Have you taken the time to reflect on the year from its beginning to its near conclusion? I was at home when I had a deep reflection on Thanksgiving Day. God reminded me of all he has done for me this year, and I just started praising and worshiping him. God has guided every aspect of my life this year. God gave me peace, taught me patience, and shifted my heart from things that added no value to my life—and that didn't point me towards heaven. God provided me with a path to follow, which I will discuss in more detail soon, but overall, my heart is overflowing with joy. I want to thank God that I am among the living, and I am healthy enough to move around and do things. I want to thank God for keeping my parents alive, and I know that my prayer for them for 120 years will come true. I will look back on this post and say, "Yes, indeed, God is great."
Every day should be Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for?
Let’s be real—Secret Santa in the office is not everyone’s cup of tea. Personally, I’d rather skip it entirely. There’s always that lingering pressure to pick something “perfect,” and no one needs another mug collecting dust in a cabinet (seriously, let’s retire the mug gifting trend). But if you’re in it and want to make your gift count, here are some safe, practical ideas that are both budget-friendly and actually useful.
Smart, Practical Gift Ideas
Desk Organizers
Everyone loves a tidy workspace. Think small drawer organizers, pen holders, or even cord clips to tame those unruly wires. They’re simple, functional, and won’t break the bank.
Mini Plants
Succulents or air plants are easy to care for and can liven up even the gloomiest desk. Bonus points if they’re low-maintenance—no one wants to babysit a high-maintenance ficus.
Fancy Snacks
Snacks are a crowd-pleaser, but skip the generic stuff. A box of gourmet popcorn, some artisan cookies, or even a curated mix of healthy treats can feel thoughtful without trying too hard.
Tech-Friendly Accessories
If your office is phone-free, go for other practical gadgets like blue-light glasses, a mini desk lamp, or a screen cleaning kit. They’re handy and show you’ve put some thought into the gift.
Notebooks or Planners
A sleek pocket notebook or a minimalist planner? Yes, please. Perfect for jotting down ideas, meeting notes, or just pretending to be organized.
Stress Relievers
A good stress ball, a fun fidget toy, or even a roll-on essential oil blend—these are great for those long workdays when you need to decompress (or survive another meeting).
Reusable Lunch Accessories
Collapsible lunch boxes, reusable cutlery sets, or even eco-friendly silicone food bags—practical, thoughtful, and perfect for anyone who brings their lunch.
Personalized Office Supplies
Customized sticky notes or quirky paperclips are small, affordable, and still show effort. Plus, they’re actually useful.
Keep the budget low, the gift neutral, and the vibe easygoing. Secret Santa should be fun, not an exercise in overthinking. If all else fails? Go for snacks—no one’s ever been mad about getting good snacks.
Let me explain further. Essentially, some couples create content together and share aspects of their lives on various social platforms. Most of them have amassed a large following and enjoy widespread adoration, despite the presence of people who do not like them. When a problem arises in their relationship or marriage and they decide to split, people notice and begin to ask questions, which is normal given that they share their lives on social media. Sometimes they choose to remain silent, but occasionally one party may decide to speak out. The internet often assumes the person who speaks out is the one with the problem, which isn't always true.
There are various levels of wickedness and manipulation, and a person's silence does not necessarily indicate their innocence or goodness. Silence is golden, but not in all cases. The same world that says silence is golden also says a closed mouth is a closed destiny. Some people feel so hurt that they need to speak out, while others are able to remain silent, heal, or carry the pain all their lives. There is no rule stating that the person who remains silent has fewer problems.
Social media has pushed this narrative for a long time, and I just felt the need to write about it. Some manipulations are nonverbal explanations and require physical presence to fully comprehend, as not all injuries result in visible bruises. Some come with silence and disrespect.
Some individuals who have experienced significant hurt in their relationships find it challenging to discuss their experiences, as others either cannot relate or tend to downplay them. This is why some people choose to remain silent. While silence is golden, never think that the person who speaks out is the problem. This could potentially be the beginning of their journey toward healing and releasing that burden. This could also serve as a path to liberation, symbolizing the conclusion of an unwanted phase in their lives. Remember, you didn't witness the beginning and process of any story on social media before you supported it.
