I CHEATED

Yes! I cheated! 


But definitely NOT what you might be thinking. 


It is amazing the kind of attention you receive when you make a declaration like 'I cheated'. 

Eons ago on my wedding blog (www.weddingtrendy.com - now sold) I wrote an article 'How I Got Married' and it was one of my most read articles. Apart from those that were close enough to know how I got married, it dawned on me that quite a number of people just want to know what kind of drama you have been involved in! (By the way - the article was written by a guest blogger not me!)

So back to the topic. I have cheated. Have you ever cheated?

NO! I am not asking about those times that you 'tattooed' all the answers to an examination paper on your beautiful thigh (women) or the inside your palms (men). You can deny it on social media but nobody is judging you (yeah right).

I am also not going on about the times you were asked to take your medications and you hid them under your tongue just to fool the nurse/your mother and you later spit it out when they were not watching?

Now that we have the obvious definition of childhood cheating defined, I will define my own logic of 'cheating'


MY CHEATING DEFINED

Have you ever had to read a 45 page manual only to find out that you can summarise the entire manual on three (3) pages of A4 paper?  Having worked on a few major projects in the last ten (10) years, I have had to create my own 'cheat sheets' for work instructions to use at work or as training scripts for other project users.

IMO - Why do people use 500 words when 5 can do? I don't know.

Anyway - yes - that kind of cheating is what I am talking about (Phew! You can all breathe now. Laugh. Boring right?).

I will let you into a few more 'cheats' or share your own favourite 'cheats'


CHEAT 1: MORRISON'S NON-STICK POT!

I have a set of Meyer's non-stick pots since 2005 and after 10 years of service, I started saving towards buying another set because they do not come cheap. In the interim, I took a chance and bought the non-stick 'Morrisons' brand pot and I was pleasantly surprised that this affordable pot is truly non-stick as it says on the box! I could almost boast my food taste better ( I refused to be harassed by hubby's constant claim that he cooks better)

Apart from the handles that heats up, this pot is amazing to use to cook and clean. I will advise my folks to always use a kitchen towel or gloves to protect your hands when using it to cook (and not go African grandma style using your bare hands while wincing inside lol).

Before giving out this 'cheat' I have gone and bought a few of these pots because I know once the word get's out - Morrisons shops will be swept clean of them. Lessons learnt :)

Where to get: Any Morrisons Shop in the UK (I checked - not available on the online store)

Cost: Less than £20 

Photo: Courtesy Hubby's Phone!
(Erm - please note that there are two pots in this photo. A big and smaller size of the non-stick pots. Both available at Morrisons)

CHEAT 2: FITTING THE DUVET COVER:

If you are like me, taking out the super king size bed duvet cover for a wash is not a problem but fitting it back usually is - until I found out how to do it better that is! I have since shared the tip with loads of friends and we are happier :)

I will let this video do the job. Please watch. I promise - you will be pleasantly rewarded.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBnKNPxNgg8
Credit: CoralTV - Copyright Infringement Not Intended!


CHEAT 3:  DETTOL MOULD AND MILDEW REMOVER

I am blessed to have a home with a beautiful layout. Whenever I could, I love taking long warm showers in family bathroom or en-suite shower at home. I also have a fit if they are not being looked after lol. I discovered the Dettol Mould and Mildew remover and it works like magic. It keeps cleaning efforts at a minimum and all you need to do is spray around the shower or bath tub after each bath, leave it on for about 5 minutes and voila it's clean! - No hard scrubbing, no sweating (or swearing lol). You can use the sponge for the 'finishing' but even without, it cleans deep.

Caution: Do take care if using this - it has some acid and you don't want to ruin some of your taps. (Has not done any damage to mine but you never know). Also be aware of the fumes so have some ventilation in place when using this.


Source: Any Tesco, Asda, Morrison or high street shop in the UK (either online or in store)
Cost: Less than £4
Photo: Copyright Infringement Not Intended!

CHEAT 4: SOAP AND TONER COMBO.

The Royale pinkish toner and soap range is still my best find for 2015. The Royale Beauty products range are fab!

I break out easily and found the Kojic Papaya soap a 'stop' action on acne breakouts! I combine this as my daily regime (and after applying makeup) and I have kept breakouts at bay. I have recommended the products to a lot of friends and everyone have the same positive feedback. In these dreaded UK (US/Canada/African) weather, our skin does need some TLC.This soap is not limited to women - a few guys I know use this Kojic Papaya soap - apparently it is great on the skin after shaving!

