FRIDAY SONG-SPIRATION 5

Dang I've been slacking!!! No joke. Well doesn't mean I haven't been listening to music, just have no time to post it up here. Need a major breather for a sec... wheeeeeww..!

Today's song is one of my all-time favorite gospel classics: Send Out A Prayer by Anointed. I like their song God is all around too, guess I'll have to post it someday here. They are truly anointed I'll tell you that. Can never ever go wrong with them, EVER. I know they're a brother & sister duo group now but this song is off their old album The Call, when they were still a four person group. What do you call them again? Quad group??? Dunno lol! Anywhoos, you can check them out via their website link under the My Musicians link on the right.

Anyways, listen, enjoy, and be blessed. TGIF!!!! Have a great weekend! When in need, just send out a prayer!!!!

PEOPLE HAVE KOLO FINISH O!!!

Gay Man Files $70M Suit Against Bible Publishers Over ‘Homosexual’ Verses

A homosexual man has filed a $70 million lawsuit against Bible publishers Zondervan and Thomas Nelson, alleging that their version of the Bible that refers to homosexuality as a sin violates his constitutional rights and has caused him emotional distress. Bradley LaShawn Fowler, an ex-con turned author, filed the federal suit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan recently, the same day a judge refused to appint him a lawyer for his suit against Thomas Nelson.

“The Court has some very genuine concerns about the nature and efficacy of these claims,” the judge wrote.

Fowler, who is representing himself in both cases, claims that Zondervan manipulated Scripture by using the term “homosexuals” in 1 Corinthians 6:9 of their 1982 and 1987 revised edition Bibles. He also contends that the reference to homosexuality was deleted by the publisher in later versions without informing the public.

He alleges that since the older King James Version containing the term “homosexuals” is used by his family pastor, he has been outcast by his family.

The 39-year-old is suing the Grand Rapids publisher for compensation of 20 years of “emotional duress and mental instability,” he told WOODTV in Grand Rapids.

In a hand-written suit, Fowler lists all sorts of charges against Zondervan including malicious negligence, strict liability, malice, libel, and violating his civil rights. He filed a suit in June against Tennessee-based publisher Thomas Nelson on similar grounds. He’s seeking $60 million from Zondervan and $10 million from Thomas Nelson Publishing.

Zondervan issued a statement to The Christian Post that said they do not discuss ongoing litigation. The company’s spokesperson Tara Powers, however, pointed out that they only publish Bibles, not translate them. “Since Zondervan does not translate the Bible or own the copyright for any of the translations we publish, we are not in a position to comment on the merits of how a word should or should not be translated,” said Powers.

“We rely on the scholarly judgment of the highly respected and credible translation committees behind each translation and never alter the text of the translations we are licensed to publish. We only publish credible translations produced by credible biblical scholars,” she noted.

According to Fowler, Zondervan has 20 days to respond to the claims listed.

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Shaywun's Input:

I swear, sometimes I feel people make up these stories!!! I honestly couldn't stop laughing from beginning to end. Is someone kidding me, where do they find these people o?!?!?! 20 years of which “emotional duress and mental instability"??? Where did he find time to sue two different publishers, from two very different states, with his emotional and mental problems? And then hand-written to say the least! Dude must be going through some type of mid-life crisis at 39. Jesus help us...

Anyway after reading this newspaper article, I wondered if I could have a case of my own so I got in touch with my lawyer and I have decided to sue every person within the vicinity of zipcodes 77036, 77073, 77096, 77373, 77380 (we're still investigating other zipcodes although I just want to go with the whole of Houston!) who is "bigger than life itself" starting from 200lb (if you know what I mean).

I am filing a $100 million lawsuit because I feel my constitutional rights have also been violated and it is causing me a great deal of emotional distress. They're taking up my space and breathing way too much of my air. And please refrain from asking me about the case cause I cannot discuss ongoing litigation either!

Well my lawyer said someone sued McDonalds for being served a hot cup of coffee, so why not, I might actually have a case! Me too, I want compensation for all 23½ years of emotional turmoil for everytime I've had to think about it, darn it!!! I might probably want to start drawing up something against my siblings, mother, the whole extended family, employer, educational institution, fast-food restaurants, my bank (ugh... CHASE got that covered already), the city of Houston, and maybe the whole state of Texas.

Heck, even Oprah! Such an easy target with the way she runs her mouth (I still love her though hehehe). They've all violated my constitutional right in one capacity or the other!

Y'all better start checking yourselves lol, you could probably have a case of your own. Is the world flat already?

OUR GREEN LAND

Happy Independence Day to all my fellow Nigerians out there! Today Nigeria turns 48 years old.

Please let's keep praying for our motherland so we can, one day, have something to show for it as she ages lol.

Nigeria has no choice but to rise above all the negativity out there, and become a strong and positive nation!!! I really admire all the young people who are striving to bring some positive light to the country, geeze... really makes me look like a slacker for real. One day, one day...


A great website, among many others, that seems to be stirring up things so far is the OPERATION: POSITIVE NIGERIAN IMAGE website. Check it our people! Big ups to Estella Ogbonna and Ugo Daniels!!!

GOD IS CONTROL

Ugh... So much to talk about, yet don't really know where to start from. Plenty of highs as well as the lows that naturally follow you wherever you go. I try as much not to complain but what else now ehn?

In fact the timing might not be the best right now but I think it's time for me to start rediscovering myself all over again. Funny thing though is that I don't think I'd ever discovered myself in the first place. Seems like I'm still going through life all transparent as I can be, and it just might be this same transparency that's causing me all the drama I find myself in.

How does one try to live an honest and open life and yet be told that they talk too much? I mean now I'm being told to learn how to disguise certain feelings otherwise I'll be looked upon as a trouble some person. Ehn ehn! Is that how it is nowadays? Or maybe that's how it has always been but I've probably just been oblivious or too naive, or too young to even care???

It has been a rough couple of days but I'm beginning to learn my lesson bits by bits as the days go by. Consequently I don't think reinventing myself is such a bad idea now that I really think about it.

Soon enough I'll be able to tell if throwing myself into the positive programs I've signed up for will help build me back up. Only time will tell and at this very point, only God can help me.

Hopefully soon enough I'll be able to share what it is I'm so worked out about. God is control...

AIN'T THIS THE TRUTH?!?!?!

Beautiful people of this earth, how are y'all doing? Yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm back to the planet; well somewhat. Next couple of weeks are going to be super busy but all the same, I take it all in with gratitude. Can't wait for the Fall semester and then it'll be all over!!! Well, again, somewhat. lol.

Thank God summer school is over!!!!! Whoo hooo!!!! 2 As and 1 B (Ugh, I'd rather not talk about it. Heck why not - stupid stupid stupid accounting class; no disrespect to the accountants out there). And I was really close too, just 4 more points and it would have been an A. Geeshhh... I thought he was going to be "generous"? Anyway, I'm not bothered about it, glad the hassle is over and I guess it was worth it. But will I ever do it that way again (RE: 9 hrs for just the summer)??? HECK NAW!!!

Anywhoo, the reason I have that title up there is because of an article I read recently on FONBYN. If you don't know about fonbyn, you berra see about it cause it only means one thing - ummm.... I'll get back to you on that. No but for real, y'all needs to check it out fast. So the title of the article is "Mary Kay will not make you a Millionaire". That title alone caught my eyes and I couldn't stop laughing from beginning to end! And I'm not sorry to say that there is a lot of truth to what the original writer, Charles Nwoke, was trying to point out. Pink Truth is also a good site to hear countless and countless of stories.

I thought it would be nice to share so I asked him for permission to re-post his work. I got the "Ok" and here it is... Enjoy and warn those who'll listen!!! hehehe (lil disclaimer: Please I have absolutely nothing against Mary Kay, Avon, and the others o!)

