Thursday 31 December 2015

A message...

Wishing all my fellow bloggers, readers and followers a very happy and blessed new year. Counting down to 2016... .all the best!
And thank you xx

Dj Ganyani ft Toshi - Angesabi

Wednesday 30 December 2015

True

I watched an entire show about football across continents last night...
Just because... David Beckham was in it.
True.

I surprised myself...

( if I knew how to post pics from my phone I would.. sorry Becks fans if you're reading this...you'll just have to wait:)

**

Life is a classroom

Cultural difference is not human difference. I read that somewhere and it resonated. One of the things I've learnt this year is just how little I know. ..and in learning that, I learnt a fair bit.

I learnt that I'm just as impatient as my family have always said
I learnt that I can be quite judgmental... Even if I think I'm being well meaning. (Hmmm..do I care?)... Sure :)

I learnt that I'm quite emotional...which is okay... But sometimes my emotions rule my logic... ( Not so okay)

I learnt that I can be inflexible in that when I've decided on something.. I tend to want to stick with it.. to the letter. Which is good in some cases and not so good in others

I learnt that there are many aspects to love and it can sometimes be tough. Romantic love is easy... Love in the highest sense requires much more..

I learnt that I have many inner 'things' to work on.. and maturity doesn't come automatically with age

Those are some of my less favourable aspects perhaps... But in truth... It's easy to know the good stuff. It's much harder to face ones fears or insecurities...

I hope that I can conquer the things I need to. It's my aim, so I'll give it my best shot.
I have had an amazing and eventful year, for many reasons.

Cultural difference doesn't mean human difference and the more we learn about each other's cultures the richer we become. I've said it before but the world is a smaller place. We can deny it , and remain routed in our safe zones. All is a choice... And it's all fine.

I was told once.. you can close the doors to your world... But in doing so you may deny entry to all.. even that which you do want. Be decerning, but stay routed in love trust and hope.
Some friends may let you down yes... But not all... And anyway..even your closest may let you down from time to time.. Just as you may also...we're human.

Forgiveness?... I learnt that it can be tough... But it's necessary to move forward.

So... any arseholes I may have encountered.... I forgive you...
Not you though... Nah... not quite lol. I'm joking of course.
Equally, if I have offended.. I hope you will forgive me too. Not ready?... Naff off then!.(again... I jest)

Forgiveness equals resolutions.. less conflict... Joy...
Forgiveness is after all, an expression of love.

I've learnt that I learn quickly... Yet often repeat mistakes

One of my new years resolutions... Is to be kinder to myself.

Another is to refrain from nail biting under stress

One I won't tell you as its too personal

Another is to up my fruit and veg

Another is to be patient.

Another to listen...

Yes... They are coming to me now...

Yet perhaps... The best resolution is to make none... Other than to get on with it and do my best.
Yes... This year has taught me that..

Tuesday 29 December 2015

4x4 - Kpagam Kpagam

E.L - KOKO

God is great
Our highest expression

EL makes very solid tunes.. versatile artist
Real talent

Rewind selector : Fally Ipupa - Nyokalessé

Looking forward to a new album.. until then.. just enjoying.. the sounds.. and sights :)

btw.. I played the star wars Google game as the film launched in london ( don't ask why) .. and ever since .. any time I move my cursor.. it lights up blue and makes a whoosing light-saber sound lol.. anyone else got this eh.. problem?

Life is one big road with lots of signs...

One of my gifts is the book Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ...
So far .. I'm loving it..
The way the protagonist talks about her blog is pretty funny.. I can relate!
Been awhile since i've read a novel so it's making a refreshing change

I'd forgotten why I used to love them so much.. it's a nice reminder
Personally speaking there are some uncanny signs/messages in the book... I guess I was meant to read it



**

I've had a few interesting dreams of late.
One of which I was discussing something and singing a song to the person that I haven't heard in years... talked about the artist too, where is she now?.. America?. There was a time when one hit tune could feed you and your family for life...

Anyway...today, when I turned on the TV it was unusually on a radio music channel... and guess which song was playing?... yep...you've guessed correctly ( If you guessed at all)

The very same song that I had dreamt about
Perhaps its a sign

Check the lyrics... there's something here

Here it is... By Desiree.....





**

I enjoy reading and hearing about peoples new years resolutions.. even when somewhat vague......and slightly non committal.....

Sure.. most will forget them within a week or two.. but many really will focus and commit to whatever they have decided they would like to do, achieve or change
I wish them well

Chnage isn't always easy perhaps, but the 1st step is being very clear about what you want
Change like most things ( if not all) begins in the mind... but requires repeated action
Me?

I have a few things I want to do, achieve, and change
I wont overdo it though.. and I'm still thinking things through

Good morning x

Monday 28 December 2015

Life is mathematics...

You add subtract divide or multiply..
Which are you?
What do you hope to do in the new year...?

Just a thought...
Good morning x

Sunday 27 December 2015

Show Love - Jah Cure

Hottest track off the album. Beautiful video

Chronixx - Majesty

Musically , Chronixx has had a very good year
Cool n easy








Chris Brown - Autumn Leaves

It's early perhaps to be considering my song of the year, and especially considering that it really has been a year filled with wonderful music..
However... this song, will always hold the most meaning for me
It holds very special memories,and each time I hear it.. I'm transported back to a particular place, at a special moment in time

It may come as a surprise to some, that my song of the year goes to....

Chris Brown ft Kendrick Lamar

Autumn Leaves



**

Choose love. she said

Whatever happens

**

Those words made me think about the things we have power to change, and the things we seemingly don't
Thing is.. we don't always know
But I guess if we choose love.. if it's coming from a good place... chances are.. whether we know it or not...
we can make a difference somewhere.. however small

**

Choose hope, over fear.. she said

Your deepest fears can be overcome..
If you knew for sure that your freedom lay at the other side of those fears... would you then feel more courageous ?

Was okay...

So Christmas and boxing day... over in a flash. Food was great..even if I say so myself. Yes...both Christmas dinners!.
We had dinner at home...then went to mums and had dinner there:)

Glad we did. Much peer pressure from ti...and my bro, but I'm glad I got over myself as mum was really happy to have us there.