Other products in the range that I use are the Anti-ageing soap (in the mornings) and the Pinkish Glow Smoothening cream which is fantastic as a make up primer.

Here is a review of the product by a fan of the soap and toner:

Source: https://www.facebook.com/BellaNiqqe
Cost: Soap £6 and toner £12. (excluding postage)
Photo: Copyright Infringement Not Intended!

These are the cheats I am sharing this time - please share yours!


Trillion Love Always!

GO QUEEN!!!

Thanks to you all my friends and fans, yours truly have been getting various phone calls and emails to mention products and to review services on the blog.

For this opportunity I say thank you!

To support my network of friends and contacts, I will be talking about 'products and services'. So if you are in this category, please contact me to discuss how I can support you.

Go QUEEN!

Starting off, here is the 'Queen of Gele' - The '5 Minutes to Perfection Gele'. 

'Victoria'

Queen of Gele  (or QoG as I like to shorten it to) is a creative prototype of a Mother and Daughter Collabo  (And PSquare fans echoes - eh, eh, eh, we want some collabo!). Dayo Amusu and her daughter in their own words, they describe 'QoG':

Queen of Gele was formed after several failed attempts by the brand founders to tie the gele themselves. They tried it all: attending various gele tying courses, spending precious hours following “easy to do” YouTube tutorials and even having to pay at parties to have it tied…

Born from a love of African fashion, Queen of Gele is the must-have gele (head-gear) brand for ladies who want to complement their stunning traditional outfits with edgy, fashionable and on-trend head ties without the stress and sweat that comes with attempting to tie the gele themselves.

Don't get me wrong - I love all my MUA and Gele artists and this is not to undermine their efforts - however QoG might just save the day for some ladies that need a ready made gele. After all our favourite moinmoin now comes in a tin!

So I am about to cheat my way to a party this weekend and want to order my 'Victoria', 'Remi' or 'Susanne' from the line of Queen of Gele and I dare you to challenge me that I cheated!!!

Visit www.queenofgele.com for more information.

'Victoria'

'Suzanne'

'Remi'

Queen of Gele - Supported by Timi OBADEJO.

Trillion Love Always!

Timi

ATTITUDE TO ALTITUDE II

I loved my first IT Marketing job because I had the opportunity to meet some wonderful colleagues and because I had a very brilliant boss.

Career:

Josephine had an attitude. A 'Bring It On' attitude that does not budge to a 'No'.

She was young, up-beat and got her head screwed on right. Back in the 90s, she started a Microsoft Certified Training Centre in Lagos, Nigeria called Techno-Logic - a start up company taking up the same stage with the likes of IT 'Big Boys' (NITT, Siemens, NTC etc. ). Her approach to taking a share of the market was bold. BUT she took it.

What was lacking in the 'ageing' Big Boys competition was a staff of young, vibrant graduates who were carefully selected to work at Techno-Logic.  Back then the company was known for its quality in IT training and service delivery, a classy office layout and trendy staff that always had a smile and served with the right attitude! From the Support Staff to the MD, it was 'class' all the through the company.

At a point, there was no contract we could not win. No matter how big and mighty the opponents were, Techno-Logic somehow wins.

Adopting the right attitude did not come easy. You MUST pay attention to every detail. Your attitude as you enter the main building to the way you walk to your seat or cubicle, has got to be professional. Josephine taught me a few lessons about quality presentation.  Josephine will never let you send a letter out to a client with a comma out of place. And I mean it. To a young 'babe' this can be frustrating - but I had the right attitude and learnt a lot. Thank you Jo (as we fondly call her when she was in a good mood).

Academics:

Before graduation, my university days was fun at LASU (yeah - bite me. I did not go to UNILAG).  But like every other students in Nigeria,  you still have to deal with the malaria fever, 'hunger fever' and back-to-back lectures. LASU had a medical centre which of course was forever busy dealing with all types of students' ailment. There was a Lady Doctor that 'heals' with her smile and the way she takes her time to listen, ask questions and then explain what could be wrong with you (if not hunger that is LOL) and then prescribed the right medication. She was an angel. In contrast, she also had a colleague - a male Doctor. (Not all male Doctors are like this. This is just a bad apple). He is the exact opposite! This Doctor is already writing your prescription as soon as you are sat in his office. Needless to say. Some students go back to their hostels to self medicate if the male Doctor was on call.

