My Daily Rantings

Can someone please press that PLAY button!!!

2011-09-25T20:29:00.004-04:00

Hello blog friends,

I am back, back, back. I can't believe this is my 4th year in the PhD program!!! Where has the time gone??? All i can say is thank God for his mercies. A lot has happened since the last time i posted in my blog. I passed my oral comps, i submitted by institutional review board (IRB) ethical application for my dissertation research, i did not get the fellowship i applied for (thank God), i traveled to Lagos to collect my dissertation data (which was an experience on its own), i submitted my 2 manuscripts to a journal (1 got published, while the other will be published as soon as i make the revisions the editors suggested). The journey to getting my papers published has been difficult, but thank God it eventually got published. After 2 rejections of sending it to the wrong journals, it was finally accepted in the right journal. One day i will blog on the following:

-journey to publishing my articles.

-the dissertation process, from ethical approvals to data collection

Sometimes in this PhD program, i feel as though my life is on pause (hold). Don't get me wrong, i am trying to live my life to the fullest, and i have to some extent. I got engaged/ married during the time. However, i feel as though i cannot wait for this season to come to an end, so i can move on with the rest of my life, like getting to live with my boo as married, getting pregnant & having a baby (lol- seriously though, this was prompted by some developments), getting a real J-O-B so i can stop living on a grad student stipend!

However, i will miss this student life. There are perks to it, like having a really flexible schedule, being able to travel free on school's money and having a safety net (your advisor plus you get a break 'cos people know you're still in training).

I would really love to graduate next year by God's grace, but my advisor wants me to go back to Lagos next year to collect follow up data for my dissertation. With the data i have now, that is more than enough for my dissertation. Most of my committee members (3/5) believe i have more than enough to graduate next year. The 4th person i don't know where he stands, my advisor wants me to do a 5th year. So now, i am praying and hoping for the best. It will not be a bad idea to have a follow up data collection, but where is the money coming from? Do i really need a follow up now, seeing that i can do that for a postdoc? So these are the things playing around in my mind and i am praying to God for favor and direction.

On another note, transcribing recorded interviews is so not fun! Time consuming and it's just a draggggggggg! So my goals for this semester are as follows:

1) Revise & resubmit my paper for publication

2)Finish transcriptions & data analysis

3) Prepare manuscript for publication for Lagos data

Till i come your way again, remain blessed.

I'VE BEEN A BAD BLOGGER. IT'S BEEN 5 MONTHS

2011-03-16T20:59:00.004-04:00

Hello fellow blogheads, I wonder if anyone still reads this blog, but it's for me to share my thoughts. My life has really been a roller coaster ride. I just took the biggest exam of my life- my COMPS! For the non-PhD folks, Comps are your comprehensive exams which in my department is made up of a written and an oral exam. The written exam has between 5-6 loaded questions. Basically it covers almost all the work done since you started the program. I took the exam from March 11- March 14. It was torture. The questions were not difficult, i could handle it. The hard part is all the writing, literature search and literature review needed for the write up. When i was done, i had about 46 pages in total and i answered all 5 loaded questions. In addition, i had to turn in my proposal (1st 3 chapters of my dissertation). Altogether i wrote 90 pages in 3- 4 days. After the ORALS in 2 weeks, i will be ABD and back to my earlier analogy, my name will now be in ink. Oh by the way, in my last post when i said i had the topic for the BIG D all figured out, i did, but GUESS WHAT??? It's now changed to something similar, but now headed in a different direction and focusing on a different study population.

So what was the experience like?

The exam is meant to test not only your knowledge, but your tenacity, your persistence, your endurance, and how determined you are. Boy! At a point in time, i felt like giving up, but that was when i cried unto God. It was torture and there were times that i felt my head was going to explode, but God sustained me. To show the seriousness of it all, i even blocked facebook on my laptop so that i won't be tempted to go on it. I thank God. I ate only once a day for 3 days, just a snack & then back to work. I did not shower for 2 days. Yes, it was that serious.

*On a cheesy note* I have the bestestestestest hubby ever!!! ELVEE is a priceless gem, a rare find. He was with me through it all. Tending to my every need. As soon as i started the exam on Friday, he cooked for me & made sure that i ate, even though i had no appetite whatsoever. On Saturday, before he went back to his base, he made sure i had something to eat, but as soon as he left i went back to exam mode Sunday & Monday, just snacking & not eating any real food. I thank God for blessing me with a good man. I'm a lucky gal.

After my Orals and my proposal goes through, at the end of this month by God's grace, i will begin my IRB stuff (ethical approval to go conduct my research). This semester has been really busy, but God has really strengthened me in my weakness, given me wings to soar like an eagle, carried me when i felt like falling. The semester will be over in about 5 weeks, and i have so many reasons to thank God. I also applied for a dissertation fellowship, and i will share more details on the success of that very, very soon by God's grace. The application was like a whole proposal on its own. A lot of writing to do, but that's what you do when you're in a PhD program. So here's from my Spring 2011 to-do-list:

1) Complete & Submit my manuscript to a journal

2) Apply for the dissertation fellowship

3) COMPS- Written & Oral

4) IRB Application

5) Submit proposal

6) TA for 2 classes

A full load, and i am excited and can't wait to share with you the good news by the end of the semester. Indeed, God has been faithful to me! That's all for now folks, but before i leave, I want to encourage you with these words that i have held onto during my trying time when i felt like giving up. Whenever, you are clueless about how to handle all the tasks you have ahead of you:

1) STOP complaining, rather thank God for making opportunities come your way.

2) Giving excuses for why you didn't perform is NOT an option

3) NEVER ever compare yourself to anyone, u're unique in ur own way

4) DON'T focus on the problem 'cos if you do u get intimidated & what God can do diminishes in your eyes

5) BE DILIGENT- Keep at it constantly & steadily apply yourself towards doing 1 thing at a time towards finishing

6) Commit to the Lord whatever you do & your plans will definitely succeed- Proverbs 16: 3

7) JUST WHEN U FEEL LIKE GIVING UP, Isaiah 40: 29- 31- Call on GOD 'cos he gives strength to the weary & increases power to the weak!

These are the 7 things that have kept me sane these past couple of weeks. Later, peeps1

Where did the year go & LV moves???

2010-10-26T13:14:00.006-04:00

I can't believe it's October already. My wonderful people, i am still alive and kicking. Where do i start from? God has been really good to me. I am still in school... 3rd year now. Can you believe it??? I know what topic i want to do the BIG D on, kinda exciting and surreal at the same time. I had the BIG D first committee meeting this week to let the JURY know what my plans are & when i'll take my comprehensive exam (comps). Going back to our analogy, after i take my comps which should be next year March or so by God's grace, then i'll be ABD (in other words, my name would be written in ink). I thank God for how far he has brought me, 'cos it's not by my power or might.

So what did i do this past summer??? I travelled. I had the priviledge of meeting one of my blog egbons, the one and only Temmytayo! Sweet lady, i tell you. Nigeria is still the same, nothing has really changed in that country. This was my first time going back home in 8 years. On to more interesting stuff, so ELVEE moved to another part of town for pharmacy school that is about 6.5 hours drive from me. I miss him sooooooooo much! There's nothing much to report except that i'm loving life and doing my thing. By the way, my friend started a blog, my good people, show her some love.

I just wanted to update this blog, just because it's been a while. Till i come your way again, remember to live life responsibly and live each day like it wasyour last. Remain blessed, folks.

~XOXO

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010!!!

2010-01-06T11:16:00.003-05:00

Hello people, happy new year to y'all. I pray this year is filled with all that u want it to be and more. I'm not one to make resolutions and all, but i've decided to do so this year, and all of them are related to school stuff. I've decided against putting the 3 of them all up on this blog, 'cos u never know who's reading stuff. So i've them etched in my brain (will still write it down on paper) and i am praying and working hard towards achieving the set goals. I want to be able to look back at the end of the year and thank God for accomplishing them all, so help me God- AMEN.

On another note, my birthday is coming soon and i have no clue what to do. I am not one that's big on celebrations, we'll see what happens on that day. I had a nice vacay with family and friends and i am dreading going back to my cold/ snowy zone tomorrow. I have no choice anyway, gotta do it. I wonder why i feel so guilty when i am on vacay? I have been away from school for 2.5 weeks and i am already feeling guilty that i have not done any school work since then. I wonder why i have this guilty feeling all over me?

What else is there to blog about? On some random musings, don't u just hate it when ur siblings gf/ bf meddles in a family conversation turned feud/ argument? I believe that when u're still a gf/ bf u should be seen at family gatherings and not heard especially when arguments/ fights are going on. In fact, like i always do whenever LV's siblings are arguing, i just "evaporate" from the scene, talk less of interfering. I think that's one skill my younger siblings bf/ gf need to learn, esp. my brother's gf.

Anyway, school starts on Monday, and i prophesy that this semester will be the most productive and best semester ever. Later people.

The end of the semester & the MALE EQUIPMENT

2009-12-05T09:32:00.003-05:00

Hello people, I know i have been a very bad blogger, but blame it on the S..S...S....C...H..O...O...L... Did you get the drift of what i was trying to do? A blame it on the A...A...A...LCOHOL kinda thing. To say i have been extremely busy, would be a serious understatement. Thank God for life, love, family, good health and everything in between. Whew! It seems as if this year just flew by.

So what has been happening in my life lately. Thank God, I passed my candidacy exam this semester. WOOHOO!!! So you can now call me a PhD Candidate or a Doctoral candidate, i'll let u decide whichever you prefer. My analogy for this is that my name is now written in pencil. Lemme break it down for you:

When you 1st get admitted to a PhD program, ur name is written in chalk meaning when a strong wind blows or something, it can be wiped off in an instant, then when you pass the candidacy exam, your name is written in pencil meaning it can still be easily erased, but by now u've become used to the strong wind so that the wind cannot blow it off easily. Then when you take your written & oral comprehensive exam in your 3rd year and pass that's when your name gets written in ink and is difficult to erase, then when you are ABD (All But Dissertation) and you successfully write and defend your dissertation, that's when your name is etched in permanent marker which cannot be erased. Gerrit?

To say this semester has been challenging wouldn't do it justice at all, but in all i still thank God. I wake up everyday (scratch that everyday part) with a renewed love for what i do, and ever so thankful to God for choosing this program for me. To tell you the truth, i don't think i could've chosen better and to think that this program was a last resort thing for me seems interesting now that i look back. God does know me and my abilities better than i know myself.

This semester, I was a teacher's assistant (TA) for 2 classes, at the same time taking 3 intense classes and being a part time unofficial RA. Thank God next semester, i don't have to TA. I'll be a full time RA, which will give me enough time to write and publish. I pray and plan to have at least the 2 papers i have been working on published by the end of next semester. On a lighter note, the things i have heard from students and experienced while TA'ing, i can write a book on. Lemme share one of such:

Task: Write a scientific term paper on sexuality. Student writes in term paper (paraphrasing), a disadvantage for men is that when doing it, the male equipment gets tired and the male has to rest. The girl may assume that the man is not capable or that his equipment doesn't function well. What the heck is THE MALE EQUIPMENT??? Is that supposed to be his moustache, beard or what? If so, then what is the female equipment? What is "doing it?" For crying out loud this is a scientific paper and a 400 level class and you don't need to be shy/ uncomfortable 'cos u're writing it, not saying the word to me. Anyway, let's leave the school thingie alone for now.

The holidays are here, but i have no real holiday plans, maybe i'll just take a week off and then back to work. I need to sort out a few things and clear my head as per what exactly i am going to be doing for my dissertation. I have ideas, but nothing i am set on yet. This break will be spent editing for the 5th time ('cos i'm anal like that :) the 2 papers i have been working on. The plan is to submit them for publication by the end of January- Amen.

The bf (aka Mr. ELVEE) has been very supportive and understanding. I love that boy more and more everyday. I just thank God for bringing him into my life, 'cos whenever i get all wound up in the fabric of academia and all, he reminds me and helps me put in perspective things that are more important. Academia isn't the beginning and end of the world. In all of these, my family has been awesome and very supportive.

I really shouldn't be on this blog now typing this, considering the amount of things i have to do before the end of next week, screaming for my attention. But, it will all get done by God's grace even if i will have quite a number of sleepless nights. AH! The life of a student. I just pray and i am trusting God that everything will pay off eventually. I know he will not and has never brought me this far just to abandon me. That's comforting, that i have a father that will never ever fail me.

Have a very merry Christmas and always have a thankful spirit, 'cos no matter what situation u're in always remember that someone has it worse than you, and that where you are right now is still a prayer point for some others. Enjoy the holidays.

~XOXO

YAY! School has started

2009-08-25T17:22:00.003-04:00

Hello people, how're you? School started on Monday and i am excited 'cos i really did not have a vacation from school. Anyway, i don't know why, but i am just excited. So i went to Baltimore on Thursday for the weekend. I decided to leave early in the morning to attend a 9 am class i was trying to register for. So i left Bmore at 5:30 am and was about 13 miles to Happy Valley, when the Popo pulled me over. As in, i was shocked! In my almost 5 yrs of driving, i have never ever been pulled over in this America by a cop for speeding. Mr. Popo asked me if i knew what the speed was around that area and i told him i thought it was 65mph, he said it was 55mph. I was doing like 75mph, but as soon as i sighted oga police i slammed on my brakes, so i think he really did not catch my speed. He asked for my documents, and then gave me a warning. Omo, i was happy o. Infact i almost hugged uncle police. Nobody told me o, i was gentle all the way to Happy Valley.

So i am a teaching assistant for 2 classes this semester. The most interesting one is the 400 level sex class. Today was the 1st day of class, and the prof asked them to write down the 1st thing they thought about when they heard the word SEX. Omo come and here responses o. I almost fainted and died of laughter. Some things i have never ever heard in my 20 som'n years of life. Let me share some with y'all: 69 (what's that?), moisture, STD's, AIDS, past gf's, present gf's and future one's i want to f*&k ... Abeg, let me keep this blog PG13. Please if anyone knows the meaning of 69 pls tell me. I will kuku come hear to gist y'all about the class 'cos i am sure it will be so much fun. The professor sef, she's so cool.

Looks like i will actually be a full time research assistant in the spring semester. I am so excited! You know what that means??? I am not going to be teaching for a while. Bliss! One thing i know for sure is that when i am done with this degree, i don't want to teach. It's bad enough that they say i already look like a professor/ school teacher/ school principal! That means, i have to start thinking, looking and networking on opportunities after i graduate.

By the way, i just realized that God willing, this time next year i should be done with my classes, and should be working towards my dissertation (the BIG D). I have an idea what i want to do for the BIG D, 1) it will be about women/ girls 2) it will be in global health 3) i will travel somewhere in Africa to collect my dissertation data and 4) it will be a qualitative study. I am sure more things will unfold as i continue to explore.

My Oga reviewed my paper, and he thinks i am doing a very good job so i am excited about that, glory be to God. Now the part i hate is this, having to revise the paper and then resubmit. Now i have 2 papers to revise and resubmit. By God's grace i want to submit those 2 papers to 2 different journals. God willing, my goal before i graduate with this degree is to have at least 4 papers on which i am the first author- AMEN.

Did i tell y'all that i am now a senior gal in my office? There are 2 new students in my lab. I have to "train" them according to my oga. Phew! Huge responsibility, 'cos i have my plate full already. I need to sign off now 'cos i have had my jumpdrive stuck in my computer's USB port for about an hour now. Work calls. Till we yarn again peeps, DEUCES!!! (That's my new slang, from "THE GAME").

Thank God for life

2009-07-16T14:42:00.002-04:00

My people, how una dey? I thank God for the gift of life and most importantly good health. I have been down with a nasty cold for almost a week now. Thank God i am alive and well. So what has yours truly been up to? Chilling and working. I move to my new apt in less than 2 weeks, and i haven't even started packing (not like i have a whole lot to pack anyway). Besides my bed, futon, a sofa, TV, TV stand, computer desk, microwave, toaster, small fridge, books, clothes, i am done. Voila! Anyway, so i have been on a 1 week self imposed bed rest, 'cos that cold really had me on lockdown o, if not for God on my side.

On another note jare, i have been travelling to Baltimore like every weekend since summer began. It's not as if Bmore is next door to me like that o, it's at least 3 hours (~170 miles) away from me. So now i am sitting my behind in my village till school starts. I attended praise nite on Friday at Jesus House Baltimore, it was an awesome experience. I have missed undiluted praise & worship like that so much. The worship led by Pastor Paul Irabor and his New Breed International church choir was off the hook, dynamic. It was really an hallelujah good time being in the presence of God. I enjoyed every moment.

My paper's coming along fine, and my Oga has made some revisions to it, so i will proceed. Hopefully, by God's grace i can have it all written and done by the end of summer. Summer break is almost over, not like i really had a break sha. Anyway, it's all good. Take care people. Remain blessed.

I wish ...

2009-06-30T13:31:00.004-04:00

2 posts in about 24 hrs, i tell u i am really improving. Woohoo!!! Anyway, i remember growing up, i used to wish i had an english name and stuff like that. I'll share with u some of the names i wish i was christened. Infact, to console myself, i've started making up names for my unborn kids (lol).

DISCLAIMER: No offence to people bearing these names o, i am just talking my own.

I wish i was named:

Tinu: Atinuke/ Tinuade/ Tinuola. You get the drift, anything that can be shortened to Tinu

Deyo: Moradeyo

Deke: Moradeke

Wura: Adediwura, not a big fan of Wuraola

Toluwanimi

Oyinkansola, Oyinkansade

Mojoyinade

Mojoyinola

Mojirola

Olufunmilade

Oluwasomidotun

Oluwadabira

Oluwadara

Kanyinsola

Fiyinfoluwa

Fopefoluwa

English names:

Joyce

Hephzibah ( i know it's not english)

Hadassah (Hebrew for Esther)

Caroline (Pls, i'd hate for that beautiful name to be shortened to Caro)

Rachel

For guys:

Xavier (absolutely love that name!)

Charles

Joshua

I think that's it for now. I will update the list as i remember.

Do y'all sometimes wish u had a different name? Please share?

YAY! Summer's here

2009-06-29T13:44:00.004-04:00

I'm back again. Me and this my erratic blogging pattern sha, only God will save me. Anyway, let's have 1 minute of silence for the King of Pop, Farrah Fawcett, Billy Mays, Ed McMahon and all those that have died recently.

Ok, 1 minute's up ......

Back to me. So 1st year's over. HALLELUJAH!!! PRAISE GOD!!!

2nd year, rolls in and before u know it i will be in my 4th yr- Amen!

Anyway, the summer's in, but it doesn't feel like summer for me. I am still in State college, living and working. I have some goals this summer, i pray i am able to accomplish all of them by the end of summer.

SUMMER TO-DO LIST

1. Finish up my paper to be sent out for publishing by the end of the year.

2. Revise the literature review paper and resubmit

3. Take a summer class and pass it excellently- Amen. Seeing as it is a 15 week class compressed into 5 days. Lord help me.

4. pack up my apartment and move.

5. Do whatever my "Oga" (My advisor) gives me to do

Gosh! School is beginning to take over my life. See as my summer list, has nothing fun included. Just school, and school and more school. Even i don't have plans for July 4. Just chilling and working on my projects. HA!

On another note, the boo and i went to New York over the weekend and we had a blast. Thank God for that boy in my life sha. I feel very blessed to have him and i lovvvvvvvvvvve him so much. Whatever jo! Afterall, it's my blog. Anyway, back to my studies. Just on here to take a break. I will try to be more consistent with my blogging. Laterssssssss people.

Bla...

2009-05-02T19:02:00.006-04:00

I told y'all i would repent and be a serious blogger, and i stayed true to my word. Err about the title, that kinda explains how i feel right about now. Ah well! The life of a grad student... I have a ton of things to do before the semester's officially over, but 'cos of the lurve i have for y'all, i'm here to share snippets of my life.

I've come to the following conclusions about being a PhD student:

1.) It's purely glorified/ dignified/ (insert an appropriate word) slavery. You get to do work for your mentor, before you actually start getting fully into your own research, and even after that, it doesn't get any better.

2.) You always have a huge pile of stuff to do! As one ends, u have a zillion others clamoring for ur attention

3.) The work never really ends. Did i say that already.

4.)You start re-thinking ur life, and asking yourself countless times who sent u to enroll in the 1st place. Oh, and then u remember that it's ur never-ending zeal for knowledge plus ur hope that one day you will do some amazing research that will end up saving humanity!

I'll share the others, as i continue on this journey of discovery.

I am supposed to be getting work done. In an attempt to being a very good girl, i bolted out of the house to my lab/office. So far, i've been good. I finished grading and entering the grades for my students. Ah, i need to tell y'all there's a story about that... More on that later. Then i went to Qdoba to get free lunch/dinner, comprising of a burrito and tortilla chips plus soda. All free. Well, not really free 'cos i used my gift certificate i earned. I am catching on fast to this my new life, well it ain't new anymore, 1st year as a PhD student is almost over next week. Whew! I have come to learn that as a grad student, anywhere there's free food on campus, is the spot you should be at. So i was sitting down jejely when our weekly e-newswire was sent to my inbox, and i saw an ad about this doctoral student needing female research participants to complete a survey, and since i fit into the criteria, i went. BTW, i chopped enough insult from my labmate for actually walking 10 minutes in the cold to go do this. It was some kinda survey on HPV vaccine. Anyway, i was given a Qdoba gift certificate for spending 30 minutes of my precious time completing the survey. I have been participating in so many studies, being a "research subject" a.k.a. guinea pig that give incentives (of course, what kind of a person do u think i am?)as long as they're not injecting me or doing some weird stuff to me. Alas! The life of a lowly grad student.

Back to the gist about the grades. I am teaching/ TA'ing a 300 level research writing class in my department this semester, in addition to taking 3 classes, and being a research assistant. I had to grade the last exam and return it to them by yesterday. Long story short, i started grading 5 am yesterday and by 10:30, i was done with about 50 papers (multiple choice, short answer and essay questions). To say, i was being a mother christmas with the grades would be a serious understatement! Anyway, i zipped through them all, looking for the key points. Got to class yesterday, showed the students their grades, only for many of them to be making comments like, "WOW! I actually did better than i thought i would." I just thought to cut them some slack, since this was the last exam anyway, and trust me i have been a "good" (read: hard) grader all semster long. With that being said, some people still banged it.

The parents come into town soon, so i'm abso-freaking-lutely excited to see them. Can't wait! Anyway, gotta get back to work, and then finish typing up my 20-30 page paper by tomorrow. Lord, i need you to pls help me, 'cos i just have zero motivation and stamina right now.

P.S: Excuse the typos, should there be any. Brain's fried and too tired to proofread.
P.P.S: Y'all lurve me too much, right? And if u think i can't speak proper english, good for you.
Gotta go.

It's been toooooo loooooooooonnnnnnngggggggg, people!

2009-04-20T12:28:00.002-04:00

Helloooooooooo people, if there's ever an award for the most unserious and inconsistent blogger ever, i'll win that award hands down. No contest on that! I've been neck deep busy with school work, omo this PhD no be joke o. It has seriously kept me on lockdown. It is glorified, or should i say modern day slavery, but as i have laid my hand to the plough, by the grace of God there's no looking back till i am done. It is tough, no doubt about that. Tough, in the sense that you have to learn to be an expert at managing your time and multi-tasking. I am taking classes now, at the same time i am a teacher's assistant and a doing my research. God is my strength and i know he has not brought me this far to leave me, so with that being said, i am thankful to God for this wonderful opportunity he has given me.

On a lighter note, i have missed blogging, it's ridiculous! I am thinking of making this a private blog, but then it won't be as much fun. I've made quite a number of friends through blogging, and it has been a jolly good ride so far. I know i am no longer annonymous per se, but whatever jare i really have no skeletons in my closet to hide.

I cannot wait for this semester to be over, but then again the work never ends. I hear from the 2 conferences i sent out abstracts to, then i know if the abstracts were accepted or not. My summer will be full. Preparing posters for both conferences, then i start writing the manuscript for publication, and then i am taking a methodology class that runs for a week this summer. Hopefully, i can squeeze in a vacation. Who knows???

My parents are coming, i get to see my mummy and daddy again after 2 years. Fun!

Okay, time to go back to completing this assignment due tomorrow morning. I'll be back people, i promise.

Sing dat song sista gurl

2008-09-30T17:31:00.005-04:00

My people, can you imagine it is the last day in September??? Where did this year fly off to, i remember when it was January1. Thank God for his many mercies sha. Anyway, i have boku gist for una. As in, where do i even start from? Okay, first things first i got paid 2 months worth of my stipend, i haven't been paid since i started school in August, so you can imagine i was seriously managing the funds i had. The annoying thing is that more than half of the money is gone, because i have paid all my bills and cleared all my debts, hmm i lied i "think" i still owe my brother $300 (lol). It's so annoying how money just vamooses sha in this country. What the heck is even happening these days to the U.S. financial system??? Wall street saw it coming though, but that's not the koko (crux) of my gist. That's story for another day.

I have been bad o, my people. Let me confess to you people. I had my 1st, 2nd shot of margarita recently. Okay, this was how it started, i was hanging out with my friends, and just chilling and gisting over a plate of hot and spicy wings, that's how my friend ordered a kiddie size cup of margarita on the rocks, so na so i carry my big head, and i told her that i wanted to taste it, so long story short sha, she ended up pouring half of it into my cup. Yeye person like me, i said shebi it's kuku like mango juice, plus it has ice cubes in, so i thought it wasn't that concentrated. I gulped it down. No wahala, i felt alright. I wasn't driving anyways so i could indulge.

Fast forward to yesterday, myself and 2 course mates went to the same restaurant/bar, na so i dey feel like big girl, i ordered a kiddie size margarita on the rocks again, this time around, i drank it all up no sharing with anyone. 5 mins after i was seeing stars, i could barely keep my eyes open, i started being talkative, u know. I wasn't drunk o (maybe a lil' bit crunk LOL) but i was seeing double. I mean it was the smallest size, that i ordered o. In fact alcohol is so NOT for me. I don't know how people do it, but if the "kiddie" size of mango flavored margarita could make me tipsy then i am so not going there again. NO alchie for me, lai lai. Walahi talahi if i had taken one more extra sip, i would have been gone, as in gone (lol). Anyways, that's the story of my life.

So i joined the choir at church, yes o! We have to sing to his glory you know. I am loving every minute of it. As in, i used to slack before that i can't sing bla bla bla, but it's all about singing to his glory. By the way, what is in me that people like me like this, ehn? Abeg if u know me like that, tell me o. I have 3 girl friends here already as in real "paddies" buddy-buddy type of friends that i feel like i have known them my entire life. What else is there to gist y'all about. School is getting to me small small o. I have deadlines, papers to write and so on. I cannot wait for this APHA conference coming up, Cali here i come! I need me some sunshine (lol). I'll be there for a week, also attending SOPHE. I may also attend the ASA conference in Chicago, just that the department isn't giving me travel money, just hotel, for the Chicago trip, so i'll have to cough out about $200 for my ticket. I dunno jere if i want to take out of my meager student stipend, but it'll be so much fuuuuuuuuuuuun!!!

So my advisor (TBB) wants me to have a draft of a publishable literature review paper by Feb. '09. I need to get to work. As in, seriously. God help me. Ah well! My 1st grad school exam is on the 21st so my face will be scarce eyin folks and for some weird reason all my deadlines for school work happen to fall in October. Oh bummer!!! Vacation time is over for me. TERC is still on, so y'all are invited to call in Fridays at 5am EST. The dial in # is 269-320-8200 and the PIN is 210524#. We have a wonderful time in God's presence. If you want to know what TERC is all about, just leave a comment. It started with a group of bloggers getting together via teleconference to fellowship together and share in God's word. We've become like family now, so i am inviting you to come and be a part of the family. Have a blessed weekend people and remain blessed and highly favored!

Life as i know it

2008-09-11T14:38:00.002-04:00

What's up blogheads? Anyway, i just felt the urge to blog again today (more like to rant/ vent). School started, i'm TA'ing for 2 classes (6 different sections of about 30 students each). Not too bad, huh? Well the down side is, i have to grade their papers as well. It's so amazing the kind of excuses these students give for not turning in things on time. The excuses are just so ridiculous and some (pls excuse my language) are just stupid! I overslept, i couldn't understand what was posted, and so many others. As in every time i log on to my school email i see at least 3 email from the kids. I finally deactivated my facebook account. I couldn't bring myself to doing it, so i told the mister to change the password, and deactivate it. That way, i won't know the passie and then i cannot reactivate it, 'cos it'll ask for my password, and even if i try to change the passie, it will ask me to supply my old passie. I know the mister will never give me the passie even if i'm crying blood. I told him to just give me the password when i'm on vacay and i need to check facebook.

So what led to this drastic decision? I realized, even though it's sad to say, that i was slowly but surely getting addicted to Facebook and it was becoming a real problem for me. Peep this, this past weekend, i planned to study and read some articles, but every time i went online the first thing i'd do was log on to FB. Long story short, i only got through to reading a few articles all weekend, and i did no studying. It was so bad to the extent that i now had to wake up in the middle of the night to get work done. I hate being controlled by anything.

What's going on my people, ehn? The number of folks i know getting engaged (4) within this past month. I mean, there's serious engagement fever in the air, and these are my people as in my very close friends. Enough aso ebi to buy. I am so haaaaaaaaaapy for them, infact happy is an understatement. I tell you, it's so funny 'cos every time i hear the news, mister is with me. I didn't know that the guy was already getting uncomfortable (lol). I assured him that i wasn't ready too, so even if he proposed now, it would take us abt 2 to 3 yrs before we finally got married. So we might as well chill.

Anyway, gotta grade 70 papers now, so i'll update again as soon as i have the time or whenever anything new comes up. Remain blessed, people.

P.S. Excuse the typos, no time to proofread

WELCOME TO HAPPY VALLEY

2008-08-12T10:38:00.002-04:00

Yes o my people, i am still alive and well, thank God for that. So i have finally moved to State College, PA and so far it's been good. I got my ID, parking permit, computer log in info and all the basic stuff yesterday. Today i'm just going to walmart to pick up some basic necessities, and then to see my advisor, who will be refered to as THE BIG BOSS "TBB" from now on. It's kinda boring here, but i'm sure that's not going to last for long. That was how i moved into my apartment on Saturday and i was highly disappointed. These folks had not changed the damaged stuff since the last tenant moved out. The shelves in the bathroom closet are rusty, the wood in the sink cabinet in the bathroom is damaged, mold all over. Goodness gracious, there's no way i can arrange any of my stuff yet, till they fix it. Even the paint by the window sills are peeling, they need to get some paint job done. Anyway, trust me i already went to the rental office to lodge in my complaints and they've promised to fix it all. So let's see what happens.

My people o, looks like i may not be getting paid my stipend till the end of September, 'cos i missed the deadline for them to process my paperwork. That sucks big time, cos i've spent so much money moving. Thank God for the special people God has used in blessing me. My very special BP (the mister), my brother, infact thank God. I will survive one way or the other sha, i know God has got my back so no shaking. This place is still kinda boring, i need some fun before the real work starts. I'm excited to start school, odd abi? I know, but we'll see sha. Anyway, till i come your way again peeps, enjoy and remain blessed.

HOLY GUACAMOLE .........

2008-06-03T12:31:00.002-04:00

Hello Blogheads, how've u been? I had the urge to blog and that's why i am here again. Did i tell you that i'm moving? Of course, what did u think??? I have never been a fan of relocating, but do i have a choice now? Did i also mention how expensive it is to move? Like seriously, what was i thinking. I went to State college to look for an apartment and found a 1BR in a very nice place, which is about a 5 minutes walk to campus. The good thing about this apt. of course it is about $80 above my budget, but the good thing is that all utilities are included in your rent. So check this out. Rent is 690+ 40 (for parking)= 730 then you pay a one time fee of 125 bucks to use the facilities (gym, pool blablabla). They have gas, electric, extended cable and internet, water, sewer, trash and they give you a bus pass. Good deal??? Oh well, but it's only 466sq. ft. Hmm... compared to where i am living now, that's small. But, hey that's the best offer i got so far.