Now, with most of my lot back to work I'll just try relax a bit.

Counting down to the new year I guess. Day at a time.
Yes, One day at a time

Wednesday 23 December 2015

Tribalism?.. a Nationalists nightmare

Ugly things happen in beautiful places.
Sure enough.

This year again, as with the years preceding it, pointless conflicts across sub Saharan Africa has overshadowed any progress that we may otherwise have heard about.
Religious or political....the absurdity of it all. AU conference after AU conference yet still... resolutions, even if made, are barely worth the paper they're written on
There are possibly more aid agencies on the continent than any other part of the world. A vast array of 'developmental' projects' in progress, and yet 'progress' remains slow, if not stagnant.
Where do we go from here?.

Tribalism over nationalism is responsible for and is, an obstacle to, progress.
How on earth can you unite a divided country if its people fail to see that perhaps they are stronger together than separate
Tell that to tribal chiefs, and I suspect you'll get a blank stare. ( and an angry one at that)

Personally, It's the question I'm asked the most. It's almost as if my answer will determine whether or not I am worthy of further exploration. 'Where are you from.. are you Fulani?.. are you Somali?.. Senegalese;?
yes yes and yes.. now F**k off ( is what I should say but am way to polite to)

There is a reason I'm asked this, but rest assured... it's steeped in a held belief in the back of the questioners mind

I'm sure it has its benefits ( tribalism) but as yet, from the outside looking in, it seems counter productive.
The worst cases include the genocide in Rwanda, Liberia, Sierra Leone . Whilst the conflicts that emerged did not begin as a result of tribalism, they very quickly descended down that road in terms of ethnic or regional or political alliances

Yet, trust, my hopeful friends, after conflict, can be restored.

Somehow Rwanda seems to have managed it.
But who knows.. after all, what's on the surface is not always what lurks beneath
Perhaps dissent really isn't worth the risk, so... put up and shut up.. who knows.

The icing on this multi-layered cake, as if there wasn't enough absurdity, is that the Biafra movement appears to be growing [click]
As if Nigeria didn't have enough problems
Ok, I'll refrain from being too opinionated until I've heard more, but so far.... I guess the memory of the civil war isn't painful enough?

Political leaders have let the people down again.
'The people', continue to let themselves down...and the educated continue to exploit the uneducated.

I used to be quite scathing of China's 'investment' in Africa. But you know something?
The Chinese are doing business.
Whosoever wants to sell their land, or continue to allow their country to be raped of its natural resources and mineral wealth whilst the bulk of the population struggle.. is certainly free to make that choice... and they make it knowing full well what the outcome will be.
After all...these ( leaders) are far more educated people than me

But, ever the optimist .. It is my hope and belief that in the new year things will improve. That perhaps a new crop of leaders will emerge that will bring a whole new vision of hope, and fulfilled promises to the land we all love so much.

As I said.. ugly things happen in beautiful places..
and that remains true there, and elsewhere. But yes, beautiful things happen too

From one angle, it would appear the year has been dominated by news of a rise in extremism Ebola and later on Donald Trump.
Funny really

For me? The best thing to emerge from the continent this year in my opinion has been the music.
Yes, by a country mile.

And for us 'Brits'... it wouldn't hurt to grab a book on Britishness and swot up [click]

Especially if you look like me... born here?.. for heavens sake.. just don't lose your passport... who knows where we're heading!



Tamar Braxton: Silent night

I'll always love this version of Silent night
Wow.



and the live version

Tuesday 22 December 2015

Burn a hole in my pocket traps and red silly hats

Now I can see why people have been asking me if I'm off to Siberia..
Funny thing is.. it was quite mild out today.


Westfield wasn't too busy in the morning. I had a plan, then Ti said.. 'Oh go to Westfield don't be lazy, nobody does Christmas shopping in Dalston'!
Well.. I spent twice as much for the pleasure. It was fun though.. so many lovely clothes I would have bought if i was buying for myself...

I did manage to pick up a little something special for myself though. ( which I wont be modelling on the blog.. if you know what I mean..)

Anyway, after an hour or two I was ready to go. There where some things I simply couldn't get there so I had another trip to make. Got bored of all the glitz and buy me now attractions

So, that's that
Since then its been food, drink, 'only fools and horses'..a fed and growing tree, mens boxers and a silly red hat...
Voila



Tiwa Savage - Adura

Don Jazzy again. Tiwas' album from what I'm hearing so far is definitely worth a play. Early days but this is a favourite of mine. Nice Calypso flavour

Hey.. all Montserrations, Anitguans... all Caribbean Islanders..happy holidaysx

Christmas shopping? Done.
Gonna need another bottle of Irish though. the others have discovered its essence too!

Yeah oh yeah oh yeah .. Adura. Yes..Bless

Tiwa Savage - African Waist

The great Don Jazzy!
Tiwa looks great in this

Monday 21 December 2015

Rewind selector: PSquare ft Don Jazzy - Collabo

1st day of break from work and It's holiday time..

Is 3.30pm too early be enjoying Irish cream?
Oh well.. too late now
I'm on leave now and have spent an incredible day doing very little..

Wow.. It's amazing just how accustomed your body becomes to the 9-5. Take that away and it's all change again. late bath, and hours ahead of you to do whatever you please.
Final Christmas shopping I'l try do tomorrow. Pick up those last bit and bibs for the nearest and dearest.. before settling back into chill out
But today?.. that was about doing nothing



Christmas time is such a mixed bag isn't it, especially with a new year around the corner

Many of us collect all our emotions, reflections, hopes dreams and throw them into a pot
Mix well.. and see what we're left with

New year - all change.
Lots has changed in my world
Public and private. change is change

Change is cool. f**k it, I'm okay with it. It's no longer as scary as it used to be...just part of the course.
Music wise, the best reggae music offerings still go to those who truly incorporate musicians in the process.
Cant beat a great bass player.. guitarist, keyboard player, and the like

Respect to all music producers anyway.,. doing a great job and keep revising refreshing, and holding strong. Where would I be without you?...