Relationships:

I live in Aberdeen and social life here must be 'stimulated'. The city is full of Africans/Black but for some reasons their lifestyle is 'home-work-church/mosque and then home again. (Story for another time). Hubby was born to be a 'host' and so we made a lot of acquaintances quickly. Whilst I am not going to be picky, I found myself making a few girlfriends who someday I will write about. I have met Mope (Lapopo lol), Eloho, Seun (God rest her soul) and some other lovely ladies and their families that I have now grown fond of. Out of these, one of them has come to be my tallest friend EVER - ELOHO!

Eloho and I (and I am wearing a 2inch heel!)

(Not that I have height challenges but Eloho is tall men! lol). You would think her being so tall means she will be as 'strong' - the funny thing however is that she is a 'baby' at heart! As we got close, we realised we have walked similar paths in life and somehow 'trust' each other enough be share our visions.

Eloho was born to sing. She hosts an annual music event 'ENGAGE' every summer. The event has made such a big impact across Aberdeen City, that there is a buzz of excitement when the event approaches. The event is always so memorable and I know this year's is going to be mega because Muyiwa 'Riversongz' will be ministering - so Aberdeen is going to get some!

Being in the spotlight do come with challenges, but Eloho has remained steadfast. Her attitude even when she is hurting and just want to give up is ' I Will Yet Arise'. Even though sometimes I have to send some 'nasty' shocks to her system to snap her out of her moods. She is yet to meet my challenge to spread her wings. But I wont give up on her.

By the way, ENGAGE is scheduled for the 22nd of August 2015 at the Music Hall Aberdeen so if you are about in the city, do come along and please ask to see me! Yours truly has been given a mega assignment to 'manage' the event. :)

'Frenemies':

A few weeks ago I was talking to another friend of mine who shares the same birthday with me. She was distraught. She explained how the 'autocorrect' in her beloved iPhone sent the wrong/negative message to someone she was supposedly sending a 'compliment' to. The message was delivered as 'you don't look good' or something like that. My friend is a sweet soul. She sent the text and forgot all about it. She only realised something was wrong when the recipient replied with an 'angry' tone. My friend tried everything she could to explain herself and make the situation right. She called several times, sent texts and other forms of messages yet this other 'friend' did not return her call. I felt bad for my girlfriend but calmed her down and reminded her how sweet and thoughtful she is. I have known her for years and I can say I know that bit about her. I know she did not mean it. However her day was almost ruined because of that 'technology' mishap. The other friend eventually returned her calls 24hours (or more) later and they made up. However my mind kept ringing 'Attitude, attitude, attitude'! Why will anyone subject a friend to such a 'waiting' torture before returning a call to allow a situation to be rectified? Dealing with her own anger perhaps? Oh well..

'Angela':

I have seen a few Tyler Perry films (and now hooked to "The Haves and The Have Nots'). In the two part film 'Why Did I Get Married', there was a character called 'Angela'. Oh Angela was a woman and half. She raise 'hell' at every 'thoughts' of her husband (Marcus) looking or even speaking to another woman. She will tell anyone off if she believes the person is out of order and not in a very nice way. Angela walks into a bad situation and she makes it 'badder'. Despite all her 'faults' her husband loved her mindlessly and her friends love her too. But at some point, her husband had to put his foot down to deal with her attitude (momentarily) but hey ho, Angela was 'back' in the second part of the film.

I have inserted this personality in this post because not every woman is an 'Angela' but occasionally, you have to be an 'Angela' to deal with some nasty attitudes you get, some nasty people you encounter or some nasty situation you are faced with. Yeah - I know a lot of people will not 'agree' to having some sort of 'Angela' in them, and will go all 'Churchy-sermon-on-the-mountain' on the matter but like a friend will say - like a tube of toothpaste, you never know what's in a human being until you squeeze!

Final Thoughts:

I have chosen to write about attitudes. Some attitudes celebrates us and some are best imagined. Of course I can relate a few horrific experiences and attitudes that I have experienced in my personal and professional life.

Can I echo this statement in conclusion:

Want to share yours thoughts?