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Mary Kay will not make you a Millionaire - By Charles N.

Mary Kay starter kit, your first rape.

My fellow Nigerians, Mary Kay will not make you rich. No. Neither will Avon, Quixtar, Amway, Primerica etc.

Fellow Independent business owners, you will not be a millionaire selling Multi Level Marketing products. They come in different names, shapes and sizes. I am picking on Mary Kay because I feel like it. Let us start with the truth:

Yes.

.....You have a better chance, if you give your ovaries or manhood to baba lawo to make money

.....You have a better chance, if you kidnap an ijebu man and ask his ijebu family for ransom

Fig a. there goes your balls

.....You have a better chance, if you take the money you will use for replenishing your monthly Mary Kay stock, to buy lottery tickets

It is not even a gamble, you will not become a Millionaire selling Mary Kay products.

I am not saying you will not make money selling Mary Kay, am just saying that the initial draw of financial independence and infinite cash flow is a BIG LIE. Even at your hardest, and most loyal level, you will realise that you were better of just having a regular 9 - 5 job getting the same money or more, with a pension plan, and maybe insurance. All you are really doing is selling a "dream" to people, who are supposed to sell the same dream.....while replenishing their Mary Kay products every month for their "business"

FIRST SIGN YOU ARE BEING SCAMMED: They tell you it's not a scam!

"Let me tell you about an incredible ground-level business opportunity," and you are invited to a house or to lunch for "a discussion." "..and dont worry, ITS NOT A PYRAMID SCAM!"

If someone has to convince you to invest in something that requires you to attend "church-like" meetings with "cult-like" behaviors, you have to pay for this tape or that convention, and trys to convince you to otherwise invest in something your gut tells you is crap, Its probably not worth investing in anyway.

SECONDLY: IT SOUNDS COMPLICATED! SO IT MUST MAKE MONEY!

Any rich guy will tell you that you shouldnt invest in a business because of the dream of becoming rich, but because you understand the business strategy and you believe it is a sound investment. MLMs try and sell the dream to you first, then the actual business. But they usually never give any proof! (Ask for their bank statement for 1 year! then they tell you its rude to talk about money) Most of us have had the experience, a sister, girflfriend, aunty, mother,brother father is excited and tries to explain to you this new business he or she is investing in ,but they do not really understand it very well... but, HEY!! it will make them RICH. They are putting you (and themselves) on A LOOONG TIN.

Human beings require a social circle. Alot of us are in search of this. This is one of the things these cult...err...these organizations prey on. You meet with people with common goals who treat you as one of them and love you...then financially rape you like they picked you up from metro-park.

LASTLY: COMMON SENSE!

Brethrens, do not let your lust for financial success block your common sense. Remember, the number one aim of an MLM is building your "downline" so as to get a magic carpet ride to infinite wealth. Let us go back to primary school:

If they are 10 people in a village. And you start a business of which the number 1 aim is to recruit as many people as possible to be in your "downline", Then you recruit 2 people, and the 2 recruit 2 each, by the time the 4 try and recruit 2, the business is already saturated (remember, the definition of a succesful MLM is the person with the most downline abi?... )

(ME, "original" starter of biz, I have no upline)

1

1..........1

1...1..........1...1

1..........SCREWED..........1

Fig b. Primary school diagram of you getting screwed

..So WHO IS GOING TO BE THE CUSTOMER?? Where is the demand? There is nobody left. This means, at optimum operation, an MLM business is bound to fail. At this point, the "business" starts feeding on its self and everybody in everybody's downline starts pushing the pressure up and down for money and the only person that gets rich in this b**** is ME!! (check Fig. b)

And optimal operation will never happen because some business law somewhere states that there is "X" amount of people that will be interested in your product, so it is up to you to figure out how you will keep selling to these people. But this conflicts with the whole point of MLM because you are supposed to keep adding downlines, to be able to build your own koko island.

SO, WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BTW YOU AND AN ORANGE SELLER?

There is no difference. You both have to figure out a way to keep selling to the same customers. But at least the orange seller is not expecting to become a millionaire

So the MORAL OF MY STORY IS... if you want to become a millionaire, take that idea you have and create a business out of it. Meet a demand with supply. Do not be in anybody's upline or downline, so you would not end up spending thousands in conventions, training classes, and videos, and ruin all the real relationships you have by seeing EVERYBODY you know as a potential "downline".

OR YOU CAN JUST START YOUR OWN MLM AND HAVE NO UPLINE, THEN BAIL WHEN THE TIN GAWKS :-)

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GOT TIME?

Dang!!! Long time no see or what??? School o school (and facebook of course hehehe). Not to worry, it'll be over in a week or so. Let's just hope with all of my big mouth, I'll be able to follow through! I'm not even done posting my spain trip sheesh... and Canada is coming up next! Jesus drive my car!!!

So how has everyone been doing? Thanks to those who still check out this blog even though I probably don't deserve it lol. Mehn a lot has happened since I last left my mark here on my blog. Some I can talk about, some I could probably talk about, and some I'd rather nor say at all until the time is right :) Hope everyone is enjoying the summer unlike me? Don't worry, while y'all will be busting your behinds during the Fall, I'll be chillaxing graciously taking only 2 classes until graduation. Yessir!

I am absolutely hating my Managerial Accounting class!!!! And to think that I have to show up for 3 Saturdays to hear some boring teacher with dry jokes for 8 frigging hours!!! Just drown me with hot sauce already (y'all won't get that!). Anyway, thank God I've made my first A for the summer with my first class. Motivation....

Anyway please before I go, what is this I am hearing about the new CD by Styl-Plus completely sucks??? True or lie? Please lemme know before I disgrace myself looking for the thing all over. And if it does suck I am beggin someone to tell them not to even bother releasing any music videos at all. Won't even be necessary hehehe. For real, anyone seen the latest videos by 9ice, P-Square, Naeto C, and them them??? Okay yeah my point exactement (is that even french? lol). Anywhoo gots to run, will be back hopefully soon enough.

CARDBOARD TESTIMONIES

I am literally drowning in homework, and that overwhelming fear, that I can't do this, is creeping back again. God help me o! Apart from school, I mean prison, everything else has been good. Just dealing with some issues that have made me question myself recently. Y'all know how that goes...

Just wanted to share this video with y'all. Someone sent it to me; I thought it was really powerful. The tears just couldn't stay away. You have to see it all the way to the end. So you think you're the worst sinner or doubter on earth abi??? My friend, think again and think again very well! There's absolutely nothing too small or too big for Him to handle. Watch and be touched and blessed, and then make your appointment with Him sharpish lol.

So just curious, what would be your cardboard testimony?

FRIDAY SONG-SPIRATION 4

Another friday woohoo! Unfortunately just class 9-5, nothing special. Ugh... sitting in class for 8 hours. We really should be getting paid for that, it's pretty much a whole frigging work day!!!

Another Friday, another song to share. Actually I'll make it two cause I really love them both and why not? 1 album, 1 blood, 2 musicians, so 2 songs. I know, but take it like that sha. It's Charles and Taylor!!! hehehe I doubt if a lot of people have heard about them before but they're amazing. Just hear for yourself. I wish I could do a proper write up on them, just no time. Here's what you need to know about them: they're siblings, at the time they recorded and released (2005) this album he was 15 years old and she was 13 years old. Yeah you heard me right. Now you know their ages, please listen to them sing and tell me they're not all that and a bag of rice.

I've always said it - God did not share talents equally when he was distributing them lol! Taylor was only 13 but just hear the big voice she has. Sheesh... where was I and what was I doing when I was 13??? They really are blessed. Anywhoo they need to hurry up with another CD already!