Old and new,



So.. I've decided to host Christmas dinner at home with the fam.
I wont be doing what I've done for the past 20 odd years. I wont be going to mum.
Love her, will miss her company, but it's too much.
All change. as I said .. change is change
It may seem selfish but I'm staying home. I'll cook/host. I'll do it my way
Nuff said on that matter.
Mum doesn't leave her home on Christmas day because of the house fire I spoke about awhile back one past Christmas eve.
I understand
So I know already she wont come to me. I'll ask but not expect too much.
Still... stranger things have happened, Maybe we will eat together, despite my pessimism.
No big deal.



Bless my children. Without them?... I tell you....
They make my day. If it wasn't for them all.. I'd probably curl up and hibernate somewhere.. til new year at least

But they're doing well.. I'm proud of them all.
They remind me of me. Just... better.



This isn't my musical review of the year ( yet) but I can say now that my reggae artist of the year is probably Jah Vinci



I guess it's a sneak preview of it



No one seems to tier of this song version.. I don't blame them either...
For awhile now it's remained the most viewed/played on this blog



I love Taurus Riley.. good artist, but he has been very inconsistent this year




Hoping for good news for everyone next year though..
Those who need it most



Strangest thing just happened - I decided to switch my phone off.













Sauti Sol - Live and Die in Afrika

Rewind : Burnaboy - Soke & R2Bees - Makoma

Checking out Two tracks I enjoyed this year




Thursday 17 December 2015

May The Force ( of love) be with you.. today and everyday...

Wow... pictures of the Star Wars premier look great!
That's how to fill a red carpet...

Looking forward to seeing the film



Interesting question Diamond.. ( an oldie but a goody)
The people in your life.. if you had nothing to offer them.. would they still love you?.. and visa versa

I've seen Diamond in concert once and he's a very energetic performer. A hard working artist with a great voice. Wish him well..
Nice song, appreciate the English translation also



Good morning x

Wednesday 16 December 2015

Bitty McLean - My Lover's Call ...& a random thought before bed

Revisiting one of my favourite Bitty McLean tracks. Nice

Understand this.
In life, you will come up against people who genuinely couldn't give a f***, and then you'll meet those who do
The trick is to know the difference.. then act accordingly
The skilful among us aren't phased either way. They simply do not take it on. It simply makes little difference

Early night for me. x



Adele - Hello (Swahili Cover by Dela)

I thought I was done with the Adele 'Hello' covers but the Swahili version caught my ears..

musical arrangement pretty cool

Fally Ipupa - Sweet Life

Here he is..
another track I enjoyed this year.. Sweet Life



**

plus...



Koffi Olamide - Selfie

Enjoyable video
Where's Fally...



Koffie

Robert Mugabe - on People of the South [2013]. Interview with Dali Tambo

So I'm back to my research and study of Robert Mugabe

I missed this at the time but heard about it via a ( more recent) guardian article. I'm intrigued by this. It's quite an interesting interview and provides an insight into Mr R G Mugabe, the man.
A flawed man ( aren't we all) in some respects depending on your views...
but a man nonetheless
With the passing of time, history will probably refer to him as Zimbabwe's greatest leader... rightly or wrongly. (Of course It may depend of with side of the political fence you sit)
However, If not referred to as Zimbabwe's greatest leader, certainly the most influential and world renown.
It will be impossible to deny his role as anti colonial freedom fighter

A few 'Mugabe's' show up here
the revolutionary
the strategist
the son
the politician
the man
the husband

( the politician and strategist sitting easiest with me.. at least .. I feel understand the most )

when asked how, rather what, he would like to the legacy of Robert Mugabe to be in the minds of his own people

He replies....

'There was once a man called Robert Mugabe , who in the interest of his own people, formed a struggle to liberate them, and ideas ownership of resources for his own people and fact that people should be righted, should remain revolutionary going against colonial and imperial powers that seek to undermine the authority governments and what it desired right up to the end, that is that people should be masters of their own destiny...and that is all
I don't desire to be known as anything better than that... and I think that is very great if I was given that recognition, purely that, and I think that is the only recognition all nationalist leaders would want.
The issue of having been a great man or glory to the books.. I just remain a simple man, one of my own.. out of my society, and that is all'


2 years is a long time in politics.. ( and this may be even older as I don't have the exact interview date) but interviews like this I find worth retaining, and this one attempts to cover more personal and less talked about issues.



**

On Grace
( of whom I know little) but am increasingly hearing more and more about...


The interviewer Dali makes me laugh a little at first a he try's to illicit that 'girly flirty gossip'.. 'Grace.. ( he prompts..) he likes you..'
Interesting
He lends an air of romance to what may have been in reality.. well.. not very romantic at all under the circumstances
Who knows
I like his style in places

The dinner table talk is a highlight


Famous - Baby Tomato

The Tomato is clearly the Afrobeat artists fruit of choice when referring to women.

I challenge them to use... Guava
better yet.. bread ( there's a joke in there about warm rising yeast I'm sure)
Good morning. Flu banished.

Thursday 10 December 2015

Korede Bello ft. Tiwa Savage - Romantic

It's London baby!
Nice melodic track from Korode Bello, which is of no surprise.
Enjoyable video, filmed across London
Increasingly musicians are flying the Pan African flag.. with some great collaborations...politicians take note.
Still...music has always been a great unifier...

Sunday 6 December 2015

Whatsapp smiley etiquette

Is there such a thing as smiley etiquette?

You see.. I received a message from a old time somebody. who after the hello how you doing.. and eventual goodbye, changed their profile pic to a picture of my bro...
I found it a bit unsettling at first but then just said.. 'happier times' .. to which the response was yes.. with 4 smiley faces.. big ones!
huh?!

Anyway.. it was changed within minutes thankfully ( can't tell people what to do) so no worries..
I checked our convo to see if maybe I was overreacting.. and every message sent was accompanied by the said 4 smiley faces, so I guess they were just really happy for the contact, and not meaning to be inappropriate at all

Still

Whatsapp etiquette....
How do you fair?