ATTITUDE TO ALTITUDE I

Hubby: If you like, you can squeeze your face into the shape of the Nigeria map, we ain't going! Case closed.

Me: (Silence)

 I was a single for a while. I was used to taking my decisions, going out when I want, where I want and when I want.  But here I am checking the 'weather forecast' before taking the plunge.

Over the years, I have realised that making a fuss does not change the 'weather forecast'. However a calm response to a situation like this usually means that 30 minutes after that outburst, we might be on our way to that place he said "we ain't going''.

There is indeed a popular saying which goes that ' your attitude determines your altitude'.

I am looking at my community and into the years past and leaving out the obvious (in church or leadership) I can report my experience on the following:

Academics:
During my undergraduate studies about 2 decades ago (Jeez! Am I old?). I was at Dr. Abisogun's Leigh's class - just before the final year examination, my mates and I sat through a 2 hour long lecture and we were so ready to go for lunch break. We were never bored of his lecture because he has a gift with words. However, lunch was a-calling.

Just a few minutes past the 2hour slot, we were getting ready for his 'best of luck' speech which was his norm before every examination; he announced that he has a few notes to dictate and before he could finished his sentence, ALL of us gasped, moan, yelled and upset our dearest 'Abi Lincoln'! Little did we know that he was just about to give us 'tips' to study for his set exams but our attitude threw him off!!! Shocked, Dr. Leigh looked at us, shook his head and walked off.

In my 4 years of knowing him at the Uni, I have never ever seen him upset. Some of us had some sense afterwards and went to his office to apologise. It however took another few days of apologies from the whole class of about 80, another 2 hour long lecture and sitting straight without a murmur that we eventually got into his good books again. At the end of the lecture not only did he wish us well and gave us the 'tips' but he gave everyone of us a parting rare gift  - The 'IF' by Rudyard Kipling.

That gift is and remains my life long reflection about 'ATTITUDE'.

I reflect on 'IF' again and again. When I: am waiting for an opportunity, thirst for knowledge, accomplished a goal, feel discouraged; help others out on a project, or simply being a mom (when I desperately need some cuddles myself) . I reflect on 'IF'. If you have never heard of 'IF' here is a copy:

Another lecturer at the Uni with a very positive and supportive attitude was Professor Adisa. No matter what he was doing or reading. If you knock on his office door and he is there? He drops EVERYTHING, ask you to sit down and give you his 100%+1 attention. AND he ALWAYS has a solution for whatever ails you academically. I remembered vividly that he sorted out one issue I had with another female lecturer in my faculty who represented 'nightmare' in the mind of every student in my faculty (story for another day).

Hurrah!! To all the educational teachers, lecturers and mentors with positive attitudes out there!

Family: 

My Mom (bless her soul) taught my siblings and I: to have respect, great family values and a loving and giving attitude. However, she is one of the Nigerian Moms that never spared the rod - so if you give her a bad attitude a hot leftie will land on your back! :) And My Mom gave the best of back-hands lefties that never misses - the ones that makes you jump out of your nasty attitude pronto!!!

Sometimes I wish I can just land some hot back-hands on some people when I get bad vibes from them but....I try and reflect on the folks with positive attitudes that I have consciously kept in my network  to keep me going.

One person that easily comes to mind is my Hubby. It does not matter how bad that disagreement was. He never ever wakes up the next day thinking about it. Next to GOD, my hubby has has taught me how to let go and stop being an 'archeologist' - digging into the past to examine the hurts people have hurl at me. And I have gotten a good dose of hurts.

I will be biased if I stay on the family path because I know everyone love their families (I hope!).

Business:

On the business side of things, a precious friend and brother is DJ Abass! In my opinion, he defines the word 'attitude' and lives a thorough 'customer service' lifestyle. It does not matter how rich, poor, old or young you are, give him a call and you can bet he will return your call within the hour (and within reason).

I was really pleased he was on board at my wedding.
Being a creative, I have dealt with a lot of contractors. I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly side of attitudes! For example - I wanted to book a service sometime ago for the first time. Guess the attitude I got? 'Erm - that one is very expensive o'. It took every positive cell in my brain to carry on with the transaction. So what if it is expensive? Was I going to pay with money or blood?

Career:

Working in a global team over the last 10 years means working with different types of people and attitude from around the world. This professionally means you as an individual have to be politically, socially and mentally correct at all times.