Why did I write this post? I shared this post as a response to a couple on Instagram who had been creating amusing videos together but abruptly stopped and ended their relationship. One person spoke about the situation online, while the other has moved on and chosen to get married again within a year. However, some have suggested that her decision to open up about her marriage online and her partner's choice to remain silent indicate that he is mature and not the problem, a notion that may not always hold true.
I wonder if people realize that the person who truly knows a partner is often not their family or friends, but rather the woman or man they are in a relationship with or married to. It's mind-boggling how social media establishes unrealistic expectations, leading to superficial judgments and assumptions about people's knowledge of situations they are unfamiliar with. This can be more or less than you perceive, so always keep in mind that you don't know these people. You are just a viewer.
What do you think about this narrative?
I was watching the Blue Ribbon Baking Championship on Netflix last night, and while I was impressed by the skill and creativity on display—those desserts and cakes were works of art—I noticed something interesting. One of the female judges seemed to absolutely love moist cakes, another judge was all about the taste, regardless of how things looked, and there was a third judge who tried to balance it all out.
When it comes to judging a cooking or baking competition, there are so many factors at play. Think about it: our upbringing, cultural background, personal taste, and even what we grew up eating all come into play. We tend to fall back on what we know best. So, when judges critique a dish, they’re not just evaluating it in a vacuum—they’re bringing all of these personal experiences and preferences into the mix.
It got me thinking: is there really a definitive “best” cook or baker in these competitions? It seems like it really depends on what each judge prefers. For instance, I’m not a fan of moist cakes, so if I were a judge, I probably wouldn’t score them highly. It’s kind of like how some people like their bacon crispy, while others prefer it a bit burnt.
So, does winning a cooking competition really come down to what the judges or taste testers like? Like, if their taste preferences match what you’ve made, does that give you an edge? Yes, it does. It seems like you’d be in a better spot if their palates are into what you’re serving!
Also, don't forget that how full or hungry you are can totally affect how good the food tastes! If you're starving, even a simple dish can seem amazing, while if you're already stuffed, it might not seem as impressive.
So here’s my big question: In a cooking or baking competition, is there truly a best cook or baker, or is it more about which contestant aligns with the judges’ personal preferences? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Photo Credit: Andrew
Elevate Your Style: 14 Expert Tips for Effortlessly Classy Outfits
Ready to take your style up a notch without breaking the bank? Look no further! We've curated 14 simple yet effective tips to help you achieve a sophisticated and refined look that exudes confidence and elegance. From mastering the art of neutrals to embracing timeless patterns and textures, each tip is designed to elevate your wardrobe and make you feel fabulous in every outfit.1. Master the Power of Neutrals: Discover how to build a chic and versatile wardrobe foundation with timeless neutral colors like bright white, ivory, beige, camel, grey, and black. Invest in high-quality neutral basics for a polished and sophisticated look.
2. Embrace Solid Colors: Explore the elegance of solid, classic colors that never go out of style. Whether you're drawn to daring reds, bold blues, or eye-catching magentas, incorporating solid colors into your wardrobe adds depth and versatility to your outfits.
3. Opt for Timeless Patterns: Learn how to incorporate classic patterns like stripes and animal prints into your outfits for a sophisticated look that stands the test of time. Stick to neutral-colored patterns for maximum versatility and elegance.
4. Create chic monochrome looks: Elevate your style effortlessly with chic monochrome outfits that make a statement. Experiment with different tones and textures within the same color family to create a sophisticated and cohesive look.
5. Keep it Simple with Three Colors: Follow the classic fashion rule of not wearing more than three colors per outfit for a polished and purposeful look. Stick to three beautifully paired colors, particularly neutrals, for a timeless and elegant ensemble.
6. Mix and Match Textures: Discover the power of texture to elevate your outfits to the next level. Pair luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet with everyday materials like cotton for a sophisticated and dynamic look.
This milk-colored quilted jacket has drawn so many comments and admiring looks. At first, I didn't even realize how lovely it fit me until I got to work and my co-workers started complimenting me. The first compliment was appreciated, and I received even more while walking down the street. One elderly lady even stopped to tell me how beautiful I looked.