Alright first song up - You are God Alone (Not a god). Some of you might have heard this song before; the Phillips, Craig, and Dean version or like my brother will say, "the white version" hehehe. Please o it really had nothing to do with race, it was just his way of differentiating. I remember the first time he heard Charles & Taylor's version. He was like "is that like the black version remix of the song or what?" LOL, I couldn't help but burst out laughing cause he was actually serious when he asked.

Second song - Made to Worship You. *sigh* This song is just so... I don't even know how to describe it. Every one of my siblings absolutely cannot get enough of the song! Yes the lyrics, the music, the voice, just everything. It is also definitely in the running for my graduation pics montage. Yep I'm thinking that far ahead already. Anywhoo whether we like it or not, we were all made to worship Him...

Enjoy y'all and again, have a great and safe weekend!

SUMMER BLOWS!

This summer officially sucks for me! Argh I need to go get my relaxing CD out sharpish lol. Apart from the fact that I have to deal with the siblings of Mount Kilimanjaro that have started making their honorable appearances all over my face, summer school is a whole different obstacle for me. It's all so overwhelming. Some assignments down, plenty more to go; seven more Finance problems to tackle before Saturday, study for a quiz on Saturday, two more group projects to tear down, and four other online quizzes to take. Eh, this one has passed Jesus take the wheel; He needs to drive my car!!!

I need lots of prayer, support, and focus mehn. It's not easy but then again nobody send me message. Yet I dunno if I'm satisfied. Nothing is wrong with me in Jesus' Name o. Amen!!! lol

It's going to be hectic for the next two months. It will pass...

Oh hey! Today's Friday the 13th hehehehe. Like I even care? I'm not superstitious or anything and I certainly don't believe in it, but just thought I'd point it out to those who didn't realize it. Oh well, warrefa... I need to go catch up on my 3 hrs of sleep, head out to work, stop by the school to complete my assignments (which I've been working on for the past how many hours?), study for my quiz, and start off the weekend with plenty stress *DOUBLE HISS* At least one good thing - I love my J-O-B!!!

Have a good weekend y'all and stay safe!

IS IT A CRIME?

My blog, how are you doing today? I know, I know it's been a while. Can't blame me o, summer has arrived and it has arrived by force, with full force. Summer school session has barely started and I'm already feeling the pressure. In fact this past weekend, I was feeling so overwhelmed; I'd rather not even talk about it. Ugh...

However it's the other part of my weekend that has brought me here this very moment. It has been bothering me so much especially since the issue was brought up yesterday again. Anyway so I've been telling a certain someone about how they need to stop drinking - you know now, gave the reasons why and blah, blah, blah. They claim it was only social drinking and it's only like maybe two bottles tops. Hmmm... na wa o, social drinking? Isn't that how problems usually start off? Social drinking, one/two/three bottles and then before you know it, full blown alcoholic. Or isn't that how it usually turns out? At least most of the time anyway?

Me I don't know o, I mean I only put in my two cents because I cared and still care but as far as they're concerned, it's a no-go area to stop drinking. As a matter of fact, the certain someone even told me not to worry that while they're drinking their beer, they'll also offer me wine so I wouldn't feel left out. In other words "You'll also have something to do, while I'm doing mine." Can you imagine? I won't lie sha; I burst out laughing cause that was not the response I was waiting for. But it only goes to show how nonchalant they are about the issue. Anywhoo there's nothing prayer cannot do abi? As far as I'm concerned this one must go by force by force...

Different day, same weekend - I brought up the fact that this certain someone is such a deep sleeper and that they might want to gradually change their sleeping habit. What if there's a fire (God forbid bad thing) or something else? Are you trying to tell me that they'll sleep right through it? Ha, please o I'm rejecting it for them! Please ask me who send me ehn, I was only voicing concern o. All hell broke loose. Not as much sha but still... see reaction!!! All the accusations started pouring in. "How can you tell me something like that; why would you even say that; why are you trying to change me?" Change you? That's the one that really really floored me and hurt my feelings. I couldn't believe it. And I don't even know why my feelings were hurt as much. I just know my heart got heavy and I couldn't say anything. Change you??? Wow.

What has 'your deep sleep scares me' got to do with changing who you are? Is it because I point out that they need to stop drinking or at least reduce it? By the time you attend all the parties available around town, with your friends, and you claim you're a social drinker, hasn't that elevated to the next level? serious lol... Or is it because I tell them to please watch their language especially when they're around me? What exactly have I done wrong here? Is it now a crime to look out for people you call good friends?

I honestly dunno why but I actually apologized!!! Maybe I just wanted the conversation to end immediately or perhaps just didn't want to upset the person more. Look mehn I just wasn't in the mood, like I said I was really overwhelmed with trying to deal with school stuff coming from left, right, and center. My God help me please o!!! Meanwhile I refuse to be a criminal...

WEEKEND RECAP + MY MISSION

Right off the bat - my weekend was kewl, at least from the general assessment I've been able to make, just kewl. Friday - totally FAB, went to a jazz and comedy night program at my friend's church and I so enjoyed myself. Although earlier during the day I was kinda ticked off after being stuck in traffic for only God knows how long. Geez can they (whoever they are) stop with all the construction already?

Saturday was... nyeh. Went to a wedding, was alright but I had to go through one of those useless rubbish nonsense I usually refer to. Don't worry, it's not even worth it right now *HISS* Anywhoo so was able to catch most of the church ceremony; trust Nigerians now... and then reception. Kai, see disorganization ehn? Like my mom and I were saying - it's the little details that count o (and of course the right people helping you). All the same, lessons learned. Saw some friendly familiar faces I hadn't seen in a while. Said the his and how you doings, smiled, hugges, complimented, and then the take care and I'll see you laters. And then the bad taste in my mouth! OMG why now, I mean I know this city (even as huge as it is) isn't big enough especially when it comes to weddings but why today. Took that as my clue and decided the whole show was over for me anyway; just didn't feel like pretending some more, I'd done enough pretending at the church anyway - re: my useless rubbish nonsense.

Yesterday, Sunday was great too of course. After I was semi-successful with my ignoring strategy for you-don't-know-who, I went off to SS class to go welcome fresh kids to start off another school year. I'm quite certain that you-don't-know-who will start realizing what's going on very soon. Getting a taste of your own poison can't be that sweet so I'm sure you-don't-know-who will get the drift. Anywhoo class went well, I think this upcoming school year will go great and better than expected but hey KNOCK ON WOOD! I'm not trying to jinx anything here before June even picks up lol.

Alrighty people, I'm on a mission!!! I said I'm on a mission o and for real, I don't plan on taking this lightly or brush it aside anymore. What's my mission you ask? I'm on a serious mission to learn Yoruba, my native language. Yeah I'll wait for y'all to get done laughing very well. Doesn't move me o afterall I get it all the time - "what? what do you mean you don't know your language?" Umm did I stutter? I said I understand it but just don't know how to speak it very well. Actually lemme throw in my disclaimer right now. It's not like I don't know how to speak it, it's just that I don't trust myself enough to have a complete conversation with someone else in Yoruba. Can you imagine? Does that even make any sense at all?

However I know what I'm talking about cause there was this one time at my former job when security called my office asking me to come downstairs and assist someone. Lo and behold it was an elderly lady who was looking for her daughter and the woman spoke nothing but only Yoruba. What da? In this America ke? No small small English at all, not even broken English! If you see the way I looked at the officer and nearly "blessed" him out of the building ehn. Instead I smiled and I know he could tell how hesitant I was but my peeps, come and see my survival skills kicking in immediately!!! Me ke? Why would I want this woman to see me as an "aje butter" who "doesn't appreciate where she comes from and can't represent amongst the oyinbos".

Okay so yeah yeah that's not exactly what she said but puh-lease, y'all know how all these elderly think now. Am I the only paranoid person? Anywhoo I got through the whole ordeal in one piece, the lady was nothing but grateful from beginning to end, and I actually went back to thank the officer for figuring she was Nigerian and calling on me. I turned around and took it as a compliment plus it made me learn and realize something. That I am just afraid to speak my language all because it is not the norm for me. God is in control sha!