I have been blessed so far and not have to deal with someone with an attitude that I am unable to cope with. Of course there are some folks you just thank God you do not share a roof with! :)

If you have read this post and the examples I have given, you will notice they were all men. OK - I hope to post an article soon on the women. So do not fret.

I want to keep this article short. However I will say this - whatever you do as an individual - PLEASE have a good attitude! It works!

So let's hear it - anyone with a good or nasty attitude been your way lately? Lets share!

Trillion Love Always!

Timi

FACT OR TACT

When do you say the FACT as it is or when do you use TACT to tell the truth?

There is nothing on the surface of this earth that beats the truth. How you present it however is a different matter entirely.

My Granny (God rest her soul) was known for her bravado in bluntly laying out facts. In Lagos pidgin English she does it in an 'I no send' manner.

One of her 'I no send' outburst stuck in my head forever. Please bear with me this story:

Granny had glaucoma operation in one eye. Following her discharge from the hospital, she came home with bandages over her two eyes. This means for a few days she depended on her other senses like ears, nose and touch and of course her daughter (Mom - God rest her soul) and her grandchildren for her daily needs. One certain weekend, even in her temporary 'visionless' state, Granny still managed to pull one of her 'I no send' scenarios. Here goes:

One of Mom's Cousins came visiting whilst Mom was out but he met Granny, my Sister and I at home. Granny had an issue with this certain Cousin and has always wanted tell him off or find a way to send him a nasty message. Granny however in bandages did not know it was the same Cousin waiting to see Mom. She actually thought it was the younger brother to the said Cousin she had the issue with. Anyway, Granny welcomed him to wait for Mom as she was only a few blocks away. After a few minutes of Cousin settling to some snacks, in her 'I no send' manner Granny decided to send a NOT very nice message to the Cousin through the 'brother'. When she was done, Cousin was embarrassed, but kept mute. My Sister and I almost collapsed in shock but we couldn't help the awkward situation. A little while later, Mom walked in and Granny repeated her 'accusations' in Mom's presence. Mom realised that the 'accused' Cousin was the one sitting mute! Knowing her Mother's 'I no send' lifestyle, Mom immediately knew what could have been said and tried to 'save' the day.

Mom: Granny why are you doing this? You are unaware reporting Cousin to himself!
Granny: (Nonchalantly) Really? I did not know he was the one visiting o......
Mom: You really should be careful how you carry on in this your 'I don't send manner'. It is not nice.
Granny: (Completely ignoring Mom, turned to the direction of visiting Cousin and said...) So, if I was reporting you to yourself, what exactly can you to do to me? Beat me up? Abegeeee!

The rest of us: GASP! (Lord have mercy!!)

Honestly, English language can not adequately capture the moment but if you can appreciate that her 'I no send' comment in Ijebu language? It's GUSTO!!!

That is my Granny for you! Fearless and 'she no send'!!!

Back to the matter at hand. I went through that scenario to bring up a very common societal issue - being blunt or being tactful about a matter. With Who, When, Why, and How? Hubby and I have discussed this matter now and again and it will be great to hear what others think about it.

I like to think myself as being truthful and fair when discussing a sensitive matter but I have 'grown' up a bit to know when to call a spade a spade. I however sometimes wish I have the daring attitude like my Granny. :) Why? Some people in this world only deserve such :).

Some people do shy away from being blunt for fear of hurting their friends or family and would rather talk about them/their issues behind their back. I don't favour this style much. Whilst sometimes the recipients may not be open for such blunt discussions or may look at such as a personal attack, keeping mute to be fair and 'nice' might be to their detriment. Or rather, should we find a way to relay the truth in a more subtle way? A balance or a twist?

Over the years, I have carefully identified my acquaintances, friends and 'frenemies' and I can sometimes tell when to handle matters either with fact or tact. But I am still learning too. You can never be an expert in this but I can share the following from experience:

Twenty odd years ago, a very good friend of mine asked of me 'no matter what, always tell me the truth and I will do the same to you'. To date, even though we both live countries apart, that friendship remained the best one I have made in my life and I really wish the whole world see it that way.

I also have another friend (we were both born on the same day, month and year but different continent :)) that we confide in each other for sensitive matters and we do not hold back on the truth from each other no matter how it hurts. (You know yourself babes - thanks for being such a confidant! You are indeed a friend that stick closer than a 'sister').