Thing is the earliest i can move in is 8th of August, and my lease where i currently stay ends July 31st meaning, i'll be kinda homeless for a week. I have enough places i can crash in MD, but of course where then do i put the few items i managed to amass in my almost 1 yr stay in MD? Let's not forget again that i still have some of my clothes in my aunt's house in Long Island. Infact, God help me. I am being so prudent now and being extra careful not to have any unnecessary expense till i am all settled. By the time i deducted my rent and cell phone bill and car insurance bill from my monthly stipend, i'll have just about 600 bucks to live on. Hmm... Ko easy o. Who even sent me to go back to school, ehn? When i can still be making cool money working? Anyway, the earlier i get it out of the way, the better.

Can you imagine people. Just as i was typing this, my friend just sent me a FB message to tell me that the person going to sublease her apt. could not take it again. Though hers is a bedroom and my bathroom will be in my room and it's going for 300 bucks. Imagine, after i already sent my stuff over to the apt. complex. Maybe i should just stick with the 1BR apt that i already looked at. For privacy and all, u know if u decide to walk around butt naked, nobody will care. Anyway, i gotta run. Parking meter expired already and i don't need a ticket now.

Norrin mush is going on

2008-05-14T12:19:00.005-04:00

Fellow blogheads, werrin dey? How are things going? I know it's been over a month since i last updated, but that na tori for another day. Marra (matter) of fact, lemme say, it's kuku plain and simple, i just haven't had the urge to blog. Abi now, you cannot kuku arrest me, it's my blog and i can do whatever i like.

So what's been happening. Let's see. God has been good o. You know in my last entry, i was praying for my brother to get an internship. That was how last week someone from Oga Bill Gates shop called him and offered him a summer position. Like joke like joke, i was thinking ha! This our God is faithful o. So check this out we (my siblings and i) are going to be all over the place. Even LV too is leaving in 2 weeks for his internship. By the way, i was thinking of taking the entire month of July as a vacation, not doing anything, just chilling. But i know myself, i'll get bored outta my mind in no time especially with everyone gone. But i need to de-stress before i start grad school in August, 'cos from then on it's going to be school, research, school, research and more!

Is it just me, or am i noticing scarcity in weddings this summer? Looks like the recession is hitting people or maybe it's just that they are trying to keep things private (i.e. no wedding webbie). Oh wells, lemme mind my business. The price of gas nko? Ridiculous! It's hitting $4 already like play sha.

So the after school program with those kids in the elementary school's going great, but i need to be careful hugging 'em. Last week i was seriously down with a cold. Coughing, sneezing and all. Those "germy" kids, na every second they'll be coming for hugs. If if u don't hug now they'll be thinking u're mean, but omo bone o, i don't care at this point. I need some adventure in my life jere.

What did i see and i didn't tell u peoples. That was how they towed my car last month o. Only for me to see another parking ticket on my car on Monday. These Downtown Baltimore people are looking for my trouble o. Ahn ahn, na only me dey here ni? I was blessed to be given a handicap placard by LV's mum, and once i park and put it on the car, i don't need to put money in the meter for 4 hrs or i can change the parking location and then i'll be eligible for parking for another 4 hrs. So i have been parking for free in downtown since last year. (Shh!!! Don't tell anyone). That was how i forgot to read the sign that i had to move my car at 4pm. I got to where i parked the car and Voila! No car. I was dumbfounded! Then the mind games began, maybe i didn't park here, lemme go and check my normal parking spots, i'm sure the car is there. Na lie! I sha went round and round all the spots i normally park, then the geek in me decided to check the sign post and that was when i saw it.

Long story short, i had to shell out almost $250. Kai! The things that money could've done in my life. It is well. On Monday, i parked o, didn't move my car 'cos it was raining heavily, that was how i saw another ticket. But why??? How in heaven's name does the yeye traffic police expect a "handicap" person to move their car or to even walk in the rain? But we both know i cannot contest that ticket, 'cos i am not disabled in any way, shape or form. I pray that till i leave this job in June, no more tickets or towing o- Amen. Someone was saying that's the price i pay for parking for free in downtown, that's it's payback time.

I am always careful when putting the handicap tag after parking, 'cos i don't want some nosy people coming to ask questions, but it's nobody's business sef. There are different kinds of disabilities, abi? Anyway, till i come your way again, remain blessed. Did i tell you guys i am actually excited to be starting school soon? YAY!!!

Good news galore

2008-03-21T11:56:00.002-04:00

Hello pipos (copying naijachikito), what's up folks? Anyway, i had the itch to blog so i thought why not? I have just been surrounded by good news from friends and family. My gal, Sapphire Aster got into one of the top schools for her graduate studies, all expenses paid. The mister has two lucrative internships to choose from, we're in a dilemma now as to which one he should choose. Funny thing is that the 2nd intership offer, from one of the big pharmaceutical companies whose main head office is in NJ, he never applied for. He just attended a conference where he spoke to the guy from the company and he handed him his resume, only for them to email him yesterday with a letter of offer. I mean, that's just awesome. The 1st internship offer is with the top federal agency responsible for giving universities and professors and other scholars grants. I just thank God o, ni to ri, he has been a very good God. I use these testimonies as a point of contact for anyone looking for good jobs/ internships/ admission to school, that the good Lord will remember you and bless you indeed. Men and women, old and young will rejoice with you. What God has in store for you, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, neither can any mind conceive it.

Anyway, my pipos can u imagine these yeye people at my work place have started deducting social security tax from my pay, say wetin na. I sha received my pay and saw that it was significantly reduced, then i called them only to find out. I am pissed o. Anyway, thank God for the provision. I got my first electric and gas bill for 34 days. Omo mehn, $121 kini was what i saw, i was flabbergasted! Wetin i use now??? My friend is coming to visit first week in April, i have not seen that chic since we left Naija, so it should be loadsa fun. Searching for an apartment is no joke at all. I have been looking online frantically and have come up with about 4 places that look good, so i need to fix a date ASAP to go check 'em out and sign a lease and all.

My aburo is at the NSBE conference in Orlando right now. I pray he gets an internship. What else is there to yarn? Nothing. Oops! l forgot. there's this oyinbo gal i work with at the elementary school. She helps out just like my friend and i do. So this yeye gal is always snitching on us, that we eat all the kids snacks o. When as a matter of fact, everyone does and the supervisors see us eating o. My friend and I have decided to show this olodo gal pepper, infact her gist is for another day. Till i come ur way again pipos, have a blessed Easter.

Come and join me sing Hallellujah ... GO NITTANY LIONS!!!

2008-02-07T12:13:00.004-05:00

My people o, i finally moved, as in moved into my very own apartment. Words cannot begin to describe how excited i am. I mean, it was about time. I just had to. God is wonderful, awesome, worthy to be praised and faithful. My life is a living testimony of the Lord's goodness. I got admitted into Penn State, my #1 choice and the only other school i applied to for my doctorate in Biobehavioral health/ Biomedical science. See, i applied to 2 schools, one in Ohio and the other was @ Penn State in State College, PA. Between the 2 of us, it was really Penn State i wanted to go to, 'cos of the fact that it's in PA. I just love that state, dunno why. So i'm headed back to PA o my people, but hopefully it's not going to be as dry as my former undergrad city. The wonderful thing about it all, is that everything's going to be paid for and i'll be getting paid "student pocket-money" (stipend) monthly. Needless to say, i'll be on a student budget and i'm so going to miss the working class life i've become accustomed to. I am so grateful to God.

I have passed through some storms in my 20 som'n years in this world, especially in my education. Let me share one of them with you guys. I am an international student, and after my undergrad i applied and was given a work permit (Optional Practical Training-- OPT) that would enable me to work for a year. OPT is not renewable. I was scheduled to start work on July 1st, 2007, but i didn't actually start till Nov. 14th. So those 5 months were lost. It was tough, i went through some sad stages then. Lackfundaitis (lack of fund) set in soon. Anyway, let me not bore u guys with the details. Those who know me like that, know what i am talking about. To anyone going through the storms of life, just know that it MUST pass. I wonder sometimes, how i went through it all without breaking down. It was surely the Lord's doing.

Anyway, i am frantically searching for a 1 bedroom apartment in State College, PA. Any suggestion, ideas would be welcome. If you guys happen to know people living around that Penn State, State college area, please holla. Also i am attending every conference possible, every talk related to the area i want to focus on in grad school, every book i can lay my hand on, just to familiarize myself very well with what i am going to do. By the end of my 1st year, i want to have an idea of my dissertation topic. I am giving myself 4 years to complete my degree, by God's grace. The average number of yrs most pple spend in the program is 5 yrs, but i was told someone finished in 3 yrs before. I also pray, hope and plan to intern at NIH every summer, if possible as a predoc in one of their many intramural programs. I want to be able to merge my biology background, "lab work" with public health and what my advisor does successfully.

I am thinking/ planning to go home in December. Yes o, you heard me very well. It'll be over 5yrs by then. I miss home. Anyway, we'll see sha. Till i come ur way again. May the Lord bless and keep you all.

Move, Application deadlines and many more

2008-02-04T10:11:00.000-05:00

Ki lon sele eyin temi? Wassup folks? Okay peeps, how've y'all been? TERC is 1. YAY!!! Ok, i found an apartment not too far from my uncle and boyfriend's house, which means i'll be moving latest by Thursday 'cos my lease started on the 1st. I told my uncle and see drama o, let me not get into that. When i told my aunt, she just smiled (that smile... if u know what i mean) and said ok. Anyway, no yawa... no worries. I am applying to schools for Ph.D programs in the biomedical sciences, so abeg pray along with me that baba God will show me favor.

There's really no gist jere, just chilling with day to day life. I must say that this year has really been good so far, as per my spiritual life. I thank God for his grace o, 'cos it's really not by my power neither us it by my might. The mister and myself have started the habit of waking up to pray together at 6 every morning, i tell u that has brought about this unexplainable connection between us.

I had the opportunity of meeting Miguel 2 weeks ago. Imagine o, dude just showed up at church and walked up to me after the 1st service. I was surprised like heck! Anyway, it was nice meeting you for 5minutes o. Hopefully, we'll be able to hang out the next time you land in my zones jere.

By the way, i help out as a science tutor in an after school program at an elementary school. Okay, so i am meant to come up with a 2 minute science project for "Show-what-you-know." Any ideas? The project should be appropriate for either 1st or 2nd grade. Please if y'all have any suggestions, holla. Thanks.

There's no gist jere, i've been so dry lately. Have a blessed week people.

What's up folks?

2008-01-16T11:34:00.000-05:00

Hello guys, i know... i know... I've been a bad blogger. Happy New year to you all. I pray this year marks the beginning of abundant blessings and the fulfillment of God's promises in ur lives- Amen. My b'day was last Wednesday. I thank God for adding another year to my life and for the wonderful family and friends that called, texted etc. Especially the two wonderful friends that took me out for a b'day dinner. I really wasn't planning on doing anything 'cos my siblings aren't around, the boo is still in Nigeria and a lot of random orisirisi going on at my uncle's where i stay. It was still a fun filled day for me sha. I went to work as usual and then later that evening the festivities began.

I had the priviledge and opportunity of hanging out with 2 bloggers (allied and believer) and a non-blogger commenter over the christmas break. It was so much fun. It was as if we had known one another all along. The way the gist was just flowing from the "magical touch that did wonders... lol" to "it only takes "the guinea brocade." It was fun galore. We stayed up gisting and eating all night and finally went to bed at 7 am.

I am applying to graduate programs o. I tell u those apps are no joke at all. Writing essays, trying to keep track of the requirements of different schools and keeping up with the deadlines. It is well. Long story abi?

I am planning on getting an apartment, even if it means sharing with a room mate. I want to live by myself now 'cos it's just too much drama going on at the place i'm staying. They've been wonderful so far, but i don't want to overstay my welcome 'cos it seems that's what's happening now. I need my freedom ke? I'm an adult now (lol) but seriously, it gets to a stage when u're tired of kissing people's behinds, u guys feel me? I stopped doing that and it seems that's causing a lot of trouble, but u know what ...

On saturday, i was so sad and down. C'mon one of the things i wouldn't want is for them to think i'm taking their generosity and help for granted. I really do appreciate all they've done by accommodating me and God sees my heart and knows how i feel, but it's time to leave. Question now is how do i tell my uncle without us falling out? I know they'll think ABCD, but that's up to them to think anything. Oh wells! I need divine wisdom for that.

Wassup with everyone telling me to enroll in a nursing program? When will they get it that i'm not interested. Geez!!! The money, yeah so what? getting a job that'll file your H-1 visa for u, ehn ehn? Abeg, everyone should just leave me jo. I've started ignoring them all, 'cos na pesin wey dey one dabaru hin head den dey look for (they're driving me nuts). Abegi, if i wanted to do nursing i would've switched since my sophomore year in college, so hold ur peace eyin peeps. Okay jere, my fellow blog heads, by the way i wonder if pple still come to read this blog. Here's a special shout out to my fellow capricorns:

VERA: Jan 14th
NAIJABLOKE: Jan 19th

Ok peeps, see ya later.

30 Days of Thankfulness 2- DAY 30

2007-11-27T18:22:00.000-05:00

I feel honored to be one of those chosen to round up the "30 Days ..." Looking back at this year so far, i indeed have a lot to be thankful for. I'm so serious, i know it may sound cliche. God has been faithful, he has been good to me, he has been awesome. I've come to learn so far in life that even when things are not going according to your supposedly perfectly laid out plans, to still be thankful because everything happens for a reason.

I'm thankful for my family and to God for keeping us even during trying times.

I'm thankful for completing my bachelors degree this past May. It was indeed challenging, but i thank God that not only did i finish well, but i finished strong also.

I'm thankful to God for my sister's successful completion of her degree and for gaining admission to grad school on a full scholarship in form of a fellowship.

I'm thankful for the job i have now, it was indeed the job i wanted and the opportunities he has given me so far.

I'm thankful to God for the mister, my boyfriend. Okay, if y'all have been following my blog, you'd know that the last time i dated was 4 yrs ago and it wasn't a really serious r/ship, lasted for about 6 months. That was my very first bf and i think i just dated him to know what it feels like to have a bf. I was young and naive(lol). The mister has been everything i ever wished for in a man and more. The good part is that i wasn't even looking when everything happened. Love is most definitely in the air.

I'm thankful for my TERC family. Even though i haven't met some of them in person, i thank God for this strong connection we have. It's great, unexplainable.

I'm thankful to God for TERC, 'cos since we started it's been challenging but God has remained forever faithful. We've had our ups and downs yet we've come out victorious.

I'm thankful for the wonderful friend i met through this medium, Walking Encyclopedia, (u know urself) your words of encouragement during that trying period were priceless. Thank you.

I'm thankful for God's mercy that has kept me, even when i felt like giving up on myself, he never gave up on me.

I'm thankful for my health. In the last 5 years, i've not slept in a hospital or been in a hospital cause of an illness. My Jehovah Rapha has been my personal physician. Doing the regular check ups without me knowing.

I'm thankful to God for life.

I'm thankful to God for you, the reader and i pray his will for your life will be accomplished in the mighty name of Jesus- Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T11:30:00.000-05:00

Hey folks, I know it’s been a long minute since I last updated. Sorry, it’s not my fault; let’s blame it on the fact that I started a new job. Work’s fine, I find it interesting so far, I can’t afford to complain. It’s not lab work, but “office work.” I share my cubicle with 3 others; I have my own space though, which is quite nice. It’s obvious that I’m the newbie as soon as u step in, ‘cos I have the most boring space ever. I guess with time, I’ll jazz it up. So what are y’all doing for thanksgiving? As for me, I dunno yet, maybe I’ll sleep in and crash a couple of friend’s do. Was planning to take a trip to NY, but that ain’t happening. I’m so targeting black Friday sales, mehn. I’m in dire need of a brand new laptop, that’s another reason why I haven’t been updating frequently these past months. Best Buy, Walmart, here I come!

Oh I forgot to tell u guys I’m taking the GRE exams soon, yes o you heard right. I’m sure some of u are wondering what happened to me taking the MCATs? Well, to cut a long story short, not that I wasn’t ready or anything, but my faith got shaken a lil’ bit. Lesson # 1, NEVER TRY TO LIMIT GOD Bijouxoxo (Oops! I almost typed in my real name…lol). By the time the doubting Thomas in me finished listing the mountain of seemingly impossible things regarding med school, I gave up. But you know what, ever since then, I’ve had this unrelenting spirit urging me on not to give up my dream. So with all that is within me, by God’s grace I am going to do what it takes to get there. In fact, some people were gossiping that maybe I took it and failed and didn’t want anyone to know, Heck! If that was what happened, I would’ve said so.

With that being said, let me tell you a little bit about what I do. I work at the school of medicine, in the downtown office. I’m a senior analyst/ research assistant (that’s my title o) Hmmm… Get to read loads of articles, and summarize them, attend scientific conferences/ forums at the school of medicine or at NIH etc. I’ve met loads of people in the short while that I’ve been here. It’s all about networking. At the scientific forums, I get to interact with research physicians doing big things within the field of medicine and that has further given me the assurance that I can do “it” with God’s help. Parking in downtown is horrendous! My goodness, I really have to come up with a brilliant alternative ‘cos I can’t be paying $4 a day (on a very good day) or $6 a day for parking. My 1st couple of days, I paid $9, imagine!!!

Apart from work, nothing much has been going on. The mister is fine, my family’s doing great. Oh, by the way I met Vera and Naijabloke finally at this wedding. Vera’s a midget and NB is a giant. Yes, I said so and that’s the truth. Oh, I’m attending this surprise b’day party for an old classmate on Friday, hopefully there’ll be loads of fun, food and gist. Ok, I’ve to get back to work before my people discover what I’m doing. Laterssssssssss people. I miss blogging, yes I do! Have a wonderful thanksgiving and remember to give thanks for everything in your life.

Platonic friends? Hmmm ...

2007-10-18T12:12:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, how're u doing? YAY ME!!! 2 posts in a week? I'm really getting better. Ok, i've been thinking a lot about this. So as usual, i decided to use my blog as an outlet to let off steam. DISCLAIMER: This topic is not about anyone in particular or in reference to any incident.

Let's begin, oppposite sex friendships we all know can be difficult, and it is quite challenging especially when u're in a serious/ committed r/ship i.e. when u have a boyfriend/ girlfriend. I'm going to be very open and tell it like it is on here and i know this isn't unique to just me.

Most of my friends, and i mean friend in every sense of the word (not acquaintance) are guys. I've 2 best friends. A bestfriend girl and a bestfriend boy, like i call them. Those who know me, can testify that i'm one of those easy to talk to pple. I can be a complete goofball when i want to. Anyway, to the koko of the oro (crux of the matter), i love my boyfriend a lot (yeah, yeah! who cares?), but i find it difficult striking a balance, in such a way that i won't make anyone uncomfortable.

The other day, the mister and i were together, when this random guy [let's call him Former Bad Boy (FBB). He gave himself the name not me] i met sometime ago walked up to me. Apparently FBB has/ had designs on me, which i was oblivious to, as always. We chatted on and on and since then we've become acquainted. The mister's so uncomfortable whenever i'm around FBB and i've tried to put his mind at ease so many times. Good for him to know he has competitiors out there, so he acts right, some may say. Of course, FBB knows the mister but he still says we can be platonic friends. No qualms, afterall i have many other guy friends that i talk to for hours.

Then there's this other friend i have in Canada that's just wonderful in every sense of the word. An absolute darling. If the mister wasn't in the picture, i probably would be dating him now. That's not to say i'm comparing the mister with him, not at all neither does it mean that i'm having second thots abt the mister. I talk to Mr. Canada all the time. About twice a week just to catch up on what's happening in his life and all what not, do some amebo here and there, shey u get?

Let's not even bring the Naija guys into this pix. They say out of sight is out of mind, so i think i can handle that side very well. Now the experts that know how guys and girls think say that, ladies are emotional wrecks sorry beings, they also claim that when a guy and a girl are getting too close, just platonic closeness, that if care isn't taken, one/ both parties will start developing feelings for the other. Hmmm ... Food for thought. I daresay ,that it's not always the case just from examining my friendships. What do y'all think? Are platonic opposite sex friendships still possible, even if the person liked u before? Does constant communication bring about affection? Please, be as honest as possible. Remain blessed folks.

When it rains, it definitely does pour

2007-10-16T08:14:00.000-04:00

Hello blogheads, how're you guys doing? If there's ever an award for the nost inconsistent blogger ever, i know i'll win that award hands down. But really, it's not my fault (yeah, yeah, play the blame game). I've been job searching since August and i've finally been blessed. I got 3 job offers all in a week and yet i still have 2 interviews lined up for next week. Our God is forever faithful. I'm grateful to God for the wonderful family he 's blessed me with for their constant love and support, they were always and are still keeping me on my toes. Sometimes, they're a pain of course (LOL). Also for my wonderful friends, especially the Walking Encyclopedia (WE), his encouraging and inspiring words were just wonderful. In the short time i've come to know him, he has really been a blessing to me, and i cannot thank him enough. I remember calling him at odd hours of the day/ night to whine and WE was always there to listen, a good listener he is (don't let ur head swell, 'cos i know u're reading this), staying on the phone with him for hours, especially whenever i felt overwhelmed.

ELVEE also provided a shoulder to cry and lean on, but with school and so many other things he was going thru i wanted to steer clear. ELVEE is just too funny. Can u imagine my wonderful boo has been trying extra extra hard now that he knows he has some competitors out there, infact that's gist for another day (PENDING GIST #1).

Many things are happening on a daily basis. Oh by the way, i attended the Festival of Life, organized by RCCG. It was glorious. Pastor Adeboye preached, Apostle Gilbert Coleman and Martha Munizzi had a live concert. It was wonderful. I was back stage mostly 'cos i volunteered to help out with the hospitality team. We were responsible for hosting Martha and her band members, giving them food and all. When she came for a snack in our room, nobody had a camera to take a picture with her, we sha managed one with a camera phone that's just so unclear. Some of the testimonies were just hilarious. Gosh! There was this guy who came with his wife to testify how God saved his wife from fibroids, he went on and on to say how the docs said there was a 50% chance she'll ever be preganant, how they had their 1st three babies in less than 3years a little over 2years sef, of course the church hoo-ed and haa-ed at that. Anyway, it was just too funny, the pastor that MC-ed had to ask if she wasn't pregnant again at the end.

My scoper (this guy that has designs on me), was at the holy ghost night, I chilled with him for a lil' bit. Gosh! That guy's story is for another day (PENDING GIST #2). I need to keep y'all posted. Happy birthday to Muyiwa, may God grant u your heart's desire according to his will- Amen. Happy birthday in advance to oluwaNIYI the GREAT COMMENTER, dude u've been a blessing to me and i can only wish u the very best and speak God's blessings into your life. The good Lord will perfect all that concerns you- Amen. Thank you. Till i come your way again, i'll try not to make it too long, remnain blessed people.

GO BOILERS!!!

2007-08-31T12:02:00.000-04:00

Belle, i know u're chanting along abi? Anyways, i flew into Indiana yesterday and i'll be here for 5 days. Indy folks, holla. Chichi i'm still waiting o, it'd be nice for us to link up while i'm here. I got to see OF (see previous entries) after almost 8 years. Geez!!! Everyone's so grown now, but there are some things that never change, of course. I'm just lazing around. Later on, we should go sightseeing. I don't even know if there are any fun places in this West Lafayette, so far it looks boring. We'll sha, we're going to worship in Baba OF's church on Sunday.

Elvee did something that blew my mind, totally unexpected. After dropping my aunt and i off at the airport, as i was about giving him a goodbye hug, he handed me his debit card. At first , i'm like what for? Then he went, "in case u want to do some shopping in Indy." I was beginning to tear up, so i quickly vamoosed before i gave the waterworks company a run for their money. He's so selfless and that's one of the reasons amongst many others why i love him. I kuku didn't accept the card from him, for so many reasons. It has nothing to do with pride or anything (well i don't think), but i have my reason for acting that way. I hope he understands, and it won't be like a slap in his face.

I'll keep you guys posted on my orisirisi happenings here. By the way can you guys believe i slept off and missed TERC today. My phone was on silent. Lord have mercy on my soul. Toyin babes, i'm sorry o, i woke up this morning and saw 3 missed calls from you. I feel so bad. I'm so impressed with my sister. The babe has really pimped her apartment. Decorated it and all in less than a month that she's been here. I wonder where i put my camera, i pray i find it sha 'cos i have so many pictures i've not downloaded on there. Niyi the commenter, enjoy yourself in Philly, i wish i could've linked up with you. Oh well, some other time. By the way the well-known doctor in my village (see previous posts) is coming to Baltimore, so we're going to meet up for dinner/ lunch and talk about job offers jere. Oh well, gotta go. Will keep u guys posted. Have a wonderfully blessed weekend guys.

Guilty or Not guilty?

2007-08-09T16:05:00.000-04:00

I know you guys missed me during my almost 4 month break off blogger. LOL. Well, a lot has happened as u can imagine. I graduated from college, spent time hanging out with the family, took my MCAT Prep class, postponed my MCAT exam, met this wonderful, handsome bloke who happens to be my boyfriend now (couldn’t let a good brother slip away just like that :), moved to Baltimore, MD. I think the move is temporary, well except I get a job here. So far I like Baltimore and I pray I get a job here, so I can stay here for at least a year. Changed churches of course, I now attend Jesus House Baltimore (JHB), I love the church, even though there’s a claim that the youngsters that attend go to show-off. Well, that’s not my business, as far as I’m concerned nothing consign (written intentionally) me jere. I am also job-hunting seriously. I am desperately in need of a J-O-B. I want to work as a research assistant/ technician/ technologist on a college campus. I just want a job that will aid in my application to med schools. Okay, I know you guys are waiting for gist. Kai! See gist-mongers o, I know say na anoda pesin’s gist sweet pass, so I no blame u ‘cos if to say na me, all my ears go dan stand at attention.

Okay, lemme start with how I met this bloke. We will call him Mr. ELVEE. Elvee came for my sister’s graduation party and he was looking like million bucks, dashing young man. Of course I kept my eye on him throughout the party, but he was oblivious to it all. You know I have my CIA cum FBI/ Robocop skills. I had to do it as an underG thingie, can’t afford to de-rep myself just like that ‘cos of fine boy o. Tufiakwa!!! We didn’t even yarn at all that day except the usual exchange of pleasantries. He was at our party for about 1.5 hrs, and then he had to leave for his cousin’s grad party, but he promised to come back to give our family friend, Globo (there’s this very sticky chewing gum, called “Globo” they sell in I think Lome, Togo). You get the drift on why we call her Globo now? Some of you can be slow sha :) Since my brother was the designated photographer, he used my camera to capture the events of the day. 2 of my friends who happen to attend the same church as Elvee were scanning through my camera, and when asked for the 411 on dude, na so so praise den dey praise am, you would think dude paid ‘em or something. They all had wonderful things to say about him, of how dedicated he is at church, how down-to-earth he is, how funny he is blablabla. Even Globo had wonderful things to say about dude ‘cos they attend the same school. That was how Globo decided to begin the hook-ups.

To cut a long story short, Globo played a major role in hooking us up, and we officially (lol) started dating June 1^st. It’s been fun so far, quite a learning and humbling experience. We’ve got into trouble together, and out of it. No major misunderstanding yet, just minor arguments. So far, I’m having fun.

My dad is a lawyer, and I’ve gone with him to court on two occasions while I was in Nigeria. The two times I went, I hated the court scene. I may have to appear in court soon to be a character witness (I think that’s what it’s called) in the trial of the professor from my school. A bunch of my friends and I received subpoenas (sp?) from the attorney. This is serious bullcrap o (excuse my French please). The guy only taught me for one semester and his niece happens to be my friend. Chikena! I so don’t like the court setting. Also, I recently got a citation for trespassing in the public park o. There’s this park with a nice lakeview near my sister’s school where I go to chill after studying. I had been studying all day and needed to take a break. That was how I called Mr. Elvee up, for us to take a walk in the park. This was around after 9 p.m. or some minutes to 10 p.m. Just to enjoy the scenery o. We then chilled in his car; we parked the car in such a way that it was facing the roadside. About 15 minutes later, we saw flashing cop cars coming our way. The cops’ sha told us to get out of the car, they searched the car, and wrote us up for trespassing on state property after hours. I never knew parks had closing time. Anyway, we have to appear in court for that. My thing now is if the judge asks, “Guilty or Not guilty,” what do we say? I am seriously praying the case is dismissed. Not only that, there was this Sunday the Mister and I were on our way to church. Service was meant to start at 9 and we were just leaving the house at 8:45. It takes us about 30 mins to get to church, plus he’s in the protocol dept. at church, so u get the drift. I wonder what got into me that day, I delayed him for about 5- 10 mins, tryna get my pretty on :) So he was speeding down the highway, next thing you know, we got pulled over, and he was given a speeding ticket for $ 90. Being his 1^st speeding ticket ever, he was told not to pay up, but contest it. According to what we were told, if he paid the fine he would get points on his license. So he has to go to court for that again. Should he plead guilty or not guilty? I felt terrible and vowed never to keep him waiting, so help me God. I pray the case I dismissed.

That’s what I’ve been up to so far o, eyin people. I pray no more yawa for me again. I’ll keep on keeping u guys posted on my daily orisirisi runs. My life is indeed quite fascinating, I know all these things are added to spice up my life for a reason. It is well.

DARN BLOGGER!!!

2007-08-08T10:02:00.000-04:00

Will post shortly, blogger's screwing up my post ...

Watch this space: BIJOUXOXO RELOADED :)

2007-08-01T14:52:00.000-04:00

My people, to say i've missed you all, would not do justice to how i felt when i was off blogger for almmost 4 months. But it was a good time for me to sit back and do other things. A lot has happened within those 4 months ... some good, some not so good. I got in trouble and i got out of trouble, and yet things are still happening. Anyway, trust me to come back with a detailed account of all the stuff that happened within the past 4 months. God is still on the throne, and because he lives, i know i can face whatever the future holds for me. I promise to put a post up by Sunday.

OF's gist and blog hiatus

2007-04-16T18:08:00.000-04:00

Hello people, i'm trusting that y'all are doing well by God's grace. I've had a lot of orisirisi to do. This blog entry is going to be long so be prepared. I'll divide it into 3 parts. 1st i'll download OF's gist on here, then i'll let u in on what's been popping in my life so far and lastly, i'll drop the bombshell on why i'll be MIA until mid-August. Please, let's take a minute's silence to mourn the loss of the Virginia Tech people. I pray that the good Lord will console the families of the departed and grant unto them the fortitude to bear the loss- Amen.

OF drama: THE END

OF is this dude i had a huge crush on, and he kinda sorta liked me too (or so i thot). Check my blog archives to read more about him. From the onset of everything, i knew the dude had a hard time making up his mind. Anyway, to cut a long story short, my sister's boyfriend was OF's classmate in high school in Naija. He saw som'n i wrote on his facebook page and asked my sis if there was anything going on between OF and I. My sis, knowing the full story, told her bf what she knew. That was how my sister and her bf began some FBI and CIA cum Robocop moves. All the while, i didn't know any of these things were going on. My sister's reason for joining her bf in doing these underG runz was 'cos she just couldn't fathom why OF would be leading me on in one direction, only for him to go MIA again. Shey i told u people about our conversation at the beginning of the year, early January to be precise? I remember telling all of una, so check the archives. My sister thot there just might be another girl in the pix or that he had a gf in his zones. What they found out was that around the time OF was talking to me, he was also talking to someone else. It so happens that this babe knows my name and i think has seen my pix somewhere, somehow. They think OF told the babe about me after she discovered som'n fishy was going on. That's the koko of the oro. My thing is, i'm not interested in all these drama, 'cos God knows i've a lot of things on my plate as it is. For a while, even before i heard the gist from my sister, i had stayed clear of OF. I fashied his side, deleted his number from my phone, took him off my IM list and all. Then it dawned on me that i was kinda holding a grudge against someone who had no clue. So to prove to myself that it wasn't so, i sent him a text on Easter day, part of a mass text message. So OF's history in my books. Another one bites the dust, life goes on. Oh well!

WHAT'S NEW?