Initially, I wanted to get a light jacket from Primark, but I changed my mind because the ones I saw were lighter in texture than I wanted. The weather in Glasgow changes several times a day and can get quite cold, so I needed a jacket that wasn't too warm since the coldest part of the year has passed, but also not too light. This jacket is perfect for that.
The jacket is from Precis Petite, a brand that specializes in designing clothing for petite women. Precis Petite is known for creating stylish and well-fitting garments for women who are 5'3" and under. Often, their collections feature tailored jackets, dresses, trousers, and tops, all designed to fit and flatter a petite frame. The brand pays close attention to detail and quality, ensuring that each piece looks good and fits perfectly without the need for alterations. Precis Petite's designs are modern, elegant, and versatile, making them a popular choice among petite women seeking both style and comfort.
This jacket features details I really like, including gold-colored buttons that enhance its overall design. It's just the right weight for spring, providing warmth without being too heavy. I'm thrilled with my purchase and highly recommend Precis Petite for their thoughtful and fashionable designs.
Before I get into that, here are some things I’ve learned: never apologize more than twice. If you are genuinely sorry, don’t keep repeating it. Instead, apologize sincerely, and then take steps to correct the issue. Allow the other person to heal and decide whether they want to continue communicating with you. You cannot force people to forgive you, and that’s a part of life I appreciate. I offer a sincere apology, but if it's not accepted, I leave it between them and God. I refuse to be part of a grieving cycle or to stay stuck in that situation. If someone enjoys being sad, I won’t join them in their sadness. I choose happiness, and it’s okay if someone doesn’t want to forgive me, but I won’t put my life on hold waiting for them to move on from that situation. That can never be me again. If I have a goal, my focus will be on that goal.
Booking Your Trip:
I opted for an affordable two-way flight with EasyJet, keeping my travel expenses in check. Tip: Morning flights tend to be cheaper, but if you're not an early bird, consider the trade-off between cost and comfort.
Selecting the appropriate outfit for a boat party holds significance. Whether it's a corporate function, casual gathering, festival, bachelor bash, or any other occasion, boat parties is gaining popularity across all demographics. They present a unique social setting, demanding suitable attire.
In essence, a boat party is an opportunity for socializing while enjoying the aquatic ambiance. It's a time to showcase your style with white linen trousers, chic sunglasses, and a glass of champagne, celebrating life in an elegant manner.
It's about enjoying quality time with friends away from the hustle and bustle, accompanied by melodious tunes and engaging conversations. For those inclined towards adventure, a boat party can transform into an exhilarating journey.
The right clothing not only enhances your confidence, but also ensures comfort. Boat parties are synonymous with joy, thrill, and festivity. Yet, as you ponder, questions arise:
What's the ideal attire for a boat party?
What accessories complement my party ensemble?
How can I make a distinct impression among fellow guests?
Before you pick your outfit for a party, think about two things: what kind of party it is and when it's happening.
Your clothes for the boat party might change based on what kind of party it is:
(a) If it's fancy, women can wear long dresses or a nice suit, while men can wear a dark suit and tie.
(b) If it's casual, women can wear jeans and a nice top, and men can wear jeans or shorts with a casual shirt.
Tips for looking cool:
When you're getting dressed for a boat party or any other event, remember these three things to make sure you stand out and look great:
- Comfort
- Creativity
- Classiness
Did you know that you should never leave certain items in your car? Some items have the potential to cause explosions! If you're a car owner or driver, you really need to check this out!
Listen up! It's truly enlightening. So, buckle up and brace yourself for some surprising stuff.
1. Lighters: Lighters contain flammable materials and pressurized gas. When exposed to high temperatures, especially in direct sunlight, the pressure inside the lighter can increase, causing it to explode. The flammable materials inside can ignite, leading to a potential fire hazard.
2. Power Bank: Power banks often contain lithium-ion batteries, which are susceptible to heat. When exposed to high temperatures, such as those in a car on a hot day, the batteries can become unstable and may catch fire or explode. Leaving the power bank in direct sunlight, which can further raise the device's temperature, significantly increases this risk.
3. Perfume and Mineral Water: Both perfume and mineral water can contain alcohol, which is flammable. When left in direct sunlight, the heat can cause the liquid to evaporate rapidly, creating a highly flammable atmosphere. If exposed to an ignition source, such as a spark, this vapor can ignite, leading to a fire.
