times since he left my family randomly when I was 9, is now very ill.</p><p>My brother, not my blood brother, but my fathers child from another woman who happens to be older than my sister & we found out about on facebook in 2004 when we went on a family holiday to Atlanta, has been messaging me to update me on the status on his health.</p><p>It is so crazy how little there is to life.</p><p>How when you make your bed, you have to lie in it.</p><p>Honestly I did not think I cared so much about my father, till I felt tears prickle behind my eyes listening to the voice note my brother sent about his situation.</p><p>Ah well.</p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-46122549642012942282022-03-08T01:55:00.002-08:002022-03-08T01:55:18.631-08:00What I am deciding to learn in 2022<p> is to receive things that come easily.</p><p>I'm working on a mindset shift from working tooth and nail ( which is not a bad thing o), it is just that I am enjoying significantly the restful state of having things done for me and being able to receive them with a clear mind instead of thinking of how to repay the person.</p><p>The thought that if someone does something for you, you MUST repay them is absurd, because the world is the world and who knows what channels you had given into that will bring you the blessings you seek?</p><p>Pre-empting learning to receive comes with letting God have the final say and for someone who is a proclaimed go getting self starting hardworking do it myself babe, it has not been as easy as I anticipated to let go of the reins, but the ease. WHEWWWWW.</p><p>Also I'm learning to receive assistance from people who I have once helped and want to give me something in return, prior I'd have brushed it off but now I'm like - why yes you can.</p><p>I have really enjoyed a life that has been relatively easy but lately these last few weeks have me really considering a deeper rest.</p><p>Intense receiving from the universe</p><p>inspecting and observing and really interrogating my relationship with certain things and actually deciding and believing that all the things I desire are necessities not just add on, and that all the things are available to me.</p><p>That being said I am really looking forward to receiving big things in 2022!</p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-47308330944710385082022-03-02T15:26:00.003-08:002022-03-02T15:26:21.027-08:00Lent 2022<p> One thing that heralds lent is the end of Carnival. </p><p>I know, I know.</p><p>Carnival is back in 2023 and I am very excited. Be that as it may, lent is here now and for the 40 odd days I have grand plans.</p><p>The most important is to watch what I say, while I have always been positive generally I am now even more committed to saying only the best things about myself.</p><p>I am finding that the more I speak positively about myself and my life, the better it gets.</p><p>The second thing I am committing to this lent is to speak positively about everyone I encounter, my hope is that God continues to give me the grace to do this</p><p>The 3rd thing I am committing to is heavily visioning of what I want my life to look like in the near future. It is great now, but I am aiming for exceedingly and abundantly more that is perfect for me.</p><p>For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned- Matt 12:37</p><p>I will medidate on a couple of bible verses through out this lenten season and by the end of the period I should have a solid sheet of affirmations culled from the exercise.</p><p>I am learning to be specific in my desires and I am very happy with the out come.</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy Ash Wednesday.</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-54060551955192224032022-02-01T05:05:00.002-08:002022-02-01T05:05:36.277-08:00Thank God its February<p> Because January Sucked Ass.</p><p>It was an awful awful month. well not really awful, but I experienced such dissapointment that it has thrown me off and I'm grappling to get my life back on track.</p><p>First I did not get my Visa so I could not attend my residency. And I did not think I will be that dissappointed. Honestly the level of disappointment shocked and continues to shock me.</p><p>That visa rejection made me know at the back of my mind that I need to start my second passport journey with immediate alacrity. Can I write from lagos? yes, will the quality be the same- who knows?</p><p>Actually I know, and because I know I am mad irritated, can you believe that I was the only one who could not attend because I did not get the visa, hello 3rd world country.</p><p>I do not think I have been this upset in my whole life, It is seeping into everything, literally its been weeks and I'm still so snappy and I cant seem to snap out of it.</p><p>That being said, Thank God it is a new month, its so strange being so grouchy. Writing this makes me realize it is ONE thing that sucked in January and I've allowed it taint the whole month.</p><p>OMG another terrible thing happened and I am fasting & Praying to turn it around. Honestly cant wait for Halleuyah Challenge to come so I can get what I'm asking for. Hopefully I get the thing I was asking for, because lord knows I need a miracle.</p><p>On the upside something good happened to me in January, I was able to capture for my passport. in a week, everyone knows the madness of Nigerian passport office now.</p><p>And even more lush, is the news that Drop Box is BACK BITCHES. So that means Imma get a new passport and A NEW american visa and I will apply for my Uk visa too.</p><p>I am very excited about those, since the world is now treating covid like a flu,means I will be able to get back into seeing the world.