It's still the same old me. Helped plan this event at school that was a blast. Thank God everything went well. I had fun and so did the others that came. Uzzy Buzzy, i know u're reading this, abeg no vex about me calling u out like that. I'm thanking baba God in advance for the research job he has provided for me. I know he has done it already, so no shaking. 26 more days to grads. My parents are coming from Nigeria in 2 weeks and my big aunt. It's going to be fun with all of them. People are trying to hook me up left, right and center o. My friend Tom is trying to hook me up with his friend. I had the opportunity to speak with the guy (by the way, Tom had praised this guy to the highest heavens) on Friday night. Let's just say it was a total fiasco! First thing, he called me at midnight. I mean, i entertain calls that late, but not from people i don't know. Next, he's telling me he wants to see me the next day. He didn't ask if i'll be free to meet with him or anything, maibe (maybe) he expects me to drop everything just 'cos he wants to see me. Of course, trust yours truly to put him in his place. Last thing that broke the camel's hunch back was when he said u can call Tom next weekend so we can meet up 'cos Tom knows how to reach me. Last time i checked, u should be the one chasing and trying to be on ur best behavior to make an impression. He came across as arrogant and conceited. Immediately he hung up, i called Tom to give him the low down. Tom didn't pick up.
Uncle Daltono i know u're reading this o. I still dey wait for the guy u bin dey tell me about. I've a feeling that this ur guy is correct, 'cos u don't move with just anybody. Well done o for putting me on "is coming" the last time. No be ya fault. Kesto is still being persistent there o. Calls me all the time, but sometimes he just doesn't geddit (get it) , i swear. The bloke is trying too hard and it's not as if i'm giving him a hard time o, but the connection's just not there.

GOING MIA

Eyin people, i'm taking my MCAT exam August 6. You know what that means? I'm going to dedicate myself 100% to it, 'cos the money i'm dropping for the prep class and registration, no be small dough at all and besides, i ain't got no time for games. God willing, after grads in May, i'll study like my life depended on it. First things first, i'll be relocating from my zones to either NY or NJ. The library will be my second home, coffee and red bull will be my friends. Please, include me in ur prayers o. I don tell my father in heaven wetin i want, now it's my turn to put in my 2 cents to prepare. I may check out ur blogs and leave comments, but will not be blogging. Serious studying begins May 21. That's it for now folks. Till i come ur way again, remain blessed under the protection of the Almighty.

GOD HELP ME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-03T21:30:00.000-04:00

My peooooooooooooooples, it's been a very long minute since i gisted y'all on my daily dealings. A lot of things have been happening, but i've been too tied up with work to even think of posting on here. My people o, shock carried me, infact more than shock sef. I was jejely standing infront of a mirror and combing my hair on Friday night, when i noticed a strand of grey hair on my head. MO GBEEEEEEEEEEE OOOOOOOOOO!!! Omo, fashie being polished and cultured and well mannered, i screamed out. Oginni, this is serious. For why? How old is me? (Hold ur horses, all u english people, i know it's gramatically incorrect). Anyway, was the grey hair a sign that i'm stressed out or that i'm wiser? I'd like to think it's the latter sha. Whatever jere, eyin haters, the grey hair is a sign of wisdom.

My presentation was a breeze, i wasn't even nervous or anything. I guess that's what happens when u know ur stuff inside out, practice a million times and are very well prepared. Geez!!! My weekend was a blast. Just time away from all the wahala was good enough for me. Did i mention that my friend, Miss T and I both presented our research findings? They even took our pix while we were doing our thing at the podium and it's going to the local newspaper again. I'm becoming too popular o, eyin paparazzis u need to back off now (lol). Oyinbo people cannot dance for shishi o. Kai! I know i can't dance to save my life seeing that i don't even move to the rhythm of the song when i dance, u may say i'm not in the best position to talk. Hear me out o, i can talk this one. T and I would've showed them how it's done, Jamo and Naija style, but we didn't want to mess up our reputation of being "proper and serious-minded" gals amongst our classmates and professors.

It was nice to see our professors loosen up a lil' bit. Drinking, dancing and even playing pool at the bar. Kesto, is really being persistent o. The guy calls me like three times every week. I think i'll just keep him in the "friend" basket for now. Oh, i bet y'all didn't know i had baskets labelled for each category of bobos that come my way (lol). That's the truth though. Oh, i've a new toaster o, let's call him HM (short for honey mustard), that's 'cos this dude with his "sweet" mouth, can yann u some sweet nothings. I tell u, my head's always expanding bythe time i'm done talking to him or chatting with him on IM. Infact, i'm blushing now sef as i type. As for OF, he is now history in my books. That's story for another day. I've deleted his numbers from my phone, took him off my IM's, but he's still my facebook friend though. That's story for another day sha, it deserves an entire blog entry sef, but when i process all the info, i'll get back to u guys ASAP. Some guys are just not worth the stress, infact no guy is worth the stress. To think i almost let myself go, ehn. Thank you Lord is all i can say. I'm tempted to call him sometimes, but thank God for controlling me. I still think about him sometimes o, i'm not even going to front on that one mehn. Anyway, we'll talk about him some other time.

That's it for now folks, stay tuned for the OF gist soon to come. Remain blessed people.

How Bijoux was serenaded with love songs

2007-03-18T20:47:00.000-04:00

My people, what's up? Trouble sleep, yanga come wake am. Na so i dey sit down jeje when my NY guy, Kesto called me. Long and short, this boy was wooing me o with some Andrea Bocelli and Heather Headley love songs. TEMPTATION galore. Sha Sha Sha we gisted for a long time and this boy was yarning orisirisi (different things), beating around the bush. I've known Kesto for almost 2 years now. He's been doing Mr. Nice guy ever since we met, u know not making his intentions known and trust me to "play" along. As long as u don't talk, me too i no know anything.

Today sha, he was yarning how he really likes me, how he's studied me and noticed that i've surrounded myself with a lot of barriers, and it would take a "real" man to break thru those barriers. How he respects me, u know all those sweet nothings that make "us" blush (lol). He's telling me he's willing to break thru those barriers to know the real me and build a friendship with me. All the while, i was just joking around. I then asked him, why he would want to break thru those supposed "barriers?" Abi now, i just had to stick my finger down his throat. By the way, u guys shouldn't mind the yeye boy o, i'm an innocent somborri (Naijabloke can testify) so all those talk about barriers, the boy was just yarning rubbish.

Dude was like, ok u wanna know why? I really like u, like doesn't even begin to capture what i feel for u and i've been shy all this while to tell u since we're from 2 different backgrounds and i don't know how u'll take it. Sho! This bobo even went on and on to tell me some qualities i had from his interactions with me, that i didn't even know existed. He's like i think u really like me, but u're trying to hide it/ u're in denial. A whole ME, BijouxoxoCherubKokoroewa na me Kesto wan put for corner. Oya lemme talk true, my head swell sotay it almost exploded o. I was enjoying the attention and all (lol).

Anyway, i had to break it down for him, as per declare my true intentions and what i thot abt him. Oya my people, between you and i, i like Kesto as A FRIEND. He's reeeeeeeeeaaaaallllllyyyyyyyy handsome. As in the brother is FOOOOOIIIIIIIIIINNNNNEEE. He's also one of those well built brothers, u know what i mean *winks*. Shege! I should be studying o. Anyway, i just got off the phone with him and decided to drop it like it's hot on here for u guys, u know download the gist fresh off the press (lol). Only thing that disqualifies him is that he's not a committed christian. BUMMER!!!

What's Bijoux's definition of a committed christian? Good question. I don't think he has a personal relationship with God. Granted, church-going doesn't really count. Talk about a serious TEMPTATION. Our values/ beliefs are totally different from the lil' i know. The brother's 29, and i really don't know much about him except the very basic stuff. So he wants to get to know me. I'm thinking in my head, Why? Abi now, since there's no way there. That one na serious dead end. I sha made him know that i appreciated the way he made his intentions known, even though i had to prompt it.

My people, the question i'm posing to u now is Why-Oh-Why do the guys (like OF) u're feeling and want 'em to yarn u sweet nothings, serenade u with love songs and woo u, not do that? I tell u, borrowing Miguel's statement, God truly does have a sense of humor. Just 2 days ago, i was telling a friend som'n, and now today, look what i'm facing. Be careful what u ask for.

Have a blessed week.

TERC BLOG

2007-03-17T23:03:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, how're y'all doing? The TERC blog has been started. Anything that relates to TERC will be on there, including a summary of what we discuss at each fellowship meeting.

Also, whatever questions you may have on the topics discussed, or on any part of the scripture you need a clearer understanding of, please feel free to drop ur questions in the comments section and i'll post it up on the blog for people to respond to.

The dial-in instructions and the keys to press whenever u call in are under "TERC Instructions" on the blog.

Remain blessed people.

Random Rantings

2007-03-15T17:51:00.000-04:00

What's up folks? I'm trusting y'all are doing very well by God's grace. Nothing much has been happening as usual. I came down with a very bad cough and cold last Friday but now i feel much better, i even lost my voice for a day. Thank God for cough drops and Vicks.

A Naija guy that attends school not too far from mine contacted me via facebook. According to him, ok we'll call him Ebi, he wanted to check out the school for his friend that was gonna transfer into the Nursing program. Yesterday we all met up and had so much fun chatting and taking pictures. Ebi came in company of his friend that just took the MCAT exam and passed it, so we had loads to talk about of course. They even attended bible study with my girls and i, which was great. Can someone please tell me why my Kasali, decided to act up yesterday?

Kasali is my car, see it's a very cool car and whenever i drive it, i feel on top of the world for some reason. It's one of those cars that when pple see u in, they think ur money has arrived. If only they knew the story behind it! I'm sure some folks at school, scratch that, i know some folks at school that are jealous of me 'cos of Kasali o. I tell u, it's just plain crazy to be jealous or envious 'cos if u know the story behind some things, u'd realize the folly of ur jealous ways. Back to Kasali, that's how i ran out of gas o and Kasali no gree start. Sho! I gas up my car every Sunday, and that lasts me for a week, ceteris paribus. So u can imagine the shock on my face when Kasali no gree start. I'm very bad when it comes to managing cars, u know checking the oil, and all that stuff (BOYFRIEND WHO KNOWS A LOT ABOUT CARS NEEDED ASAP). Sikira of blessed memory, my former car, suffered in my hands. That was my very first car and i killed it. Me that i was forming babe before, see how this yeye car dan burn my cable sha. Big gal wey no fit put gas in tank, abi? Sha, sha, sha i sorted that one out, and we didn't let that mishap spoil our fun.

My people, i was inspired today o. As in everything happens for a reason. I don't believe in coincidences at all. That's how i checked the mail o, and saw our local hospital's newsletter in the mailbox. I'm like sho! since when did i start getting newsletter from these peeps. It so happened it wan't addressed to me and it was in the wrong mailbox, 634 instead of 633. I just flipped thru the pages and saw an article about the new chief of cardiothoracic surgery. The guy was originally from Cameroon, and when i read about the obstacles he faced and how he turned them into opportunities, i was awed! This is someone that wouldn't let the circumstances of his birth determine his future. He was a foreign student yet, went to Harvard for his residency, infact one of the best schools for med school and all. Not like he could afford it or his family, 'cos his father was a cattle rearer in Cameroon. I've promised myself that i MUST speak to him before i graduate in May. How i'm gonna do that, i have no idea. But i'll see if i can get his direct line, email, anything, i just need to glean some words of wisdom from this man who has achieved so much. I need people like that to inspire me, to mentor me, to keep me focused.

Anyways, that's it for now folks. I'm charged up for TERC tomorrow. You guys don't want to miss out, 'cos tomorrow's gonna be exciting, som'n extra special. See you guys tomorrow, God willing.

TERC Friday Series #1

2007-03-09T21:20:00.000-05:00

THE POWER OF PRAISE

Hello folks, how're y'all doing? All i can say is TGIF (Thank God It's Friday! Woohoo!!!). Today marks the beginning of my week long Spring Break and i'm so excited to be sitting my behind in my zones to catch up on school work. Okay, on to today's business. I've been promising since forever to always do a recap on what's discussed at TERC on my blog, so that we can all share in the message together. Boy-Oh-Boy!!! Did we have an Hallellujah good time today or what??? It was fantastic, infact fantastic doesn't even begin to describe it, it was just AWESOME. Seven people called in today including someone from Canada. It was just beautiful fellowshipping in the presence of the most high God together with like minded folks.

A lil' som'n i thot i'd share. I've been going thru some stressful times lately. Trying to set the ball rolling on my next step after graduation, plus some family drama has been brewing, which i've been trying my best to avoid 'cos when all's said and done, i don't want to hear "Cherub said shokolokobangoshe." Anyway, in the midst of all these, i realized i haven't been having my quiet time as often as i ought to, even when i pick up my bible to read a passage or even to pray, my mind just drifts away. Last night i didn't go to bed until 3 a.m. tryna get some schoolwork done and i wasn't too sure if i'd be able to wake up at 4.55 a.m. for TERC, but by some miraculous som'n som'n i woke up o, not even feeling tired sef. I was just too happy for not missing out today 'cos i know the message was just for me.

So Miguel, with contributions from all present, gave us some insight on Praise and how effective it can be. The scripture was taken from Acts 16: 25 - 29. The story in Acts is about Paul and Silas' prison experience after they were thrown in jail for commanding demons out of the slave girl fortune-teller. While singing hymns to God and praying, the chains that bound them were loosened.

LESSONS TO LEARN FROM THE STORY.

Praise draws people to God. It broke the shackles for Paul and Silas so much that the guard was drawn to know more about the God that delivered them (v. 29). The other prisoners experienced their breakthrough from 2 men's act of worship and were drawn to know the God of Paul and Silas.

Points to Ponder

King David, who wrote most of the Psalms, was called a man after God's heart (1 Samuel 13:14). Inspite of the sins he committed, stole a man's wife and had him killed, God still described him as that, 'cos he was always offering praises to God. His worship reflects the depth of the relationship he shared with his God - joy, tears, dancing (2 Samuel 6:14), and song. In most, if not all of the chapters in the Psalms, David added "I will praise you, Oh Lord."

Praising God thru songs and prayer should go hand in hand.

Giving praise to God is an act of worship in and of itself. Even in the midst of troubles, we ought to praise God. The angels are busy praising God 24/7 how much more we his children?

Praise truly does draw people to God and can be used as a tool for evangelism. Miguel gave an example of always singing praise songs to God in Yoruba, that the Chinese girl living next door to him wanted to know why he was always so happy to do just that every morning.

Acts of true worship really does draw people to you, they'll want to know who your God is and why u think so highly of him. Worship is a way of life.

We were made to worship him. Everything that has breath has to praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6 & I Peter 2: 9

Our praise moves God and he delights in it. You don't have to know many "church songs" to praise him, it's ur own personal spiritual act of worship. Even if it involves singing the ABC's God looks into the heart and knows if it's genuine praise or not.

Even when you can't form the words to describe your situation and can't wrap ur head around all the drama unfolding in ur life, just sing praises unto God and worship him. Surrender it all to him in worship.

Lastly, even if u think and have been told that u have a horrible voice and as soon as u open ur mouth windows'll shatter, u can just cover ur head under a blanket and sing all u want, or if u're like me, sing in the shower. Afterall, u're singing for God and not to win an award :)

It is our prayer that just as praising God broke the shackles for Paul and Silas so much that the guard and other prisoners were forced to know about their God, i pray that whatever it is that may have us bound will be broken as we lift our praises to the most high God, creator of the universe and everything therein-- Amen.

SOME OF THE WORSHIP SONGS SHARED.

You Deserve The Glory

You deserve the glory and the honor
Lord, we lift our hands in worship as we lift Your holy name (Repeat)

Chorus: For You are great! You do miracles so great!
There is no one else like You, There is no one else like You! (Repeat)

Create in me a Clean Heart

Create in me a clean heart oh God,
And renew a right spirit within me (Repeat)
Cast me not away from Thy presence oh Lord,
Take not Thy Holy Spirit from me
Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation,
And renew a right spirit within me.

TERC attendees: If there's anything i omitted, please feel free to post in the comments section, and i'll include them in the post.

Others: If you have anything to share relating to the subject matter, please drop your comments and i'll be sure to post them.

Have a blessed weekend people. For those in the US, feel free to join us for another exciting time next Friday 5a.m. EST, God willing as we share in THE WORD.

ADIEU AKOLAWOLE

2007-03-06T08:51:00.000-05:00

I just heard about the death of popular radio and TV host, Kolawole Olawuyi. He was the popular presenter of "Nnkan N Be" means mysterious thigs are happening and "Irinkerindo Akolawole Olawuyi" ( popular Yoruba programmes), "Iriri Aye" (things we see in life). His programs revealed the wickedness of human beings and the evil people do, even to their own blood. I remember back in the days, his shows used to scare the crap outta me, but my parents always listened to and watch his shows. He delved into areas others dared to go. But the good thing, was his show made me view the world from a different angle, that supernatural forces really did exist. I hope there'll be more people to follow in his footsteps. The man must've been a strong believer in God to be able to air a show like that 'cos i know he'd have been tried so many times. I heard he was a staunch chrisitian. I feel so sad and just pray God comforts his family.
I remember many of his shows, there was this one story about someone plucking out Ayoka's eye with a knife. May his soul rest in peace.

New blogger in the house.

2007-03-02T20:22:00.001-05:00

Hey folks, How're y'all doing? My friend WAF, remember him? Well, he did start blogging, but this kid is spilling some beans o. Nah! He's just telling his side of the story. Y'all should please give him a big BloNgsville (Naija style blogger) welcome. I've already blessed his page. Dude, i'm so looking forward to what u have to write. We all live to learn and whatever u write will hopefully serve as a tool in helping me relate better to people. I thank God for bringing u into my life and i can only wish u the best in life.

Uzzy Buzzy, my "school son" has a GF. Silly boi like him is denying. Uzzy, i know u're reading this, i wasn't born yesterday o. All the time u've been spending at the union "tongolo-ing" the babe, don't think i haven't noticed o. Boy, it's no big deal. It's all good, just make sure u set ur priorities straight and don't let it get in the way of ur studies. I've got nothing but love for u, and what i'm telling u is the same thing i keep telling my lil' brother.

God continues to surprise us at TERC (click on the link to read more on this). It's awesome when a group of like-minded believers gather together to share in God's word. Iron truly does sharpeneth iron, so it says in the book of Proverbs. Every Friday, it's a new and exciting experience. I'm always so excited when it's Friday 'cos i know i can share some of my cares and concerns with other like minded believers, we encourage ourselves and together we build one another up to continue in our spiritual walk. We had someone call in all the way from Nigeria. Yes! u heard right, and she was on for about 35 to 40 minutes. It was a blessing having u fellowship with us in the presence of the most high God. I guess u got disconnected and we really didn't hear ur input on the topic. Thanks and may God reward u bountifully- Amen. Anyone that feels led by the spirit, can join in every Friday 5 a.m. U.S Eastern standard time. The only pre-requisite before u even indicate your interest in being a part of TERC, is just to say a word of prayer. Check out my blog entry on that here.

TO ANONYMOUS FROM CANADA: I'll try to find out if it'll be possible to call in from Canada. You know what, i think it's possible 'cos someone called from Naija. I don't know the rates though, but i'm thinking it should be the same as you calling any U.S. non-toll free number. Hope to see ya on Friday. For those that want to join, but need to be woken up, just shoot me an email, bijouxoxoblogger@yahoo.com, with ur number and i'll be ur free, never failing alarm clock.

Have a blessed weekend folks.

Arrrrrrrrgggggghhhhhhhh!!!

2007-03-01T18:01:00.000-05:00

Hope y'all are doing very well, this new month. My people o, i'm here to vent. This week's been crazy for me, with midterms and all, but thank God it's almost over. So, i've been super stressed out. Well, i brought it upon myself. See, i didn't start studying at the beginning of the semester, like i should have. Had to "pull all nighters" almost everyday since the beginning of the week. Failure isn't an option for me. At 2 day intervals, or may be 3 day intervals since last week, i've been having one pimple or the other appearing on my face. People, today it's my forehead, the next day it's my chin, as i type this i just discovered another on my cheek. Wharris going on? I didn't change my soap or lotion. I'm one of the lucky ones without the need for using any "special treatments" on my face. Just wash my face morning and night, that's it. Thing is, my restless self has been playing with dem zits, i've accidentally burst a couple, so i have blackheads *sobs* I need help o, abeg my sistas and brodas helep me. I ordered proactive sharp sharp, but that was a waste of money 'cos the stupid thing is making my face so dry and now i have rashes. Thank God the exams went very well at least the stress paid off.

Miguel's leaving blogsville in 100 days. Dude, it was really nice sharing a part of ur story. You'll be terribly missed. That's it for now folks. Oh by the way, the conference i'll be giving the presentation of my research findings at is this month. I'm super-excited. It also coincides with the NSBE conference, in Ohio so i'll be crashing NSBE big tyme 'cos a couple of my paddies (friends) from all over will be attending. It's bound to be so much fun and i'm looking forward to it. That's it for now folks, happy new month.

Mother dearest

2007-02-26T14:24:00.001-05:00

Today's my mum's b'day. Happy b'day mummy. I would've loved to compose a heartfelt poem for her, but i just don't have the time to do that plus my creative juices need to be replenished (lol). What i write here will not do justice to my mum's personality. She's just too great. She believed in us (her kids) even when others didn't. If u're looking for women of prayer, then my mum must be amongst. Maybe the fact that her father is a bishop and she practically grew up in the church has to do with it. She truly prays and fasts without ceasing. Morning, midday, evening, middle of the night, every hour she does. I remember her always saying Prayer is a christian's weapon to fight the enemy. She'll tell us to pray now, so we don't have to P-R-A-Y (I don't know how to explain it better, u've to say it out loud to get it). I remember when my sister and i got admitted into Uni, my mum said she'd also start her Ph.D so that we'd all be studying together. We thot she was joking. She really did enroll and would wake us up to "pull an all-nighter" with her, whenever we're home on vacation. Yup! u heard, right holidays/ break from school, my mum'll still want us to study!

She's truly amazing. We talk about everything and anything, even boy-talk. Concerning our education, she was and is still always on top of that. Right from nursery school to uni, our classmates knew mummy. She was and is always there. I remember when my sis got admitted into Unilag to study Engineering, when my mum's done with her class (her Ph.D was in Unilag), she'd go to the engineering lecture hall to wait outside for my sis. My sister's classmates would then start calling out to her that mum's outside. That used to embarrass my sister. In QC and ISL they all knew mum, from the teachers to the students. Maybe the fact that she was a classroom teacher before leaving to work for the Lagos State Government has a lot to do with why she's always on top of the game concerning our education.

Did i also mention that mum's a stylish lady? As in, my Iya mi l'Eko (mum in Lagos) can dress sha. She has really nice and straight legs, so my funky mama even wears skirts and shorts that are above the knee to flaunt those hot legs. Come and see heads turning when she walks by. She's the disciplinarian at our house. Whilst we were growing up, of all the bible verses, her favorite scripture was "Spare the rod and spoil the child" in Proverbs. Imagine that!

She's such a pleasant woman and she has an aura that just draws people to her. In her society at All Saints' Yaba, whenever they're having their thanksgiving and they've to dance to the altar, my mum is the one that's always called to lead, 'cos the woman can "komole with reverse" (dance) like no man's business. Omo mehn! my mumsy has some serious steppings o, as in i don't know how she does it, as she's doing konko below, she's reversing at the same time (my friend, put ur imagination to work). My sister is my mum's exact replica. Looks like her and steps like her. I mean, i can't dance to even save my life. I just move, i don't even gyrate to the rhythm of the song (ChiefO aka Engineer Ayo can testify to that).

All in all, it's a blessing to have her as my mother and i wouldn't have it any other way. May God reward u bountifully for ur labor of love and sacrifice over myself and my siblings, mother dearest- Amen.

P.S:

OF had a car accident on Saturday. His car skidded off the road into a ditch and landed on its side that he had to get out from the passenger's side. Thank God he's alive and well. I feel so sorry for him 'cos this year has been filled with so many challenges for him (first it was his job, now this), but i know that he'll overcome it all and the Lord will come thru for him, in a way that even he'll be surprised himself. Funny thing is he has an upbeat attitude about it all. It's either that or he knows how to hide his pain very well. He's been bumped up on my prayer list 'cos the brother needs a break. It pains me that while i had the litmus test thingy (don't ask!) going on, he was battling with issues of his own. Obviously, that was a confounding variable that affected the outcome of the litmus test, hence no conclusion could be made.

Speaking of OF. Why can't we have a serious and decent conversation? Every time, we'll both be joking around and laughing at everything and nothing. I mean, i've serious, stimulating, enlightening and challenging conversations with others, but not with him. It's as if my brain goes to sleep when i'm on the phone with him. The real ME isn't being portrayed at all. Oh wells!

My dear egbon, Temmytayo please take it easy and whatever it is u're going thru that u need a break from, i pray that the Lord will make perfect everything just for you. His words will forever remain Yea and Amen in ur life.

Enjoy ur week folks.

Have i lost a good friend (Part 2)?

2007-02-20T12:44:00.001-05:00

My paddies, how far now? I needed people to beg me before i continued the post. Don't y'all know that i thrive on attention? LOL. So WAF, has the URL to my blog, does that mean i have to censor my gist? NAH!!! I'm still gonna download the gist as it happened. Okay, maybe i'm not telling y'all som'n. I gave him my blog URL to check out the previous post. At first, i didn't want to but i felt it was only fair for him to know how i felt/ feel about him. I've been on the receiving end of unrequited love, and it ain't fun at all. If i truly see WAF as a brother in Christ, i think it's only fair for me to build him up (thru my words, and actions) and make it easier for him to step out once again without the fear of rejection.

I feel obligated to do this, i really don't know why. The main reason, amongst others, why i wouldn't even consider dating him is 'cos we already have a good friendship in place, and i just can't see him in any other light. I don't want to ruin the friendship. I know all the talk about marrying ur best friend yadi yada. That's true. We both talk about different things, and i'm as open as anything. Easy to read like a book, so it just wouldn't work. The goal of dating for me, is to find a helpmate. In other words, if he's not date-able, then he's not marriage-able. B'cos i believe everyone comes into ur life for a reason, so why "play the field?"

Christian marriage is big on wives submitting to their husbands. If i can't see you beyond the friend level, then submitting will be almost impossible to do, except by the grace of God. I hope this has helped clarify things a lil' bit. Plus the cockroaches are just not in my stomach (lol). God allows us face certain situations b'cos he wants us to learn som'n. The episode between OF and i forced me to step back and do some deep thinking. I did pray that God should open my eyes of understanding and reveal that which he wants me to know. He did.

What i learnt will go a long way in changing the way i relate to those in my life. I stand humbly today as a servant and child of the most high and pray that the words that come out of my mouth will be full of grace and wisdom that will help in edifying the body of Christ and building up my brothers and sisters- Amen.
That's it for now folks.

ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

Who has seen or stolen the dudumaster of duduland and his ragdolldudu? I've been searching for both of 'em o. Abeg, for the slow ones, i'm talking about Omodudu. Let the search begin o.

Have i lost a good friend (he's alive)? PART 1

2007-02-16T19:17:00.001-05:00

I didn't think i would blog soon, but i just had too. Yes o, i decided to copy my Nollywood people. How else will u know i'm a true Naija babe? W and i have been friends since my days at Uni in Ife. When i came to the US to study, he was one of the "true" friends that still kept in touch with me. Even when i don't call, he makes sure he calls me at least once a month or once every two months. He texts me about 3 times a month. Me, on the other hand, i call him only on his birthdays. BAD, i know u don't have to crucify me yet.

Okay, lemme rewind to the beginning. He was digging me right from our Ife days (he's a year older than me), but he didn't come out straight to tell me. His actions spoke louder than anything. He was introduced to me by my friend B, and she was introduced to him by F, her course mate. Anyways, B got to know W first, but with time, W became closer to me than to B or F. He'd pass by B's room, to get to mine, but won't even stop to say hi to B. Apparently, everyone, even my room mates noticed W was getting very close to me. It got so bad at a stage that whenever people see me in the department or anywhere around campus, they know W must not be too far away. People thot we were dating even though we weren't. At least, i wasn't interested in him in that way, but at least i tried to be nice and good friends with him. I can be naive sometimes, I'll be the first to admit that! I had no inkling W was diggin me like that until ...

We had Biochemistry exam the next day, so W came to my room to see if i wanted to pull an all-nighter (study overnight). I was like, why not? So off we went to the archi (architectural) studio to study. It wasn't deserted 'cos those archi students are always drawing, dang!!! I called, my galpal, B to see if she wanted to study too, but B was off to a vigil. We were busy studying (what else did u think???) and W was sitting across from me . All of a sudden he decided he wanted to take a study break, so he came over to the table where i was. I put my head on the table to take a nap and told him to wake me up in 15 mins. Let's just say, i didn't take that nap. I woke up to W sitting beside me, with his fingers making different patterns on my face down to my cheeks (not like i have chubby cheeks o!) I have a thing with people touching my face, so i woke up instantly.

In all honesty, to be fair W is one of the nicest dudes out there. He's passionate about God and it's clearly evident in all he does. He also writes poems and inspirational stuff. He has some, scratch that most of the qualities i would want my future spouse to have, BUT ...

(To be continued)

As i type this, my head's aching seriously 'cos i truly feel very tired. From stress? Fatigue? The news? Anyways, here are some of his writings i kept. I've had them for about 5 years and i'll keep them for as long as i can. They are still on the rough piece of paper on which he scribbled his thots.

Bijoux,

Are u sure u're leaving?
Sure u want to leave?
Sure u have to leave?
Sure ...
All these questions should ring till the realities are unveiled poco a poco
Bijoux, is this really going to happen?
Is this ...

Time for questions are over
Realities now abound, u are leaving
Leaving this land to yet explore and exploit one afar

I leave u with these
Leave to make an impact amongst the multitude
Colored, they might call u but
Colorful, your future is

A new leaf u have chosen to open
Every nook and cranny of opportunity, u must choose to venture in
Let not ur standing standards go to the dog
Let not ur personality be changed for worse
Live the life of a unique creature
Tread the path others have fled from treading

All i'll say to u now is
Have a safe journey thru life
If we yet see in chapters of life hereafter, HOORAY!
If not, HUH!
But i always want to believe u'll remain the best
Bijouxoxo Kokoroewa Cherub
I will ever know
Remember Baba will always be there for u, even when men fail

Love, WAF

SNOWED IN. YAY!!!

2007-02-14T12:57:00.001-05:00

What's up folks? I'm snowed in big tyme. We've had about 12 inches of snow already and it hasn't stopped. School got closed today, so that quiz i didn't study for automatically gets cancelled. Anyways, i'm here jejely sipping on my hot chocolate and wrapped in my comforter and blankets. I'm studying for my exam tomorrow, hopefully that won't get cancelled. Driving home last night was crazy o, even 4 x 4's were skidding off the mountainous road. I sha made it home in one piece, thank God for that. I even took pictures with my ruler dug in the snow to show u guys how bad it really is. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY folks, enjoy it whether u're single or not. I sent this annoying text message to my friends, to wish 'em a happy Vals day. Thankfully, i've not entered any yawa yet, most of 'em knew i was only kidding. I hope nobody's secretly beefing me sha. I received the text from a friend and i decided to spread the love, u know. Here's how it goes:

Happy Vals day. I know u're not expecting this from me, but i have millions of sexy friends, so i decided to start with the ugly ones first. Hope u have a blast, single or not!

I know i can be annoying at times (LOL). It's all love guys and u know it.

B 'n G of digging it UPDATED

2007-02-12T22:51:00.000-05:00

WARNING: I'm in a gbeborun, amebo, tatafo mood. So read if u will, and don't u dare complain! Remember this is MY SPACE.

Okay, before i proceed, let me warn u guys again that this post is really going to be as random as it could possibly be. Nothing much has been happening to me lately, just the usual grind with school and all. Okay, is it just me or what seems to be going on in this world o?