What's that?.. just lost your wallet?


Hmmm.. what's that you say?.. wife/hubby home alone for the weekend?


No... you look great in that dress


Yes.. you're making perfect sense.. I totally get you



Ssh.. I think there's doing it next door..!


Yeah.. gotta love em...

Have a lovely evening.. luv ya


Weekend WOW Factor: Narrow it down!. ft Reekado Banks - Sugar Baby..


There are so many things I'd like to do
I suspect many of us, have a number of things we would like to achieve in life.. if we haven't already done so
Even if that achievement is... to be content with what you have!
I have lately found that my focus and attention is being pulled many ways
I have a creative mind
But a scattered focus can produce scattered results!
Sometimes, it may be useful to 'narrow it down'

So...I'm in the process of doing that now.
I'm trying anyway.
I'm a planner

But here are a few things I'd quite like to do
It's not overly deep as I've already written a post outlining my goals and intentions awhile back.. and what i wrote.. still stands

But.. here are a few additions if you like


4 Things I'd like to do...


Get a decent tree!



Produce a tune with Don Jazzy




Produce a tune with Chronixx



Finishing writing my plays!



**


get on with it girl

Here's a question... what gets you moving?
is it a push... a pull... or both?

The very hungry tree...

You gotta be kiddin' me

So... I ordered the 'black tree'... as suggested by Ti...
I thought i was getting a good deal as it stated 'lights included'...
Ooo yipppeee.. less hastle...
well...

This is what I got...
This is it...
undecorated.
.

straight outa compt... I mean .. the box..
Please don't laugh too hard!


I seriously don't know what to do with such a hungry looking tree!
Feed it borbles?

I dare say if I buy some silver decorations it could look pretty nifty.. teeny.. but okay


It's tall and slim.. ( like its mama)...
But It looks about 1000 years old!.. ( not like mama) ( well it looks new but just so darn scanty!)
Na backside A class photography o.. it looked fine in the picture
* kiss teeth and roll eyes*


Ti laughed hard when he saw it

I told him it was his fault and to get the old tree out of the cupboard..
he hasn't done it yet, so for now... it's me watching 'Pride and Prejudice' ( for the 50th time I suspect) ... with one hungry looking tree..


Ive deceided to name it

I was gonna call it Kagame, (slim) but he's my least favourite leader (scary looking fella)...
so .. for now I'll call it Sudan
just because....
Well....the wine has kicked in tbh...

Early dinner and all that

You know what... maybe this year we should just get a real tree

**

aside note.. Mr Collins is the funniest character in P and p I reckon.. makes me laugh every time


**
Who at the depot been eating my treeeee!

Zainab Sheriff - Mamie na Power

Good afternoon x


Saturday 5 December 2015

you can't frighten a pregnant woman with a penis...

...its already left its mark...

*hmmm..interesting saying*

mr (or mrs) know-it-all

There are things we know, things we don't know, and things we don't know we don't know...

Or so it has been said

In coaching, it's said that a coachee may be better served if the coach avoids making assumptions, leading the conversation, telling the coachee what to do, attempting to display superior knowledge on a subject.. in short... Stays out of it.

And by staying out of it, I mean..keeping ones ego in check, not exploiting their position, and remembering...it's not about the coach... But the coachee.
No 'grandstanding'

In life,(outside of coaching) how often do we do that?. Often we talk to be heard.. less to be understood. Often we hear, but fail to really listen.
I have found that not being listened to... Underpins many complaints..

If you've ever not felt listened to, you may be able to relate to that..and understand just how frustrating it can be


Coaching relationships enable a person to speak and be heard..without being judged, and without being belittled by a Mr or Mrs know it all... who may know a lot, a little, or really don't know what they think they know, but just know they don't know what they don't know..they just can't work out what!
If only they could know what it is they don't know, so they could know it
Lol!

Relax..I'm messing with you a little!
My point is simple

In the grand scheme of things, there is still so much 'we' don't know..even the most learned among us.
Knowledge can be found is the simplest of places.. places we may least expect.. Or people we may never have thought we could learn from.

There are times when we may need help to find answers, but that help may on occasion simply be...an unbiased ear.. and a silent mouth.

Reminds me of the old saying.. empty barrels make the most noise.
..and yet there are times when noise is exactly what you may need
Who knows....

*don't ask me why but I've been checking out a few of these today*

shit doesn't have bones...

..But you still steptoe if you step in it

Interesting saying.


Wednesday 2 December 2015

Chronixx - Prayer - Bugle - Cover girl - Tarrus Riley x Kabaka Pyramid - Repatriate - Sizza - Heavenly father

5 versions of the Ark of the covenant riddim

Beautiful Chronixx - my favourite version - v nice







Best Sizzla I've heard in awhile.. but to be fair it's hard to get this track wrong'.. the riddim is sweet and solid...
Sizzla hasn't featured much on this blog... as he can be hit and miss at times. Great artist though...

Songs that made this year 'sweet like honey'

As we approach the end of the year.. I'll revisit some of my 2015 favourite tracks as the mood suits
This was one... Gollibe
'Thankful' is an excellent album. It was given a run for its money recently by Iyanya's Applaudise album but for me?.. Flavours album topped it.
and sales went 'through the roof'...
although not everyone believed him [click] heehee Brymo..

Well... whether over a million sales or not... it really is a great album

Flavour






**
Iyanya


**
Solid message

Are you getting ready for Christmas?

I've been given a 'Frozen' advent calender.
Just cracked it open.. chocolate yum yum

and as for the Christmas adverts?... they have begun in earnest

buy this.. buy that... Iceland, Aldi..
aftershave this, perfume that.. ( do they clone the models?)