So the closest to what I really want is the Learn Yoruba Software which by the way, is on my wishlist hehehehe. I'm not trying to push anything, just wishing. Ask and ye shall receive right? I've experienced it here on blogville already so whatever. What I really want is a CD that I can practice more with. You know, I can just pop that into my car player and be on the go. Wouldn't that be so cool? Be on the move from one place to another and honing my language skills? Too crazy! I think it'll be better than the software where I'd have to be stationed in front of a PC or laptop.

Please, please, please if anyone knows where I can purchase such product, be kind to at least lemme me know sharpish. I know it exists cause I've been told it exists. Unless I wasn't really pasying attention like I thought I was. This Yoruba language I must conquer fast fast before I run into anymore disgrace! Yes o, it is by force!!! lol Happy Monday and enjoy the rest of the week everyone.

FRIDAY SONG-SPIRATION 3

hehehehehe... Please am I the only one who thinks it funny that it's Friday again? Where did the whole week go? As a matter of fact, the month of May is over just like that. How can? Can't say that I'm complaining sha; the faster we get to December, the better!

So what's been going on with everyone? How was y'alls week and what do you have planned for the weekend? I'm still contemplating on whether or not I should say how I think my weekend will go after all that happened last week. lol I can't believe it's been a week already! Umm... I think I'll just wait for the weekend to go by and then, I'll recap. I cancel every jinxing spirit in the building lol.

Yay, my lil bro graduated, from high school (hehehe), yesterday!!! See all the pride I have for this boy just flowing last night, I couldn't even control it. I had to stop and use that breathing technique so as to avoid any form of hyperventilation or overwhelming feelings. yes o, please it was that serious. Even before his name was called, see people (well mostly girls lol!) just yelling his name and screaming all over the place. Kai! I couldn't help but think about what my dad would have been saying or feeling if he was here.

RIP daddie, I know you're incredibly proud of your son o! Anyway, It was a great celebration sha, the only thing was that since his last name is kinda at the beginning of the class roster, we had to wait for all the other names to be called before the whole ceremony was over. OMG, how many frigging graduates did this school let walk in one night and then started the program at 7:30PM. What da? Just too long abeg! Next time start the proram at 5PM or something. Person didn't even get to eat afterwards cause most restaurants were closed and then the one IHOP we decided to go to was so packed, we gave up and just went home.

Anywhoo today is my song-spiration day and in honor of my bro graduating, I decided to put up the song I plan on using for his slideshow we'll present at the graduation party we plan on giving him in a couple of months, before he goes off to college.

It is titled If Not For Your Grace by Israel & New Breed, off of their new album A Deeper Level. I just absolutely love this song to pieces and thought it would be the most benefitting song for my brother cause if not for HIS grace, where will he be right? Playing american football is not the easiest thing (all the training and practices one puts in and then the hits you give and collect), some questionable friends that he might have hung out with, those near and far trips he took, the random coming in and going out. I can only thank God and say if not for Your grace...

Enjoy the upcoming weekend everyone!!!

GOD IS GOOD!

I've been meaning to put up a new post but if y'all only knew. So I totally jinxed myself this weekend, funny you should ask Ollay lol. Ugh, Saturday with the amazing plans I had... I was in bed. Sunday supposed to be at church and participate in the picnic... I was in bed. I probably should have been in bed on Monday but then my Sunday afternoon/evening kinda picked up.

Alright rewind. Why was I in bed? *Hiss* I swear, up till this day only God knows. All I know is that I woke up around maybe 3 or 4 in the morning with a really bad tummy ache, throwing up and going to the restroom like a mad person. I know, I know, too much information but puh-please it wasn't easy jare. Ha! God punish that meat kabab I ate on Friday out of hunger.

So that's how my whole drama started o. It didn't even matter which way I slept, it was all extremely uncomfortable. Couldn't so much as eat cause my mouth was extremely bitter. And to top off the mother of all atrocities, yours truly lost weight! Yes o, you heard me right. Pounds that have no business looking for somewhere interesting to multiply just slipped through...only God knows how... in a span of like what, 24 hrs? Kai! I'm still in shock but I'll take consolation in the fact that people still insult and envy my size. God dey!

Ehn ehn back to Sunday afternoon, so like I mentioned I didn't go to church but the rest of my family did. Stayed home all bored and so uncomfortable, drifting in and out of sleep. By like 2 0r 3PM one of my good friends, BeeZee, called and asked is I had received her text. Which kine text again or am I going deaf too? Anywhoo sure enough her text had come through but I guess I can blame it on my drifting in and out of sleep. Turned out that we were supposed to be meeting up for our once-a-month Sunday get together shindig that same day. Oohhhh..... of all the Sundays ehn?!?

(I digress) Just a little history here - BeeZee came up with this great idea of taking turns to host a small group of us one Sunday out of every month. It's nothing original but the idea came with perfect timing, therefore I thought it was a great one. Usually whoever is hosting picks the Sunday well ahead of time and informs the rest of the group but this month has been crazy with events and stuff going on so when the collaborators actually "mentioned" the date, nothing seemed finalized. We started this year in January and we're still on a roll! I thank God for good friends, my list is definitely growing.

Anyway back to what I was saying, please ask me what I did after my friend called and gave me the update, yes o can't say that it was one of my proudest moments but this girl right here managed to get up, took a long shower, and got ready. All the while still convincing myself that I wouldn't miss it for anything. Kai, see justification and guilty conscience! (No to church but yes to get-together). But goodness that was the longest 2 hours ever sheesh! Anywhoo to make the story short, that change of environment was very much needed cause I felt a little better later, slept over at BeeZee's place, and still managed to meet up with my other friend to make-up for Saturday hehehe. Good time, good time. God is good jare!

Please before I sign off on this post, I need to shout out hysterically to my namesake (and I say that with all the pride I have within me) SJ for hooking me up with Lara George's CD Forever in my Heart, and TY Bello's CD Greenland!!! You RAWK mehn! I bet with all the replies you got from me, you probably couldn't have guessed that I was in bed sick, right? Yeah that's what pure excitement and genuine gratitude is all about. Thanks a million again! Wow, I can't help but be also thankful that I actually put up my CD wishlist... God is good!!!

FRIDAY SONG-SPIRATION 2

Well more like a video really.

Can y'all believe it's Friday again already? I don't! This week has gone by so fast, I'm not even sure I remember everything that happened lol. So what do we have planned this weekend? Well whatever it is, I hope you have fun and stay safe.

Me? Not much but it's definitely going to be exciting (right). No but for real, I have stuff lined up for Saturday, then Sunday is our SS class parties followed by the Church annual Koinonia (look up the meaning, it's quite simple really) picnic, and then Monday is Memorial Day holiday! Woohoo for those who're taking Maymester classes and Yeahhhh for those who're supposed to work.

Anywhoo, today's segment of Friday song-spiration is, like I said earlier, a video. First of all, there are four new videos from P-Square's new CD Game Over (love 'em despite the fact that they've tainted that love with their dark side... ugh), and one new one from Storm All-Stars (love 'em ever since that "Eko" song). Check out the Storm All-Stars video below and lemme know what you think. If you want to see the P-Square ones go to Bella Naija; I put them up here before via another website but had to take them down cause they weren't working as they should. Like "they" say, we know all things Nigerian... I totally love all of them!

Storm All Stars: Made In Lagos

Love this video! Love it, love it, love it!!! Lagos is absolutely beautiful. But was that really Lagos? Sorry that was just my reflex thinking; just had to ask sha lol. Have a happy weekend everyone!!!