This new form of "dancing" that involves bumpin' and grindin' (B 'n G) i really don't seem to understand. What happened to the good ol' days when people danced "normally" without causing any form or shape of friction between the genitalia? Lemme pause and state that i know it's ur prerogative whether or not u want to be B 'n G'ed. What irks me however, is when some random guy just takes the liberty to invade ur personal space and starts B 'n G'ing u? Of course, if u're not game, u can tell him to take a walk. This form of dancing like u can tell, involves the expending of energy, as in it's a serious work out on its own. Check out the guy (some of u may know him) in the pix, sweating profusely. His expression in the first picture says it all. Anyways, is it just me being conservative or what do u guys think about the "b 'n g" of digging it (dancing)?

Okay, i think i tried my best in concealing the identity of the lady. So i heard we're gonna have about 6-8 inches of snow here starting midnight on Tuesday into Wednesday morning. I'm seriously praying they cancel morning classes 'cos i've got a quiz on Wednesday and urs truly hasn't even started studying for it o. I'm concentrating on the exam i have on Thursday. Y'all had better pray they cancel my Wednesday morning class, if not i'll be a grumpy gal o.

Okay, sometimes i wonder at myself sha. Last Tuesday my boss' zipper was down and i just happened to look in that direction. He was standing, while i was sitting so u really can't blame me it was directly in my line of vision. Anyways, i couldn't bring myself to tell him for some weird reason, so i told my co-worker o. The girl's like, we've to tell him. So she went to the boss' desk and whispered, "John, ur zipper" The guy then said what? She then pointed and went, "look at it." I was dying of laughter at this point sha, but i did a good job of concealing it. Yeye boss too o, what would he say, "Oh! that explains why i've been cold all morning" Imagine o, instead of him to just zip it up and be quiet, he decided to broadcast his business to the whole world.

Alright, folks that's it for now. Oh, and one more thing TERC, the conference call fellowship, holds every Friday from 5 a.m. EST to 6 a.m. If u wanna join, just call in. Hope to see some of u there. Did i tell u folks that i now have 3 valentines? I'm officially not roasting. Did i also tell y'all that i started with "a touch of red" till Vals day? Everything i wear till after Vals day, must have red o, i'm seriously REDDING out. HEHEHE.

Have a blessed week, till i come ur way with gist again.

TERC Update

2007-02-05T19:25:00.000-05:00

Okay folks, i realized it isn't easy for some to wake up 5 a.m. EST M-F. So here's a suggestion, how about we've the prayers MWF, 5 a.m. EST? Please, send me an email (bijouxoxoblogger@yahoo.com) to know what works best for u or just leave a comment here. I hope to hear from you guys. Bibi, Jaycee, Diamond, Life of a Stranger, if i'm missing someone that wants to be a part of TERC, just make ur intentions known in the comments section.

Also, if u need me to be ur alarm clock i.e. to wake u up at 5 a.m. MWF, please send me an email and i'll be more than willing to wake u up.

Lastly, what we do basically, is to open up with prayers, then anyone can volunteer to share scriptures with the group, if anyone has anything to add to the scripture being shared u'll be welcome to do so, then we ask if there are any prayer points from the group members, then end it with a general prayer.

Please lemme know what u guys think, I'll send out emai to this effect. NO MEETING TOMORROW (6th FEB.).

Have a blessed week.

These are my confessions

2007-02-01T17:40:00.000-05:00

Took the cue from London Naija Chic.

I confess that i'm in a funky state of mind right now

I confess that i'm neck deep busy with school work

I confess that not a single day goes by without me thinking about him

I confess that i even dreamt about him 2 nights ago

I confess that i'm tired of my present state of mind

I confess that i'm happy for her for finally taking the step

I confess that i really need a research JOB as soon as i graduate

I confess that it was wonderful talking to my mum about him today

I confess that my vulnerability and weeping before God is what still keep me going

I confess that i need to get a grip on myself and my emotions

I confess that it's not an easy thing to do

I confess that at Bible study last night, i didn't hear a word of what was preached

I confess that i've not called him in a while, he's the one doing all the calling

I confess that every time i see his picture, my heart goes topsy turvy

I confess that i'm appalled by my thots and the fact that i'm thinking about him

I confess that i'm tired of confessing

He has indirectly invaded my privacy beyond measure
I'm trying so hard to flush him out of my system
Lord, help me 'cos i really need to snap out of this state ASAP
I cannot afford to be in any funky state, not right now at least

I feel relieved to some degree.

2 Nigerian ladies i admire and have a great deal of respect for

2007-01-29T19:29:00.000-05:00

I'll blog extensively on this later. Dr (Mrs) Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke, the Director General of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control, Professor Dora Akunyili. I admire these two women a lot.

Guess who's "roasting" again?

2007-01-26T18:09:00.000-05:00

Hello folks, how're y'all doing? Nothing much has been happening in my zones, just chillin' with school as usual. TERC is starting off Feb. 1st. by God's grace. For now, it'll just be those within the EST zone. Hopefully, we'll work som'n out for those in other time zones. I don't consider this a "huge responsibility" 'cos this is just a gathering of people calling upon the name of the Lord in prayer early in the morning. Truth be told, sometimes i dash out of the house, without remembering to pray "properly." First thing i do, when i wake up most times is to say "thank you dear Lord for waking me up to another beautiful day. May your will be done in my life today." Of course, this takes me less than a minute to say. I figured that kind of "drive-thru" prayer isn't the best way to start the day.

Anyways as we all know, Vals day is almost here and guess who may be roasting again? BIJOUXOXO. As in Why-O-Why do i roast every Vals day? Well, there was the day Princi (High school Principal) val-ed us with Dairy Milk chocolate. So technically, i've been val-ed before. Oh, there was the day my wannabe BF val-ed me by giving me a lovey-dovey card personalized with sweet nothings, and 2 beautiful notebooks (lol). What a way to val a gal?

Okay, i confess that yours truly may buy a teddy bear, chocolate, bath 'n body works paraphernalia, Victoria's secret gift card, order flowers (22 red roses) and mail 'em to myself. I swear! Even sef to take it to another level, my fellow roastos and i may wine and dine ourselves before going home that nite, oh yes i may even wear that lil' black dress i got from Express on Sunday and jazz it up with some red accessories. Oh! Scratch that wining and dining myself part, that day all those lovers will be out on dates and busy doing PDA (public display of affection) all over the place. I don't wanna see that jo (i know i sound like a hater, but NO i'm not squashing the beef *lol*).

You may be thinking, "what's the fuss about Vals day, it's just another day?" You need to understand me to know what the fuss is all about. While still living under my parents roof, my dad or mom would val my sister and i. Attending an all- girls' high school didn't help matters at all. Just try to picture what happens when u pack a bunch of teenage gals together, boy-talk must follow. Vals day was always a big thing at my school. For the "roastos," we made sure we had a friend who we were certain would be val-ed, at least we get to share the special Vals day chocolate and we get to hoo, haa and awww over the sweet nothings in the card.

Now that i'm older, with mom and dad too far away to val me and no bf to val me, i have to val myself of course. Vals day cannot just go like that, without me doing som'n to make it memorable for myself. Vals day isn't just any other day, but a special day at least in my opinion. To all my fellow roastos, i say do som'n special. Have fun in ur own lil' way, bf or not.
To those who are a 100% certain, well maybe i should say 98.9% certain that they'll not roast, i say enjoy it and make vals day an everyday affair (minus the spending part) in ur r/ship. Try to love your honeybunny unconditionally, remember nobody's perfect. Also *winking* do not forget ur dear Bijouxoxo when u're enjoying o, mail some chocolate my way.

ONTO SOME AMEBO (GOSSIP)

Am i the only one that has noticed Dimples? This lady doesn't have a blog, but has 893 views already (last time i checked). Abeg Madam Dimples, please start blogging nau. Even if u'd just indulge us with only one post, please do. She comments on almost every blog entry, yet she has no blog. I've seen her pix before and i know people that know her (lol, i'm beginning to sound like a groupie). Please anybody that knows dimples o, tell her to put up just one blog entry, or maybe she should even do a MEME tagging thingy. Okay, i tag madam dimples.

Conference Call Update

2007-01-20T14:30:00.000-05:00

Howdy folks? Trusting that all’s well. The Early Risers’ Call (TERC) will be starting in February (I think), God willing. It’s about time we took authority over everyday the Lord has blessed us with. I got the conference dial in # and the access code; we’re good to start now but we still need to take care of some business. Unfortunately, the number isn’t toll free and it’s only open to those residing in the United States. I figured if we set the time of the devotion to anytime before 7 a.m., it should be free for most people since most cell phone companies don’t start charging until after 7.

This is the idea I have and please feel free to make suggestions.
The devotion will be 5 days a week (M-F) from 5 a.m. to 6a.m. EST
At the beginning, someone would share a bible verse/ passage (not too lengthy) and explain it briefly for about 15 minutes
Then we ask for prayer requests for 5 minutes
Sing a worship song
Then we pray individually for about 10 minutes
Someone then rounds up, combining the various prayer requests

That’s my 2 kobo, but like I said earlier nothing’s set in stone. Everything’s subject to change under the leading of the Holy Spirit. I’d like to know those interested in participating. Like the Psalmist said, "except the Lord builds a house, they labor in vain who build it, unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."
Bearing this in mind, I’d like to ask that before we start in February, each one of us should pray that the purpose for which TERC was started will be achieved. We won’t lose our focus which is individual spiritual growth and that we’d help each other grow in our walk with God. Please, before u even indicate your interest in being a part of TERC, just say a word of prayer.

Dial in #: 605- 990- 0100
Access Code: 161292#
That’s it folks. Hope y’all have a blessed weekend.

Eureka!!!

2007-01-18T18:04:00.000-05:00

"Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young."--- Henry Ford

"Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything learned in school." --- Albert Einstein

Howdy folks? How's the going coming? Anyways school started, so i'm back to the usual grind. It's my last semester as an undergrad, hmmm... Loads to do and loads to look forward to. It is well. I've been job searching like crazy, already browsed thru a dozen school websites, looking for research assistant/ technician/ whatever-it's-being-called-positions at big research universities. All i know is i need a research job at a university after getting my degree. I'm also going to take the MCAT's. YAY!!! Doesn't sound like too much fun, but a gal's gotta do, what she needs to do.

Okay, moving on to more interesting things, i have an idea. That's my Eureka moment right there! I discussed it with Diamond and she thot it was a good idea. I'm looking to start a devotional thingy. I remember when i was still living under my parents roof, every morning at 5 my mum would wake us up for family devotions where we get to study a bible passage and pray together. I so miss those times, 'cos since i left home, i've not had that. I still read my bible and try to have my daily devotions, but sometimes it's just impossible. That's one thing i plan on doing with my BF, having daily devotions. This is how it would work, but everything's subject to change as nothing's set in stone. Everyday, say between 5 and 6 in the morning or whenever it's convenient, we would call in to have devotions. I'm going to see if it would be possible to get a toll free number for interested folks to call in, a conference call thingy, and each person would be issued a password.

We could select bible passages to study for a week, and each day talk about the different parts to the passage. It doesn't have to be som'n elaborate. We could just start by having a daily prayer time, and reading a verse or two, without elaborating on it. Suggestions are welcome. If anyone has an idea of how to get a toll free # for a conference call, please lemme know.

I've had this idea since last year, but shoved it to the back burner. Anyone that's interested or has any idea as to how this should work, should please let me know. I pray we can accomplish it.

The reason i put up those first 2 quotes was 'cos of this retired professor at my department. Let's call him Hissy. Hissy retired after teaching for about 30 years at my school and is a "Professor Emeritus." I'm sure he's in his mid seventies. Anyways, the first time i noticed him was in my Physics class. I'm thinking to myself, "what's this old man doing in our class?" Anyways, the next semester, i met him in my chemistry class. Then i got curious, but didn't say anything, until i saw a plaque in the biology department with his name and picture on it. Then i read a brief bio on him and was WOW-ed. The man comes to class, and he's so humble and all. You never would've been able to tell Hissy was once a prof. in school.

Before i forget, tomorrow's the b'day of a fellow capricornian (BTW, Capricorns RAWK!!!), one of my favorite pals in blogsville, the luff doctor himself. The one and only Naijabloke. May God bless you abundantly and may he grant you the desires of your heart according to his will. Not only will u walk in alignment to God's will for ur life, he'll also grant u the wisdom and understanding to establish it- Amen. That's it folks, hope you guys have a wonderful weekend.

This isn't normal (Ko kin se oju lasan)

2007-01-12T22:14:00.000-05:00

How're y'all doing? Thanks a lot to all those that sent me b'day greetings and to those that forgot, it's not too late to wish me a happy belated b'day. You guys weren't seeing double. I actually did put up a post yesterday about OF and i, we had a lil' squabble. Things are still not cool like that between us and i do miss talking to him, but i need to chill. Afterall, Rome wasn't built in a day and we're just getting to know each other. If he calls, fine but i'm not calling (for reasons best known to moi). On to the topic of this post.

Why is it that we, especially those of us of African origin attribute everything that happens to supernatural forces? If a rat runs in my room, someone from my village (most likely my enemies) sent that rat. If i fall down, if it's not the devil that's a liar, then it's my stepmum's great grandmum that caused me to trip and fall. Why is it that someone must always be after us? Even when there's nothing chasing us, we still give the enemy way too much credit. I'm not saying there are no enemies, neither am i denying the fact that there are supernatural forces.

I believe in God and i believe that the devil plots against God's children. I also do believe that no weapon fashioned or formed against me and u shall prosper and that every tongue that rises against us will be condemned. He's a God of mercy and justice. So why then do we go about for people to pray for us? Some denominations or sects within christian-dom, believe in performong some acts, like dipping in a river 7 times, using 100 white candles, washing ur body with a specially prepared soap, buying 50 turtle doves and different things.

In my opinion, anything that goes contrary to the word of God, i try not to do. The bible i read tells me to pray to God and that i don't need an intermediary before i go directly to my father, why then do i need someone to tell me to bring 100 cows, 50 turtledoves, 20 candles? U're sick, go to the hospital to get diagnosed and treated. Pray also. Why do u need to go to one "Baba aladura" (an elder that prays) to say special prayers for u? Some people have the gift of visions true, but ... I really dunno why i have to go to someone to pray about Miss X or Mr. Y to see if she's a good friend or a backstabber? Can't wrap my head around some of these things.

Maybe i'm just talking like a child who hasn't seen "life," but some of these things don't go down well with me. To everything, my people respond, "ko kin se oju lasan." May God help us all. What are ur views on these?

Capricorns (esp. January babies) ROCK (RAWK)!!!

2007-01-09T08:04:00.001-05:00

A special b'day shout out to the January folks on blogger:

Vera: January 14th
Mosaic: January 17th
Naijabloke: January 19th
My humble self: January 9th
Calabar gal: I forget when ur b'day is, but i think u're a January babe

May God richly bless everyone of us, and even the well wishers. U know how we January folks roll out in style and set the pace, let's do what we know how to do best.

I'm going to try to have fun today. I'm down with a terrible cold, but that's not going to get in the way of my tripping (lol). Thanks to those who sent their greetings, called, emailed. I really do appreciate it. 3 bloggers called me at 12 midnight to wish me a happy b'day. You know yourselves. Another sent me a special b'day greeting via an e-card even after posting a comment on my blog. Thanks a bunch 'cos i wasn't expecting ur calls. That definitely put a smile on my face and just remembering makes me smile even wider. God bless y'all for showing a sista some love.

Meeting with the dudumaster of duduland

2007-01-05T10:07:00.000-05:00

I landed powerfully in Amityville and called him up, since i'm a newbie in the area. He's fun to talk to on the phone and it was just as if i was having a conversation with one of my egbons. He stopped by on his way home from work yesterday. I was having mixed feelings, meeting with a blogger for the first time 'cos in all honesty, i've never met with any of my online friends. Plus the fact that he's a male Nigerian again added some reservations. Anyways, i'm glad i shoved my doubts aside.

He came in around 6:30-ish with a bucket of Hershey's chocolate- Brownie point # 1. That's why u've gotta love our Naija guys, their mamas taught 'em well. I was kinda surprised when i saw him 'cos he didn't fit the picture i had already painted in my head. I thot i was going to meet a real "dudu" (black) and tall guy. I'm not saying u're short o. Anyways, like the good Naija gal that i am, *psyches* i offered him a seat and som'n to eat. Of course, this was after the introductions.

Being the well-trained Naija boy, he declined at first ( i knew he was fronting). As per, i can't run the risk of being called a "grubbido" u know. Anyways, we gisted for sometime about orisirisi. Ok, lemme do justice to this article. This egbon is handsome (sorry ladies, he's taken and i'm gonna be the flower gal at the upcoming wedding) and his Yoruba speaking skills are on point, considering the fact that he's nowhere near being a Yoruba boy. He definitely put my yoruba to shame. He's one God-fearing gentleman. Good GWAD! Not as if he was rubbing his spirituality in, but from the conversations and all, you just can tell that the joy of the Lord radiates thru all the brotha does. I tell u, when u see a successful person or someone who has the potential of being successful, u just know it.

He's being thru some ups and downs in life, but the good thing is that he came out of them smiling and even better is that his experiences made him want to know God more for himself. His testimony made me go, "WOW! What an awesome God we serve." Everything he does, is always for a purpose, even though we may think it's pointless initially, but when the bigger pix unfolds, we're grateful. Of course, i got some words of wisdom that i'll definitely apply. That's why it's good to interact with ur "elders" hehehe.

Like the typical Naija that he is, i asked what he would like to eat (for the 3rd time), can u believe what he said, Edikaikong (sp?) 'cos he knew that i probably wouldn't know how to make it. To cut the long story short, i made amala for the dudumaster of duduland. He was even trying to diss me that he doesn't think my hands can even turn the "omorogun" (stick). Insult o! Considering the fact that i hadn't made amala in 3 years, i think i tried. Of course, i took the before and after pix of the plate with my phone, but i have no clue, how to upload those (help pls).

All in all, it was wonderful meeting you and now that i know u live 4 minutes away, whenever i'm around, i'll bother u (that's what aburos do anyways).

Snapshots from my trip to NY

2007-01-04T16:25:00.000-05:00

Is Bijouxoxo in love?

2007-01-04T15:39:00.000-05:00

I'm still on vacation folks. I'll be back to blogsville on the 10th, after my b'day, but i just had to share what has been going on with me. Special thanks to the love Dr. and my blog sista ( u know urselves) for hearing me out. OF and i have been speaking, infact we spoke last nite into the wee hours of the morning. Yours truly didn't sleep until 3 a.m. To cut the long story short, this boy yarned to the extent that my head was expanding and if not for Almighty God my head go don burst.

I thank God for everything. The feelings are mutual, i didn't know that before. Feelings are fleeting, YES i know that. The long 'n short of my yarns is that OF and i have decided to start a "real friendship" before we begin dating seriously. Truth be told, I most definitely won't start a relationship with someone i can't be friends with or if u will, build a lasting friendship with, 'cos after all's said and done, it's the friendship that keeps one going. Dating for me or being in a relationship (i consider the two synonymous, even though some may disagree), MUST start by moving towards a "real" friendship first. How well do i know this person regardless of the cockroaches in my stomach? The intense feelings are there with OF, YES and i'm not even going to front on that, but I don't want to cater to them to the extent that i'll forgo the friendship stage and step over my physical and emotional boundaries.

This kid was so honest with me and i made him know i appreciated his honesty and all. He spoke for so long that for the first time since i started talking to OF in March, i was speechless. When i finally found my voice, his phone battery was beeping. He's so so considerate that even playing back our conversation last nite brings tears to my eyes. During the friendship stage, we're both going to take things to God and pray that if it's his will, everything should fall into place and things should progress steadily. I'm praying about this and many other things like crazy, 'cos Lord knows i need divine intervention.

The following are what i deduced from conversing with him in the last 4 days. All along, OF has been shy sort of. According to him, he's been feeling me too but didn't want to do anything to jeopardize the family r/ship btwn the 2 families. Also, he didn't want it to seem as though he was reading a lot of meaning to the innocent things i did (remember when i said i was kinda sorta dropping some hints?) only for him to find out the hard way. He also said whatever happens, he wants to do things right 'cos being heart brokem isn't fun. The emotional thingy clearly isn't his forte. It may be a LDR (Long dist. r/ship) for sometime. He brought up so many things and more. According to him, he had seriously been thinking things through.

Lastly, if OF sees this, i'm minced meat 'cos my cover would be blown big tyme. Whatever jo, there's really nothing to hide 'cos i just had to let him in on how i really felt for him. I've written enough. I may be meeting Omodudu today. Will blog soon if anything come up. Thanks a bunch for hearing me rant and rave about OF. U guys are awesome, even though i have no clue who some of u are. Thru the encouraging words and all, i've been able to do things i never would have thot of doing in a million years. For that alone, y'all deserve a squeezy cyber hug each. Can u feel it? Apparently, OF and i were having some reservations to laying bare our fellings for each other, 'cos that's the only explanation for keeping mute for this long while secretly dying inside.

Vacation time. YIPPIE!!!

2006-12-31T10:36:00.000-05:00

Hello folks, how're y'all doing? I'm in NY on vacation and i'm seriously ballin'. Mistake # 1, i went around Manhattan in heels, even after i had been severely warned. Mehn! i was behaving like a tourist as in it wasn't even funny. I've been to NY countless times, but never gone around the city to those "touristy" places. You guys, wouldn't believe who i jammed (met), Engineer Ayo. More gist on that later. I even went to an "owambe" party in NJ. It was called "young Naija parry," my people the thing wey my eyes see ehn, infact that's gist for when i come back. I'm seriously catching my trips. Attending a party, more like a house party in Amityville. I'll be back to respond to all the previous comments and all. See you guys next year, by God's grace with enough gist. Later y'all.

2006 in a nutshell

2006-12-27T12:03:00.000-05:00

I've seen this going aroung blogsville. Belle and Temmy already reviewed their year 2006. Thought i'd do the same. It'll be cool, looking back this time next year to see what has changed, if any.

in 2006...

1. What did you do in 2006 that you’d never done before? Blog, but i've always had a journal and volunteered at the Emergency Room
2. Did you keep any New Year's Resolutions? Errrmmm... nope 'cos i didn't make any
3. Did anyone close to you give birth? No
4. Did anyone close to you die? NO! Thank God for his many mercies
5. Did you visit any countries? In my dream
6. What would you like to have in 2007 that you lacked in 2006? A "real" job and him (i'm not telling)
7. Will any date from 2006 stay etched in your memory forever? No
8. What was your biggest achievment of 2006? Finally starting my research work with my professor and putting in my abstract for the conference. Learning to say "NO" and sticking to it.
9. What was your biggest failure? Can't think of any
11. What was the best thing you bought in '06? Sad to say, tunic tops 'cos i only discovered how fabulous they look on me
12. Did your behavior change over the year? Yes. I'm now more open to share myt feelings with my close pals. Hope that doesn't haunt me.
13. Where did you spend most of your money? Clothes and shoes and buying gas
14. Are you happier than this time last year? Yes, 'cos i'm counting down to grads and excited to see God's plans for my life unfolding one by one
Thinner or fatter? Much more fit. I'm a size 6 now, can get away with a size 4 (but that na real punishment)
Richer or poorer? In terms of finances, still make the same. I've been so blessed in other areas though so i'm not complaining
15. What song will remind you of 2006? Donnie McClurkin's rendition of "I've got my mind made up..." Didn't know Jamaican accent was so sexy.
16. What do you wish you would have done more of? Had some "ME" time and had my quiet time with God often, not just the "drive-thru" thingy i found myself doing most of the time.
17. What do you wish you would have done less of? Not intervened in family drama
18. What did you do for Christmas '06? Went to church, opened my gifts (despite the fact that i didn't buy gifts for anyone), cooked my famous shrimp jollof rice and went over to my neighbor's for dinner
19. Did you fall in love in 2006? No, but i had a bad "crush" unfortunately, i still do
20. Did you get your heart broken in 2006? I'll let u know by the end of today
21. Favorite TV program of '06? Grey's Anatomy
22. Do you hate anyone now that you didnt hate this time last year? No, too much stress tryna hate someone
23. What was the best book you read and/or movie you saw? No time to read anything, except school books. Ok, my $200 Histology text, full of great pictures (i sound like a geek?). Pursuit of Happiness, when i finally see it
24. What was your greatest discovery? Blogger and Online Nigeria to watch dem Naija movies whenever i need to crack myself up. Trust me, i always get a good laugh
25. What did you do on your birthday? Had chinese buffet lunch with the fam. Uncle Thief also visited me and stole my small bag that was in the car with my b'day outfit. Be careful in Brooklyn, NY they can steal u even when u're alert.
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? True love.
27. What kept you sane? Abba Father! There were times i thot i couldn't go on, trust me

friends...

28. How would you describe your personal fashion concept of 2006? Trendy and casual
29. Who was the best new person you met? My fellow rat gal, Miss T
30. Who did you wish you did not meet? I look at it this way, people come to my life for a reason, even if it's just to annoy moi, but they never leave the same.
31. Who was your best friend? My sister is my best friend
32. Who was your enemy? Seriously, what's the point?
33. Who do you miss? My parents, well i still saw 'em late last year and my other bestfriend Yetunde
34. Who will you never forget? (late) Professor T.A. Lambo ( i owe a part of who i am today to him and i thank God for using him to bless me.) Still pains me that i was procrastinating my calls to see how he was doing, only for me to hear about his death. I was pained.
35. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2006: Never leave what u can do today till tomorrow
36. What will you always remember about 2006? Eating suya for the first time after almost 4 years

in 2007...

37. What do you want to do in '07 that you couldn't/didn't in '06? Strive to have my quiet time with God daily
38. Any resolutions? No, not one!
39. Do you want to make more friends in 2007? I really don't care
40. Anything you want to change about yourself for 2007? To continue being the innocent somborri and good gal that i am (even though some may disagree).

My Christmas shrimp jollof rice. Whatever jo!

2006-12-26T11:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, u guys won't be able to see the individual grains, that's 'cos i used two different brands of rice. I realized the Uncle Bens rice i had wouldn't be enough so i decided to mix it with the Carolina brand. Of course, one cooks faster than the other. It still tasted scrumptous (sp?), but the individual grains didn't come out like it always does whenever i cook jollof rice, at the same time it didn't come out looking like rice pudding (lol), even though it may appear so from the pix (darn camera, i need a 10.0 MP). It was looking too orange, so i decided to garnish it with some green pepper. Reminds me of my Food and Nutrition practical exam back in high school with dem Mrs. Emenike and Mrs. Awurum, teaching us how to design the food, like seriously who cares? The middle was looking too bare, so i made a heart shape thingy in there. Yeah, yeah whatever, i know it doesn't quite look heart-shaped. By the way, i got lots of compliments for my famous shrimp jollof rice. What do u guys think?

My good and faithful Silifatu

2006-12-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

Hello folks, how've you been? Nothing much to blog about. This is as random as it gets here, 'cos i'll be jumping from topic to topic so please bear with me. I watched Deja Vu last nite, the one with Denzel Washington. That movie was weird, talk about people operating in the past and future. Can't wait until i go to NY, so excited. I've managed to increase the number of those of us meeting up. Abbey, u better show up. I did something silly within the space of 3 days i went shopping and i'm ashamed to say how much i spent. I'm so so broke it ain't funny. This Christmas, i didn't shop for anyone but myself. I can't believe it still. Sorry fellas, especially ma famille 'cos y'all are getting no Christmas presents from me. I'll pray for you at least that's more than whatever gift i may give u. Even Kesto, my NY toaster (remember him?) asked me what i wanted for Christmas. I'm like nothing 'cos i'd feel bad if i don't get him som'n in return. He's like that doesn't matter. Hmm... How can i start collecting gifts from him, then after he'd start yarning me some cock 'n bull.

Yesterday morning, my first boyfriend ever called me from Nigeria. Talk about a serious surprise o. I was shocked. As in, he remembered me after so long, hmmm... Nice dude he is, but that's a closed chapter. Funny thing is that we never broke up "officially" but things just fizzled out between us. Hearing his cool and calm voice again, gave my mind the liberty to drift away but there's no way anything can develop betwen us, 'cos we're just on 2 different paths. I should blog about him someday. D another of my friends/ toaster/ brother in Christ (lol) from my uni days in Nigeria called me the same day also. Wetin na? Not that i'm doing shakara or anything, but why is it that those i'm feeling like OF (yeah his name just had to come up), are not the ones calling? Midnight gister also called me this week, that reminds me i need to return his call. Wharrisgoingon? Do i smell holiday romance in the air? Hmmm...

As i was going to the mall today, that's how my Silifa started overheating. At first, i thot 'twas the smoke from the exhaust of the car ahead of me. Then i started smelling smoke. I quickly pulled into the Wendy's parking lot. Turned off the engine, opened the hood and the radiator cover. The radiator was empty as in no water, not even a drop! Last time i put water in was the beginning of summer, actually end of April/ early May. I sha begged 'em for water and poured it in, the thing was bubbling like crazy and foaming. After about 10 minutes, the water settled and evaporated almost immediately. I even had to pray at a point o, 'cos this pouring water and it evaporating business went on after 6 attempts of filling it up with water. I don't take care of my dear Silifa. Once i start Silifa and she moves, i'm good to go. I don't check anything. Matter of fact, my registration expired in November. Gotta renew that, before my enemy gets into police yawa.

One would think i'd have learned by now how to treat Silifa right, but no. Last year the same overheating problem happened. It got so bad that the lid had expanded 'n exploded (i think) and flew off. So i was driving Silifa without the radiator cover. Silifa has been so good to me, but i never treat her right. Hopefully, she won't get my a** stranded one day. Did i tell u guys i even broke the passenger side mirror? I brushed past someone's car and broke it. That day i really did have a lot on my mind. Silifa has been amputated seriously, but she still moves.

Anyways, if i don't blog before Christmas and New year, have a wonderful Christmas and a blessed new year. By the way, my birthday is January 9 so i'm expecting my presents in the mail y'all.

... and to think that some people say there is no God.

2006-12-18T19:19:00.000-05:00

God is AWESOME. I can't say that enough. To think that some people believe there's no God, is one thing that's beyond me. Just this morning, i told u guys about Prof-doesn't-even-have-a-Ph.D-yet and the B. This evening, infact barely an hour ago, i got this mail from him:

You're right Cherub. The B was a mistake. You did get an A. Fortunately, I didn't submit that grade to the university yet.
Best wishes,
Prof-doesn't-even-have-a-Ph.D-yet

I was flabbergasted and overwhelmed, as in who says there's no God? Like i say all the time, God always comes through for his pikins (children). Thank you Jesus. In almost every thing i do, he keeps on reminding me that he's with me, even though i cannot see him, i feel his presence. Now, that makes me feel guilty 'cos i've not been doing what i ought to. Quiet time all of a sudden, has been a struggle the last 3 weeks of school. Oh Lord! Please have mercy on your children- Amen. Despite my unfaithfulness and shortcomings, God still remains faithful to me. Father, please forgive me.

E GBA MI KE!!! (Please rescue me o!!!)

2006-12-18T12:46:00.000-05:00

My people, i didn't intend to blog this soon, but i just had to let this out o. It's this professor that's looking for my trouble and my daddy's trouble o. Got back from church yesterday and checked my email. Only for me to see that Professor-doesn't-even-have-a-Ph.D-yet emailed me. Here's the email:

Dear Cherub a.k.a. Bijouxoxo,

Here's a breakdown of ur final grade:
Attendance- A
Participation- B
Final exam- A (94%)
Final Grade- B

I was livid. How can i have a "B" in Political science, a gen ed (general education elective). The guy said attendance and class participation make up 20 % of our final grade, so why should i have a B as my final grade? I participated in class discussions and all, and the only time i didn't talk was when they got into American politics, the midterm elections and all. For crying out loud, i'm not even eligible to vote in this country so what's my beeswax following the election? Talking about Cold war, World Wars and all, i pitch in my 2 cents so what does he mean by a B for class participation.