Ti says that 1million smells great.. it's his current scent

It's nice.. I give him that..
about £50 if you're considering it...
Shall I remind him there's a lady million? hint hint


I haven't done any Christmas shopping other than picking up two roles of wrapping paper
Ti's girlfriend has hung a cute stocking on the TV... hint hint
Ti says we need a new tree
he's right.. although we could probably still work the one we have
he said we should get a black one
"Are you sure?" I asked
"Yeah" he said excitedly.. "a big 20ft one... blacker than kunta.."
errrm..!?.. ok-ay

He's a wordsmith is Ti.. sure... like his mama

Having checked on-line I must say.. I think black trees do look incredibly stylish...


I'm enjoying the re-runs of 'only fools & horses' (brilliant writing.. so funny)
but I must say... watching dinner date ( yes I still do that as I eat my dinner) I heard this song.... and really enjoyed it..
I've not heard it for years...



This time of year tends to be bitter-sweet
I love the street lights.. the decorations.. the general good vibes of the people
the family films...
but there's always that reminiscing thing...

I pull out this song every year at around this time...
A Ray Charles classic.. and possibly my favourite song.. I love it so much

This year however, in keeping with my scouring the airways for various 'versions' of a song, I thought... lets hear someone else sing it...
I'll call on Ray for sure.. but it's early yet... so for now....
Nice



Mavins - JantaManta Official Music Video

Yes I sure enjoyed this vid.. fun, nice 1

Monday 30 November 2015

Attitude..

I saw a recent poster.
It said...
'A bad attitude is like a flat tire.
You ain't going anywhere unless you change it!'


Indeed.

It made me think about my own 'attitude'
We all have one.. whether it's considered good or bad is dependant on the situation I think... perhaps

Growing up, my attitude was fun, inquisitive, fun ( did I say that already?) open
Adolescence?.. rebellious, cheeky, fun, focussed, ambitious ( is that an attitude?)

Now?.. it varies.
But I try to avoid having .. 'a bad attitude'
It's not an attractive trait
Whenever i'm faced with a bad attitude ( even if it be my own) it brings out the worst in me...
Don't ask me what it is but I actually imagine myself providing at least one side of the face with a decent, slap

They say what annoys us is what we suppress in ourselves

Maybe.. maybe not

For me personally, I like the old adage, 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you..'

Attitudes can change. We can adopt a better one at any time if needs be
alternatively, life can batter a good attitude to pieces if one is not strong

Yes.. attitude
Are our lives a reflection of our attitude, in the same way its said that our homes reflect what we value? ( not sure how true that is)

A bad attitude is like a sugar cravin
You know you're better off not succumbing to it.. but there are times when it just feels so damn good.

Attitude forecast today - cool n easy ( for now)
Afternoon attitude forecast - hmmm...edgy, hot, but steady
Evening forecast - fun n flighty

Friday 27 November 2015

Omawumi Hello - Adele Cover

As you may have noticed, I have scoured the airways for the numerous Adele 'Hello' covers, and have showcased the ones I've enjoyed the most, and
whilst I'm sure there will be more to come.. (Christopher Martin or Romain Virgo?) I'll end my 'Adele cover showcase' with Nigerian singer Omawumi.
I've chosen this version as it really showcases (in my opinion) her versatility.
Omawumi is equally at home with Nigerian high-life/afro-beat track (see below) as she is with a ballad.
Nice one girl





Tuesday 24 November 2015

Is europe... a sinking ship

With so much talk about about boats filled with 'immigrants'. I do sometimes wonder... If the holy grail of Europe..isn't a bit of an illusion.

Still. I understand.
If you feel pursecuted in your home land..cant find work, your freedoms are suppressed..or your country is at visible war...then who wouldn't want to leave?.
And those who want to, 'should' (in a perfect world perhaps) have every right.

The world is a much 'smaller' place. We have the ability to connect with people miles away, over lands and seas... And that's a good thing. Globalization shouldn't just be a perk of the wealthy.

But...we have issue's.

We seem to struggle to get along.
Europe, has its own problems.
We are fortunate indeed in the main, but for many...it's no picnic.
And to be fair...not 'everyone'...wants to come here.

It seems to me that what the world needs, are good 'world leaders'. Good governance..Job's..security..development. healthcare..education.food....fairer policies and opportunities...
And...an absence of war.
Then home... Can feel like a safe haven.. and you can be proud to fly your flag ( not just during the Olympics!)...and be at peace...wherever in the world you live...

To outgrow yourself...not just your jeans size...

Another HTC post. I still haven't worked out how to post links..so there won't be any!.

A friend of mine noticed I hadn't posted for awhile. Well, I haven't said much anyway. That's because...I've been thinking, and been a bit occupied in the evenings of late.

Anyway. I haven't felt much like posting about the news, as its been a bit depressing. Apart from.. the Mr ugly competition in Zimbabwe which is quite funny. So yes. I'll post on that, once im back on my laptop.

What did interest me today was an article I read about outgrowing yourself. It made me wonder.. can we ever really outgrow ourselves?.. or do we simply grow. It's possible to tire of things .. things we do.. our own behavioural patterns.. even our taste in things can alter. But again.. is that outgrowing, or just change?.

There are lots of things I don't do as much as I used to..for no other reason perhaps than I'm doing some thing else.

So... Have you 'outgrown' yourself lately.

If there was one thing you could change about yourself..what would it be?

If you succeeded in the change..would it make you happier?

If so...what's stopping you?

If there was one immediate thing I could change (and I can) it would be my ability to procrastinate..when considering taking action. Ironically!

However, I tend to think that every action..is preceeded by a thought, and that we often don't credit the importance of thinking enough. but...you can overthink.. Well..I can anyway.
At times.

One thought I had recently is that comments we make to others.. often say more about ourselves..than the comment/s itself. We can truly learn about people.... who they really are...If we listen to what they have to say

Tuesday 10 November 2015

Words before bed

From once source, yet so different
Our thoughts and opinions may differ
Yes, often they do
What brings us joy..makes us smile
The things that motivate us
And that which dulls our passions

I like metropolitan ice cream..
Do you?...
I'm not a fan of chocolate cake..
But cheesecake I adore
It's true

What you want from me... I may not have to give
But to ask, fairs better than to attempt telepathy

Maybe..I will have it tomorrow

What you want for me, may not necessarily be what I want for myself
..and I'm okay with that

The way you see me, may not necessarily be the way I see myself..
I can accept that

What you think I should have, be entitled to, or want
Is not as important as what I think I should have, be entitled to or want
I cannot dream your dream...And visa versa

If great minds think alike.. does the same hold true of the not so great?