DELE BAMGBOYE + EBUN

Woohoo!!! Okay so apart from the useless nonsense that seem to find its way around once in a while, words cannot actually describe the feeling I have right now. I mean, I don't even know how to explain it! I could scream but then people here would think I've gone crazy; although some people think I've gone beyond that level already. I could also just start crying but I think for this case, it'll be just a lil bit over the top (I said just a lil lol).

What is it that I'm going on and on about? Check me out... while trying to obtain some of the CDs from my wishlist (yes I have one and don't pretend you don't know cause I know you see it on the right side over there; yes over there), yours truly found a CD she has been wondering about for a couple of years. Anybody remember Dele Bamgboye at all?!?!

I digress for a sec... I remember the other day one of her songs, Mago Mago, came into my head and I just started singing whatever lyrics I could remember. And then I was like "Dang, long time. Who even sang that song?" Can you imagine, I couldn't even remember her name! Then I started remembering most of the other songs and then that's when it hit me - OMG, I miss my cousins from my mother's side (lol)!!! It was at their house I first heard about Dele and by the time the week was over (cause we went over for a mini vacation type thing), I pretty much had every song down in my head.

Alright back to what I was saying: yes o, I've found my Inspiration CD by Dele Bamgboye!!! I even had to update my wishlist with it just so I can keep telling myself that I've finally found it and I have it for sure for sure. My mom is definitely going to think that I have some type of power this time. Cause she said everytime she "turns around", I seem to have songs that she remembers from way back when or songs that are just like "whoa". LOL hey her words not mine.

Can someone please tell her for me that you can pretty much find just about anything online nowadays. Just make sure you mention something about sending in the payment cause she tries to avoid anything online payment. Can't say that I blame her jare when her *I mean our* people have turned the world into their yahoozee playground. HISS. I'm just thankful for all these people who are making these extinct artists available again. I mean that CD was released when? In the 80s? Early 90s? And back then, it was only available on cassette. Cassette. Kai

Anywhoo, I also hear she's now a Pastor in one of the Winner's Chapel branch in Ghana or somewhere like that. True or not? God bless and prosper her very well o. I'm still appreciating her work up till today. Okay so you might be wondering where I found the CD right? Yeah I know, don't worry I'll tell you lol. Audio Lunch Box is the place and I still don't know how I even found the website. I was finally looking to buy my Benita Okojie CD (which I got, as well as her sophmore one too) when I figured maybe it would be best to click on the African Genre link to see what else was available and then BAM! Dele Bamgboye right there staring right back at me.

I was kinda skeptical at first to buy the songs cause in the very beginning I thought I was getting the physical CDs (yes o my people start patronizing your people by buying originals!) but then duh, the website is called audio lunch box, what was I thinking??? Mehn after debating for only God knows how long, I decided to make peace with the fact that at least I'm still supporting by buying the tracks, CD-R or not. It's all good jare. So I can't wait to download the songs, copy them, and start burning a hole into my car CD player hehehe!

***********************************************

So to really show how grateful I am, I'm dedicating this post to my baby sister Ebunoluwa Oseaghume Akindele.

09/03/1991 - 05/19/2000. Dang, eight years today and it still feels like yesterday! I celebrate your life; you were just too much for this world abeg. Apart from the fact that I think you were God's gift to those who knew and loved you, I guess God wanted you almost right back cause He was really in need of someone with some correct dance moves while His angels praise Him. OMG, I think I just had an epiphany about something, with that statement I just made. RIP baby girl!!!

FRIDAY SONG-SPIRATION 1

First of all, it's Friday woohoo!!! Honestly it's not fun to say it's Friday anymore, at least for me. Cause by the time you look up to thank God for the weekend, it's Monday already! Again, at least for me. I remember a while ago whenever Monday rolled around and I was back at work, some co-workers would ask me how my weekend was and I kid you not, all I could say was "Seriously, I don't even remember". No it wasn't because I went partying and got drunk, coupled with a hangover the whole weekend but because it went by so fast I didn't even have time to take everything that happened in. Anyways... I still thank God for Fridays.

So I was thinking maybe it would be a good idea to put up one song every Friday (if I remember and have time lol) to just inspire me for the weekend coming up. I really don't know why but lemme see if it'll make a difference sha. Plus I love music so it shouldn't hurt to share the one song that I'm really "feeling" during the week right? Alrighty then, first one up... titled Worthy To Be Praised by the one and only 'Ronke Adesokan off of her debut album Bigger. I don't know exactly what it is but I am just so in love with this song, well among some others on the CD too. I absolutely, absolutely love Ronke Adesokan! Her amazing voice is one thing but then I dunno, maybe it's her ad-libing that just blows me away. She's incredible I tell you; if you don't have any of her CDs -Be Still and Bigger- mehn, I would like to feel sorry for you lol.

Anywhoo click play, sing along with the lyrics provided, and be inspired to praise God more cause He's worthy! Enjoy!!! And of course, please lemme know if you love it as much as I do. Have a great weekend.

WORTHY TO BE PRAISED

Chorus:
Lord You're worthy to be praised
I come with my hands upraised
Worthy of all the glory
Worthy of my worship
Forever, Worthy of all praise

Verse:
I've tasted and I've seen your faithfulness to me
Through it all You've been my peace
The lifter of my head
Words cannot express my praise
Worthy, Awesome, Holy, Jesus

(Chorus)

Bridge:
Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb
You are Holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb
You are Holy, Holy are you Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb

(Chorus)

RANDOMNESS AT ITS FINEST

I can't say this enough but I am soooo in love with 9ice's Gongo Aso album!!! I mean from start to finish. Kilode? lol The dude is just too much jare and God knows I barely understand some of the things he says o! His yoruba kinda reminds me of how my grandma used to talk. All those "gen-gen" yoruba words hehehe. Artists like him are really making me fall in love with the fact that I am Nigerian and I am darn well proud to be one. The only other thing now is that the music videos need to start pouring in quick quick lol. Hands down, my favorites: Street Credibility, Photocopy, Kasa Final, Gongo Aso (by default sha). Thanks for the autograph...Muah!!!

The Mrs. Club. One word - HOT! Mehn, if only there was a better word to describe it completely. I so believe all the reviews out there about this book, and that's the main reason why I didn't dare pick it up to read until 2 months after I got it!!! How crazy?!?! Puh-lease, I had school to deal with and I didn't want to deceive myself by indulging. But kai, it was worth the wait. I finished that book in 3 days and that's all because I had work; I'm sure I would have been able to finish it in 1 day though. 2 thumbs up Ekene!

I'm still trying to get over the anger I'm feeling towards a certain creature. One of God's own creation who wants to go out of this world before their time. *HISS* Just ridiculous; I know I've been told "it's not worth it", but still just totally ridiculous. How can ehn, how can?!?! Some people need to be careful, "we" don't want charges on our head o. This one just deserves all the hissing in the world, nonsense!

What is wrong with Oprah o!!!!! Someone please help me out here; I think she finally needs some Jesus in her life. All these disturbing things that are beginning to add up around her mehn... not so kewl at all.

I'm on cloud nine y'all! (despite the fact that someone's trying to see how tough my skin is) hehehe mind your biz nosey!!! Anywhoo I thank God sha but no, I really need to thank Him properly. HE must see this to the very end. Geez, slacking doesn't look good on me at all.

Awww... my little one is going off to college soon. *sniff* Wait a minute, it just occurred to me how that statement sounds lol! Please o, I don't have a child just yet - everything will be right in it's own time (or is that not how it's said?). I meant my baby brother who is so not a baby anymore. As a matter of fact, one would think he is older than me. Some of y'all know what I'm talking about, with your tiny self!

I love my mommie! (Note to self: I need to say and mean that often).

Dear blogspot, thanks for giving me a chance to get some things off my mind and perhaps my chest. I have a very good feeling we'll be "seeing" more of each other cause this works for me just fine!

ARGHHH!!!!!!