At the beginning of the semester, i told my father that i wanted a 4.0 GPA. So far, everything has been on course, but this class. The guy's teaching i find kinda boring plus i can't fault him too much, he's a Ph. D candidate and this is his first time teaching at my school. I sent him a mail, telling him to please give me a breakdown of my grades and all. Still awaiting his reply as of press time (lol). I already reported him to my daddy. God has already put a period (full stop) on my grades this semester and if he thinks he can put a question mark on what God has already signed and sealed, then he must be a joker 'cos this won't go down amicably if he doesn't give me my well deserved A. I've taken the matter to Baba God's court and he'd fight for me and contend with those who contend with me.

Remember what happened to Zacharias in the bible, when angel Gabriel told him his wife, Elisabeth, would conceive and give birth to John? God had placed a period on that already, he was done with that. But Zacharias was still trying to figure how that would be possible seeing that he was old. God then told him he would be dumb until everything had been manifested. I'm not trying to say anything evil or bad would happen to this prof, but i know my God is still on his throne. Like i say all the time, God always comes through for his children. People, please pray along with me that this man has a change of heart and gives me an A 'cos i really don't want to cause trouble. But if i have to, i'd take the matter to the HOD, Dean, even the President of my college sef.

An invitation

2006-12-17T09:06:00.000-05:00

We've the same head coach (master)
We've had the same amount of training
We're heading to the same destination
We started the race about the same time
We've been running at the same pace
We started by crawling...baby steps...walking...jumping...
We've almost reached the said destination, but now obstacles abound
We see the prize
We're reaching for it individually despite the obstacles
We've no doubt that we'll be victorious
It's been a solo expedition ever since we started the race
Whenever i look to the other lane, i see u right by my side
Would you care to run this race with me?
We're going to join forces and run this race of life
You & I together, forever.

Alvin Slaughter concert, NY here we come

2006-12-15T11:02:00.000-05:00

I had a HALLELLUJAH good time last nite. The concert was beautiful and the best part of it, was that it was FREE. That man is talented, like they all aren't. He's very funny and i was laughing most of the time. The part of the concert that really had an impact on me, was when he shared his testimony. Before Alvin took the stand, the praise team (choir) of the church that organized the event, did a little som'n on stage. Fear will make u do things you don't want to do. The thing isn't that one should be fearless, but to ask God to "give you the grace to work thru ur fears." According to him, there was a time in his ministry where he was almost crippled by fear. He was out there being a popular minister, going around the world proclaiming the gospel of Christ thru songs while the devil was busy destroying his home. His son, Sean, was in gangs, doing drugs and just being a bad boy. Ministers and workers in the church need to be very careful to strike a balance between their personal lives and ministries. He said at a point his wife told him to start taking Sean on tours with him, that all he needed was to be in the presence of God to change. Of course, he refused thinking that how could he, a popular minister of God widely respected by all, be seen with a boy that didn't fit into the stereotypical mould of what a"proper" boy from a christian home should be. That was fear taking over again. His relentless wife, wouldn't take NO for an answer. I tell you, the role of a woman in the life of her husband and kids, shouldn't be played down at all. Women wield so much power and that power can be used for good or evil. Finally, he gave in and started taking his boy with him. Initially, there was no change, he seemed to get worse. Sean rededicated his life to God, and since then there has been no turning back. I pray that every woman reading this, God will mould to be a mighty woman of valor that'll use her power for good in the lives of those she encounters. Every man reading this, would be blessed to have such women in their lives. ===========================================

On another note, i'm job searching. I need a research assistant position in a college, preferrably one that also has a medical school for May '07, when i graduate. This vacation time, i'm going to start checking out school websites. I know that some don't pay that much (compared to working for a copany), but i need the experience. I need help y'all , Life of a stranger, Abbey, i'm going to be bugging you, hope u won't get tired of hearing my beautiful voice. Finals are over and i'm so happy. Can't wait for the 29th when my high school buddies and i get together in NY. Engineer Ayo, i'm calling you tonite 'cos u need to show us the cool spots in ur city. By the way, are there any other New Yorkers in the house? 4 of my gals from far away are coming and we're still counting o, so don't bail out on us this time. Omodudu, how far with u nau? Holla at a sista let's know what's up. I'm scared to rely on both of u this time. Anyways, later my people. BTW, i found out som'n cool, the conference i'd be presenting my research findings at takes place the same weekend NSBE conference does, in a city very close to NSBE's spot. Maybe my sister and friends can come to give me moral support *hehehe*. I hope we'll have a chance to hang out after the conference. Okay, i need to get back to my job search. Have a blessed weekend folks.

P.S: Hearing this song has a way of always reducing me to tears, "The Christmas Shoes" by Billy Goodwin. Listen to the words and think of it, and i'm sure it's gonna strike a chord within u. This Christmas season, think of others that aren't as fortunate as you and do som'n to make it memorable for 'em.

BOBBY IS AN HEEDEEHOT (IDIOT)

2006-12-12T22:26:00.000-05:00

I really don't know what's up with this useless blogger. I tried to post a comment on Ms. May's page earlier today, but couldn't it's saying my password is wrong. I know for a fact that's the correct thing nau. I also tried to post a comment on egbon mi's blog, it's saying the same thing. Is it 'cos they've blogger beta and i don't? Help. Anyways, i'll post the comment i was gonna put on her blog here. Arrant Nonsense!!! How can Bobby disrespect my one and only egbon? Ori Bobby o le mu mi (Bobby's spell will not work on me). I was fuming as i read the post. Here's to Bobby:

BOBBY IS AN HEEDEEHOT (IDIOT). How dare that starfish (brainless creature) to "jabo" my egbon like that? Lemme catch him, useless boi that doesn't want to grow up. Maybe he had disappeared with another Sisi at the party seeing that u were not ready for any of his silly games. See what freebies a.k.a. awoof can do to man pikin. Upon all, u still had to take a cab home. Matter of fact, u need to yab him when next u see him/ speak with him. Egbon mi, what were u wearing o, that was making Oga Bobby crave for u? He's an HEEDEEHOT.

I even tried to switch to the yeye beta and it's saying i need a gmail account to do that. I tried creating one and it's giving me wahala saying i need 6 characters for my p. word. Even when i clearly had more than 6. Na me and blogger, after my last final on Thursday. Thanks jere u guys rooting for me. To say God has been awesome, would be an understatement. I need to post my testimony before this year runs out. BTW, my girls i've known from high school are landing in NY after Xmas, it'd be fun galore hopefully 'cos we plan on having a whole lotta fun. Later folks.

P.S: BLOGGER HAS OFFICIALLY GONE BONKERS!!! Just tested som'n on Naijabloke's page, since he hasn't switched to beta, so non-beta bloggers can no longer post comments on a beta blogger's page. Warramess! Please, abeg someone needs to work me thru getting beta blogger without deleting my blog. Any offers? I'm ot doing shakara, na beg i dey beg o.

Guest blog, 2 DOWN 2 TO GO

2006-12-09T12:35:00.000-05:00

I've been MIA for sometime, but u can't blame me. My final exams started already so ur guess is as good as mine, urs truly has had her nose buried in dem books. I sincerely apologize, for not letting u guys know i was going to change my blog url. I'm at a point now i really don't care if u know me and u read my blog, but please, don't come telling me about what i wrote. Like questioning me on the identities of those in my entry. Uzzy buzzy, BE WARNED!!!

2 exams done, 2 more to go. Before the end of this year, i plan to interview some of my admired bloggers, or they can do a guest blog. It's entirely up to them. These are people i hold a great deal of respect for. I've never met them before, but somehow i feel kinda connected to 'em. Why? I dunno. On some issues, we tend to have similar views and this leaves me wondering whether these folks are my long lost twin brither/ sister.

Gotta run. By the way, i'm going for an Alvin Slaughter Christmas concert today. I'm so gonna have fun. Also, i've been thinking on taking the DAT's as well as the MCAT exam. For one thing, DAT's have no Physics, which is kinda cool 'cos i hate Physics with a passion. Funny thing, is that i love Math and took it up to Calculus level in college, well that's 'cos i love Dr. Prince that taught it. That woman is adorable, and absolute darling. My plan is to take the DAT's before the MCAT. Also, i'm hanging out with my girls this Thursday. We're having a girls nite out. Have a blessed weekend folks.

I'm freaking fracking pissed off. Arghhhhhhhhh!!!

2006-12-04T14:36:00.000-05:00

The purpose for which i started this blog, was to have a medium to vent, have an outlet to let off steam instead of bottling it all up. I'm a very private person, shy and reserved. I hardly ever tell my problems to friends, just my mum and sisters and of course, my father in heaven. That's why i started writing annonymously of course. Unfortunately for me, every one and their mama have discovered my blog. How? I dunno. Maybe i do know. I joined some stupid groups online, i hardly ever go on these groups or contribute to them anyways. 2 thoughts are running thru my mind now. First is should i just throw caution to the wind, and forget this annonymity crap i have going on and just reveal my identity? The catch here, is that i wouldn't be able to express myself as freely as i want to. I don't want to regret anything, plus i don't want stuff i've written biting me in the yansh in future. Second thing is how can i get google to clear me from these stupid groups thingy in their archives? Should i just start a new blog, without putting up any info about myself or schools i've attended. I NEED HELLLLLLLPPPPPPPPPPPPPP. Maybe i should just delete the blog and go back to my old ways, of writing in my journal, that way nobody would nab me. Within the space of a week i've been nabbed by 4 people. I need to vent, and i'm so furious and venting right now. I want to express myself freely, without holding stuff back. Geddit? I'm a very shy person, crap, i mentioned that before. Cannot be washing my dirty linen out here. It's been wonderful meeting and sharing the experiences of everyone of u. Like someone once said, a stranger is someone who u don't know a part of their life's story. Thru ur blogs, i've been able to share a part of ur life's story. Meaning u guys aren't strangers, even though i may walk right by you in Tams Squaa (Times Square) and not know u're u. Have a lovely day folks.

LORD HAVE MERCY!

2006-12-01T19:36:00.000-05:00

I'm numb as i type this, infact too shocked. I really don't think those words really convey how i feel. Word got out today that the same aristo fada i spoke about in my previous post, was charged. It's all over the papers and i feel so bad, 'cos i know him personally, taken his course and i know his family too well. I pray everything works out in his favor. I can't begin to imagine what would happen if he's found guilty. His career's at stake already, his family would be torn apart most likely. Dear Lord, please intervene on his behalf. I hope they don't cover up the story. I can't put too much on here 'cos the case is still fresh. Court date is Dec. 5 and i'm praying for the family and him like crazy. I wept when i saw his pix next to the newspaper story. They portrayed him like a criminal. I'm really heart broken.
===========================================

Yeye girl, Vera tagged me. She wants me to write weird things about myself. Does she think everyone's a weirdo like her? Anyhoos, let's see what i can come up with.

1. I smell my hands/ fingers after scratching my head (scalp).
2. I'm scared to use a tampon, never used one before and don't plan on ever using one.
3. I like smelling my fart, to know how bad it really is.
4. I can go a whole week or more without pooping. I can hold my poop for long, thanks to my college days at OAU in Ife.
5. I love "awoof" (freebies), no matter how inconvenient it is for me, i still go out looking for freebies.
6. When my pantyhose/ tights are worn out, i turn them into nightcaps. I just tie the 2 legs several times (for lack of a better word) into a knot, and wear it on my head when gooing to bed.
7.I'm very good at keeping things. Funny thing is i'm saving it for later use, but i tend to forget where i put them so i end up giving them away/ forgetting i have them. Bought a set of Victoria's secret underwear in 2004, there was this mad sale going on so i bought loads of panties, wore some and kept about 10, found them this year and was pissed to find out they're now tight for me (and no my backside didn't become bigger, it's the underwear did shrink mysteriously).
8. I've been told that i talk in my sleep sometimes. If u call me and i'm asleep, i'd pick up the phone, 'cos my cell is always under my pillow, and have a conversation with u, yet have no clue i spoke with u the next morning.
9. I can't sleep without cuddling a pillow/ a teddy/ my bible, just anything. I've to cuddle something to have a good nite/ day's sleep.
10. I can't go anywhere without my crucifix on my neck. Shouldn't be used as an amulet, i know, but i kinda feel protected when i have it on my neck.
11. I hardly ever dream when i sleep.
12. I tend to over-analyze things a lot. For example, i may be eating Indomie or Ramen noodles and be thinking of how it looks coiled like the seminiferous tubules in the testicles. That helps me in remembering stuff.
13. I'm embarassed to write this, but it's my blog jo. There was this thing we had in high school/ primary school called the "FLEM" (FLAME) test to know a guy/ crush's status.
# of leftover letters
F- Friend 1,5,9,13
L- Love 2,6,10,14
E- Enemy 3,7,11,15
M- Married 4,8,12,16

So pick a gal/ guy u like say Oladotun and Olufunke right. Cross out the common letters in both names, in this case, "o, l, u, n" are common so u cross 'em out and count the letters left, in this case, 8. Which corresponds to Married.
I've run the FLEM (FLAME) test on many of my crushes. It's weird that i still do it sometimes. Childish, i know but please allow me. I can be goofy like that at times. Of course, OF has undergone the FLEM (FLAME) test, and i won't tell u the result.

Anyhoos, i think i tried with this tag thingy. Have a blessed weekend folks.

... and to think i once thot there were no aristos here, how naive of me?!?!?

2006-11-27T19:40:00.000-05:00

I missed u guys for real. I'm so pissed off 'cos i started typing a new entry, got halfway only for me, (don't know what i was thinking) to power off my PC. If not for this hot gist, i for don vex, no update today. NY was tew madd. So much FOOD (yes what's ur beeswax if i decide to capitalize the word) and fun. Had fun all the way. Anyways, my NY trip is gist for another day, there's this hot gist off the press i need to share with u guys.

For my non-Nigerian readers, "aristos" otherwise known as sugardaddies, are found everywhere and sometimes even amongst ur professors/ lecturers. It's so bad 'cos some of them even attempt to fail students who refuse to dance to their tune. Sad, very sad indeed. So imagine how shocked, flabberwhelmed and overgasted (yes o, i was bomabrded by these emotions simultaneously) i was to know we even have aristos in US universities also. My people, YES i know i can be naive sometimes, but someone please download a dirty slap on my face (i see u Vera more than happy to do just that, even u NB and Diamond i can't believe u're joining 'em) for being so naive for even thinking that aristos have boundaries.

Okay NY gist. I met up with my high school buddy i hadn't seen in 6 years. 'Twas fun. She's in DC, but whenever i go there i never get to see her. She still looks the same. Guess what? Upon all my talk about black Friday, we (my sister, her friend, my aunt and I) didn't hit the malls till noon. Of course there was no sale. We were at the Westfield mall, Tanger outlet, Green Acres, all in Long Island. Tanger is a very big outlet as in, i almost got lost. Who am i kidding? I got lost. I only bought a coat at H& M. The coat keeps me so warm and fuzzy.

I've been to NY countless times, yet i still manage to get lost when using the subway or the bus (just 3 times) so i called Kesto, remember him. That guy knows everywhere in NY. Anyways, he told me to meet him up at Tams Squaa (ESPN zone in Times Square) since we were both around that area. Met him and he insisted that he'd take me home. I'm like dude, just tell me what trains to take (me tryna do big gal) u don't have to take me home. I really feel bad, inconveniencing people, and i'm sure he was busy doing stuff when i called. He refused, so we took the train together to God-knows-where, but i know it was on the way home. On the second train ride, since i already knew where i was, i told him he could leave. Of course he insisted but i hopped on before he could blink. I kuku still got lost on the bus ride home, missed my stop. That guy has issues. He's trying too hard to get my attention by posing and all, if only he knew i'm just a simple gal. Anyhoos, he was telling me he needed to do 2000 hrs of internship/ residency before he could get his certification in Accounting, i think that's what he said. He then told me how much he makes now, then how much he'd be making p.a. when his internship is over and how much he hopes to make after getting his certification. When he was done yarning dust, i then asked, "... and ur point is?" He was shocked. Poor guy just started stammering, couldn't answer. I felt bad.

That's all o my people, there's so much ground to cover, but i'll leave it at that for now. Trust my drama-filled family, of course there was drama with my aunts, but that's story for anoda day. As for the owanbe, i ended up not going 'cos i was just too tire Saturday nite after hanging out with my high school buddy, plus the gig was in Queens and was starting 11p.m. till the security guard chases us out. I just decided to crash at home with a hot bowl of eba and correct vegetable soup that had everything in it, even snails, like Nigerian snails, i ate it wasn;t even funny. HA! How can i forget to tell u guys. Guess what i ate Wednesday nite for dinner? SUYA and IJEBU GARRI. My aunts friend just got back from Nigeria the day before, and she brough frozen "University of Suya, Allen campus" suya plus the authentic garri Ijebu. I was having a ball. It was then ChiefO a.k.a. Engineer Ayo decided to call me, trust me to rub it in his face, plus u never know who's beefing u, so i had to dismiss him before i choked on my garri.
ChiefO, it was nice not meeting u while i was around. U're a goofball, couldn't u've strolled over to come and say hello. As for u Omodudu, it was nice not meeting u too, and we all were in Amityville together. Ur amala and efo elemi mejo was so ready, but u didn't show face. U people are so disrespectful. How can i leave my zones, to come to NY hoping to hang out with all of u, just for u to disappoint me? Thank God i had back-up plans. I still had fun without u guys. Till i come again, remain blessed.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2006-11-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

Blog people what's up? I'm so excited 'cos i'm off to NYC today. Will be there till Sunday. I get to chill with my siblings, our friends and my family, hopefully there won't be any family drama this time around. BTW, my big aunt in NY wants my sister and I to accompany her to an owanbe party on Friday (Meme...meme...booboo to Naijabloke). Hmmm, i dunno what to say to that request. Trust my aunt, i'm sure she'd have bragged about us and who knows, maybe she wants us to meet her friend's special son, or her friend's younger broda. I tell u, u just gotta love dem family, there's no other way around it. There was a time she even tried to hook my sista up with her friend's son. The guy was so boring, my sista had to cut him loose. He'd be asking some really dumb questions, calling her like a million times in a day, and they weren't even dating o. I plan on eating and stuffing myself until i return on Sunday. Hopefully, NY wouldn't be too boring for me. I'm gonna be in Brooklyn and Amityville, Long Island. Oh, we also need to develop a perfect plan to hitting the stores on black Friday very early. Last year, the lines were horrible at Walmart. Well, we got there at 10 a.m. What are y'all doing for Thanksgiving? Have a blast people and don't overstuff yourselves (wishing i could take to my own advise).

Nigerian Gospel songs

2006-11-17T17:57:00.000-05:00

How're y'all doing? God has been awesome, awesome and awesome and i'm forever thankful for everything he's been doing in my life since i was born. Some of you may remember the exam i had last week Friday that i thot i wasn't going to do well on. Guess what? I went to my professor's office on Wednesday to find out how i did, and she told me i had an "A" on the exam, a 91 % and she didn't even curve the exam. I'm also thankful to God for granting my mum travelling mercies. She flew to Abuja today and i was happy when she called to tell me she landed safely.

An aunt sent me this link of Nigerian gospel songs and i'm really digging these songs. Some of them brought back nostalgic feelings of my time at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. Come to think of it, i've not blogged on my experience in that school. I'd do that soon, maybe in my next post. Especially the Redeemed "Osuba Re Re" song, we used to sing the song during worship service at Ife. I tell u especially if u know the meaning of the words to the song, it'd put u in a mood of worship in no time. I've to give props to the guys behind this site, Osazuwa Ehis and his crew, Nnamdi and Andrew Obiora, heard they're all in TX. You guys rock. Good job. Hope everyone has a wonderfully blessed weekend. My friend invited me to a Singles seminar organized by her church tomorrow, we'll see how that goes.

Sweet Revenge, how sweet?

2006-11-13T20:36:00.000-05:00

THANKS A BUNCH TO EVERYONE THAT COMMENTED ON THIS ARTICLE. BELIEVE IT OR NOT, Y'ALL HAVE HELPED IN CHANGING MY VIEWS ON THIS. I'VE HAD THIS ISSUE BUGGING ME FOR ABOUT 2-3 yrs. LESSON LEARNED: ALL OFFENDERS, WHETHER THEY'RE REPENTANT OR NOT, MUST STILL PAY FOR THE CRIME COMMITTED and THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN REVENGE/ VENGEANCE AND JUSTICE, THAT'S WHY WE'VE THE LAW.
Was going to blog on my weekend, but will do sometime during the week. How was everyone's weekend?

This has been a topic/ issue that has been on my mind for the longest time. I know it may be considered as controversial for so many reasons, but here's my take on revenge/ vengeance. I recently watched something on one of the news channels, about a lady who was raped about 10 years ago or thereabout. It so happened, that the rapist, turned a new leaf, and wanted to make peace with the lady. Somehow, he got her address, and wrote her. The lady (now happily married with kids), met up with the rapist. To cut the long story short, she decided to press charges against him for what he did to her so many years ago. According to her, she said he took a part of her away and that her life has not been the same since then. She narrated the anguish and pain she and her husband had to go through. In as much as i sympathize with her, in my humble opinion, i really don't think pressing charges against him was the way to go. Then again, who am i to talk? I've never been raped before, i didn't have to go thru what she endured. It's only one who wears the shoe, that can truly tell where it pinches.

I heard about another case, heck there are many such cases out there. Someone's kid/ family was murdered, the murderer confessed to the victim's family, and they had him thrown in jail. Here's where i beg to differ, pressing charges and having the offender thrown in jail, won't bring the dead back to life, neither would it help in reducing the trauma u had to endure as a rape victim. So, why bother? First off, for the offender to contact u and confess, that's a bold step. Yes, i know they need to be held responsible for their actions. Yes, i know they may not be truly repentant and may do just about the same thing to another unsuspecting fellow. Then again, if u look at it from this perspective, what if the offender didn't come to confess, you'd still live ur life.

I don't know if i'm missing something here, but that's how i see it. Is there a sense of fulfillment u (as a victim) gets, knowing that the offender is behind bars even after so many years of perpetuating the act? Better still, does it satisfy u or make u happy to know that it was Mr/ Miss X that actually caused u so much pain and misery and now it's pay back time. I'd rather think that u wouldn't even want to know/ see the person that caused u pain. To justify revenge, some people even add that, "I'm not doing this for me, but for those out there, i don't want someone else to have to go through what i went through." It's hard to forget, YES, but does revenge help u forget either? Absolutely NOT!

I'm not being spiritual/ religious here (however u may choose to call it), even though i have tons of bible verses to give on vengeance/ revenge. I would really like to here ur views on this, especially if u've been a victim or the perpetrator. Like i said earlier, i've neither been a victim nor perpetrator, these are just the views through my brown tinted glasses.

Popular jingo or NOT!

2006-11-10T18:37:00.000-05:00

What's going on my people? Been super-duper busy with school, but God is in control. Had my histology exam today. Didn't leave school till 11:30 p.m. last nite, had an all-nighter (slept for 3 hrs only) and continued studying into the exam room. I tell u, i'm exhausted, it ain't even funny. Upon all, i couldn't answer 3 questions. Wetin na? I've done my best, i leave the rest to God. I can't come and die, 'cos of book (gramatically incorrect, i know).

Before i forget, y'all need to check out www.kofowedstuoyo.com. Just heard from the grapevine that Kofo attended QC Lagos, my almamata. Funny thing, Tuoyo's mum was once a princi/ princy (principal) of the school long before i got in. Small world indeed. I'm thinking i might as well, just cut this annonymity thing i have going on, 'cos almost everybody knows my true identity now. That darn pix of my lip and nose i had on my profile caused it. See me thinking i wasn't that popular, eh? It's still under serious consideration, we'll see how that goes. I was sitting down jejely, just minding my business like i always do, when i decided to check facebook, saw that i had a friend request. Checked the guy's profile, was positive i didn't know him, but just 'cos he was a fellow Naija attending a school not too far from me, i added him. It so happened that he had one of those Yoruba names, that is so easy to "Americanize," so i sent him a message to say wassup and to ask if he Yankeenized his Naija name. He denied, of course, and told me his Nigerian name and even went further to tell me he knows me from back in our Lagos dayz. Seriously, anyone that knows me from back in dem dayz, knows that i was one of the quiet ones, so quiet until i got into QC.

In QC if u're quiet, people would take u for a ride. They'd think u're a mumu (dumb person) as in a numero uno ode! I noticed sharp sharp, and had to toughen up. One day, in JSS 2, one of my classmates wanted to cheat me or do something really silly. She was surprised, when i yelled at her. The exact words that came out from her mouth, and i never can forget it was, "Even u too Bijouxoxo, u don open eye o." As in all the razzness, mehn! Anyways, i digress.

So, it came as i surprise, when this dude said he knew me. Checked his only pix on facebook but still couldn't recognize him. Anyways, to cut the long story short, dude and i attended the same primary school. I even remember his name sef, but not his face. Small world indeed. But i'm thinking, how did homeboy discover me on facebbok? I've not seen or heard from this dude since we left primary school. Anyways, lemme leave that alone.

I was featured in our school newspaper. A head shot was placed next to my answers, my people u need to see how i was cheesing as in really flashing my dentition. The guy that took the pix, snapped while i was still laughing. In all honesty, he asked if i wanted him to retake it, but i was running to pee in the bathroom, so couldn't pose for another shot. I told him, that pix just goes to show that i'm a happy person. At least, my classmates will get to see, that there's a different side to me than the serious look i put on in class. Got into my research lab today, when Miss T, my friend and fellow "rat girl," noticed that someone had cut out the pix and the interview thingy and pasted it on the door leading to the lab.

There's nothing really going on with me, besides school. Anyways, i need to have a long nap now, 'cos i'm so tired. Till i update this thingie called a blog again, hopefully i'd update by Sunday God willing, remain blessed folks.

What went down on Halloween nite

2006-11-02T23:51:00.000-05:00

Tuesday started off like any other normal day, went to work, to class, for club meetings and decided to check out the new gospel choir that was meeting later that nite. My friend had invited me to join, but i was hesitant being that i already have a lot of things going on at the moment. Anyways, i went and ended up singing alto, and i was the only alto for the group. I was surprised though, that the windows didn't shatter from my singing. My friend, Miss T always tells me i can't sing. Anyways, after the tryout, my plan was to study for a little while, before going home. Out of nowhere, my friend, let's call him hormonal a.k.a. Hormo walked up to ask if i could drop him off at home. First off, i need to describe the kind of r/ship i have with hormo. I see him as a brother and accord him his own respect and i really can't say we're buddy buddies like that.

I told hormo i planned on staying to study for a little while. Anyways, i agreed to drop him off at home and since his house was on the way to mine, i was just going to go home after dropping him off. I normally don't shelve my plans just like that, but being that it was his 1st time of asking me for a favor, i obliged him. Anyways, on the way to my car, he grabbed my arm/ held my hand and i told him to let go. Then he said his reason for holding my hand was 'cos he wanted me to slow down. We got into my car, then hormo asked if i had food at home, 'cos he was hungry. I told him i hardly ever cook during the week since i'm out most times. On the way, just before i made the turn out of school, he then told me to pass another route. I'm like what's the point, 'cos that was a long way. Na so him begin tory, that he was only testing me to see if i was going to drop him off or not, that his car was right infront of the building we had the rehearsal. I thot he was playing some silly joke on me, as in what was he testing me for? True, true, his car was right in the parking lot. I parked next to his car, expecting him to get out so that i could go my merry way. Waited 1 minute, hormo didn't budge, 2 minutes he was getting more comfortable, 3 minutes, hormo had reclined his seat a lil bit and pushed his chair back for leg room. I'm like dude, i need to study.

Next thing he said was , "I never get to hang out with u, u're always too busy or sum'n." Okay, at this point i'm thinking what's this dude up to. Since when did we become buddies like that to be hanging out? I obliged him still and asked where we should go to hang out. Hormo said we could just remain in the car and talk. I agreed, since in all honesty, i've never had a real conversation with him. So we remained in the car and started talking about his trip home last summer, and so many things. Next thing i knew, my dear hormo was running his fingers thru my hair. I was shocked as in, since when? I told him to stop 'cos i wasn't comfy with that. He stopped for like 15 minutes and began caressing my face. I'm like dude, ur oily fingers from my hair to my face, that's gonna clog my pores and i'd break out, u need to stop. He stopped and said afterall, u can't break out on ur hands, at least i can hold ur hands. Grabbed my right hand. I let my hand go. Why? I dunno. So please, don't ask! There were a 1001 angry things i wanted to say as in give him some serious tongue lashing, but i was too too shocked, tongue-tied to say anything.

This dude, great guy, even preaches in school, at his church. Very focused and he really has his head screwed on tight, very active on campus. I was shocked 'cos i've always seen him like a younger brother, never in the light in which he portrayed himself on Tuesday and i never would see him in that light no matter what. I'm almost a year older than him, i consider him immature not 'cos of his age but from some of the things he says, i think he's arrogant. In short, there's no way i can date him, not possible.

We talked and talked while he held on to my hand the entire time. I was so uncomfortable, yet i didn't know how to say the 1001 angry things i had going thru my head, without sounding too harsh on him. I didn't want to be mean and aggressive or hurt his feelings and bruise his ego, in such a way that he would never be able to step up to a girl. He's a great guy. However, i had to cut him loose and tell him to go when he started rubbing my right thigh. I'm like what the heck? Oh boy, u really have to leave now, i need to go home. Hormo was in my car for 2 hours and 15 minutes. He even had the guts, to say i was breaking his heart by telling him to leave. Imagine? Maybe he thot i'd fall for that. Anyways, like i said i was too shocked to understand what was going on, so i called him the following day, that i would like to speak with him.

We had the meeting, and i asked him what all that drama was about. He was tryna play smart, asking me what drama? I was so serious with him, no smiles nothing, i even surprised myself. Still wondering how i pulled off that serious look. I just had to put him in check u know. He then started apologizing, that it was dem hormones (LOL) , i was seriously amused, but i didn't let any silly smile show. He said he got home and was thinking how dumb and silly he acted that he doesn't know what came over him, and he promised that it wouldn't happen again. I know he doesn't drink, so i was 100% sure that he wasn't intoxicated or anything. We had just left the rehearsals together and we were there for about 2.5 hrs and he was himself thruout.

I was glad we settled the issue amicably (at least from my end), no hurt feelings, hopefully he knows where we stand on this. He said it was a mistake, so let's leave it at that. I'm thinking though, that if it was truly a mistake, why then did he lie that he needed me to drop him off at his house? Why was it after he knew my age, that he started acting silly? When i told him my age at the rehearsal, he was like i really thot u were much older. Anyways, that's the gist o my people, no addition and no subtraction. Was i too soft on hormo or what? This was a serious temptation, but thank God nobody fell.

Hmmm.... Double hmmm...

2006-11-01T09:23:00.000-05:00

First off, i want to thank God for the life of Esther Kemmer Amoda. An ex-QC girl that survived the ADC plane crash in Nigeria. I remember her very well, we were in the same set in QC. She wasn't burned or anything, just had minor bruises. I'm sure the experience must be traumatic for her. You can read her survival story here.

Like Miguel said in one of his posts, u really have to be specific when u're praying. God does have a sense of humor. I can't wrap my head around what went down yesterday between me and him. It all started out as a joke, but got pretty serious. Hmmm... Could it be that God is answering part of my prayers, double hmmm... I don't understand this, it beats me. I'm trying not to be thoroughly confused but, hmmm again. I promise, i'd spill out everything as soon as events unfold. To think that i've always seen him as a younger brother, not knowing we're almost age mates, calls for another hmmm. I don't normally have dreams when i go to sleep, but on Monday i had this vivid dream, and the way it was in my dream was exactly the way it played out yesterday, calls for another hmmm. I need to understand what's going on. Dear God, i need direction on this. I let go and submit to ur good, perfect and pleasing will for my life. I surrender completely.

HIP HOP and Nigerian aviation system

2006-10-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

WARNING: I'm expressing my views on here about the movie i recently watched. The guy that wrote the movie, said God revealed the things in the movie to him. If u think it's not true, that's between him and God. I won't condemn him, let God be the judge of that. PLEASE, DON'T READ/ COMMENT IF U HAVE NOTHING MEANINGFUL TO SAY BUT TO INSULT OTHERS. Of course, i don't agree with everything he said in the movie, but for the most part i think he's right on point.