Again, I have another very close friend that is now a Pastor (bless him!). We both know when he should wear the hat of a 'friend' or 'brother'- this is when we discuss everything without anything held back. We get to share our joy, pain, anger and blessings. And we both know when he should wear his hat as a Pastor. It is only with him that  I am confident that I can touch 'the anointed' without the fear of thunder striking me from above! (Which I think is at the back of the mind of a lot of Nigerian/African these days if they speak about a 'Man of God' - LORD help me!).

So then it is over to you my folks - when is it a fact or tact? Or when should you say things as they really are and not sugar coat it?

• When your best friend is combining colours of the rainbow as fashion - Fact or Tact?
• When you think your friend is being silly on social media - Fact or Tact?
• When you hear a friend gossips about you - Fact or Tact?
• When you find out you are wrong about an issue you had with a friend - Fact or Tact?
• When a boss or spiritual leader self-appoint himself/herself as a demi-god - Fact or Tact?
• When a colleague at work or business stabs you in the back - Fact or Tact?
• When a spouse is taking some factors in your relationship for granted - Fact or Tact?
• When a friend is taking you for granted - Fact or Tact?
• When the government is leading your country to the wrong path - Fact or Tact?
• When you want to correct your friend's children - Fact or Tact?
• When your friend tells you how to raise your children - Fact or Tact?
• When you caught a married friend cheating - Fact or Tact?
• When your friends in Nigeria/Africa is asking for Money - Fact or Tact?
• When your Dad or Mom disapproves of your fiance/fiancee - Fact or Tact??

Don't hold back, add to the list, discuss or share your thoughts and most importantly, share this article!

Trillion Love Always!

TeeOO.

Credits:
Images: Internet

MOM WHY ARE YOU SHOUTING?

Mom? Why are you shouting? He asked innocently.

The look on 'Mom's' face was one of surprise rather than anger.

'Surprise' because her 5 year old could asked the her that question. 'Surprise' Because it was the last thing Mom was expecting from her 5-year old's mouth. And most definitely the 'anger' she was building up melted away because she has been calling (shouting?) him to come out of his bedroom minutes on-end before he finally emerged to the lounge to answer his Mom.

Now that was a banter between my nephew and my younger Sister. She told me how she suddenly felt 'old' and we laughed.

Here is another funny but thoughtful scenario:

An older friend of mine booked a handyman to come and fix her kitchen sink. During the 4 to 5 hours that the handyman was at my friend's flat, she shouted at different intervals for either of her two (2) sons to get this or do that.

Guess what Mr. Handyman did when he completed his task?

He walked to my friend and shouted 'I have finished!'

Of course my friend was upset and asked why he had to shout that he has completed the kitchen sink job?

Mr. Handyman cheekily answered ' Well I thought that's how you communicate in this house'?

Typical English Man. Laugh

Honestly, why do we Africans/Nigerians (especially women/mothers) shout? Is that the only way we can pass across our message as 'I mean it' or to stress our 'authority' to our children/younger or sometimes spouses or friends? The funniest thing is - we don't do any form of shouting at work!!!

I will forgive anyone that says Lagos (or any other metropolitan City in Nigeria/Africa) is noisy. With the loud car/bus/truck horns blaring, bus conductors' blabbing, market-women calling and all other dingy, I can indeed forgive but when we get to a City like London or Aberdeen for example in the UK, why do we still shout at home? I can also forgive the shouting/noisy conversations at Nigerian parties (of course - our Owambes just have to be noisy) as well but really...why at home?

Have you ever called from the UK to Nigeria and tried to hold a conversation with a relative in the Lagos 'noise'. You find out you can barely hear the other person on the line whilst the same person will confirm they can hear you perfectly and carry on with the conversation? Most times I give up and promise to call later when the person I was talking to gets home - that is if the neighbour's generator's and your relative's generator noises combined will let you!

I don't know how many of you have seen the agony of the 'African Man Gets Burgled' on youtube but the typical Nigerian parent shouting was well captured (if you havent seen it here it is))

I remember a time when my siblings and I gave my Mom (God rest her soul) a nickname 'Mrs Shonariwo' simply because she can shout down instructions from her bedroom to our own. Now 'Ariwo' means 'Noise' in Yoruba language but I have no idea what the 'Sho' stands for but Shonariwo is a well knownYoruba name and since it worked for the purpose my siblings and I wanted it for, we use the nickname now and again to respond when Dearest Mom 'Mrs. Shonariwo' calls. Soon enough she realised why we nicknamed her such; she called a family meeting and told us off. Needless to say that was the end of it. It was either that or the Koboko will reset our brains to its original or default setting.