Why are people so trifling and shady???? Ugh, it's so sickening. Absolutely cannot stand it! Grown folks need to grow up and be better examples, geez. Please o, if you claim to be real then be real. How hard can it be to follow through with what you say is your philosophy? You came up with it, nobody begged you, so then why the pretending? Whose integrity are you smearing other than yours? Are you kidding me? Please watch yourself sharpish o, watch yourself. You've been warned but you'll still hear from me, best believe! Ugh, such a bad taste in my mouth...

THE END IS ALMOST HERE...

..... end of the school semester that is! Goodness, it's not that serious o lol. Ah, I can just see it. Two more days and I'll be a free person - well until next month. Unlike the picture, I have to be ready for the summer again. Not planning any vacations or even bothering to have a life either. Ugh! Hmm, it hasn't been easy but God has been faithful. Just when I thought I was going insane from all these impossible deadlines, I found some peace to pull me through. Father God, I am grateful! I am grateful, very very grateful. Still have a couple of things to round up and then a major group presentation on Saturday, and then I can lift up my hands and shout...

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY FIVE

Date: Friday; March 14, 2008

Time: 2:15AM (Next Day Pretty Much)

Where: Codorniu Winery & Montserrat

What an incredible day it has been! First, we took a trip to codorniu winery which was, WOW. I mean, I've never been to a winery before but this place was just something else. Bottles and bottles and bottles of wine were stored underground as part of the fermentation process. I heard it took up to a year through three years depending on the taste desired. We took a mini train ride through the caves and there were bottles everywhere. Everyone was taking pictures because the scenery on the outside and inside of the buidings was just incredible.

I had the opportunity to take some pictures with my new found group members. Then it was time for the wine tasting. I have to confess, I really wasn't too crazy about the wine. This time around it was white sparkling wine but geez it was only my second glass ever. I think I'm going to need something very sweet to start off if I ever think of enjoying wine. Yeah, yeah, yeah I've heard it over and over again - "it's an acquired taste and you'll just need to appreciate it." No darn it, I need something sweet! LOL.

Finally we took the elevator downstairs to where we could purchase wine. Pretty much like a mini wine store. Of course yours truly found a nice spot to sit, and just stared at people being excited about buying wine. Some couldn't even decide if they wanted two or three. My goodness! Anyway the whole buying fiasco came to an end and we had to head over to the bus.

Next destination - Montserrat! Alright I'm so excited to talk about Montserrat that I don't even know where and how to start. Maybe I should start with the drive up there first of all. Gorgeous, gorgeous, georgeous! Every little detail made the whole big picture absolutely beautiful. Then I start noticing that the drive to Montserrat was getting steep and weird. I looked around and right there, mountains all around us; and we were on our way up some more going in a spiral motion. Didn't bother me that much cause I was busy taking pictures. After some minutes, we got to our destination. We walked through a courtyard to the main sanctuary and were told that a funeral was going on. How very weird! It was for a very famous woman and there were notable politicians present.

So the funeral came to an end and the moment I'd been anticipating was approaching. See our tour guide had told us earlier that Montserrat has one of the oldest boys choir in the world. I've forgotten what year exactly the choir began but it consists of boys from ages nine to fourteen. After fourteen, the boys leave Montserrat just like boarding school I guess. Okay back to my moment - I made my way into the church and sat with others from the group and waited. As if on cue, the boys filed onto the altar, waited for their director's 'okay' and started singing. Just as our tour guide told us, those boys sang two songs for ten minutes and off the stage they went. It was just like clockwork. They sang so beautifully!

Oh by the way, meanwhile there was a long line from outside the Cathedral to the very top of the altar via a stairwell where people were trying to touch the Black Madonna and say a little prayer. Anywhoo, time was drawing close to get back on the bus back to Barcelona. I was later out late because I went out with a couple of ladies. It was nice to hang out but nothing productive though. Ugh...

FOOD FOR MY SOUL...

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want
He makes me to lie down in green pastures
He leads me beside the still waters
He restores my soul
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake
Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I will fear no evil for you are with me
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies
You anoint my head with oil, my cup runs over
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me
All the days of my life
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever and ever. Amen!

For some weeks now, I've been in need of some divine strength and encouragement. I know I have my wonderful friends and family who do their best with whatever they have to say but it's just not enough. I know it's just not me alone; there's got to be someone else out there who feels so heavy with all of the things they have to go through that requires you to dig down deep within you for something refreshing. Anyway for some reason, everytime I think about all the deadlines I have to meet and all the things I want to keep up with while being there for my family and friends at the same time and all the other committments I have to fulfill, this bible passage keeps creeping into my head. I'm not sure why but I think I know why considering the words of the passage. Now it's just up to me to hold on to them and really believe.Even at this moment, I'm up trying to complete my assignment before morning comes and it's time for me to submit it and I'm thinking "Oh my God, can I really do this?" Arghhhh.... really sucks! This helpless feeling is not my style o. At all, at all - I just can't stand it! So yes, I think this is where Psalm 23 has been coming in for me. It makes perfect sense.

Here's to anyone who feels helpless, hopeless, and alone. You're not. Be encouraged...

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY FOUR (Part 2)

Next stop - The U.S. Embassy Consulate General in Barcelona. The area was really nice; the schools, the other buildings, the color of the buildings. After checking our passports, we were ushered into a room and I thought nothing of it at all until someone beside me said, "You would think they would put us in a better room; I mean what did we get all dressed up for if we weren't going to be in the real building." OMG, I couldn't help but laugh cause seriously, for real! Anyway, I just shrugged my shoulders and smiled because I still thought nothing of the situation. I was glad to be there all the same and get the day over with already. After some minutes of trying to settle down, a Mr. Todd Robinson stood in front of us and began to talk. He talked about everything from how his job works to politics to economics to financials to the U.S and Spain relations to terrorists threats to evacuation procedures. Very, very, very, informative - the man knew his stuff.

Questions were asked and I thought Mr. Robinson did a superb job of getting them answered regardless of whether or not he did so to be politically correct. I was indeed proud to have someone like him represent "us" outside the country. I only hope others are doing a great job too. Then he took us around the property grounds and I thought the environment was absolutely beautiful. We said out thank-yous and goodbyes and walked back to the meeting room.

Same place, next meeting - JWT Advertising Agency. Alright I have a confession to make here: I have to say that by this time I had completely zoned out. Oh I was glad that I caught the nine minutes FREIXENET commercial (see below) with Martin Scorcese as director but most of the other commercials, I just didn't get or understand at all. Anyway I was so sure that I would start figuring them out a week later when I got back. People will think I'm crazy when all of a sudden I go, "Oh, I get it!" Anyway I enjoyed myself all the same. It was now time to head back to the hotel. Got on my bed as usual and went straight to sleep! Yep. Later on that night, I ended up going with five other ladies to PIZZA MARZANO for dinner.

Of course, the food there was semi-great; I had lasagne - couldn't help it! But it was different (very authentic) from the one back home so I guess it still counts as me trying new things. The ladies and I had great converstaion about what we learned earlier during the day. We all concluded that Todd Robinson was fantastic. Someone also brought up the fact that our professor looked stressed and frustrated. Well I personally felt like she wasn't happy with the room we ended in but I could be wrong. Plus she probably has other things on her plate. My conclusion: be patient and try not to take anything out here personal. Because I just about did during the restroom situation back at the consulate building. Great dinner, great ladies, great conversation. Overall, I felt content; was ready to go back to bed though hehehe.