Before y'all crucify me, i just couldn't think of an appropriate title for this post. Just heard that there was another plane crash in Nigeria. Plane was flying to Sokoto from Abuja. Last week, marked a year that the Bellview plane crashed. This is the third crash in Nigeria in 12 months. I don't know what to say, all i know is that we (Nigerians and friends of Nigeria) need to start praying for our dear country, 'cos something's really not right somewhere. We need to cry out to God and rely on him fully. The Sultan (king) of Sokoto, Alhaji Maccido and his son were among those that died. May the soul of the departed rest in peace with the Lord- Amen.

Yesterday, the youth group at church watched this powerful movie titled, "The truth behind hiphop" by Craig Lewis, an African American (pastor). Everyone needs to watch that movie. 'Twas powerful. Anyways, i'd try to summarize what i got from the movie. According to Craig, God revealed these things to him. First of, he analyzed some of the lyrics of popular hiphop songs, and believe me nothing on there glorifies God. Then he further explained how the devil is tryna use improved (not new) ways to win souls to his kingdom thru music. Remember Satan was called Lucifer (meaning sun of the morning, i think?) when he was still an angel of God, and his only duty was to make music, that's the only thing he was equipped for to the extent that pipes were built into his body. Anyways, when he was cast out from heaven only his name changed to Satan, but he still had the ability to make music. Satan is anti-Christ and he does everything to compete with God, but he's obviously a counterfeit!

So Satan's strategy is to get the unsuspecting thru music. Music is a faster medium for one to learn. As a child, reciting ur ABC's wasn't easy to remember until u sang the song Aye-Be-Cee-Dee-Eee-Ef-Gee... The thing with music is that subconciously, u're soaking up most of the things being said. Why do u think advertising folks spend millions of dollars on jingles? Next time u attempt to listen to that song, pay attention to the lyrics and if it doesn't glorify God, please i beg u, drop it. Don't listen to it! Guard ur heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life. Garbage in, garbage out. Be careful what u feed ur eyes, ears and every body part.

Even before watching this movie, i always cautioned my cousins about some of the music videos they see on TV. What most of them talk about is sex, murder, money and before u know what's up, youngsters want to dress like those in the music video, they want to shake their hips like them. U can't put garbage in and expect God to dwell within u, just doesn't work like that. God is pure. He's spirit and those who worship him must do so in spirit and truth. Anyways, back to another week. Hope everyone has a blessed week. Till i come ur way again loaded with gist (hopefully) remain blessed folks.

WEDDING WEBSITES

2006-10-28T07:56:00.000-04:00

My blog people, how're y'all doing? I'm excited for 3 reasons, first it's the end of another tedious week, secondly, people i know somehow are getting hitched and thirdly, today's the gig organized by my youth group at church. Did i mention to you guys that i'm a youth leader at my new church? The 2 brides probably don't know me, but we've mutual friends. I present to u, Bisi Dada's wedding website and Sister Folake's. Brief history. Bisi and I attended St. Savior's (SS) Ebute-Meta in Nigeria together. She was my senior by a year. I think all her cousins even attended SS also. I don't want to sound like one "attache," so lemme not write extensively on how i know her (lol). Who says hi5 isn't good for anything, eh? I wish you guys getting married a blessed union. I'm confessing in advance now, that i may be a glorified wedding crasher to these 2 events. Okay, maybe i'd crash one and try to be an invited guest at the other. Wait o, looks like finals week is around that time. There are ways around things, right? By the time i give my profs my innocent look, and make up stories, they'd lemme take my finals in advance (lol). This is where my blog friends come in, u know yourselves, i need tips on how to be a glorified wedding crasher, without being caught of course! I know there'd be loads of familiar faces at both weddings. Getting hyped up already. Does anyone have more wedding websites? BTW, Bisi designed her site and funny thing, she made it a point of duty to declare the r/ship status of those on her train, if only more people would follow her lead. She tried jere, if they like they should get to the wedding and start fronting (lol) and doing omo Naija shakara (Nigerian youth posing, whatever?). Sister Folake's boo, Seyi designed their wedding site. Cool, huh? Hope u guys have a restful weekend. Remain blessed folks.

P.S: BREAKING NEWS.
Another QC old girl, got engaged recently, she was in our set. Wasn't it just yesterday we graduated from school? Honestly, I can only wish you the very best, that God would bless your union- Amen. I'd let you guys know when the wedding webbie is up and running. www.kofowedstuoyo.com

I got over him finally

2006-10-21T18:35:00.000-04:00

I knew my crush on Mr. OF wouldn't last. Anyways, he called last night after so long, like a month. I was driving, so i didn't even look to see who was calling, just flipped my phone open to answer the call. All of a sudden, he was yelling "Ore mi, ore mi" (My friend, my friend) like 4 or 5 times. I was surprised, before i realized who it was. Anyways, he sha gave some lame excuse, like they always do, that he's been so busy, that he's found himself procrastinating a lot lately, that he went out of town (job-related) and some cock and bull. Anyways, let me not lie, i was happy to hear his voice, and happier to know he was doing fine, no bad news 'cos the week before, on his facebook profile, he wrote that he was confused. Anyways, i already got a grip on myself and got over the huge crush i had on him. It got so bad at a point, that my emotions had started taking over logical reasoning, that was when i called my youth pastor, for advise. The flesh was already ruling over the Spirit. Sad, i know but i had to admit it to myself in order to have peace. Now from my side sha, we're just cool friends. Anything may develop later, if God wills, but i'll just treat him like i do my other close paddies.

Okay, i'll try my possible best to type out our convo last nite. I'll be so derepped if he ever stumbles on this blog. All my "ashiri" (secrets) will be out. No more shakara/ posing for me again. Oh, before i begin, i did something stupid 2 weeks ago, when the crush was really intense, i told my bestfriend whose friend is OF's friend, to find out if he has a girlfriend. I know i behaved like a coward, and that was so stupid. I told my bestfriend to make it underG runz, just b'cos ...

OF: Ore mi, ore mi (5x)
Me: (Speechless)
Me: Are u okay? Is everything alright?
OF: Yes, i am. Sorry that i haven't spoken to u in like a minute.
Me: That's okay (big lie), just thot u were super busy (like we all aren't). Anyways, how're u doing?

We yarned some random rubbish, talked about the Ribena he was drinking, school, work. Don't know what led to it, but the following convo ensued and that was how i found out if he had a girl or not. Now, i consider it useless info 'cos i really dunno what i'm gonna do with it now that i know.

Me: Those raps (words used to woo girls) won't get u any girl o. Do u need me to supply u with some raps? See, i'm the nicest gal u'd ever meet, offering to supply u raps free of charge.
OF: I don't need any more raps jo. I have enough and besides, i don't need raps to win a gal. They just fall for me like that.
Me: Puhlease... In ur dreams, right?
OF: Infact, i don't think i used any raps on my Ex. I knew her for a while, we were friends and things just fell into place and we started dating. Since then, i've not really yarned any girl.
Me: HA! You've not yarned any girl since then? Is u gay? (i know it's gramatically incorrect, but that's exactly what i said)
OF: (Laughed long and hard) Yes, me is gay. Abeg jo, i'm as straight as they come.
OF: How are your husbands, kids?
Me: They're doing very well.

That's the "koko" (main point) of our convo. I hope his friend hasn't asked him if he has a girl yet? He may just put 2 'n 2 together to know i'm the one behind it. I really don't care if he knows or not. Anyways, that's the gist. OF if you ever get to read this, i'm sure u'd think i'm nuts, but feelings are there for a reason. Anyways, i'm prepping for the ultimate Scrabble competition with Professor tomororow. Have a nice weekend folks.

Getting to know Bijouxoxo (TAGGING)

2006-10-18T09:06:00.000-04:00

Vera and Diamond tagged me, so let's see what i can come up with.

FOUR JOBS YOU'VE HAD IN YOUR LIFE
1. Cashier at BJ'S Wholesale club
2. Conference Hostess at ECOWAS, Abuja- Nigeria
3. Statistics, Chemistry and Biology Tutor
4. Helpdesk Assistant at Academic Computing in School

FOUR FICTIONAL JOBS YOU WISH YOU HAD
1. Being paid for doing absolutely nothing
2. Being paid for dressing up and looking pretty
3.
4.

FOUR MOVIES YOU COULD WATCH OVER AND OVER AGAIN
I never watch a movie twice, except it has a somewhat romantic theme to it, u know?
1. Brown Sugar
2. Sound of Music
3. Raising Helen
4. Maid in Manhattan

FOUR CITIES YOU'VE LIVED IN
1. Lagos
2. Pennsylvania
3. New York
4. Maryland

FOUR TV SHOWS YOU LOVE TO WATCH
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. Law & Order (SVU)
3. Trauma on Discovery Health
4. Monk

FOUR PLACES YOU'VE BEEN ON VACATION/TRAVELED TO
1. Abuja, Nigeria
2. Lome, Togo
3. Benin Republic/ Cotonou
4. Ghana

FOUR WEBSITES YOU VISIT DAILY
1. Blogger to do my blog rounds
2. Yahoo!
3. Facebook
4. Hotmail

FOUR OF YOUR FAVORITE FOODS
1. BEANS with corn, of course (KOKOROEWA). Made with palmoil, crayfish, smoked turkey
2. Pounded yam with my specially made Egusi soup
3. Eba (Garri) my other nick name, is "SEBALESE" with my aunt's special ogbono soup. She adds bitter leaf/ ugwu leaves in her ogbono with cut up pieces of "kpomo", "saki." It makes it so rich and thick. I MISS HOME.
4. Bologna sandwich

FOUR THINGS YOU WON'T EAT
1. A truckload of veggies like Brussel sprouts, Mushrooms, Whole tomatoes (if it's blended that's fine as long as i don't see it), squash
2. Olives
3. Heart, kidney of cow
4. Lafun and Fufu. Lafun is made from a type of flour dunno which one. It's supposedly the favorite food of people from Abeokuta

FOUR THINGS YOU WISH YOU COULD EAT OR DRINK RIGHT NOW
Most of them are "buka" food, and since i love food, they'd be more than 4

1. Amala Shitta in Surulere-Lagos with loads of fried beef (eran dindindin)
2. Bankolemo rice also in Surulere
3. Ghana High's jollof rice, beans, dodo with loads of fried meat
4. Aunty Kemi's rice from Tejuosho market
5. "Zobo" that red drink, freshly tapped palmwine "Emu" from my joint near St. Savior's Ebute-Meta. It's not alcoholic, not yet fermented so don't come and preach to me. I remember after school, we'd stop by for a glass of Emu
6. Mr. Sule's wife's "Boli 'n epa" (Roasted plaintain and ground nut) at the back of St. Savior's
7. Ewa agonyin and Agege bread from Aguda market
8. Akara burger from Student Union building at OAU- Ife (Bread stuffed with Akara)
9. Moin-moin "elemi mejo" (Moinmoin with loads ingredients like corned beef, egg, crayfish etc.
10. Rice "alata gigun with iru" from Aguda market (Rice with shredded pepper and locust beans)

I'd spare u guys, 'cos i could go on and on about food. I'm sure some of u are shareholders at the buka joints listed.

FOUR THINGS IN YOUR BEDROOM
1. Bed... DUH!!! That's why it's called a bedroom
2. Radio, permanently on Klove radio station
3. Books everywhere, on the floor, on my desk, even half of my bed is occupied by books
4. A full-length mirror to practice my smiles and dance steps for that special day. LOL. I've been told by my sis that i don't know how to dance and that i give fake smiles 70% of the time.

FOUR THINGS YOU WISH YOU HAD IN YOUR BEDROOM
1. A maid to clean up after me.
2. More space to store my junk
3. Pink wall color or wallpaper
4. A bookcase to store my books, but that would take up most of the space

FOUR THINGS YOU ARE WEARING RIGHT NOW
1. A red sweater and a black blazer
2. Black pants
3. A wrist watch
4. My million dollar real smile

FOUR PLACES I'D RATHER BE RIGHT NOW
1. On vacation in France and Italy
2. At home with my parents and siblings
3. Hanging out at the movies or anywhere romantic with "him"
4. In dreamland

FOUR FICTIONAL PLACES I'D RATHER BE RIGHT NOW
1. In Zamunda
2. Wherever
3.
4.

FOUR PEOPLE YOU'D REALLY LOVE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
1. Oprah
2. Him
3. My family
4. My friends, Bunmi, Busola and Yetunde from waaaaaaaaay back, eating and engaging in some "girl" talk
5. My blog pals, Diamond to know what goes on in her head and to confront her about Blogger Boo, Miguel to figure out how he knows so much of what he knows and what makes him tick, My big sis Temmy to hear the unedited version of her gists, Sapphire and her crazy friends, Naijabloke to entertain us with his jokes while we have dinner and so many others.

FOUR THINGS YOU ARE THINKING RIGHT NOW
1. How best to utilize my time before enrolling in med school
2. Where to get a job, i really do want a job in New Jersey
3. I need more fun in my life
4. I need to travel more often
5. To fashie him or not?

FOUR OF YOUR FAVORITE THINGS
1. Jewelry
2. My hair, i can brush my hair a zillion times and hair accesoories, luv 'em
3. My cell phone
4. Lip gloss/ lip balm can't do without it.
5. Perfumes, don't have a favorite it's just too hard too choose. Kenzo, Allure by Chanel, Very Irresistible Givenchy, Tommy girl, True Star, Curve (the one in the purple bottle), Angel by Thierry Mugler, CK's Euphoria. Those are some i have in my collection.

FOUR THINGS YOU DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME
1. I don't care about cars, as long as i can get from Point A to B, i'm fine
2. I'm very reserved, quiet, not very outgoing. An introvert to the core
3. I don't make friends easily
4. I'd rather be on my bed at home reading a good book with music playing in the background than going out
5. I've been to a club just once and hated it. Clubbing is really overrated
6. I love being a mentor especially to teens
7. I really don't care about watching TV, only watch Grey's Anatomy whenever
That's all i can think of for now

FOUR PEOPLE YOU TAG
1. ABBEY
2. Miguel
3. Dipo Tepede
4. London Chikito
5. Overwhlmed Naija babe
6. Belle
7. Olawunmi
8. Queen B
9. Ms. May
10. Madam Teva
11. Kulutempa
12. Rose tinted glasses.
13. Stranger called me

I know i'm breaking all the rules here, but hey! Just work with me.

I've got to share this

2006-10-17T20:09:00.000-04:00

I've been going through some personal issues, actually it's just one particular thing that has been bugging me lately. I've prayed, i've tried all my possible best, sought advice, yet no show. Okay o, i'll just keep on chilling. Anyways, so i decided to go to one of my favorite websites, Boundless only for me to see this article that i've learned a lot from. Infact, it seems as if the author had me in mind when she was writing it. God does work in mysterious ways and it's not a coincidence 'cos I don't believe in coincidences. In my opinion, these so-called coincidences are God's subtle way of letting his children know that he's with them even when in the midst of life's simple events.

Stumbled on this HP slimming camera. I was WOWed when i saw it, but then again why are u trying to deceive urself? If u're obese, u're obese so why the delusion? Infact, these manufacturers are using every strategy to market their products. May God help us all- Amen.
I hope everyone's week is going great?

O death! Where is thy sting?

2006-10-14T23:24:00.000-04:00

When we read/hear about other people's pain, to us, it's news 'cos we're not going through it, but to them, it's pain. Pain is pain no matter who it affects. I was on my blog rounds today when i stumbled on 2 of my daily reads, Londonbuki and Rosetintedglasses. They blogged about a guy, who is a blogger that passed away. I didn't know him, neither did i get to read his blog entries before today. As i read his blog, i felt the tears stinging my eyes. I tried to force them back, but to no avail. I've never been an emotional person. Infact, when my uncle who was 35 died 3 years ago, i didn't cry. I'm somewhat surprised that reading this young man's blog entry made me cry. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed, so we need to make the best use of every opportunity we're given to wake to another beautiful day. Looks like he had a premonition of his death. Just read his last blog entry where he professed his love for a certain lady. His last statement on his blog, had a tone of finality to it. That person u've vowed never to talk to again, make peace with him/ her now 'cos u never know what will happen the next minute. That outfit u're saving for a special occassion, wear it now, that person u're hiding ur feelings for, show him/ her that u care. I wonder how the lady would feel reading his blog, him professing his love for her on the www? I'll leave u guys with something i read (i've forgotten who actually said it), when u came into the world, u were crying and everyone around u was happy and rejoicing, live ur life in a way that when u leave, u'll be rejoicing and those around will shed tears of joy for being a part of ur life.
May his soul rest in peace, and i pray the Lord who is the greatest comforter of all, comforts his family and friends.

MOOLAADE

2006-10-10T20:56:00.000-04:00

They say desperate situations require desperate measure, right? For one of my general elective classes, Human Geography, my group members and i have to watch the movie "Moolaade" by Ousmane Sembene. Blockbuster doesn't have it, and i've been trying to see if we can get it on Netflix. My school sent out this interlibrary loan thingie to 6 schools. All the schools have the movie but none of them is willing to lend it out. I need the movie by the end of next week latest. Do any of u guys have the movie? Have u seen it or do u know how else i can get it? Please, come to my rescue people. The Ijebu in me, doesn't want us to buy the movie 'cos it's quite expensive. I know i can count on my blog friends, so please don't let me down.

How Sisi Eko (Lagos babe) and "Bobo Mazda" met.

2006-10-08T16:57:00.000-04:00

WARNING: If u're not a romantic junkie or one who believes in true love and purity, PLEASE, DON'T READ!

I never used to be so mushy mushy, so emotional. But these days, i surprise myself, by going, "Aww, that's so sweet," to things i'd have considered dumb, or described as "love wan tintin" before. I guess i'm becoming older, and learning to appreciate love (i used to dread that word, before). It's such a nice feeling to love and be loved, with no strings attached, no selfish motive. To love someone inspite of their flaws and all.

Anyways, i was in church today, and today happens to be my Pastor's wife's b'day. Let me digress here, my Pastor never (even when they're at home) calls his wife by her first name. He always says, "My bride" and they've been married for 20 years, but met 31 years ago. They're both oldies (mid 60's) but even after so many years of marriage, he still calls her his bride. How sweet, right? The first time i heard that it was an Awww moment for me. Towards the end of the service, he called his wife out to the front and prayed for her, appreciated her, extolled her virtues for like 5 minutes, sealed it with a kiss and a hug. I got teary-eyed, and i didn't even bother to hide it. That was another Awww moment for me.

By God's grace, when i get married, i don't want my husband to call me by my first name all the time. I even have pet names (about 7 at my last count) made up already. I'm not going to put it up here, for fear that some of u may steal it (LOL). The 7 names i made up, are kinda unique or i've not heard (well except for 2) anyone use them. Some of the names sound kinda goofy, but Oh wells??? For real, i think i'm becoming a hopeless romantic. May God help me.

Another thing i do, well i've been doing it for a while now, is that whenever i have this weird feeling that i can't explain or i'm too shy to explain, i write letters to my future husband. I swear, i'm not a teenager. I'm a big girl, but it's my way to let out those deep feelings i can't share with anyone. I was just reading some of the things i wrote in my journal last night, and i couldn't believe i wrote all that stuff. Nothing bizarre or gross, infact i'm not scared of my mum stumbling on my journal, just 'cos there's nothing R-rated in there. One day, i hope to share my journal with my husband. I really do wonder what his reaction would be. Shock? Appreciation? Pure joy? Will he shed tears of joy after reading it? I really do wonder.

Let me tell u guys, how my mom and dad met. They've been married for 22 years now. My mum had had 2 boyfriends before my dad, and the 2 were pretty serious relationships. Infact, according to her, she thought they would result in marriage, but the great I AM already had everything planned out. His ways are truly not our ways. It had been 3 weeks, since her last boyfy broke up with her, and they had been going strong for 2 years. His reason, 'cos he met this lady that was a U.S citizen and suddenly fell out of love with my mum, they got married within the twinkle of an eye, the courtship with this other lady lasted less than 6 months.

My mom was really heartbroken after the break up, 'cos she didn't understand why all of a sudden, dude would fall out of love with her. She even started thinking whether it was due to something she did or didn't do. If u know my mum, u'd know she has a very healthy dose of self-esteem, so imagine how i felt about the dude, when she said she started second guessing herself. She then embarked on a month's praying and fasting regimen, for God to bring her Mr. Right to her. You guys may not believe this, infact, i wouldn't have believed if not that 'twas my mum's story and i know my mum would never ever lie to me. On the last day of the fasting period, she met my dad.

My mom had just completed her first degree, and was serving (doing her National Youth Service Corp) at Concord newspaper company, owned by M.K.O Abiola, then. She had just alighted from the bus, and was walking to the office, when this drop-dead-gorgeous guy (my dad) driving a Mazda honked, which she totally ignored, then he pulled up beside her. My dad, was now referred to as "Bobo Mazda" (the guy with the Mazda car) by my mum's girlfriends. Of course, trust my Sisi Eko (Lagos babe) mother to do "shakara" (pose) for Bobo Mazda. Anyways, since Bobo Mazda wasn't/ and he still isn't one to give up easily, he continued the chase. Finally, my mum stopped to say hello. Of course he gave her a ride to work (That wouldn't be a wise move in this present age, to enter into a stranger's car) and they exchanged numbers and addresses. So my dad and mum met on the streets of Lagos, but not in that kind of way (u know the Allen Avenue types, Nah!).

Their courtship lasted for about a year. Like the apostle Paul said, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" I tell you nobody. When man says there's a casting down, that's when God uses the opportunity to lift you up. My mum's previous boyfy before my dad, thought he'd done his worst, but that wasn't God's testimony concerning my mum's life 'cos he had everything planned out. As God would have it, about 10 years after my mum got married, guess who came visiting at her office? Mr. Boyfy. I happened to be at her office on that day, i think i wasn't feeling well, so i skipped school. Anyways, that was when the guy told my mum how the lady he got married to was AS (he's AS too) and didn't tell him, they had 3 kids, out of which one died, the other 2 were alive, one of them is a sickler (SS), how they're always in and out of the hospital, how their marriage isn't working, how everything's going wrong, how he regrets not marrying my mum, how he wished he could turn back the hands of time, and everything. My young mind couldn't understand what was going on of course, but as my sister and I grew older, my mum narrated the story to us, and asked me if i remember the day that uncle that bought me American candy and cookies came to her office.

Of course, my mum felt sorry for him, but there was nothing she could do. They just weren't meant to be together. I take that back, he messed up his opportunity. I don't think my mum keeps in touch with their family, and there's no way i'm gonna ask her that. Of course, life wasn't a bed of roses, when my mum and dad got married, but in all of it, they've learned to take all their trials and tribulations to the great I AM. Sounds like a story from a Nollywood (Nigerian movie industry) script, right? I kid not. This is a true story y'all. My mum's story i know is a testimony and the God that did it for her, would do it for all u ladies out there, myself included looking for Mr. Right 'cos he's the same yesterday, today and forever. I wish y'all a wonderfully blessed week ahead.

Where do i start from?

2006-10-06T10:21:00.000-04:00

How're u guys doing? Everything has been going great for me of course, 'cos i'm the daughter of the most high a.k.a. the apple of his eye. Anyways, i really don't know where to start from, 'cos a lot of random things have been happening to me. Sit back and relax, 'cos i'll start from the beginning and tell it as it is. My random musing may sound incoherent, but just take this ride along with me and u'd be glad u did.

I wrote about the guy i like(d) some posts ago, OF. Anyways, i've decided not to like him again (LOL), so his number has been deleted from my phone and i decided not to call or e-mail him again. He never calls back when he says he would, claiming he's busy with school and work, like i'm the jobless one, right? Whenever he decides to call (always at midnight or 1/2 a.m), he keeps on going on and on about himself, without the decency to ask how i'm doing or how my day went. This used to, and still pisses me off. Everytime we talked, that was always the routine of him yanning dust (talking) on and on. Anyways, so on this fateful day, he called again and i was determined to have the upper hand, to give him a taste of his own medicine and not let him say too much. That's how i started talking about myself, how my day went, and all sorts. Before he could say a word, i'd have said 10. It got to a stage, he then said in Yoruba, "se enu o ki n ro e ni?" (Does ur mouth not hurt u? implying that i talk too much). I was livid. Whether he was aware of it or not, i don't know but i ended the conversation there and then. I've called him several times after that, but never made mention of the incident.

I spoke with my very good friend, Ade over the weekend. Told him the entire story about OF, and what i've decided to do. I just needed some sort of justification for my actions. Ade isn't telling me what i should or shouldn't do, but it's good when u seek people's opinion, which was what i did. I'm glad i talked to him about it, and he made me see things from another perspective. He asked whether OF had a girlfriend, and i replied in the negative 'cos from our convos, no talk of girlfriend ever came up, even though i'm 80% sure that he doesn't have one. Ade was now like i really can't assume that he doesn't have one, 'cos he has never made mention of one. Ade then suggested that i fashie (forget about) him 'cos i've tried. Ade knows that i'm kinda shy and for me to have called OF first, he gave me mad props. So bye-bye OF and i wish u the best in life.

That reminds me sef. I remember when i was still in Nigeria and every Sunday, my parents would drag my siblings and i to the 7 a.m. service at All Saint's Anglican Church, Yaba Lagos. The reason i used to love going to church was 'cos of my crushes. There was this family, one of the regulars to 7 a.m service that used to attend, they had about 5 boys, tall, dark and handsome boys. All of them wore glasses. My sister and i would sit in the back row with our girlies, to check these boys out. Then Senegalese style of buba and shokoto just arrived, so these boys were always decked in starched, guinea brocade Senegalese buba and shokoto. Thinking about it now, i feel stupid sha, going to church just to scope some boys who probably didn't even notice us. Then we thought they had to be really older than us, 'cos two of them used to drive the family to church in their SUV (it's too long for me to remember the model). My girlies, and my sister never mustered up enough courage to talk to 'em sha, which used to pain us then. If any of u brother's are reading this, (cos i know we Nigerians are all connected in a weird kinda way), know that this is/was ur secret admirer and i'm sure y'all are still TDH( TALL, DARK AND HANDSOME) and children of God 'cos ur mumsy and popsy used to drag y'all to church every Sunday. I think their mumsy used to cater for events at church. Kai! I've given out too much info, i hope my annonymous cover isn't fully blown by the whole world.

I was sitting jejely at the study loung of the Student Union building at school, eating my sandwich, when this gbeborun, aproko, amebo, tatafo lady came to meet me. I think she's a monk, 'cos of the way she dresses, dunno whether she's a Buddhist or Catholic monk, but i really don't care. Anyways, when i was done eating, she then wrote a small note and gave me, that read we're not supposed to eat or drink in the study lounge. She went further, to point out the signs posted to this effect. I pretended like i didn't know and thanked her. She went back to her seat, which was next to me, and i brought out my granola bar dessert to munch on. She looked at me and shook her head, i just smiled back. You guys need to understand that everyone eats and drinks in that study lounge, so it wasn't as if i was breaking one sacred rule like that o. Besides, why was it just me she picked on. Didn't she see the others that were drinking coffee too? Nonsense, everyone ignores that sign and i really think it should be removed.

I am so fit, infact i am in excellent shape, it ain't even funny. So my gym instructor wanted us to check our progress since we started the aerobic dance class (it's been 6 weeks), we used this software thingy that checks everything, body composition, flexibility, biceps strength, cardiovascular assessment etc. In all, but the biceps strength (average), i had excellent rating. I now weigh 132 lbs. Nice. So some of you guys, Uzo, London Buki said i should try kickboxing again. I'd try it in 2 weeks when my sore muscles are okay, only 'cos i'm excited about my progress report. Till then, aerobic dance it is for me. Oh, my friend i spoke to, Ade said i should write down on paper the qualities i desire in my future spouse. I'm like it's all stored up in my brain. He insisted that sometimes the brain mixes stuff up, more like we tend to compromise and rationalize some irrational things, but if it's on paper and hopefully u weren't intoxicated when u wrote it, u'd remain focused. Remain blessed people, till i come ur way again, keep on smiling.

P.S: I gotta run to class now, i didn't proofread this entry (i'd do that over the weekend), if there are any errors, i apologize in advance.

Kickboxing is not for everyone

2006-10-04T20:49:00.001-04:00

My people a lot has been happening to me. As in, me that i always claim to be dry, i've a lot of gist for u guys, but schoolwork hasn't spared me. I've had a lot on my plate. Anyways, i'll gist u guys soon enough, hopefully before the end of this week. As i type this, i'm seriously tired, my fingers are weak and my upper thigh hurts like crazy. I decided to try kickboxing yesterday; i was in the gym for 1.5 hours. I felt good with myself, after i was done, but i don't think i'd do anymore kickboxing. To climb the staircase, problem, to kneel, wahala (problem). I swear, i need a full body massage. I guess the intensity was just too much for me. I work out at least twice a week for 1.5 hours each day, aerobic dance and step. I'll just stick to my aerobic dance and step. No more kickboxing for me. My people, it looks like i've been nabbed big time. My annonyous cover has been blown. Funny thing, is that i have no clue who this person is, but i'm working on finding out. Just from my nose and mouth/ smile, the person recognized me, that means the person knows me very well. Anyways, i gotta run. What's up with all u blogsville peeps and half gist? Y'all know yourselves so i'm naming no names. Stay tuned, 'cos i'll be having my first guest blogger (Olawunmi's idea), the one and only Son of the Most high a.k.a. the Professor/ Pastor. Remain blessed guys, and i promise, i'll be back.

It's a trad affair

2006-09-25T19:58:00.000-04:00

I tell u my peeps i admit that i'm a certified dry girl. Nothing major has happened to me lately, but i need to update my blog so it doesn't seem like i abandoned it. Anyways, shey i told u guys about this research project my friend and i are working on. Our goal is to present it at that big conference in April where all schools in my zone would be represented. We chose a topic to work on, got the necessary approvals, checked all online resource to make sure nobody had done the exact same thing we planned on doing, only for the professor supervising us to bring an article last week that was published in August, where this guy did the same thing we planned on doing. I was pissed. C'mon after we had planned, strategized and done everything, even started running trial experiments. All hope's not lost, we decided to go on with the study, but we're going to modify it. He made suggestions on further research that needed to be done, so we'll start from there. At least, it'll make our job a little easier, when we see what worked for him and what didn't.

I decided to quit being faceless on blogger, so i uploaded my lips, cheeks and nose onto my profile. I hope more people would follow my lead sha. I was thinking to myself, after the upload that the pix sort of reveals who i am, even though my eyes can't be seen. I hope i'm not nabbed by someone who knows me, especially those i wrote about in my previous posts. I decided to rock my trads (traditional attire) to church yesterday. I was looking FIERCE. Like one madam the madam. I haven't worn "iro" n "buba" (wrapper and top) in over a year. You guys should have seen the damask gele (head tie) the way i tied it ehn, it was just too bunz. I just pity the person i sat infront of at church. My satellite dish must have blocked his (infact their) view silly. Funny thing is that i was sitting right in the front row, so my gele was seen very well. If u guys need me to hook u up with gele tying skills, i'm not as expensive as u may think. I can tie it, put it in a box and FEDEX it to you for a small amount. I must give credit to my mum. As in that woman can throw down when it comes to tying gele. She taught my sister and i the strategy. There's a particular way u have to position ur hands inorder to get the desired effect. Guess what? I didn't even use any pins to hold the gele in place. The damask was as hard, crispy and crunchy as anything u can imagine, 'cos it was still new. Needless to say, i was praying the gele shouldn't fall off my head in church, 'cos their was this alakoba (troublesome) kid sitting behind me that was in awe of my gele, he even had the audacity to touch it, by the time i gave him the look, his momma called him to order fast. Thank God it didn't fall of my head.