So over to you my folks kindly read, share this article AND to make this more fun can you also share your own 'Shonariwo' moments? :)

Trillion Love!

TeeOO.

Credits:
Images: Random Internet Images

SCANDAL or SCANDALOUS

Scandal TV Series is an American political thriller television series starring Kerry Washington. Created by Shonda Rhimes.

I joined the Scandal Fans in 2013 (I am scandalously late :) I know but I soon played catch up). I loved it. I encouraged, cajoled and created a network of friends that also caught the 'Scandal Fever'. When I ask some of my 'inner circle' friends network and they haven't seen or heard of it, I roll my eyes in un-belief. Yes I am a GLADIATOR!

Did I mention I got the hubby hooked too? Yes I did. He resisted it at first (yes like every typical Naija man will dismiss any romantic soap/tv series) then I mentioned the character of "Command'' and he peeped at me from the corner of his eyes and asked ' You Sure'? I said 'Yes' then he said okay lets see. From the very fist episode I recorded on SKY? Let just say that his weekend was made :) (The things women can do sha lol - and we are supposed to be the weaker party abi? I hear you)

And then....

I read a post a few days ago written by a Christian condemning the TV series because of the 'Unchristian' virtues e.g. Divorce-suggesting, gay/homosexuality, political e.t.c and I sat back wondering if I am also a Christian. Actually, I am. I spent some few minutes reading the comments on the blog post and some were singing the same 'Sodom and Gomorrah' kingdom whilst a few shared balanced views. I fall in the later group.

Or am I sitting on the fence?

Whilst we all have our own definition of Christianity and 'faith' in other religion that I respect; I have made a conscious decision a few years ago that religion is not one of issues I will flog with friends/colleagues. I will live my life to reflect what I believe in faith and in morals and hope it ministers enough to touch lives and make a difference.

Yes I am a Christian without any apology.

I am sorry that the other blogger feels the way she did about this TV Series but I do like the Scandal Series and intend to continue watching it.  Why? It is QUALITY production, no doubt at all it is engaging and it entertains! Plus it is put together by someone who is Black/African-American and so is the top actress Kelly Washington - and all these makes sense to me to support the programme.

Why do we have to analyse every cup of water we drink when we cannot even create a spring or well of water. I don't live my life by 'Scandal' neither will 'Scandal' choose what I eat or drink for me. I look at the current generational churches/Christians along with the associated 'scandals' and my conclusion is.....We are hypocrites!!!  I will rather watch the fictional but entertaining TV Series' Scandal than watch and support the real life/living churches Scandals!!!

The TV series have exposed millions of people all over the world to what is going on in the political realm of power; re-positioned a very brilliant actress - Kerry Washington (a LADY for a change!!!) who is 'Black' to the top 10 favourite list of the Oscars?

Like every other projects, 'Scandal''s first series was received with criticism but this is an extract applauding the series:

Scandal has quite a bit to say about how people in general operate. By extension, it also has a lot to say about the type of television people respond to in this ever-splintered viewing environment. In a year in which almost all ratings are down, Scandal has gone up. Its insane storytelling really isn’t insane at all. Many want to dub House Of Cards the future of television as a whole. In terms of distribution, this may be true. But by giving audiences what they want, and then giving them so much more than they ever expected, Scandal is the show those looking toward the future of television should be aiming to actually produce, regardless of the medium in which it is viewed.

And about Shonda:

Shonda Lynn Rhimes (born January 13, 1970) is an American screenwriter, director, and producer. Rhimes is best known as the creator, head writer, executive producer and showrunner of the medical drama television series Grey's Anatomy, its spin-off Private Practice and political thriller series Scandal. In May 2007, Rhimes was named one of TIME magazine's 100 people who help shape the world. Rhimes was an executive producer for the medical drama series Off the Map which aired on ABC for one season in 2011. Rhimes serves as executive producer for ABC's new legal series How to Get Away with Murder, which debuted September 25, 2014.