*Restaurant* *My dinner - lasagna*

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY FOUR

Date: Thursday; March 13, 2008

Time: 8:30PM

Where: Scheduled Business Meetings

Overslept a little but woke up on time to get some breakfast and catch up with the others. First stop today - ESEI Business School. We had to take a train ride to that part of town. My first train ride, woohoo! Well actually I found out later that this was the Metro, my first train ride comes later during the trip. Anyway, the Metro ride wasn't anything spectacular but I guess it was nice to be underground for once. Took us a while to locate the school but oh weel, I can say it was worth the walk. Got a nice welcome from the owner of the school, then there was his son, and Karen. Nice lot of people! It was absolutely wonderful to hear from the three American students who were there on an exchange program from California, Washington State University, and Seattle. I need to think about this option seriously soon. Well, I thought Jonathan Hayes', our guest speaker, presentation on healthcare issues was very insightful although he claimed he wasn't an expert in that area. My 'whoa' moment was when we were told how intense people were trained for the healthcare field, precisely 11 years!, and yet weren't getting paid much. Kpssshhh not here, I'll tell ya that much.

Then we finally went downstairs to the patio. There were drinks and all sorts of food for us - very nice. The patio was very beautiful and it was really nice to just stand there and talk to different people. My conversation with Mr. Hayes made me realize that moving here wasn't or shouldn't be all there is to my learning process; it's okay to keep my options open to all locations in the world. I made sure I got lots of pictures hehehe, so far I had been doing okay with taking pictures. Next, I introduced myself to three ladies (in our group) who who in turn introduced themselves as Arlene, Angela, and Helen. Arlene and Helen just enrolled into the program and Angela is their mom who tagged along. Great ladies! We hit it off immediately; we talked about everything from education to graduation to finding jobs to marriage (lol on that one, hilarious!). We even talked about piercings and tattoos!!! And then I asked if they were already in a group for the scrapbook project. I almost couldn't believe it when they told me "NO". Everyone I have asked has told me they were already in a group and I was starting to get worried. Anyway right there and then our group was formed and I couldn't have been more happier. We talked some more, with one other guy pitching in once a while, and then we threw out some ideas for our project and became comfortable. It was time to leave.

*ESEI School* *Food display on patio*

*Mr. Jonathan Hayes* *Sour orange tree*


*Owner of ESEI*

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY THREE

Date: Wednesday; March 12, 2008

Time: 1:45PM

Where: Around Barcelona


What a day walking around Catalunya. It was a lot of walking but I had a mighty great time! Our tour guide is so knowledgeable. She was very patient in explaining the history of the area to the group. One can only marvel and be in awe when each story is told. Had an opportunity to go into one of the oldest cathedrals. I believe it took hundreds and hundreds of years to build. Well, it was definitely beautiful inside with all the intricate designs and nice candle lightings. Goodness, someone got their camera stolen! Pick-pockets are definitely real here, well I was warned very well ahead of the trip so I was prepared. Hopefully I won't be a victim. Plus, do I really need to put a sign around my neck that says "From Oshodi - Lagos, Nigeria"??? Been there (can't believe it actually happened to me even as young as I was back then) so many times. *HISS*

We saw lots of shops with very different things for sale. The one thing that struck me about this is that they were smaller unlike the ones in the U.S. Anyway so we went through the marketplace! Gosh, kinda brought back very vivid memories of the marketplace in Lagos. Absolutely no difference - the buzzing noise, smiling sellers (sometimes anyway), the million and one things one could choose from and purchase. Ahhh... memories, but I still appreciated the experience.

Next major stop was the Museum de Picasso. On our way there I saw more amazing buildings including the umbrella house. I'm glad I got a great picture of that because it looked beautiful. Got back to the hotel and went straight to sleep! I know, me and sleep!!! Woke up later (looked really late but it was only 8PM) and decided to take a quick walk around the area. Well, ended up at a place called ATN Restaurant. The food was really good and my waiter was from Morocco!

HELP ANYONE?

Does anyone know where those who are not in Naija can get 9ice's new album: Gongo Aso? I have searched and searched and searched everywhere (okay just online but I'm trying now) but can't find it o. Even the online store, usually my first option, where I usually go to buy ORIGINAL Nigerian CDs doesn't have it. Maybe I should say they don't have it yet cause they have his debut CD: Certificate. Can anyone out there help me???

Paging Toni Payne. Paging Toni Payne. Paging Toni Payne! LOL!!! Please help a sister out here.

IS THE WORLD REALLY READY?

(Pic courtesy: http://www.oprah.com/)

Was I the only one who caught the 'pregnant man' saga on The Oprah Show yesterday? Supposedly it's been all over the news, the media has taken the story and they're having a field day with it. I think TMZ also took a stab at the story claiming it was a hoax or was that a totally different story? I dunno, I only caught a glimpse of it so I might have been mistaken. For some reason, when the Oprah Show advertised the episode as an upcoming one, I really wasn't moved. As in I wasn't bothered or perplexed or shocked. I just sat there and figured "Hmm... here we go again America, this should be interesting." And then the D day came. First of all, I didn't even remember to put my life on hold so as to catch the show at the scheduled time. Instead I went about my daily business of trying to get my assignments done and just let technology do its thing. I got back home really late but still managed to have enough strength to want to watch my recorded shows. Can't miss my OLTL! And Oprah of course.

Alright so the first hour goes by and then Oprah's voice comes on introducing the episode and I'm thinking "Oh yeah that's today!" Story starts: Thomas and Nancy are married and expecting their first child. So what's the fuss? Well it's Thomas, the husband, who's pregnant! Ugh, repetition, repetition, please what's the twist? What trick is involved, I'm thinking. Anyway long story short, turns out that he, Thomas, used to be a she, Tracy. So please people I am asking, "What the heck is so amazing or so weird about that???" Thomas/Tracy (whichever you prefer at this point) decided to go through a sex change procedure -from girl to boy- but then chose to keep his/her womb. So here's my dilemma: why people still can't see her as a woman. I mean he still has her womb! I'm really trying not to confuse myself here with the hes and hers but keep up. Here's how I see it: to God Almighty (yeah remember the Big Dude up in the sky who created Thomas as Tracy? yeah Him), Thomas is still the beautiful and talented girl He blessed Tracy's family with. Get that? Well I got it, so why can't the portion of Americans who are so fascinated by this story get it too?

I guess the real reason why I've given this topic more thought than I usually do with controversial topics like this is because I think it's absolutely ridiculous how everyone keeps saying "The first ever pregnant man" or something of that sort. This is not even about Thomas/Tracy anymore. As you can see, it's not like I've personally attacked him/her/the family; whatever anyone wishes to do on their spare time is between them and God. And if that includes going through a sex change, well then more vegetable oil to your elbows! Even after hearing the story about he/she keeping the womb, you would think people would realize that "oh well technically he/she's still a female." Helloooo, does the presence of a womb not cry out female to anybody else?!?!?! Everyone just needs to calm down, relax, and go about their daily routine and wait for a real headline that says "The President (as in PRESIDENT BUSH himself) is having a baby!!!". Right. That's when we'll really be talking about a man being pregnant for real.

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY TWO

Date - Tuesday; March 11, 2008

Time - 5:15AM

Where - Barcelona, Spain!

We made it! Yes we did and I believe we are on time too. Wheww... barely got any sleep on the airplane so I'm aware my jet-lag will definitely be out of control. Margarita!!! No not the drink but the name of the lady I sat beside on the plane. I had to remind myself to ask for her name before we got to Spain. We exchanged emails (how weird even for me cause I rarely do that) and said our good-byes and good-lucks. Everything just went by smoothly at the airport except for the baggage claim. I feel like I'm at the airport back home; it takes forever to get your bags back from that place. Ugh, finally got my bag after I must have watched it go past me like 3 or 4 times! Then time to get on nthe bus... yeah, no bus. Well at least not at the time we were all ready to go. Still no bus. Oh yeah, it'll be here in an hour. Nope, nothing yet. Some time went by and.... alright we're ready, let's go get on the bus. 47 people and loads and loads (ok there were a lot of bags but I might be exaggerating a little here) of bags and luggages head outside the airport but still no bus! My head is going to explode from sleep deprivation but I force myself to snap out of it. The weather is gorgeous but I think it's still cold. Well at least I think so because I'm shivering. I'm always shivering lol. I'm more of a summer person anyway. Finally the bus arrives Woohooo! And it definitely looks like something from the future. Absolutely nice inside and out. I'm impressed.