4. Snacks: Snacks, especially those containing oils or fats, can spoil when exposed to high temperatures. The heat can cause the fat to oxidize, leading to rancidity and a change in taste and texture. Additionally, heat can accelerate microbial growth, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
5. Glasses: Heat can damage glasses, especially those with plastic frames or prescription lenses. Plastic frames may melt or warp, while lenses can act as magnifying glasses, focusing sunlight onto nearby surfaces and potentially causing fires. Furthermore, exposure to high temperatures can cause metal frames to become hot enough to result in burns when worn.
6. Sun Cream: The active ingredients in sun cream can degrade when exposed to high temperatures, reducing their effectiveness in protecting the skin from UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to a hot car can accelerate this degradation, potentially resulting in inadequate sun protection. According to the FDA, sunscreen can catch fire.
7. Damp Beach Items: Damp beach items, such as swimsuits and towels, provide a moist environment ideal for the growth of bacteria and yeast. When left in a hot car, the temperature and humidity can further promote microbial growth, increasing the risk of infections or unpleasant odors.
8. Electronics: Electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets, can suffer damage when exposed to high temperatures. Heat can affect the performance and lifespan of batteries, cause components to expand or contract, and even lead to thermal shutdowns or malfunctions. To prevent damage, it's advisable to avoid leaving electronics in hot cars whenever possible.
9. Handbags/Wallets: Handbags and wallets left in cars are vulnerable to theft, as they often contain valuable items such as credit cards, cash, and smartphones. Additionally, the warm and confined environment of a car can promote the growth of bacteria on items frequently touched by hands, potentially leading to hygiene issues or skin infections.
10. Aerosols (Pressurized Canisters): Pressurized aerosol cans, such as deodorants and hair sprays, pose a risk of explosion when exposed to high temperatures. The heat can cause the pressure inside the canister to build up, leading to ruptures or explosions. To mitigate this risk, it's important to store aerosols in a cool and well-ventilated environment.
11. Batteries: Batteries, both disposable and rechargeable, can leak or explode when exposed to high temperatures. Heat accelerates chemical reactions within the battery, leading to the release of corrosive electrolytes or gases. This not only poses a safety hazard but can also cause damage to the interior of the vehicle.
12. Plants: Plants left in hot cars are susceptible to heat stress and dehydration, which can quickly lead to wilting or even death. To prevent damage, it's important to keep plants shaded and hydrated during transport and avoid leaving them in the car for extended periods, especially on hot days.
At this point in my life, I've learned to let things go and not take them too seriously. Recently, I traveled to Dublin, and planning the trip with my friend Ebube was really easy. We booked my tickets using Easyjet, and I traveled to Dublin by Aircoach bus.
I haven't slept well all week, and I was hoping to sleep when I get to the hotel before my friend arrives.
My airport experience went smoothly, and I have Easyjet to thank for the seamless flight. However, I attribute the overall safe journey to God, giving Him all the glory.
Upon arriving on the reservation my friend made, there was a booking issue that required me to wait for my friend to arrive and resolve it. She managed to resolve it even before she arrived, and we went back to the hotel to rest and refresh. Later that night, we wanted to explore Dublin and see what the city had to offer. I was excited for the fun we had visiting Cafe En Seine, a suggestion from a friend who lives in Dublin and joined us there. After a good night out, he drove us back to our hotel to ensure we got in safely. However, the night manager, Gabriella, stopped us to ask for our room number, which we provided. Despite explaining that the person with us wasn't staying in the hotel, she became even more angry and insisted that he leave the property. She also demanded that both of us pay for staying in the room we had already booked.
We told her that we had already paid and everything was settled; we had checked in earlier. However, she continued to insist that we needed to pay. This confusion arose because she wasn't listening to us. Eventually, we managed to show her the reservation, which she refused to look at, but then she said it was booked for only one guest, even though we had already checked in.
Despite our protests and attempts to clarify the situation, she remained adamant and accused us of lying. She even threatened to ask us to leave the hotel. We were surprised and frustrated by her refusal to let us sleep in the room we had paid for. My friend became angry and told her to stop making unnecessary statements. That's when she threatened to call the police on us, accusing us of trying to sneak a guy into our hotel room, escalating the situation further.