Can we just celebrate the effort of a woman living in a world of 'dog eat dog' Sharkville known as Hollywood? Should I really go on? If nothing, we should applaud the African American woman that is now becoming a positive role model for her and the new generations!

I love my favourite non-Black/White film and TV productions and love watching them too. However I am Nigerian-British (not British-Nigerian :))  and I love to celebrate everything that is positive from AFRICA or BLACK Origin. When I look at the similar effort being showcased by Kunle Afolayan, I wonder why we are still looking beyond ourselves for excellence? Only just recently, Nigeria (or Lagos State Government I should say specifically) displayed excellence in defeating the dreaded EBOLA virus. Maybe when we all consciously choose what to believe and support about our African/Black background and professionalism and not stab ourselves at the back; only then can we can convince others to do the same in the communities we live in.

Abegeeee....I am on for the new season start of Scandal and if you aren't on the train yet and strong enough in faith to believe this is not another 666 scam to derail Christians, then hop on!

Credit:

Image: Internet

Criticism Qoute: Wikipedia - October, 2014

MOBO AWARDS: NO LIVE BROADCAST OF AFRICAN ACTS

A friend vowed never to watch or support the MOBO awards again. On the social media too are comments that can only be likened to the anger a lot of Africans were spitting out.

I was lucky to be switching between the BBC 1's 'The Apprentice' and the MOBO award so was not really angry - plus I was genuinely interested in the event styling/decor for the award as this is my passion (not very impressed there) and could not be bothered about the awardees. I did however noticed that although I got a mobile phone broadcast of the Gospel Award going to the Living Faith Connection from a friend (thanking all of us that voted for the support etc), I never really saw the live broadcast of the award being presented.

I don't understand why the MOBO award founder and the events team would allow the backstage presentation of awards to African Acts! They should understand the challenges of being able to take a stand as minorities. #Notcool.

I read my favourite publicist - DJ Abass' view on this non-broadcast of African Acts and knew immediately there is a problem! I do agree. Lets take a stand on this unappreciated attitude and go only where we are celebrated.

#Nuffsaid.

TeeOO.

Credits:
Image: LiveMagUK
Linked Post: DJ Abass.

OSCAR PISTORIUS SENTENCED FOR 5 YEARS

South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius has been sentenced to jail for 5 (five) years for culpable homicide for the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. Culpable homicide in South Africa means a person was killed unintentionally, but unlawfully.

During the trial, the double-amputee sprinter most times cried at the mention of Reeva's name. His defence has been that he mistook his girlfriend for an intruder when he shot at her through his apartment's toilet door on Valentine's day - February 14 2013.

Judge Thokozile Masipa issued the ruling this morning October 21, 2014 and also gave Pistorius a 3-year suspended sentence for a firearms charge - although the prosecution had called for a minimum 10-year sentence - defence for house arrest and community service.

Live coverage on the BBC, CNN, Sky and other world news channels.

Credits:

News Extract: BBC News.

Images: Internet, Various.

KUNLE AFOLAYAN ON OCTOBER 1

Kunle Afolayan discussed his latest film 'October 1' and his dream of taking Africa Cinema to the next level on AriseTV UK this week. (Videoclip further below)

We await the Dates for the UK theatrical release and hopefully in Aberdeen/Scotland too.

About 'OCTOBER 1:

October 1 is a 2014 Nigerian dark psychological thriller film written by Tunde Babalola, produced and directed by Kunle Afolayan. It stars Sadiq Daba, Kayode Olaiya, David Bailie, Kehinde Bankole, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Nick Rhys, Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Bimbo Manuel, Ibrahim Chatta and introducing Demola Adedoyin and Deola Sagoe.

The film narrates the story of Danladi Waziri (Sadiq Daba), a police officer from Northern Nigeria who is posted to a remote town of Akote inWestern Nigeria to investigate the frequent female murder cases in the community, and have the mystery solved before the Nigerian flag is raised on October 1, Nigeria's Independence Day.

The film which received sponsorships from Lagos State Government, Toyota Nigeria, Elizade Motors, Guinness and Sovereign Trust Insurance was shot in Lagos and Ondo State for a period of over forty days after four months of preproduction. The film premiered on 28 September 2014 at EXPO centre, Eko Hotel and Suites, with a general theatrical release on 1 October 2014, after several release postponements.

Credits:

Article: Wikipedia

Video: AriseTV

Image: Internet