I wonder about beauty, and how it's measured.

I wonder if the pen really is mightier than the sword. If words more powerful than silence

Who I know myself to be, you may never accept

I'm okay with that too

The me that is unknown.. never try to claim knowledge of it.. it will always remain elusive, and somewhat out of reach..

Perhaps..even to me
The unknown can never be known

There is great diversity across the African continent
On my street...
Great diversity worldwide
Yet the majority of this.. we may never really see

I guess

Night x.







Sunday 8 November 2015

Things life coaches should or shouldn't say... ft Naakmusiq Ft. Professor - Not Guilty

No.2. #Shouldn't

'I know I said we had 30mins.. but if we can wrap this up in 10 I'd really appreciate it. Cheers.'



have a great evening x

Who are the black hebrew Israelites?.. any why were they shouting at my friend?...

To be honest .. I'm not sure
seem to take aspects of rastafarian ideology... but not all..


example google images

Regardless of that

her encounter did kinda make me laugh though... mainly because it was her.. and if you knew her too.. you'd know why...
Apparently.. she was walking past this particular group, and heard them calling women b*****s and h**s.. (based on the dress styles of rnb and pop culture it seems)

Personally.. I would have kept walking.. but noooooo.. not Ms L
She stopped and.. commented
Very quickly they went for her verbally.. called her a 'cougar' ?! lol.. and one ended up shouting at her....."how many d**ks have you had.. how many d**ks have you had..."
exasperated she replied to him... "how many d**ks have YOUhad"...
cheeky thng

But he stopped talking.
The argument that occurred was that a woman should be silent in the presence of a man, and much much more
maybe that's why I had feminism on my mind today.. who knows..

but often....

You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar

Weekend WOW Factor: Sierra Leone - EBOLA FREE!



Feminists... a confusing bunch. Perhaps then im more of a traditionalist than i thought..

A traditionalist...yes I am..in many ways
Someone asked me once if I'm a feminist. I couldn't actually give a straight answer to that

Why?
Because, although I believe that us women should be given equal rights, and should not be treated less than a man due to gender, I also feel that women and men are different. not just in biological make up. but that there are fundamental differences.
Personally speaking..
I quite like the idea of cooking, cleaning and 'playing house' so to speak, (yet still pursue my dreams/ambitions...)whilst a man works hard to bring in the money...and take out the bins!..wash the car..clean the yard..fix stuff around the house!

I like alpha males... Yet can get frustrated with all the 'maness'

Go figure.
The female mind...or is it just...my mind

I also like being treated 'like a lady' having doors held open, and chairs being pulled out for me to seat my not so ample but ample enough ..butt.
Understand my moods can be affected by my hormones and shower me with love

Oh...and the occasional bunch of flowers

Gasp...I know.

Playing house, I must add is a luxuary I've never actually been able to afford.. hard working juggling woman that I am...but I know.. I like it.

These are not feminist desires are they... No, I dont think so..

However, to state the obvious..we are a diverse bunch. The differences within the sexes may be more vast than between.

I just know what I like.
Yet... To some, I may come across as a total feminist..with predominantly European values.
It's all relative..
Perceptions
And environmental.

Ps..I'm not cooking today. Someone else can do it..seriously..what the heck do they take me for..:)

Good morning x

Saturday 7 November 2015

Maturity..

What is it exactly?...
I was pondering on this just this morning.

Is it being able to respond appropriately to life challenges. Is is selflessness or knowing that things aren't all about you?. Is it how we communicate?. It's true that the things I liked at 16..in the main, I still like. My passions and interests haven't changed, yet in many ways. . I have. Perhaps maturity is experience, and having the confidence to think for yourself..and be yourself. That said, perhaps maturity is about knowing yourself, and being true to that. Maturity in that sense equals authenticity. Or...truth.

I've had some interesting dating experiences that I care not to repeat and could put possibly put down to immaturity and inexperience, having said that...some fun was had.

Maybe then, like love, maturity is never needing to ask what it is. It needs not defining, yet unlike love.. no declaration.
E.g we tend not to shout..."I'm mature!"... But you may state..."I'm in love!"
True or false.. it is what it is.

Perhaps, like the tide, it comes and goes, and is situational.

It can be age rated..but not always
It's a fickle beast
Perhaps that's why I prefer the word
Authentic.
To thine own self be true... Is a karmic experience.
I hope
Yes , hope springs eternal.

Have a great day!
It's raining here in London.. but very warm...sweet

Ps..HTC posts getting easier...



Thursday 5 November 2015

Emmerson - Sallay

It's the final countdown...

Sierra Leone is simply days away from being declared Ebola free.
All being well
so what next...

It's my hope that investors will return, work will begin again, and the country will see significant improvements in all areas of development.
For some, the country was known for its civil war.. more recently .. Ebola

But the war is long gone, and Ebola will also.. in time.. become a distant memory... although not for those who have suffered the most.

I hope that more people will visit the country.
I really do.
Sure there are pros and cons to Tourism.. and one of the nice things about Sierra Leone is that it's not 'overrun' with tourists!..

But tourism can generate greater income for the country

For those of who who have thought about visiting, there are lots of guest houses and hotels in Freetown

For those of you who seek 5* luxury, you can try Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown
I didn't stay there but I did pop in on my 1st night for drinks and to chill, and it really is very nice


For others seeking a guest house. Drop me a line an I'll check one out for you

Teknomiles - Duro

Lovely melody

Good morningx

Wednesday 4 November 2015

Monday 2 November 2015

Exco Levi - Wedding day

Nice

Mighty Oaks from little acorns grow... ft Jah Vinci - Kings Highway

Hey!!... do you remember just yesterday I wrote about a little 'Nigerian' shop just up the road from me?
Well... that 'little shop' isn't so little anymore!..