Our tour guide was also nice. She just told us her name but I don't know how to spell it. She also said it's a common name in Spain so maybe I'll ask her later. She knows her stuff, I mean her wealth in knowledge about almost everything in Barcelona is nothing short of amazing! Well she is a tour guide you know but I still give her credit. Everything here is so beautiful even the older sections of the city. Some buildings are just magnificent. The thought and labor that have been put into them is just beyond me. Very inspirational. We stopped to take pictures somewhere on the mountains/hills near MIRAMAR. Hmmm... breathtaking - the view.

We had another stop; window shopping, food for some, others like me just walked around and admired everything. We finally get to our last stop to our hotel (NH Duc De La Victoria). Oh my goodness, look at all the luggages! Checked in at the hotel, met my roommate KK, got acquainted, tried to settle in, took our turns in the shower and went straight to bed. Total bliss!

Dinner at the Mussol Restaurant was very nice. We had an appetizer, and then some chicken and potatoes, and then dessert - I believe it was lemon merengue. Pretty much had my very first taste of red wine! Umm... yeah it was definitely bitter but I was advised that it wasn't necessarily the best wine to start with. Acquired taste, I hear. We'll see about that...

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY ONE (Part 2)

Arrive at alternate airport, check. International check-in, check. Annoying security check, check. Terminal E16, check. I'm relaxed, check. *smiling* Okay, called all the necessary people - mom, one of my sisters, Linda W. Linda = awesome! I gave her a call initially when I missed my flight, she was so sympathetic; she didn't have to but she was. Well, called her again when I was finally at the terminal - she was happy, I was happy, so whatever happened earlier (thanks a lot Delta, NOT!) this morning didn't even matter amymore. I asked for my professor's cell number so I could get in touch with her when I got to JFK. She gladly provided it and assured me that she would contact her also. Wheww... the world is perfect again! *laughing internally* See you in New York!!!

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Time - 2:35PM

Where - JFK Airport, NY

Hello New York! Finally here; need to go check-in and find the rest of the group. Called Linda again to let her know that I had arrived and was trying to reach my professor but kept getting voicemail. Before I continue, I should point out that there were two groups who went on this trip; my group from one city and the other group with my professor from a different city. We were all supposed to meet at NY. Alright on with the story - then Linda informs me about the second group's (my professor's group) flight being cancelled! WHAT? No way! But they were supposed to be in NY even before my group? So anyway, they got on the noon flight and will get to JFK by 4:45PM. Well that's funny cause that's when our flight to Barcelona starts boarding! Hahahaha... Okay I probably shouldn't have laughed but after the day I just had earlier, I just couldn't help myself. Anyway after getting myself something to eat and very relaxed, i found the rest of my group at terminal 15. Woohoo! Told them about my 'horrible ordeal', the second group issue, and then we just pretty much waited and hoped that we'd all get on the plan to Spain!

A Boeing 767 was going to be our temporary abode for the next 6hours and 50 minutes! It's a huge aircraft; haven't been on one of these since I left Nigeria in 1999. Geez! Hmmm... this should be quite interesting though. Yay, the other group made it into the plane! I could definitely see my professor trying to stop by our seats to say hi. So much for the dramatic effect I was hoping for - Linda had sarcastically told me earlier that if all else fails, I should try to stall the plane so that the other group could catch up. Honestly I don't know why or how she knew I was capable of doing that hehehe.

(That's my professor in black and red!)

So anyway I got myself acquainted with the passenger seating next to me already; she seems nice, I like her cause of her down-to-earth personality. I've forgotten her name now (also positive she forgot mine too!) but I'll be sure to get it again by the time we get to our destination. She's originally from Venezuela but her travel itinerary started from Miami, then Cincinnati, then New York, and finally Barcelona! Wheww! I think it's a Delta airline thing - note to self: try as much as you can to avoid Delta at all cost. So she's on her way to visit her boyfriend who got into a car accident and is in the ICU. I wished him well and hoped he'd have a speedy recovery. I told her I was a student (after she asked me where I was travelling from) going on a study tour with a group of other students. She assures me Barcelona is really beautiful. Well, I can't wait; here I come Barcy! LOL!!!

Come back later for more updates and definitely feel free to leave your thoughts and comments...

BARCELONA TRIP - DAY ONE

Date - Monday; March 10, 2008

Time - 10:05AM

Where - On a Continental flight en route JFK

Right off the bat, let me just express how relieved I am! What a day, oh what a day!!! And to think it's not even noon yet. Ugh... I pretty much had only an hour of sleep the night before (or should I say morning?) because I was busy packing for the trip and for some reason, I just couldn't go to sleep. Don't get me wrong, I was very excited about this trip but I don't think it was the excitement that kept me from getting some rest. I think it was my fear of over-sleeping! Just didn't want to take the chance especially since my professor had mentioned something about the 'every other day' Delta flights to Barcelona. Delta.... ARGH!!! My worst (well almost) nightmare involving flying pretty much just happened - I missed my first flight to Atlanta! This cannot be happening right now. Oh my God, I just cried my eyes as well as all my frustrations out and even took it out on the lady at the ticketing front desk. *HISSING*

I digress ----- I mean it's not like I don't cry... as a matter of fact, I have something to say about that. Some people think that I try to put up a 'I'm tough' front by not always expressing my emotions. First of all who says crying is a prerequisite to show emotion? Anyway, I just think people shouldn't cry at every opportunity they get or else when it really matters, people won't take them serious. Now y'all know it's the truth and if you don't believe me, watch a couple of soap opera episodes or even Nigerian movies lol! Okay back to what I was saying, I pretty much took it out on the ticketing lady and I wasn't sorry cause that's what customer service is all about. And oh yeah Delta ticketing front desk lady - you're customer service skills are terrible! Absolutely failed my test and to think the whole time, she was trying to act like she was helping me. *ANOTHER HISS* Anyway I told one of my sisters, on the phone afterwards, that although I didn't mean to take it out on the lady (yeah right!), what was I to do? Yes I take responsibility for missing my flight (trust me you don't have to tell me twice) but I was still frustrated. Plus, what was she paid to do anyway? I just concluded that her customer service skills had to be put to test and I must say AGAIN that she failed so horribly! Or maybe I'll just take it as a lesson not to allow my mother to drive me on a mojor highway whenever I'm in a hurry to get somewhere! I still love her (my mom, not the ticketing lady) though and absolutely adore and appreciate her.

My alternate flight options were presented before me, without any empathy if I may add, and all I could do was keep my mouth shut (before I said some more things I might regret) and cry some more (I know some people that are loving this part!) because I felt so helpless and terrible, ugh... doesn't happen often I'll tell ya that. Anyway my final and best remedy? Get on a continental flight through the other airport straight to JFK New York and meet up with the rest of the group there. You've got to be kidding me!!! I live 15 minutes away from the alternate airport I have to go to now, drove an hour to this airport, missed my flight, only to go back to where I drove from??? WHAT?!?! This actually works out cause that means I can totally eliminate the layover at Atlanta but okay whatever. "That's fine we'll take that option", I heard my mom say. Paperwork, check. Monetary options, check. Necessary apologies (from my mom anyway), check. And just like that, I had a seat on a totally different airplane, totally different airline, through a totally different airport, straight to JFK! Woohoo, relief...

***Did I mention how much I love my mom? hehehe :)***

Alright that's it for now folks, I'm tired!!! You'd have to come back later for more updates and oh yeah, feel free to leave your thoughts and comments...