How about i went shadowing today, and this lady that brought her daughter in, was looking at me funny. Eventually when the doc. introduced me to her, she was like i look like i'm a teenager about 17/18 years old, more like a high schooler. That just made my day, i don't look my age, how nice. It's good genes o my people. She went on to spoil it though by saying that if she comes for treatment, and i'm the doctor assigned to attend to her, she'd be like can u please get me another physician, this one looks too young to know what she's doing. I'm like what the heck? Funny thing, is that some people do that nonsense in hospitals, especially if u're a young, black female. Bringing their stereotypical behind to the hospital. How stupid? Do the know the amount of training u've been through? How u endured the rigors of med. school and all? Only for you to finally become a doc. and all they can do is yarn dust about how u look with their ignorant buccal cavity. It's not as if i'm even one small shrimp like that o. I weigh 133 lbs and i'm 5'6'' tall and i even wear a size 4 and sometimes 6 on a good day. They're just jealous.

Anyways, lemme leave that ignoramus (ignorant person) side alone. In all circumstances, we should be thankful o. How about i met this girl who is 16 and has no breasties (flat chest), not started her period, nothing. She has stunted growth. I remember my cousin always complaining about the size of her breasties. She wears a size 36B, or is it even 34A, i can't remember. Anyways, she was always whining about having nothing 'cos she was 26 at the time. At least, she should be thankful for the little she has, what of this young girl, that's undergoing several treatment just for the thing to grow nko? For those of u out there, be thankful for what u have, be it big or little. Remember some people have none.

How can i forget to gist u guys? How can? I almost suffocated in my own fart on Saturday night. If not for God, i wonder where Bijouxoxo would've been today. You too, think about it, how sadly funny would it be, if they ask what happened, only for u to hear she suffocated in her fart while sleeping? It all started when i cooked beans on Saturday. I made my pepper sauce seperately with palmoil (red oil), added all necessary condiments and seasoning, even added shredded smoked turkey, ground crayfish, then i mixed the sauce with the already cooked beans. My beans was banging, as in i really threw down. Infact, i should've taken a pix to put up here. I hope my family members haven't finished it sha, so that i can take a pix of it for y'all to see. Anyways, i ate 2 small bowls before leaving the house. How about every 10 minutes, u could hear a "pourooooooooooom" sound. The thing was stinking like crazy, it got so bad at a point, that i had to cover my nose from my own fart. Sad, really sad.

I had to force myself to offload before going to church on Sunday, if not, the pastor would've called me out for special deliverance. There was no way u could do it silently, u know the silent but deadly ones, yes... i know u do, so stop fronting like u've not perfected the art of the "silent, but deadly" style of farting. Anyways, i haven't had beans since that day and i'm craving for beans tonite. I think 'cos it's been long since i ate beans cooked that way, that i've forgotten the magic it works on my system. I love beans, i can't live without eating beans for real. No matter how bad i fart, i'd still eat beans. So why does beans do this to most people? When i eat akara, made from beans i'm fine, moin-moin, i'm fine but when it comes to plain beans, u're asking for trouble. Does anyone have an answer to that?

My ardent readers, (u know urselves) i crack myself up sha, see i've updated my blog for ur reading pleasure. Enjoy. Till i come ur way again laoded with gist as usual, hopefully before next Monday, have a wonderfully blessed week.

Do i expect too much from people or what?

2006-09-18T20:35:00.000-04:00

Hello my blog paddies (friends) . It's another Monday again. I'm blogging today 'cos i want to hear my acquired big sister's gist, a.k.a. my Executive Producer, the one and only Madam Temmy on blogger. Kai! See how i'd do anything for gist. May God help me. Anyways, i go to the doctors office every Monday to shadow them. You know the Nigerian doctors, that have the husband and wife practice in my zones. So something happened today, that led to the title of this post. I shadowed them all summer, voluntarily. I was involved in a bunch of things, calling the patients in and prepping them to be seen by the doctor, staying in the examination room with the doc. and even filing charts. I was basically doing a bunch of stuff, even though i wasn't asked to do 'em, i was just trying to make myself useful at least, to relieve the staff working tirelessly. Sometimes, they're just so overwhelmed with the work, that i take pity on 'em. True, they're getting paid and i'm not, but i really don't think that should matter. I enjoyed and still enjoy every bit of what i do there, and i'm grateful to them for letting me come in, at least i'm gaining some experience. At the end of the summer, i bought a thank you card for the doc. and his wife, to express my appreciation. I did the same thing with all the docs. i shadowed.

So today, i was at their office and it was around lunch time. They usually buy lunch for all their staff, the staff was taking orders of all the other people, the doc, his wife, his nephew Junior ( who's like my younger brother in school) . I was right there, and i was expecting the lady doc, when she told them to include Jnr, even though he wasn't there, to also ask if i'd like to order something. She didn't, neither did her husband. I was surprised. I don't expect too much from people, i try not to 'cos i don't want to be too shocked and disappointed if they don't meet that expectation. Basically, i was surprised for 2 reasons:
(1) They are fellow Naijas like me and u know how we do in Nigeria, when we want to eat and others are present. We offer them part of our food, even if from the depth of our heart we're praying for them to say No, thank you.
(2) Their nephew, i treat him like i would treat my blood brother, which they're very much aware of. He's the same age as my younger brother plus we're few Nigerians at school, so i try to be there for him, so he doesn't mix with the wrong crowd. This is the first time he's leaving home. I absolutely believe that whatever i make happen for others, God will make happen for me. It may not be now, but in the nearest future.

Even if i was asked, i would've said no because i was fasting. I just think it's plain courtesy. I know most Americans, don't ask people to join them when they're eating, especially if they don't know you. Could it be that these folks have imbibed the American way so much that they've forgotten their roots? I really can't tell. Anyway, i hold no grudge against them, and it doesn't make me think less of them.

Looks like my friend, Miss M is in love. She came to my zones this weekend and was gisting me about her special friend she met in July at the Women's convention i was supposed to attend. The girl seems so happy, and i'm happy for her too. This bloke was scoping my girl out at the convention. Makes me wonder whether i would have caught a "fish" too if i had attended. The guy is really serious. They talk about everything and they even pray together and have their quiet time together. How nice and sweet, right? I believe that is more romantic than any candlelight dinner. He's about 5 years older than her and he's no longer willing to play the games guys play. My girl even said she has fallen for him o. Kai! It is well.

My weekend wasn't all that productive. I planned on studying throughout, which i did but not to the extent i would've loved to. I attended the picnic my bible study group organized. 'Twas so much fun. I even invited 2 people, and they promised to come with me to Bible study on Wednesday. My friend, MO that graduated in May is yet to get a job. Okay, she got one with GSK, but when they realized she wasn't a permanent resident, and she wasn't going to be one till next year, they refused to employ her. What pissed me off was that she already filled out all the paper work, they told her to start Sept. 18th, she had quit her 2 jobs already, signed the lease to her apartment in the new city, already prepared to relocate, when they called her last week to say, they want a full-time employee for the position as soon as possible and since the process for her green card wouldn't start till late this year or early next year, they couldn't offer her the job again. She was frustrated. I tried consoling her that the best is yet to come, etc. I felt so bad, 'cos i don't know what i'd do if i were to be in that position. The whole situation has made her draw closer to God. When i got to her apartment, she was reading her Bible and she also had some inspirational books. On Sunday, when i asked her to come with me to church, she came willingly and she's even telling me she'd love to attend Bible study with me on Wednesday. This is a girl i've been inviting to B.S forever. She came just once and refused to come again. Now, she's begging to come.

Why is it that when it seems as if all hope's lost, that's when we turn to God? I've been praying for her and my other friend, J and i know that very soon, the Lord will perfect all that concerns them. That has made me very serious about praying concerning my next step after graduation. I've not taken the MCAT so my chances of enrolling in med. school the Fall of '07 is slim to none. The med. school application process takes almost a year. I'm thinking maybe i'd work for a year and prep for med. school at the same time when i graduate. My sister, my friend M and myself have decided to set aside a day every week to wait on the Lord through fasting and prayers to draw closer to God and put all our future plans before him. I'm at work right now, and i'm seriously knackered. I need divine strength, 'cos school has started working it's magic on me already, plus i've some other stuff to do like my research work and shadowing, besides my school work. I already had Round 1 of the Big Bros Big Sis interview. I'd be matched very soon with a little sister, i'm so excited. Have a blessed week people.

Common misconceptions

2006-09-11T20:10:00.000-04:00

We're all guilty of them. Have you ever caught yourself saying things you know are not correct, but 'cos everyone's saying it, it begins to sound right to you? It all started when as kids, we used to read "My Book of Bible Stories." Raise your hands, and up high in the air, if you never read it. See, the book was meant for kids, so they used illustrations to explain to our young minds the biblical events. Which is a good thing.

Miguel made a comment on my last blog entry. He mentioned something about the apple in the Garden of Eden, that was when this post came to mind. Get your bibles out, if you don't have one, borrow. Also, you may want to bring out all the versions of the bible you have. It's time to do some research.

Misconception # 1:
WAS IT AN APPLE OR AN ORANGE OR GRAPES?

There's no where in the bible where it's written that the fruit Adam and Eve ate in the bible was an apple. The King James Version (KJV) of the bible in Genesis 3 verse 6 just says the woman took of the fruit thereof and did eat. The New International Version (NIV) says when the woman saw the fruit was pleasing to the eye, she took some and ate. There's no talk of it being an apple (which we're used to saying) or orange or grape etc.

Misconception # 2:
HOW MANY WERE THEY, 2 OR 3 OR A 100?

When Jesus was born, and the wisemen went to visit him. There's no account of the bible that says they were 3 wisemen (or shepherds) that went to visit him; but because they brought three gifts of gold, frankincense an myrrh, we've assumed they were three. Also the song, "We Three Kings of Orient Are" make us think they were three wisemen that went to visit Jesus. Check what the different versions have to say and you would see for yourself. Matthew 2 verse 11 just says they came, worshipped him and they presented their gifts to him. Check out Luke 2 verse 8 to 20. Funny thing, is that whenever there's a play of Jesus' birth, every time, you always see the 3 wise men and so this misconception is being passed down from generation to generation, so that it now seems right.

Misconception # 3:
WAS IT ROTTEN TOMATOES OR ROTTEN APPLES?

Another misconception, is the kind of offering Cain brought unto God. Some say he brought rotten fruit and that's why his offering wasn't accepted. Believe it or not, but i've heard some people say that the reason the Lord did not have repect unto Cain's offering was because it was rotten stuff he brought before God. Where in all the versions of the bible, does it say it was rotten tomatoes he brought? See for yourself in Genesis 4 verses 3, 4 and 5

Misconception # 4:
IS SEX REALLY THE FORBIDDEN FRUIT?

I've heard many people saying that the sin Adam and Eve committed was actually fornication, that they had sex. How can? When God had already given them the go ahead in Genesis 1 verse 28 to be fruitful and multiply, in other words, to procreate. They ate of the forbidden fruit in Genesis chapter 3, which was after they were married anyways. See for yourself in Genesis 2 verses 21 to 25. How then can sex be the forbidden fruit they ate thereof?

Misconception # 5:
WAS IT A WHALE OR AN OCTOPUS? (Thanks to Niyi)

Another one is the story of Jonah. I think a common misconception is that he was swallowed by a whale when he was thrown into the sea but the Bible says " a great fish" (no specifics given)- Jonah 1:17

Those are the misconceptions i have caught thus far. It's true that the bible we read now, has been translated from the original, but i still don't see in any of the translations, that the fruit the serpent gave Eve was an apple, that there were 3 wise men, that Cain's offering was rotten and that the sin Adam and Eve committed was that they had sex. Please folks, let's be cautious of how we interprete the Bible. Again, i think it's the children's bible with all the pictures, that make us think this way.

Random Musing

2006-09-01T13:14:00.000-04:00

I really don't have anything in particular to blog about, but 'cos my fans, i wish (yes, u know urselves) have been begging me to update my blog, i'm going to give u a low down of happenings in my life. I came across this article on Boundless about blogs. It's so true. Last Thursday, my wisdom tooth was bothering me, it's been growing for the past 2 years. It started out by growing at an angle, now it's fully grown but it wouldn't come out of the gum. Why? I have no clue. So as i was preparing to go to bed on Thursday, after brushing my teeth i noticed i had something that looked like a hole in my gum at the site where the tooth was supposed to be, and it was red. I was scared, 'cos i thought it might be infected. Anyways, the next day, i ran to NY to get the tooth extracted. The dentist later told me the tooth was fully grown and was tryna push it's way out of the gum, i guess that explains the hole i saw. My mouth was swollen for 3 days, like i put a medium sized puff-puff in my mouth. I was spotting a Kanye West according to my sister. Thank God everything's okay now. I have 30 set of teeth, 2 wisdom teeth have been extracted.

Labor day weekend was aight. How can i forget to gist u guys about my scoper in NY a.k.a toaster or whatever u choose to call it. My uncle's friend, his co-worker but the guy is now like a brother to my uncle. Anyways, this guy let's call him Kesto. Kesto has a helluva crush on me. For real o. I met him for the first time at my baby cousin's 1st b'day. I was doing my thing as a big sis. jejely, oblivious to the fact that i was being scoped seriously. After the b'day party that night, i was going back to PA. My uncle, Kesto and my aunt walked me to my car. Next thing, Kesto called my aunt aside and was asking about me and some u-know-those-type-of-questions. My aunt later said to me in yoruba that it seems this bobo likes u.

Whenever i'm in NY, Kesto comes around. He lives not too far from my aunt's school. We talk about random stuff and that's it. He took my sister, my cousin and I bowling, we had fun. He paid for everything, from the cab fare to the food we ate, to the bowling shoes. So this my last trip to NY, he came to my aunt's place, we chatted as usual and i went back to reading my magazine. Kesto then hugged me from behind for like a minute and said I love you 3 times or more sef. I was shocked. I gave him the look and he cautioned himself quickly. He repeated it again, when he realized i wasn't too pleased, he then said he was just in a happy mood. I was like so? Na wetin consine me with dat? (What's my business with that?) He even went as far as saying to me, "Check this out (pointing to his clothes), the Lacoste jacket, shirt, pants and shoes. I was pissed thinking to myself, why's this dude trying to show off?

He knows i'm looking to enroll in a medical school, so this dude has taken it upon himself to look for schools for me with good scholarship packages and other incentives. Under the pretense that he's looking for med. schools for me, he used style style to get my number from my aunt. Anyways, in all honesty this guy is tall, dark and handsome. He's half Britico, half Yankee. I like him as a friend and that's it. I guess there could've been something more, just that i didn't give him the the chance to yarn me sweet nothings, 'cos i've heard not so pleasant gist about him from my uncle. I dunno if it's true sha. He looks like a responsible dude, but what i heard already has me biased.

Anyway, i wonder why people u're feeling don't even realize it. There's this guy i'm seriously feeling. Not midnight gister o. I've not heard from him in a while, i hope he's ok sha. Mr. OF is the bobo i'm feeling. U know how it is when u're feeling someone and u don't want the person to know u're really feeling him, just in case he's not feeling u like that. I know, i know... How do i let him know i'm feeling him, i take that back. He shouldn't know, he should only suspect, right? Whenever he calls, and he says he'll call back, he never does. He'll be texting me on weekends. For goodness sake, u can just call since it's free anyways. I've played the voicemails he left me over and over again. I never get tired of listening to his voice on my phone. If only he knows that i'm feeling him like this. Funny thing, is that when we were growing up back in Lagos, we didn't talk that much. I thought he was much older then, only to realize that he's just 4 yrs older. I prayed about it constantly for a while, but i've stopped now 'cos i've other pressing issues to discuss with my father in heaven.

Yesterday, i felt so lonely in school. My friends, M and J are not around, one graduated the other is interning in the state capital. I need new study partners, for real. All 3 of us, used to study till late in school. Now, it's only me *sobs* I swear, i need to make new friends. You guys need to hear something funny. That was how i was sitting jejely last week (u know i'm always sitting pretty, i don't look for trouble), when my aunt from Nigeria called me. She said her friend had a vision concerning me and that from the vision, a whole me, Bijouxoxo shouldn't wear anything red 'cos my guardian angel doesn't like red and that i shouldn't interfere in other people's issues. Even if i'm asked to comment or if they're breaking their heads in my presence, i shouldn't interfere. What's up with all these people sef? Wetin consine my guardian angel with colors, no be to guide and guard me be hin duty? I'm gonna pray about it, 'cos i know my father isn't the author of confusion, so if there's any truth to it, it will be revealed to me also. Abi how u take see am?

My grandpa has been talking about going to that glorious place. Last week, he wanted to hold a family meeting about that. He's scaring me o. Haba! he's only just 78, abi which one be dis. He's very strong and healthy. He reads without his glasses, thank God he has no "lifestyle diseases" (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes etc.) , he once had a mild form of angina. So why that talk now? I love him so much, he's the best grandfather anyone could ask for. That's all that has been going on with me so far. Nothing new. Till i come armed and loaded with gist again, remain blessed and highly favored people.

Can i get a witness?

2006-08-30T21:25:00.000-04:00

School started on Monday and i've a lot of things on my agenda for this semester, besides my normal 17 credits. May God helep me for real. Anyways, i was in my Intro to Art History class on Monday, when the professor asked each one of us to introduce ourselves. No biggie abi? Na ordinary introducion, tell us ur name, ur year, ur major and something interesting about urself plus what u did this summer. Hi, i'm Lagbaja..... Hello, i'm Temedo....... Hey, i'm Iroko tree...... and the list went on and on. When it got to my Christian broda's (we both attend the same campus Bible study) turn, this was how he introduced himself, "Hi, my name's Chris, i'm an 18-yr old virgin by choice, 'cos according to the word of God which i believe in, thou shalt not fornicate. I attend XYZ Church and u're all welcome to our Sunday worship service @ 10 a.m in ABC. Taste of the Lord's goodness, and see how sweet he is." Boy! Was i stunned? More than stunned. I was shocked... as in, see people boldly proclaiming Christ, no matter what the world may say or how they may be viewed. Anyways, when it got to dear Bijouxoxo's turn, who is a born again child of God (for about 8 yrs now), na so i just say my name, year, what i did in the summer. Finito.

Later that day, even up till this point, i'm still chastising myself for acting like a coward. An opportunity was presented to me to stand up for Christ, and what did i do? Let it slip out of my hands. Trust me, everyone in the class, myself included laughed when that kid said it, but i know deep down within me that he's going to touch someone's life with just that single statement. Whenever i remember the bible verse that says (i'm paraphrasing), "if u deny me before men, i'll deny u before my father" and the fact that on that glorious day, he'll spit out the lukewarm christians, i shudder.

Witnessing has been a big issue for me. I've tried several techniques, when i'm at my work-study job, if there's nothing to do, i make sure all i read is Christian literature, websites i visit are christian sites etc. Hoping that through that, an opportunity for witnessing would be created. One day, my boss at work saw me reading, "The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel" and asked to see the book i was reading, i gave him and he looked at it for about a minute and handed it back to me without saying anything. Immediately he gave me back the book, i had the urge, a very strong one too, to ask him if he would like to have the book for a day to look at it. What did i do? Took the book and suppressed that urge. It later dawned on me, that would've been a perfect witnessing opportunity. I've this other boss that doesn't believe there's a God. An atheist to the core, married with kids. What pains me most is that those kids too would most likely tow their parent's path. I've been praying for him, but i've not initiated any conversations with him yet in that direction.

What hit me most was when my friend from high school (secondary school, if you will) in Nigeria, who is based here called me 3 week ago. I hadn't heard from her in a long while. This girl was a staunch and i mean staunch Moslem from our h.s days. From the way she was talking, it seemed as if she had converted. I wasn't sure, so i asked her in a gentle manner, i was shocked and overjoyed when she told me she was now a born-again Christian. She was even trying to witness to me right there, on the spot. She then realized from our conversation that i was already a child of God. My people, there's no more time to waste for real, the time is near for the bridegroom to come for his bride, the church. The harvest is over ripe, but the workmen are few. I want to be one of the workmen.

This doesn't mean that i love the Lord less, nor does it mean that i'm a coward who doesn't want to be associated with God. I love the Lord with all of my heart, and i've been praying seriously and making efforts to winning souls for Christ. With what's going on in the world today, everyone who calls himself/ herself a child of God MUST be about his/ her father's business and MUST have a passion for lost souls.

My goal now, is to start small, when someone sneezes around me, rather than saying just bless you, i'd say God bless you. When someone asks how i'm doing, rather than saying just good, i'd say i'm blessed. When someone, regardless of who, asks me something about tomorrow e.g. "Are u coming to work tomorrow?" I'd reply, " I'm coming in at 9 am by God's grace." See, i've been doing all of the above, but i select who to say it to, and when to say it. My e-mail address signature reads, "Smile, Jesus loves you." But when i'm mailing some people i include it and to others, i don't maybe 'cos i don't want to be viewed as "somehow" or as an "overspiri." At this point i'm like, to the bushes with that, what's the point of thinking about how i'd be viewed by people when to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Since i can acknowledge the fact that it's in him and him alone that i live, move and have my being, so why would i be shy talking about my father? I've been praying seriously on this issue. Do u guys have any ideas to help me?

When 2 elephants are doing battle, Bijouxoxo suffers.

2006-08-27T17:29:00.000-04:00

Just got back today. Even though i spent a week and 3 days, it felt like i was gone for months. Everytime i go to see my family, it's always one drama or the next. My grandmum has 10 kids, out of which 6 are in the U.S. and 1 is in London. There are 6 girls in the family, which may be the reason why there's always drama. Anyways, my London Aunt (LA) accused me of being selfish 'cos according to her, my grandparents (grans) have been around for almost 4 months and i couldn't come to take care of them. She's forgetting that i'm in school and going to see my grandparents is an hour's drive from me plus i was working in the ER and the doctor's office. Anyways, i let that slide 'cos i knew it wasn't true and trying to explain the situation of things to her, would be like pouring water in a basket. My plan, was to go spend time with my grans for 2 weeks after my job's over.

Anyways, during this time, my 8 year old cousin had a serious asthma attack and she had to be admitted in the hospital for days. My grans, my sister, LA and I were enroute to NJ when we decided to stop by NY to say hello to the folks there. That was when my cousin's thingy started, she was gasping for air and she looked like she was gonna pass out. 'Cos of the new development, my grans decided they were no longer going to NJ and would rather stay till she gets discharged from the hospital. IMHO, i thought that was unnecessary, 'cos they would still be communicating with her via phone which they can as well do from NJ. The trip was aborted sha.

This is the beginning of the yawa (trouble). My aunt A, the kid's mom is very independent. Even though she's married, she does almost everything. About 2 years after they got married, she came to the US with her kids while her hubby was still in Nigeria. Maybe that explains why she shoulders even her hubby's responsibilities. Right from the get go, my mum saw this and warned her that if she continues this way, she wouldn't make her hubby responsible. In fairness to Mr. hubby, he's responsible in his own way, but when his wife decides to do it all, he retreats. Aunt A runs a summer camp. She slept in the hospital throughout her daughter's stay, and needed someone she trusted to oversee the affairs of the summer school especially with her employees. She asked LA to tell me to sleep over at her house so first thing in the morning, i would start with the assigned duties.

That was when all hell broke loose. LA (my Voltron) is known to be very realistic, she'll tell it as it is. She's very strict and doesn't tolerate any nonsense behavior. Aunt A's hubby, thinks she's domineering, oh well... We always hang out together whenever she's around and i think some of her attributes have rubbed off on me. LA asked Aunt A why she couldn't ask her hubby to do the things she wanted me to do that afterall, the business was for both of them and besides, they couldn't be forcing their plans on me without any regard as to what i had to do. Aunt A, tryna cover up for hubby, said hubby was working 4 nights that week and he couldn't call off work 'cos there was nobody to take up his shift. LA went on to say to Aunt A and i quote, "What responsible man goes to work and acts like nothing's up when his daughter's seriously ill." LA even said that if Bijouxoxo wasn't around, won't u look for a way to sort out ur issues. On that note, she said i wasn't going to sleep in Aunt A's house, and they should assume i wasn't around. It was a serious argument o, they even used the dreaded EF word at one point. When i saw the 3 sisters arguing, i then called my aunt O who's the gentle one aside to try to explain things from LA's point of view. This was all i said, "LA thinks that Aunt A should've thought of a back-up plan, in case of an emergency." Aunt O was pissed and went off on me (i have never seen her that angry), she even went as far as telling Aunt A what i said. That added petrol (gas) to the fire. When all i was doing was trying to be a peacemaker by playing with the same words LA used in a subtle manner. Aunt A was like i have no right whatsoever to tell her what to do, as per the back-up plan thingy. Our big mama (the big sis who's very sensitive, every little thing u say or do in her presence gets turned into one offence or the other) started rebuking me that what i said about aunt A to aunt O was waaaaaaay bigger than my mouth. I didn't say a word (which was a surprise to me) while she raved on and on. Can u believe that my not saying anything, even annoyed her further. She said i was trying to prove stubborn. If i talk, it'll cause wahala, even keeping mute is causing yawa, my bros. and sistas, which one do i do now?

This was the same big mama i was talking to last year, we were gisting o and as usual, i was gesticulating. Next thing i knew, she said i pointed my finger at her? Chei! See me see wahala o. She made a big issue out of this, even after i tried convincing her that i was just gesticulating and talking and as such i wasn't even aware of whatever stray movements my fingers made. I apologized and we were cool that day, or so i thot, only for her to start calling my mum in Nigeria to tell her, this story spread like wild fire to all the family members o, and by the time i heard the story again, it had been twisted, massacred and murdered. Since then, i've always been on my guard whenever i'm around her.

There was yawa with her again on this trip. I saw these nice pair of sandals she had and told her they looked nice (not synonymous with saying i like it). She then told me i could've it. Anyways, i thanked her. Those sandals are not even my type of shoes. The unusual shape sef would cause heads to turn in ur direction, plus they were flat shoes. When i was leaving her house, i deliberately left the sandals, 'cos i knew i wasn't going to wear them. She forgot her cell phone and asked me to go get it from her room. On getting there, the sandals were smiling at me again. I then decided to take them with me the 2nd time around 'cos i realized she may think i deliberately left the shoes she gave me and new wahala would brew. When she saw me with the shoes, she asked in the precense of her friends, "Who said u could take those shoes without asking?" I was embarrassed. I jogged her memory to let her know that she said i could've it. She then went on to say how much she bought the shoes for, plus they were Italian shoes with genuine leather soles, plus the fact that she had never worn them before and just bough an outfit to go with them. Then i said, "Mama, i can leave the shoes 'cos i wouldn't wear it in school anyways." Next thing i knew, she said i was rude. Come to think of it, u can't please people. How, where, when was i rude? If i didn't take it, wahala, now again wahala. My aunt A told me to call her to apologize, i'm like for what again? What did i do, i was only telling her my honest opinion that the shoes will be uncomfortable for me to wear all day in school and as such i could leave it if she still wanted to wear it. Omo, me i am tired of all these. I didn't call and i din't take the shoes either, not after the embarrasment.

I'm in everyone's black book now. Now i know when 2 elephants are fighting even if they want to kill themselves, i'll just do "siddon look". I'll be placating them or better still, i won't even say a word. No be me they go put for middle. Now the sister's have settled their differences, they forgot the fact that i was only trying to echo what LA was saying albeit in a subtle manner so peace would reign, now they're pouring and venting all the anger on me. It's all good. Blessed is Bijouxoxo tryna make peace by playing with angry words to make them subtle, for the yawa will gas on her head (trouble will land on her head). Before they see my face in their zones again, they'll beg me. There's so much more to write, but i'll leave it at that for now. School starts tomorrow. I feel like i've been in school forever, but by God's grace, it'll be over soon.

P.S: If my aunts see this post, they'd turn me into minced meat. So pray for me that doesn't happen. I know it may be difficult keeping track of all my aunts, sometimes i do have difficulties keeping track of all of them and their various idiosyncracies, but i've tried to make 'em easy, so bear with me.

When 2 elephants are doing battle, who suffers?

2006-08-25T01:41:00.000-04:00

I know i've been away for sometime now, it's really not my fault. I've been in NY for a week now, and everytime i come to see my family, there's one family drama or the other going on. In all honesty, i didn't want to come, but i was really missing my grandparents. It's a large family so there's always one yawa or the next. Tori plenty for ground. I promise to gist y'all as soon as i get back to my zones. God knows, i'm itching to spill it all out. Most times, am very realistic, i'll tell it like it is. I swear, for my own good, i need to learn how to be diplomatic. I always get my behind in trouble 'cos of this with my NY family. The yawa (trouble) i got into, na only God help me comot from am.

Addictions, ER, and Mr. Nice guy

2006-08-16T22:34:00.001-04:00

I'm beginning (who am i kidding, i've always been) to get addicted to McVitie's Chocolate digestives, it isn't even funny again. I can't believe i was contemplating to order the biscuit (cookies) online for $5 each and shipping is $3.95. Imagine? I wonder how i'll survive without my regular dose, till my uncle gets back from London. Omo, fashie that people'll call me a grubbido, but when i see someone travelling to the UK, I ask them to bring me my biscuits, i don't care if i've a closet full already. This last one i just finished, lasted a whole month, after sharing (as hard as it was) about 6 pieces with my precious little cousins. I remember there was a time i loved Famous Amos chocolate chip cookies, then i was still in Nigeria so i'd practically beg anyone coming to the States to bring back my precious cookies. I've a sweet tooth, but i don't drink sodas or eat chocolate bars.

Anyways, my shadowing in the ER has really opened my eyes. There are diseases in this world o. I thank God everyday for the gift of life, the gift of another day and every little thing in my life, even the not so pleasant experiences. Some people wish for these thiongs i take for granted. Infact, i've realized the futility of life more than i've ever done before. One minute, u're alive, tryna conquer the world the next minute, u're struggling to survive and hoping against all hope that a miracle will happen, even though u may claim not to believe in God.

Prior to my experience, especially in the ER now, i used to think ER docs were real geniuses, as in they knew almost everything. Infact, i thot they were the smartest, being able to respond to situations at the spur of the moment. I shadow the Chief of emergency medicine, very nice guy BTW, the Oga patapata (big boss), and after seeing this particular patient and running all tests imaginable, between me and him, he was like, "Frankly speaking, i don't know what the problem is. We'll try giving him these meds to see if he gets some relief." What does that tell u? Doctors try their best, but God is the ultimate physician that heals.

I'm going to copy Adaure now, with the coded gist part in pidgin. Na so dis 23 yr old pikin come ER, she drink overdose on medicine wey doctor give am. She take 30 pills of a 500mg prescribed tab. She come talk say na 'cos her and her bf get argument na so she feel depressed. Imagine o? Just 'cos of boyfie wey no care about am. When her mama here say she dey hospital, she rush make she come see her pikin, dis yeye pikin come dey abuse mama, dey yell at am. E be like say make i pimp slap (thanx Miguel) the pikin for where she lay. Mama wey care about u rush to ur bedside, boyfie wey u wan kill urself on top of am, no even call talk less of come visit u. She be 1st class mumu.

Anyways, i finally submitted my Big Bros Big Sis application last week. I've had that application for about 2 years now. So unto some gbeborun a.k.a. amebo moves. One of my friends, let's call her P, just met this guy and they've been dating for about 6 months now. The guy's very nice, knows how to treat a lady right and all. He's visited P a couple of times, and even gives her money whenever she's suffering from lackfundaitis. P has never bought him a gift, seeing as she's always broke. Should this be the case?

I'm dry today, i even know it too or maybe those are the withdrawal symptoms from my latest addiction. I think i may have an ear infection. My right ear has been itching for about 2 hours, maybe i should stick Q-tips in it? I've some insect bites on my thighs, from Saturday at the park, it itches too. Lord help me.

Be ur sista's keeper, Roster for MIG 101 and random stuvvs

2006-08-11T11:36:00.000-04:00

Guys 'n Babes, i need help eyin peeps. I'm not that computer savvy, but i know the basics and i use Lagos sense for the rest. I'd try to describe what i need help with as best as I can. How can u include links within ur post, without adding the URL address? For example, if i say in my blog entry, "I was checking out Miguel's post when i read Naijabloke's comment." How do i highlight Miguel and Naijabloke, so that when u click on their names, it opens up their page? Or even if i say, "while reading an article on Nigeriaworld, ..." I want other readers to be able to click on Nigeriaworld and it goes directly to the page. I know it's something easy, so i need help.