My friends became furious with her and asserted that she had no right to threaten us with the police. We had all our documents in order, and she was simply being rude and unreasonable. Despite our objections, she gave us two options: either pay an extra fee and breakfast or wait for the police to arrive. We chose to wait for the police.
In an attempt to resolve the issue, my friend suggested that if she didn't want to allow me inside the hotel, she would stay alone while I went to her friend's house to sleep, and in the morning we would sort out the issue. She refused and said both I and my friend could not go into the room we paid for. She also refused us from taking our things from the room.
We were taken aback when, despite having paid for our hotel room, we were denied access to it, even at 3 in the morning. The night manager called the hotel guards to prevent us from entering. One of the guards expressed disappointment in her behavior and advised us to remain calm, highlighting her unpleasant demeanor. Her disrespectful treatment of the guards, as if they were her subordinates, left a poor impression. When another guest was entering, she abruptly demanded their room number and then instructed them to come to the front desk to speak with her.
This woman appeared intoxicated with power. She went to the extent of suggesting that we had hearing problems and required hearing aids, which caught us off guard. I couldn't discern if her behavior stemmed from racial animosity or if she was simply a troubled individual in a position of authority.
My friend's friend thought that offering an apology might smooth things over. Yet, the moment he apologized, she became even more hostile. My friend also tried to ease the tension by apologizing, attempting to understand if Gabriella, the night manager, was having a rough day or if there was a misunderstanding. However, she remained firm, asserting her sole authority. Growing frustrated, my friend's friend raised his voice, labeling her as unreasonable. Meanwhile, my friend, Ebube, was getting angry. We had a confirmed booking, and it was clear that Gabriella was being wicked.
She even asked the security guard to deactivate our room cards. She demanded that we pay for breakfast, which we declined, leading to her insisting that we leave the hotel altogether.
The following day, we phoned ahead before heading to the hotel. We were invited to meet with the day manager, who calmly discussed the incident with us and apologized. Thankfully, everything was resolved, and we were able to enjoy the rest of our stay without any further issues.
As for my encounter with Gabriella, words can't fully capture the experience. However, one thing that stood out to me was how we handled the situation. Later that day, while chilling in the room with my friend, I played some music and reflected on how much we've grown. In the past, we might have refused to budge until our rights were acknowledged, but now we're more inclined to let things slide. There are always going to be unhappy people like Gabriella out there, but we didn't let her steal our joy. I genuinely hope she finds peace.
Special thanks to the morning manager and the front desk staff, who eventually resolved the issue and apologized for the inconvenience.
While sitting in the lobby the next day with my friend's brother, a lady approached us, introducing herself as another manager at the hotel. She expressed her desire to understand what happened. However, after explaining the situation, she insisted on speaking with the person who made the booking, stating she couldn't discuss matters with me since the booking wasn't in my name. This didn't sit well with me. Initially, she came off as defensive, which discouraged my friend's brother from engaging in conversation, as he felt it wouldn't lead anywhere. Later, my friend Ebube spoke to her.
Last Thursday, I reluctantly boarded the underground train, eager to get home quickly despite my aversion to it. As usual, I found the train to be disgustingly dirty. Sitting uncomfortably on the edge of a seat, I decided to immerse myself in my phone to avoid acknowledging the unsanitary surroundings. However, my attempt to distract myself was interrupted when the train stopped at another station, and the door opened after some passengers disembarked and boarded other coaches.
A man aggressively pounded on the door of our coach, causing it to open. He entered, accompanied by a large Bull Terrier dog, clearly intoxicated. Feeling uneasy, I promptly vacated my seat and moved to the back where two other passengers were seated. They soon alighted, leaving me alone with the drunk man and his dog.
Throughout the journey, this man was talking to his restless dog. Consequently, they missed their intended stop, prolonging the discomforting situation. What exacerbated my unease was when, before exiting, the man directed a vulgar gesture towards me with his hand. I couldn't shake off the fear that he might unleash the dog on me.
Then, a colleague noticed. She looked at me, saw my distress, and simply said, "You're going to be fine. Just take things easy." She drew a love sign on a piece of paper which was on my desk. That small gesture turned my entire day around.