I was astounded today as I approached the shop to see bright light...wide aisles... and a brand new supermarket sign.
I only wrote about the shop yesterday...
They have expanded

'Agbos.. something something is the name.. a nice blue and white store sign
It feels great to see the development of this small business

Little acorns and all that...
Big ambitions no doubt...

Cool

**

Jah Vinci is fast becoming one of my favourite singers...
Solid track no doubt. heavy on the bass.. interesting arrangement.. nice backing vocals, excellent production
Great.. love him

Sunday 1 November 2015

Does culture impact on business?

Can do.
Still in bed btw..

There's a 'Nigerian' shop up the road from me. Well...at least I think it's a shop. It's looks more like a front room at times, with homework being done, tv being watched, hair being cut, and food being cooked. Men chatting.it's also a cab service btw Lol.
Anyway. The only people I ever see in this shop are Nigerian. (Mainly men.. and few in number...it's a small space to be fair). Every time I pass it I wonder how a shop can sustain itself if it only caters for mates and family. (I assume artistic license).To be fair.. on Chatsworth rd there are a few shops like that. Shops (cafe style) that seem to cater for and to thier own 'tribes'.
Culture does..in my opinion impact on all that we do.

I kinda like that little shop though... Making use of every square inch.

On Culture.. from a different space...

I've never posted anything unless I'm seated in a particular chair..in my front room. Until now. I'm chilling.. in my bed.
(and I'm posting from my phone)
So , this may, or may not work.
Anyway..here goes.

Culture.
"People travel, and take their culture with them".-S.Lewis

Lewis is a friend of mine. She made that comment when I said I intended to teach Mr K to cook.
"Good luck with that" she said. And the quote followed.
She's not wrong. But .. often times we have the misconception that countries have 1 homogeneous culture. When African culture Is discussed its often forgotten that Africa is a continent made up of 54 countries. Each country posessing numerous cultures, and tribes. Region by region, cultures change.. house by house also. Here in the UK many refer to British culture.. or Britishness as is the term these days. Life in London differs to life outside of London. We've heard of the north south divide, that aside I can assure you that my own street inhabits numerous cultures.

I grew up with Carribean parents, whose own culture was a mix of African, Irish, and English. Carribean culture is often described as creolized. Yet outside of my home, the culture was what was then the dominant culture. English.
The boy next door was Turkish, across the road..Jamaican.
When I think of culture I think of it as a way of life .Or the way in which we order or organize ourselves into groupings which we feel ..helps us get by, and helps us make sense of the world.
There are some cultural practices which I abhore.. or the correct term in all honesty may simply be... I don't understand.
Yet, for others..it works.
Culture is sometimes used as an excuse for things which may have no place in today's world. I'm thinking here of oppresive practices, mistreatment of women.. that kinda thing.
But.. this post is not to judge, simply to rethink that...teaching anyone to cook will be met with enthusiasm.

So...how'd I do?

A Sarkodie feature: New Guy




Quote - "I will not be perfect.. but I'm trying my best" - Sarkodie -

Weekend WOW Factor - Who do you think you are? - and various random thoughts

Pan-African ( people ask me often what it is.. they can google it.. then get back to me)

fast google search says....
adjective
relating to all people of African birth or descent


Wiki search?

Pan-Africanism is an ideology and movement that encourages the solidarity of Africans worldwide.[1] It is based on the belief that unity is vital to economic, social, and political progress and aims to "unify and uplift" people of African descent.[2] The ideology asserts that the fate of all African peoples and countries are intertwined. At its core Pan-Africanism is "a belief that African peoples, both on the continent and in the diaspora, share not merely a common history, but a common destiny"



**

"The struggle for African continental union and socialism may be hampered by the enemy WITHIN, - those who declare their support for the revolution and at the same time, by devious means, serve and promote the interests of imperialists and neo-colonialists."
- Kwame Nkruma -
**

Didn't I do well...

I woke up this morning and headed for the kitchen, only to be met by a sink filled with dishes to be washed.
So I said to Ti

"Ti.. how many women were in this house last night..?" as he struggled to remember I thought I'd help him out... "about 5!".
..."and you mean to tell me, with all those women in the house and the dishes aren't washed?!?
Ti said..
Oh.. so should one of the women have done it then??"..
" should I have rounded them all up?"..

( nice one Ti.. however.. In case you're wondering... I did them)

**


Who do you think you are

A friend of my completed a genetic genealogy test, and after an initial result of native indian a more detailed check matched her with the Balanta Tribe from Guinea Bissau


Balanta women


( I just like this pic alot..Bijago warrior dancer of guinea )


Anyway.. I've decided to do mine. Apparently It takes a few months, but I'll let you know the outcome. I've been told so many many times, I look like a Fulani.. Personally speaking..I cant tell...
I think it's the shape of face and long arms and legs.. perhaps.

Lets check out some pretty Fula women and see shall we.... :)










More often than not, people think I'm from Senegal,or Gambia, sometimes Sierra Leone
What a laugh I'll have if it comes back tracing my lineage to Norway!.. ha...not a chance!

**

I prefer this Ice prince to the slightly 'Americanised' version
Nice tune... and.. nice car




**

November 8th will be significant for Sierra Leone as they approach thier long awaited.. EBOLA FREE declaration

**



Thursday 29 October 2015

Things life coaches should or shouldn't say... ft Patoranking - Make Am

As some of you may already know I've been training to be a life coach.. well .. I completed my performance coaching training, with just the assignment/s remaining.
At 1st I thought I'd just focus on that and not post as much..
but that doesn't work for me..
Procrastination filled the void
Not to mention wallowing in some other bullshit or another

So... as a result,and in order to keep myself on track I'll probably be boring you with a little life coaching 'banter' from time to time
Suffice to say.. Just to warn you in advance.. I'll be running a short series called.. 'Things life coaches should or shouldn't say

Thing number 1. #Shouldn't

'Oh shit .. pass the sick bucket.. I can't do this with you.. you're wasting my f*****g time!'