Calling all bloggers that have had enough relationship/ dating/ courtship/ marriage experience. I need y'all to dedicate a blog entry on how a man can find a good woman or better still the topic should be how to find, treat and keep a woman. Professor Miguel has truly given us sound advice, but it takes 2 to make a r/ship work. Abi eyin babes, what do u think? We need to retaliate (i know it's not a fight, but ...)

It could be teamwork, it doesn't have to be a one person write-up. All interested bloggers should lemme know (as per i'm the class captain). Miguel is willing to post it on his blog. I've learnt some things(that i hope to put into practice) from this MIG 101 course. You may think people are just reading for laffs, but some people don't actually know these things he has shared. I've no doubt that this write-up is bound to help someone. What do u guys think?

I have 3 people interested (myself included) already, so that's a good sign. I'll take care of the logistics, as per i'm the class captain. I elected myself, lol.
Now, should we make it a forum, like the one Mona had a while ago, where u'd post ur write-up in the comment section and Miguel, being the prof. a.k.a. moderator, would copy 'n paste onto his blog. We could also do something like what Olawunmi did about people guest-writing on another person's blog (pretty much what we're doing).

The thing is how can we do it without knowing Miguel's log in info? All suggestions are welcome. Let the class captain (that's me, in case u 're wondering) know what you think. I'd spread the word, so we can have more people. Here's the roster, and it's still tentative:
1st write-up: Biodun
2nd write-up: Bijouxoxo (if we don't have anybody else)
3rd write-up: Professor Miguel (i'd love for him to be the one to write the last entry, just to round up).

Even if u've been in just one r/ship or don't have loads of experience, but u think u still would like to share ur knowledge, u're welcome. I know this is bound to help someone now or in the nearest future.

I've finally found rest

2006-08-09T09:22:00.000-04:00

Nothing much has been happening, just the same old me. Okay, lemme share a litle story of the thorn in my flesh, the vacuum i couldn't seem to get filled until Sunday.
Since the beginning of this year, i've been looking for a church i could call my home church, people i could refer to as my church family, and how i could use the talents God has given me to serve in his vineyard. One thing i don't play with, is forsaking the assembly, fellowship if you will, of believers and that prompted me to start looking for a church whose mode of worship i liked ASAP.

Now, this is where my escapades begin. I used to attend this COGIC (Church of God In Christ) church in NJ from 2003 to early 2005, but with gas prices soaring and the distance, i found out that sometimes, i'd skip church 4 times in a month and even for 3 whole months. It became impossible to attend regular Sunday services, talkless of weekday services. Then, my Ghanaian friend invited me to her Bible study (B.S) in early '05. Attending that B.S, has been and is still being a blessing to me. I've learnt a lot, and even though my Sunday church attendance was dwindling, my Wednesday B.S. didn't suffer.

Then, i found this church in the neighborhood, about 10 minutes drive from my house. The church was okay, but the problem was worship in that church was becoming a routine for me. The only thing that changes every Sunday, is the sermon and the songs we sing from the hymnal, apart apart from that, nothing else. I attended the church from Nov. '05 till July '06. I helped out in the children's Sunday school, and with Vacation Bible School in June. Nice church, nice people; but there was still something missing.

Before i continue, i'd put up a disclaimer. I've nothing against the Episcopal or Catholic church. I'm not condemning their mode of worship neither am i denigrating their practices and beliefs. A little bit of background info. on myself. My grandfather is a retired Bishop of the Episcopal church and my paternal grandfather is a staunch Episcopalioan. I grew up in an Episcopal church, which i attended till i was 16. Once in a while, i'd sneak out to go to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) parish near my house, but that was about it. I was beginning to get tired of the Sunday-Sunday routine. Episcopalians (or Anglicans) worship in a similar fashion like Catholics. I like variety; i realized i needed more than i was being offered.

I was thoroughly enjoying the B.S and the folks, so i decided to check out their church; problem is/was that the church is in Newark, NJ (45 mins. to 1 hr. drive). Even though my friends from B.S go to church every Sunday, and even attend weekday services, i knew it wouldn't work for me. Whenever i attend their service in N.J, i enjoy myself and really do get my Holy ghost groove on. There are about 6 families (average # in each is 5) that attend the church in NJ from my zones. They realized that it wasn't practical going to NJ for services all the time, plus the fact that they now had to limit their church activities, which wasn't a good thing for 'em. They then decided to start a branch of the church in my zones. We've been looking for a plcae to rent, where we can have services, but there's been no luck with that. Either, we're not looking well enough or there just isn't anywhere.

Last Saturday, i was at my hairdresser's (Cia's) place and i narrated my ordeal to her. She invited me to her church. Meanwhile, i went online and found another church in the area, so i had a list of churches i was gonna check out. My friend, M and I had a mission to accomplish, and that was to find a church in the area where we felt at peace. July 30th, i went round and round, trying to locate a church i was told about, finally, after burning my gas and roasting in the sun, i went to the nearest hotel to ask for directions. On getting there, i noticed there were ushers by the door, they gave me directions but i was running late already so i just joined their church for service. I was really desperate 'cos prior to that, i hadn't been to church in 3 weeks, but my Wednesday nite B.S, i didn't mess with.

The service was just okay. One thing that caught my attention as i entered, was that all the women were in red, while the men were in black suit. Needless to say, that i was the odd one out in a navy blue suit. I stood out like a flashing neon sign. The Pastor seemed like a joker, bouncing from one topic to the next, smiling and pointing into the camera. I later realized the service was televised. The church has a color code for each service! Since when has worshipping in the house of God become a colorful, fashion contest?

Fast forward to this Sunday, August 6th, myself, M and J attended Cia's church. I was impressed with the service. The pastor's preaching was on point. He carried everyone along, irrespective of ur age group. They were so welcoming. I'm happy to say that i've finally found a place i can call my church home. I've finally found rest. This coming Sunday, the 13th, my gals and i wouldn't have to check out the other churches on our list.

On Sunday after church, M and i went to this nice, quiet park i just discovered. It has a pond and some ducks. We were there from 4 until 7 taking pictures, walking, gisting and just lazing around. I went to the park again on Tuesday, by myself this time, just to meditate and reflect for about 2 hours. Of late, I've been surrounded by peace that i can't explain. Not that things are rosy or anything, but i just have this feeling of tranquility. It's weird, really weird 'cos looking at the way things are, i should be agitated, even frightened. I'm gonna be in the ER tomorrow, shadowing the Director of the ER. I wasn't even born when this guy graduated from med. school. More updates on that later.

Should she accept him back or not?

2006-08-03T19:43:00.000-04:00

Things are happening in this small town of mine. Imagine, infact can u just imagine that yeye boy, infact he is not only yeye he's a nonsense boy sef, may indecisions not finish him. Y'all would be wondering who i'm abusing like this, it's Dave. Let me tell it like it is, 'cos that's what i always do. I don't sugar coat stuff. I'm so angry, ehn, you'd think this issue is about me. Abeg, which one be my own sef? Why would my blood pressure rise on top of someone else's issue?

I've 2 very good friends, T and J in this my little town. BTW, J passed her RN (Registered Nurse) exam, Thank God. I'm so happy for her, u'd think i was the one that passed. The gal has been through a lot, a real hustler. God answered our prayers, 'cos it sure wasn't easy. Next thing is to get a good job, then the big bucks'll start rolling in. Anyways, I digress like i always do.

Dave, is from South Africa, (he's black) but went to college in Jamaica. After his undergrad, he came to the States in 2004 for his Masters degree. To cut the long story short sha, i noticed he was tryna get close to my friend, T. Everytime i asked T, she denied it. As u know say, no be yesterday they born me nau, me i sabi say sumtin' dey go on. I kept my cool and fashied (ignored) them.

Whenever T and I were studying in the lounge, Dave would show up. Next thing, my gal would excuse herself and wouldn't show up till 2-3 hours later. In as much as i wanted to ask questions as to her whereabouts, I kept my cool and resisted the urge. This continued for weeks, until they realized that afterall, we're no longer high school kids; so they'd sit in the lounge (disturbing me while i'm studying, if i might add) and be doing their mushy stuff for hours. I thought my gal was shy before, but i don't think so again 'cos she'd sit on Dave's lap, hug him like her life depended on the hug and they'd be kissing and making noise to disturb my studious self.

I wasn't hating o, but i was suspicious of this sudden love. As in, when did they get to meet? For how long? Are things not moving too fast? I cautioned my gal gently, 'cos i didn't want to sound like a numero uno hater. After a month of whirlwind loving, Dave and T broke up. Actually, to rephrase that, Dave broke up with T on the basis that after his Masters (in Computer Science & Security) program, he's likely to go back to Jamaica to take up the job offer he had before leaving, and he wouldn't want them to get so emotionally involved.

Whatdaheck?!?!? I was pissed. Infact, i was more than pissed. What kind of lame excuse is that? He was tryna sound considerate and nice, and T believed every word of what that liar said. Okay, think about it, in this present century, do they still put job offers on hold for people? Of course not! Only if na ur papa get the company. 2nd thing, why would he want to leave Yankee for Jamaica after 2yrs plus the fact that all his family's here? What i think most rational people in his situation would try to do, is that they'd try to get a job here.

My school, being very small, with everyone knowing everyone, na so tori dey begin to flow. People knew them as a couple already. The guy flirts with girls all the time, even in the presence of my gal. My gal had and i think still has strong feelings for this yam head. In all honesty, she wanted it to work, she tried to let him realize that u can't plan for tomorrow just yet. Live each day as it comes. I was her main advisor, infact the only advisor. After the break up, he'd still call and they'd be chatting into the wee hours of the nite.

Now, he wants to come back. He's begging my friend to be his girlfriend again. Apparently, we realized he got a faculty position at our school. As the chief advisor, I advised her against it. Now that there are many applications from prospectives coming in for my gal, this olodo (dummy) wants to be in the way of her blessing. God forbid. Tufiakwa! We no go see such kain thing! Infact, she already conducted the first interview on one of 'em and is in the process of hiring sef. A friend loves at all times, a friend sticks closer than a brother, abi no be so? How nice would it have been if they had been together, even before he knew what God had in store for him. They would have weathered the storm together then, and be counting their blessings now.

In my opinion, this boy would only love her when things are rosy. He claimed to love her dearly in '04, but this perfect love couldn't cast out all his fear of the unknown. Abeg, that is counterfeit love right there.

On midnight gister, he's doing ok. Just that i don't entertain his midnite gist again, so most of the time when he calls, i'm in zzzzzzzzzzland, and i'm terrible at returning calls, even though we have the same service provider and it's free o. School's starting soon and i'm excited, but i know the drill, i'd be waiting for it to be over after the 2nd week of classes.

My best friend T is going to the State capital for her internship in the governor's office. My gal will be rubbing shoulders with those in the corridors of power. I'm so proud of her. She and one other gal were chosen to represent the school. My other best friend, J will be working in NY. So i've to try to find at least one other best friend this semester. If not, i'll make do with my acquaintances a.k.a. hang out buddies and try to like them.

P.S: Y'all should show my gal luv on her page. Right now, there's a juicy story she needs advice on. You know what they say, "2 heads are better than one." Here's the link to her page again www.sapphireaster.blogspot.com.

YAY! Sapphire Aster has a blog

2006-08-01T10:26:00.000-04:00

I really dunno what to write today. I've been extremely dry since last week. Anyways, i'd just ramble on and on, and maybe, just maybe my gist bulb would light up. My gal, Sapphire Aster, started her blog, so y'all should show her some love on her page. Here's the link http://sapphireaster.blogspot.com/. This gal, has been a good friend for quite sometime now, but she suffers from last born syndrome (apologies to all the last borns out there). She sucks, and i mean SUCKS at keeping in touch, but she's better now. Before, 'twas really bad. I'm good at persuasion o. Infact, i've got skillzzz. I coaxed her into joining hi5, now she's on blogger. What can I say? I'm just too good.

Wonders shall never cease on blogger o. Can u imagine? A certain somborri is tryna matchmake some other somborris (somebody). I wouldn't lie, i actually did the matchmaking in my brain, so in a way, this dude voiced out my thots. Funny thing, is that these two somborris they're tryna matchmake met randomly sometime. Well, no more "gbeboruns" a.k.a. amebo for me, that was my New month resolution, and it's just the 1st day of the month, and i'm already breaking it.

Another amebo tip, do you guys know that someone has a blog in Yoruba? That's too mad o. Even though i had a B in SSCE, my Yoruba isn't that great. I can speak it very well, but i'm very slow when reading. Here's the link http://omoobokun.blogspot.com/. Anyways, i'll have more updates later, no more gbeboruns, so help me God. Happy new month people. It's crazy how the year is going by so fast. Wasn't it just yesterday we were counting down into the new Year?

P.S: On Saturday, after getting my hair done, my girl, Jan and i were looking for a hang out spot. We decided to try out this new ice-cream shop, which was closed by the time we got there. Anyways, as we were about to leave, 2 white teenagers were driving by and next thing we heard was, "What's up nigga?" I'm not really sure if that was what they said or "f%&k you nigga." I really want to believe 'twas the former. The other white folks around were apologising to us. I was stunned! This was my 1st time of being called that.

Reflections

2006-07-28T11:54:00.000-04:00

I've had a lot on my mind lately. On Wednesday night, after bible study, i was having a chat with my good friend, George, in the middle of our conversation, he made a remark, which goes like this, "I do not know what tomorrow holds, but i do know the one who holds tomorrow." It was just a casual remark, but i held on to it. Infact, it's been coming back to me whenever my thots start to drift. It's so funny how things fall in place.

Sometime last month, during my quiet time, i read Proverbs 30 verses 7-9. Paraphrasing, it just says there are 2 things i ask of you dear Lord and don't refuse me these 2 before i die. The first one is keep falsehood and lies away from me (those white lies, stretching the truth, that we're guilty of), let me not be stupendously rich nor be a pauper, but only give me my daily bread (make me comfortable). Because if i'm too rich, i may not have time for you, rather i'll be chasing after my wealth and if i'm too poor, i may steal and that'll bring dishonor to ur name.

That was a light bulb moment for me. I started thinking to myself how true that was. I've a friend that says if he has $ 1 million today, he would fashie God and the things of God. Before the end of that week, during bible study with my girls, the topic was from the same chapter in Proverbs i read earlier in the week. Isn't it awesome just how God works? Some may say it's just coincidental, but i don't think so.

P.S: Things are looking good, oh. Very soon, i'll start blogging on what some may call gross stuff. My friend and I are going to start volunteering at the newly refurbished ER in our local hospital (that hospital is huge, yet they keep on extending it), beginning next week. I'm so excited, but we've to be extra careful, so that we don't contract any nosocomial infections.

The wild side of Bijouxoxo

2006-07-25T03:18:00.000-04:00

It's 3 a.m. and i'm still awake. Before u start thinking that i'm suffering from insomnia, NO, that's not the case. I was on the phone talking to O for 2.5 hrs (ahem, y'all know who O is, remember my primary school classmate i met in OH). We were reminiscing about stuff from way back, and talking about nothing in particular. Just gisting about his family, relationship stuvvs (like why Naija gals front when they like a guy hoping against all hope that the guy would realize and ask 'em out), work and really random stuff o. If na book they say make i come read, i go dey fall asleep, but see me o; i'll do anything for gist.

So the yeye boy was now saying that he's sure there'd be a wild side to me. Something i'd say or do and one goes like, "Oh no! You didn't." As in, i can't be conservative and be a good gal all the time. Imagine dis boi, tryna tarnish my good name just like that. Me too, i started thinking about it. Seriously, i really can't think of anything really wild or outrageous i've done before. Okay, maybe that trip to DC last summer. Or maybe i'm yet to discover my wild side. He even suggested that he's sure with the right person, like with my friends (my paddies from waaaaaaaay back), the wild me may come out. Hmmm, i guess we'll see about that.

'Twas so cool talking to him. The gist was just flowing; he's a correct gister jare. We weren't even cool like that in primary school o. Looks like i've got a gisting partner now. Hold ur horses people, there's nothing more to it. Like i said before, we're just gisting partners.

Seriously, do i have an "i'm available" tag on me or what?

2006-07-23T11:07:00.000-04:00

Thanks y'all for the well wishes, my body don dey kampe now. I just cough occassionally, but nothing serious. My week was okay, nothing spectacular, same old me. So on Monday, the doctor i shadow called me and wants me to mentor his nephew (dude) who's at my school; which i was already doing anyway. Dude's last semester's result was bad (2B's and 2 C's) and he's just a freshman o. Anyways, so i'm gonna start doing what i love doing best when school starts, mentoring. There's this nice Jamaican gal i mentor, she's in the same program as me. I was secretly tryna match make dude and this Jamaican chic. Kai! see my life o.

On Wednesday, before Bible study, seeing that i had 1.5 hrs to kill, i decided to visit Mrs. Emelike (see previous post). On getting to her house, i noticed they were doing some renovations and just trying to make the house look good in general. She then told me that they were gonna have a gig this weekend @ home. Her and her hubby just had the traditional and registry thingie when they got married, so now they're having the church wedding and also combining it with her son's 21st b'day celebration. The woman was so excited, and she's even wearing a white wedding gown, renting a limo and has a mini bridal party. I was speechless.
I already had plans to go to VA for a women's convention with my friends and had no plans to attend this gig. Thanks to my uncle, when he heard that i was going to VA again, he vetoed it. So i'm the only one not going. I was pissed. After paying for registration and all for the conference despite my broke-dom or lackfundaitis, God dey sha. His reason for not letting me go was 'cos i just came from OH and just last weekend, i was in NJ and i'm already making plans to go to MD in August. He even yarned that i'm always gallivanting and every weekend, i have one function or the other to attend to. Is it my fault that i'm a popular jingo ni? Which one is his own sef, when he goes for his meeting in NJ every other weekend nobody complains. I can't wait to move far away from family, God knows.

Anyways, no need crying over spilt milk. Na so i come carry my legs go Mrs. E's thingie yesterday, even though the real party is today. 'Twas okay. I met many Nigerians in the community; the Nigerian population here is very, very sparse. This man, in his late 40's or early 50's was gisting with me, next thing i knew o he was asking if i was dating anyone at the moment. I would've suspected that he had some hanky-panky moves up his sleeves, but his wife and kids were there too, so i knew he was harmless. When he saw the look of shock, as in serious "Eewo, see-me-see-trouble look" on my face, he then explained that his reason for asking was 'cos he knew there were few eligible young Naija's in the area for me to associate with. He then said there would be an X-mas gig of Naijas in the area where he lives and i'm invited. He even went as far as saying that he's pretty sure, a nice looking young lady like myself would hook up with one of them. Like seriously, who cares?

I'm just in my early 20's o and it beats me to see how people have been trying to match-make me with guys. Really, do i have a tag that says i'm looking for someone or what? Which kain wahala be dis sef. Just last week i was talking to my uncle in TX, next thing i knew the convo shifted towards him asking if i was seeing anyone. He then started telling me he has this "aburo" (younger brother) in London that he wants me to be friends with. Imagine, London all the way, not even in Yankee here. Miss F, my friend wants to hook me up with dis bobo too. Even uncle D in MD tried to hook me up with his friend's aburo that's working in Ghana. Abeg people leave me alone. I know there's nothing wrong with hook-ups, but a sista's just tired with all these things jare.

My view on dating, is kinda weird when i explain it to some people, but some others understand where i'm coming from. Anyways, that one na tori for anoda day. Okay lemme say sumtin' little on it, and i'm entitled to my opinion. Afterall, this is my blog. I believe as a Christian that strives to glorify God in every area of her life, dating shouldn't be done "the world's way/ Hollywood's way." I want Jesus Christ to be glorified in every area of my life, yes, and even as far as dating is concerned.

I played online Scrabble with a fellow blogger yesterday. I tell u, there are some real pros out there. Me too, i'm a pro in my own right. This dude wanted to play a 3 mins. Scrabble game, imagine? Anyways, he won in the 2nd round, by less than 7 points (i think) sha. Considering the fact that i just registered and i was a newbie to online Scrabble, i think i tried jare. My friend, Biodun or Abbey, has started a blog. It's basically on her travails to entering the "Holy of Holies," as she calls it a.k.a. Medical school. Here's the link to her blog:
http://gettinginthef-1version.blogspot.com
Enjoy it. Anyways, gotta run. It's almost time for Mrs. E's wedding. More gist on how the wedding went.

My head feels so heavy.

2006-07-16T09:44:00.000-04:00

I had a wonderful time at the church picnic yeaterday. 'Twas so much fun. A time of fun, fellowship, and baptism. I got baptized again, even though i was baptized as an infant. I felt kinda whoosy when i woke up yesterday morning, and suspected that i was coming down with a cold, but i just couldn't miss the picnic. Fast forward to Sunday morning, i feel terrible. My head's heavy, my nose is runny, i'm weak. It's so not funny. Throughout the winter months, i didn't have a cold or flu or even a cough, so i was starting to forget how the symptoms felt like. Not pretty at all.

I was supposed to drive down to Philly with my gals, to pay mama and papa borngirl (my friends that gave birth to a gal) a visit, but i had to cancel the trip at the last minute, hope they find someone to drive them down there sha. My car is even at my friend's 'cos i was too weak to drive home, maybe if i feel strong enough today, i'll go pick it up. I couldn't even go to church today. I have to babysit my cousins today. Well, i do that every other Sunday evening, since their mum goes to work and their dad goes for a meeting. They had better not stress me, 'cos i'll be so nasty and mean, they'll be wondering what befell 'em. Nah! There's no way i can be mean to them, they're just cute little darlings.

I pray i feel better by the end of today, 'cos i just can't afford to be ill. These are the side effects of dressing summery (sp), playing in the sand, water and sitting out all day. By the way, we had a Scrabble competition and i won once and lost in the 2nd round. I had useless tiles in the 2nd game we played. I so luv Scrabble. Before yesterday, i hadn't played in 3 yrs so i think i'm getting kinda rusty, i need to brush up my skills. I remember, back at home, i was the Scrabble champion. It got to a stage in the 2nd round, when i realized i was losing, i started challenging almost everything people played. I kuku knew i was losing so lemme lose well well.

Dear God, please lemme get better and feel a lot more stronger by tomorrow-- Amen. Please people, join me in saying a big AMEN to that prayer.

Train up a child in the way he should go ...

2006-07-14T13:06:00.000-04:00

I've been meaning to blog about this for quite sometime now, but never really got to. However, after reading the news article, whose links are posted below, i decided to. http://odili.net/news/source/2006/jun/29/427.html http://odili.net/news/source/2006/jun/29/17.html I've been living in the States for 3 years now, and from my interactions with parents of African descent who have young kids, i'm surprised at the kind of things their kids do.

Okay, here's the 1st scenario. Helen and her husband are Ghanaians and devout Christians, with 2 boys, ages 3 and 5. The 5 year old has been spoiled rotten. If he wants sumtin' and his mum refuses to give him, he starts whinning and even goes to the extent of giving the lady an attitude. There was this particular day he was misbehaving and his mum, was like "I'll beat u, if u don't stop." She repeated that close to 5 times without doing anything. When she realized he was becoming a nuisance, she gave him a whoop on his backside, more like a harmless tap. To my surprise and disgust, the boy gave his mum a big whoop on her back and she did nothing about it.

2nd scenario: Mrs. Emelike has 5 kids, 2 girls and 3 boys, ages 24, 18, 23, 21, and19 respectively (Don't ask me, i dunno how she managed, getting knocked up year after year, her husband must've been a busy man). Anyway, i've had the opportunity to interact with 3 of her kids. Not pretty. By the way, she's about 44 and she's already a grandmum. Her teenage daughter, who's just a high school senior, is infact the madam of the house. Mrs. E would be in the kitchen, sweating it out, and this silly gal would lock herself up in her room doing God-knows-what. Her mum does all the chores in the house, and they see nothing wrong in not assigning chores to the kids. One day, i voiced out my concerns to her, (i'm like her adopted daughter now o), and her reply was that she gave 'em chores to do, but when they never do their chores, she thought it would be better for her to just do it rather than having hypertension over yelling at them. Rubbish, arrant nonsense! Her teen daughter came back from school, expecting her mum to have cooked. When she relaized there was no cooked food at home, she began yelling at her mum, went to her room and stomped out of the house 5 minutes later. The woman just kept quiet throughout. Later, when the gal left, Mrs. E now faced me and was saying, "If it were to be in my country, i wouldn't have a grown daughter like this, and still be doing all the cooking." I was wondering if she knew all this, why couldn't she train her kids up, like she would if she were to be in Naija. These good-for-nothing-kids yell at their mum, even in the presence of guests. They have no respect at all.

It takes 2 to make kids, right? I'm sure you'd be wondering what about their popsy? Well, the guy works in another city and comes home only on weekends. Of course, when he's at home, they're of partially good behavior. It just pains me, the way they treat their mum like crap. Wetin consine me sef. The woman is very, very nice. A real mother. She sacrificed her education, to hatch these silly kids. She came to yankee with her husband about 2o sumtin' years ago to study. Hubby went to school and he has a Ph. D today, while wifey has nothing, not even an Associates degree. Upon all, these ingrates don't know how to appreciate their mum for her sacrifices through the years. The eldest daughter had a child when she was in her teens, so Mrs. E is raising the boy whilst her daughter continues her education.

3rd scenario: My uncle and aunt in MD. This is a positive one. I'm related to the man, but i must give my aunt PROPS. She has 2 sons, 5 and 3. Those boys are very well trained. They don't even litter the house. They've their play room and once they mess it up, they clean it without their mum telling them too. Their car is always clean, even when the kids eat, they know not to make a mess in the car. They "dobale" (prostrate) to greet their elders. Infact, as far as raising kids in the U.S is concerned, my uncle's wife is my role model. I just read another article on http://odili.net/news/source/2006/jul/14/617.html, about a commissioner in Anambra State that was murdered by her son. What is this world turning into? Whenever i say the bible is still the manual for life, whether u're a Christian or not, some folks think i'm crazy. I remember my mum's favorite verses whilst we were growing up, they were mostly in Proverbs. When she's disciplining us, with those back-hand slaps, those kneel down raise up ur hands, those fly ur arms, and u must not bend them type of punishments, she'll be singing into our eardrums, the bible says "Train up ur child ...," "Spare the rod and spoil the child," "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child..." I hated it then, but now i thank God and thank her for what she did. One thing i always remember her doing, was that after the discipline and punishments, she'd call us and explain to us what we did and why she had to employ such disciplinary measures, and she'd pet us.

Ms. P and her boo want to open a joint account. I know they're both head over heels and all, but i think they should chill. Wait o, does my opinion even count sef? I already told her to think about it very well. Even with my own future hubby, having a joint account will be a dicey issue. I'm not a spendthrift, but i don't want someone breathing down my neck each time i spend money.

My "shadowing" is going on well. The doctors i shadow are so cool. It's a husband 'n wife practice. The wife is a pediatrician, whilst her hubby is a family practice doctor. They're both Nigerians, and have carved a niche for themselves within the community. I don't think i want to get married to a doctor. Dual-doctor marriages are not easy, and it takes a lot of maturity and understanding. That's a topic for another day. My duties include calling in the patients, checking their height and weights, prepping them to see the Dr. and staying in the consultation room, with their consent of course. I've learned a lot.

Please people, live a healthy lifestyle 'cos it pays off in the long run. Diabetes, High blood pressure and obesity are what's killing people these days. I've decided to start educating the people i come in contact with now o. No more fried foods, foods high in corn syrup and sugar for me, and i've decided to start working out at least 3 times a week for a min. of 30 minutes. Not that i'm fat or anything, i weigh about 130 lbs, which is ok for my height. Being fat has nothing to do with it o. Even slim people have these diseases, which are mostly gentically inherited. From both sides of my family, diabetes and high blood pressure are prevalent. I don't drink soda and i hardly ever drink juice that's made from concentrate. A healthy lifestyle pays off in the long run.

This weekend is bound to be so much fun. I've a church picnic tomorrow in NJ, then i'm off to Philly on Sunday to visit a friend who gave birth. Anyways, i need to finish up the chapter i started in my EK Organic Chemistry book.

Your true character is one that can stand the test of time.

2006-07-06T10:23:00.000-04:00

I got back from Cleveland yesterday afternoon. The trip was a bitter-sweet experience for me, but it was still fun for the most part. The 3 reasons i embarked on this trip were to visit my childhood friends i haven't seen in 5 years, to attend a wedding and to have a mini-vacation. The wedding was excellent, the couple were Naijas, igbo and yoruba. I lied to my grandparents and uncle, that the bride was my senior in QC and many ex-QC gals are attending so it'll be a mini-reunion sort of. 5 friends i knew were on the bridal train, so in a way, i didn't lie. Even though the bride 'n groom didn't know me, i felt compelled to attend their wedding 'cos my friends invited me, since according to 'em, "their boy was the one getting married." The wedding rehearsal was scheduled for 7 p.m., but trust we Naijas, the rehearsal didn't start until almost 9. Throughout the rehearsal, I sat in one corner of the sanctuary, reading my novel and enjoying my company.

As I glanced up to look at the orisirisi they were doing, i started seeing familiar faces. One of the QCOG, came up to me to say hi, 'cos she spotted me 1st. We hugged and chatted for a few minutes, even though we were not in the same arm and we weren't buddies in QC, we still chatted. I decided to close my book, so i could follow the rehearsal, na so i come see anoda face. The chics face looked so familiar, i could've sworn she was Tessy, my classmate in QC. Her face looked distorted, and she had her hair packed in one way like that. Anyway, i walked up to her later, and asked if she was the person i thot she was, she answered in the affirmative and started pretending like she didn't know me. C'mon now, we were in the same class for about 4 or was it 5 yrs, how can ur memory be that bad? This chic, was one of the "bubblers" in school, and any QC gal, knows what that's all about. I jogged her memory a little bit, until her silly self said "oh, i remember u now" Imagine, such nonsense, i was disgusted. I thot all that QC rubbish would've ended there, but apparently not. She asked what school i was, i told her i was finishing up my undergrad. Apparently, she got her Bachelors last year, and is working Godknowswhere, so maybe that's why she was forming levels or so. Those who know me, know i'm shy, but i went out of my comfort zone, to talk to u, and now u're acting all superior and what not. Trust me, i fashied her. The other chic, who wasn't even in my arm in school was so jovial and all. I made another attempt to talk to Tessy again whilst we were getting our grub on and mingling, thinking maybe 'cos she was "rehearsing" she couldn't chat. The gal ignored me o, that was when i ignored her completely.

While i was reading my novel in the sanctuary, this bobo walked to me, asking me what book i was reading and orisirisi. Later on, during the mingling session, i took a good look at him and was 95% sure i knew him. When the opportunity arose, i introduced myself to him, and he did the same. The name was just so familiar, he then asked if i went to St. Savior's, i said yes, and that was how i met my primary school mate i hadn't seen since '93/'94. What a reunion! The silly boy, even remembered how i got him in trouble with Mrs. Ottah. Since then, he said he had been "beefing" me in school. He then started yarning dust,"just last week, i saw X and asked where u were, how to locate u." He honestly thought i was going to chop for his cheesy line. Anyway, we exchanged numbers.

My friends were good hosts. At least they tried to be, just that their own kind of fun, was different from mine. Friday nite, we (my 2 friends, their roomate and his girl) all went to the club, my 2nd time ever. Clubbing is really not my thing, but i went anyway. I don't drink, so let's just say i was a spectator at the club. I've purposed in my heart, never to go to the club again in my life, 'cos it's just a waste of my good time. We left early. Again, i don't know if it's my conservative side speaking, but i don't think there's anything cool, in using profanities in every sentence one makes. To say the least, i find it downright disgusting.

I enjoyed my trip, but i realized we've all changed. Our personalties, views, the way we live our lives and so many other things. One thing i'll say using Shakespeare's words is, "To thine own self, be true." Know yourself and do what u're most comfortable with. Don't be a hypocrite and start acting in a way u know isn't right, or in a way u wouldn't dare act if ur parents were around. Let ur stand be known, and don't waiver, come what may. I find this saying to be particularly true, "If u stand for nothing, u'll fall for anything." In conclusion, the ancient words that are ever so true, add that, "There is a way that seems right unto a man, but in the end leads to destruction."