</p><p>Anyway I am hoping that february sees me actualizing my goals for 2022 because as the good book says, better the end of a matter than the beginning there of, alsoooooooooooooo</p><p>on my 2022 to do remains to get my book written and published, set up a site for my writing & social commentary career, physically move every day of the week [ or maybe 3] yet to decide and finally GO BACK TO THE PIANO.</p><p>I swear my to do every year has been the same for years. TBH this year the only thing I know for certain is that I'm learning crypto and I'm relocating.</p><p>Hopefully all my other goals get met.</p><p>But I am still looking for how to shake off the disappointment in my soul.</p><p><br /></p><p>Also my cousins cut my siblings and I off because of some family drama and I'm just now realizing how sad I am about that. It sucks</p><p>On the upside, I now have two dogs.</p><p>Well we had to get a second dog because the first one was hella bored. and getting him potty trained HAS BEEN SOMETHING, at least now he is no longer shitting indoors.</p><p>Butttttttttttttttttttt, I love those two animals very very very much, I just need to invest in a lint roller. Ha</p><p>Happy 2022. I hope it goes splendidly and we get all our heart desires. </p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-43591703586779102021-11-15T03:08:00.003-08:002021-11-15T03:08:37.418-08:00What the Caterpillar calls death, the wise man calls a butterfly<p> I feel like 2021 has been one of those years where nothing and then EVERYTHING happens at once.</p><p>As much as I am an intentional person, planning and priming and pesuading my life into a mold I like & prefer, this year, maybe covid fatigue, maybe general tiredness, maybe a stroke of luck, had me just taking my hands of the reins and boyyyyy was I pleasantly surprised.</p><p>First of all, I got married to Hercules, much to my mothers immense pleasure and to the ultimate obliteration of my financial plans for 2021. Honestly the minute we agreed to get married in September, I literally stopped tracking my expenses, because what you do not know can not kill you.</p><p>It was such a wonderful ceremony, and it showed me how much growth I had made as person, for one, everything that was going to stress me, I reminded myself that I was bound to experience, because who the hell plans a wedding in 6 weeks?</p><p>Someone who clearly has a huge buffer for stress. And the process re-inforced a few things for me top of which, go with your mind always.</p><p>Every vendor that was referred to me, fucked me over abysmally. Surprisingly the process was relatively easy with Hercules, he met me half way, had little to no unreasonable demands, and he was quick to remind me to delegate always. He also had the crazy idea of us doing the registry on the same day, which turned out to be the best part of the day for me.:)</p><p>The second thing for me this year that absolutely threw me for a loop was getting into a artist residency in Spain. I have not written as much this year because I was mostly processing my transition work wise/ settling into the new role, attempting to take the trainer wheels of the relationship that moprhed into this marriage, and generally accept that because of my competencies I will forever have to manage boundries, all of this meant, writing really became a luxury that I could not afford.</p><p>My tiny letters havent been updated in months, my travel blog same AND this one sparesly, most of my writing has been work emails and terse whatsapp messages to co-workers. Applying for the residency was really my way to ensuring that I was not tossing my dream of becoming a published "authoress" into the abyss of all the raggedy ness, and the reality of life and adulting hit me and I said well If I'm going to do it, I'm just going to have to find a way, a combination of me seeing the annoucement on time, plus a random exhange that led to my applications being properly edited and a ton of other things, I got in!</p><p>I was SCREAMING when I say the email, infact I accepted it so late like on the day of the deadline. I sent in my very pretty black and white photo, from my birthday photoshoot last weekend that I'll probably use for my book head shot and wrote the wittiest bio for myself and I still can't believe I'm going to a fucking artist residency where I'll have some time to write my book!!!</p><p>Okay I think the last and wildest thing in 2021 was me learning french. My office made it mandatory for a few of us to learn french and that means in the last 6 months twice a week I'd been resuming work at 7:30AM to have french class for an hour and a half. all is well that ends well because I booked the hotel for my holiday in french on a whim and I think I did a GREAT job. </p><p>My vision board is on my phone wall paper, I am yet to complete any of the things on that but what has been achieved is so much more.</p><p>I am truly excited for 2022.</p><p>The word I'm taking into 2022 is ease. a lot of what I have, I have earned with sweat and tears so na wetin no hard me get na him i wan enjoy this 2022.</p><p>I also think we have been raised to conflate ease with lazy but as someone who planned a wedding in 6 weeks, I now know that things CAN be easy, and I'm ready for them to be easy for me.</p><p>Ps: if you know me in real life and wanna see wedding highlight video, email me. :)</p><p><br /></p><p>Pss: I know it is a bit early to be doing year end reviews but - this is the time I have so here we go!</p><p><br /></p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5608593599198539354.post-52730144661360756652021-08-16T02:02:00.000-07:002021-08-16T02:02:17.599-07:00Slow Living<p> So, I now know for certain that I have no plans of doing what I do for a living right now for ever.</p><p>For one, I know that my productive hours are not the regular 9-5 and waking up at 6am makes me sick to my stomach.</p><p>So how to proceed...</p>Ms.Oreoluwahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00271847910618212354noreply@blogger.com0