Good morning London and beyond



"Make Am" tells the story of two young, hustling friends who are both looking for their way out of the ghetto. When one of them finally makes it, the money, fame, glitz and glamour changes his character. Patoranking’s “Make Am” delivers the message that anybody can make it, no matter where they start. Don’t look down on anyone. Endorsed by Lagos State. #Whayasay

Saturday 24 October 2015

Lazy days & Saturdays

Nice day.
Nothing 'special' the washing, cooked dinner early, had a nice meal watched a bit of TV.. chilled with little man, and really just took the day in my stride.
and you know what?...
It was okay.
I needed that thinking time.
Just a minute as they say. To refocus.. or at least begin the process.

Things to do.. people to be.

Hope you've had a great day..

Enjoy your evening x

Sam Smith - Lay Me Down

Thursday 22 October 2015

Maroon 5 - Sugar

Little man was treating me to some of his favourite tunes yesterday. This was among the playlist. I was teasing him.. I said.. 'bet you don't even know it really do you'..
he looked me squarely in the eyes and completely in sinc just sang.. 'Ooo baby'.
Nothing more, nothing less.
He's so funny

That showed me.
I love this vid.

Have a good evening, and goodnight x



Suffragette.. ft Jamie Lawson - I wasn't expecting that

So I took myself to the movies. Been awhile
I love going to the movies.
I went to see the film suffragette.

It's quite a moving film truth be told. If you decide to watch it, there are parts which will have you quite tearful to be honest... at times angry, shocked at the brutal nature in which women were treated back in the day.
It's an interesting reminder, well documented and well acted..
In watching the film you may come to realize truth be told that for many women and girls in many parts of the world, life remains pretty much the same to some degree. Young girls sexually exploited by old men.. mothers unable to really do or say anything about it.. why?, because often times.. it brings in much needed money. And they may believe it thier only option.



What was even more interesting is at the end credits, you are given a list of various countries and the years in which women were granted the right to vote

..did a quick internet search and this came up

1893 New Zealand
1902 Australia1
1906 Finland
1913 Norway
1915 Denmark
1917 Canada2
1918 Austria, Germany, Poland, Russia
1919 Netherlands
1920 United States
1921 Sweden
1928 Britain, Ireland
1931 Spain
1934 Turkey
1944 France
1945 Italy
1947 Argentina, Japan, Mexico, Pakistan
1949 China
1950 India
1954 Colombia
1957 Malaysia, Zimbabwe
1962 Algeria
1963 Iran, Morocco
1964 Libya
1967 Ecuador
1971 Switzerland
1972 Bangladesh
1974 Jordan
1976 Portugal
1989 Namibia
1990 Western Samoa
1993 Kazakhstan, Moldova
1994 South Africa
2005 Kuwait
2006 United Arab Emirates
2011 Saudi Arabia3
NOTE: One country does not allow their people, male or female, to vote: Brunei.
1. Australian women, with the exception of aboriginal women, won the vote in 1902. Aborigines, male and female, did not have the right to vote until 1962.
2. Canadian women, with the exception of Canadian Indian women, won the vote in 1917. Canadian Indians, male and female, did not win the vote until 1960. Source: The New York Times, May 22, 2005.
3. Women in Saudi Arabia will not be eligible to vote until 2015.


Women's right to vote in Nigeria 1958 Right to Stand for Election.. 1958.. when will the masses be ready to accept a women president?.... you tell me
I wasn't expecting to be as moved by the film as I was..

They were some serious brave women


Flavour ft M.I. & Phyno - Wiser

One of my favourite tracks off the album. Lovely vid. Hmmm very decent indeed
Interesting storyline. Naughty girl huh



Monday 19 October 2015

Four the hard way - Icandy - I Am Blessed -Busy Signal - One And Only - Iba Mahr - Won't Lose My Way - & Morgan Heritage - Social Network

Definitely feeling this tune.. 'I Candy'.. ok..took me awhile to put that together...



Sweet .. Busy Signal



'love is my meditation'....

Not so familiar with this artist.. worth a spin..
Uplifting lyrics.. strong delivery



The Royal Family Of Reggae - M.H
Lyrics on point as usual. Hey.. I'm pretty addicted to my phone. I have to admit it. I need to wean myself off.. or go cold turkey...




I Concur - Timaya ft. Don Jazzy

Nice paring; Timaya and Don Jazzy
Enjoyable vid

Romain Virgo - Dancing In Love

Have a Nice Day

Why work matters

I've spent many years supporting others to find work or to improve thier education and skills. In the main its been an enjoyable and very rewarding job. I've always managed to remain positive, and provide those feeling despare with some hope.
I've been able somehow to assist them in feeling more positive and hopeful, and often, ( not always) they have managed to find work pretty soon after.


Unemployment is easier to deal with when it's not at your door.


If a family member is unemployed, it can be really tough... everyone suffers.

You may witness them descend into self doubt, and see an increase in low moods and despair..

That's why....

I'm not a Tory.


I do not believe that those who are unemployed are so because of some 'fault of their own' which is often the Tory belief.

I do believe that there are those who stop trying.. and need help to get back on track

People stop trying for different reasons, but ultimately, to stop trying' is often a big cry for help


Work matters because it's so closely linked to our concept of who we are. The wages enable us to take care of ourselves and our loved ones.
Pay the bills.
It means we don't have to beg , sell sex, lie , cheat or steal from others ( although some still do) to get by.
Work gives us a sense of purpose.. we feel that we are part of society, we contribute. We can hold our heads up somewhat

Ironically an aspect of my job is to try to help people to feel that way even without a job
It's a challenge.. but ultimately it's important.
Why?
because as 'gods children'.. we have to try to believe, that we are more than our jobs
We've got to feel good about ourselves...
..who we are when we have... and who we are when we have not

Easier said than done
I guess it helps to hold on to your dreams

You Matter...Good morning x

Friday 16 October 2015

Heavy K feat. Mondli Ngcobo - Mzwangendwa

Well worth the wait...
If there's a better house tune I cant find it... listen to this singer. gets me every time
Heavy K. Fire.