People often assume we can soldier on without a second thought, but they don't realize how much a word of encouragement or a simple act of kindness can mean. She confided that she was also having a tough time, yet she chose to spread positivity. That alone lifted my spirits and shifted my perspective.
Whenever I glance at that love sign, it fills me with joy. It's a reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of keeping a positive outlook.
Small acts of love and kindness can make a world of difference to someone in need. Sometimes, a single compliment can save a life. We never know who might be silently struggling, waiting for a ray of hope. Let's make it a habit to uplift others and spread love wherever we go.
I'll always cherish this act of kindness from my colleague and friend. She embodies the beauty of compassion and empathy. May she be blessed abundantly, and may her life be filled with joy and fulfillment.
So, don't forget to show kindness—it costs nothing but can mean everything.
So, let's talk about this dressing gown. It's by Hutson Harbour, and it's plain black, which I think looks super cool. It comes with a tie belt and hoodie, so I can wrap myself up like a cozy burrito whenever I want to feel extra warm and toasty. And guess what? It's made of 100% polyester, which is a fancy way of saying it's really soft and comfy. Plus, it's super easy to clean – just throw it in the washing machine, and voila!
Now, here's a little story for you. My partner got me this dressing gown because he noticed how much I was always shivering and turning up the heater. He wanted to help me stay warm and cozy without having to crank up the heat and spend more money on bills. And let me tell you, this dressing gown has been a lifesaver! I've had it for over a year now, and the quality is still top-notch. It's like having a warm hug every time I put it on.
He got my dressing gown from Tj Hughes, and I have to say, I'm really impressed with the comfort and quality. It's become such a staple in my nighttime routine that I can't imagine going to bed without it, especially during the cold season. It's like my trusty sidekick, keeping me warm and helping me get a good night's sleep.
You know, sometimes it's the little things that make the biggest difference. And for me, this dressing gown is one of those little things. It's not just a piece of clothing – it's a symbol of warmth, comfort, and love. So here's to cozy nights, saving energy, and feeling snug as a bug in my black dressing gown.
Stay warm, my friends!
In a world where motherhood is constantly under attack, where we can no longer refer to women who have given birth as mothers, and where some people advocate for calling men "mothers" – a notion many, like myself, with sound minds reject – it's crucial to understand that a mother's role is irreplaceable. A mother carries the instinctual bond with her offspring until her last breath. She endures the pain of childbirth and brings her child into the world, a divine connection ordained by God from the beginning. A mother's love is unparalleled and eternal. On this day, I want to wish all the mothers a beautiful Mother's Day. Keep shining, and may God bless you.
To read my post about my mother on Women's Day click here.
Afterward, I swung by the Africa store to pick up ingredients for a special Women’s Day meal. It turned out to be so delicious that I ended up eating with such gusto that I got filled and had to save some for this morning's breakfast.
To celebrate Women’s Day in style, I paired the top with pink floral flare pants from H&M and my trusty white Converse sneakers, a thoughtful gift from my partner. A pair of stud earrings from Quiz Clothing added a touch of sparkle. As for my hair, after a week of keeping it pulled back, I opted for a ponytail that I braided and wrapped around due to the rough texture at the back.
On this International Women’s Day, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my mom, who dedicated herself to our family's well-being, sacrificing so much to make our dreams a reality. She's truly remarkable and has a heart of gold.
My mom is like a guiding light, leading us through life's journey with unwavering love and support. She's patient, always there to lend an ear, and I'm forever grateful to have her as my hero.
Her prayers are like a shield, protecting me from life's challenges. And her wisdom, oh, it's invaluable. From her, I've learned the power of prayer, hard work, kindness, and forgiveness.
She's also an incredible cook – a talent she's been praised for countless times. Her meals are a source of joy and comfort, bringing our family together in love and laughter.
Growing up, she instilled in me the importance of decency, modesty, and self-respect. And her stance against alcohol taught me valuable lessons about health and self-discipline.
I owe everything to my mom and sister. They've shaped me into the woman I am today, and I'll forever cherish their love and wisdom.
Many women can relate to this, and I just want to say to anyone who gets to read this post that it doesn’t matter whether you are being appreciated or not in your own corner; just know that I appreciate you.