Sunday 31 May 2015

Did you know?

The Ubuntu tribe of South Africa have what they carry out as a measure to instill good virtues in its tribesman. When someone does something wrong within the Ubuntu tribe, the fellow tribesmen takes the person to the center of the village, they surround the person for two days and speak all of the good he/she has done in their life to them. This tribe believes each person has good qualities but sometimes makes mistakes.

The Ubuntu people unite in this practice to encourage any of their own to reconnect with his/her true personality. This belief is to encourage unity and affirmation which are more powerful tools to molding a behaviour.

Ladies get in here, how often do you wash your bra?

How often do you change or wash your bra? Yes your bra?! ...I hear some ladies wear their bra for a while as long as it is not obviously dirty. Are guilty of this, I'm interested in knowing.

Some ladies say the frequency of change/wash depends on how supportive and fitting "body wise" a bra is. Some other ladies are of the view that the comfort dictates how long it's worn before going in for a wash.

What are your takes?

Write in lets know your thoughts on this.

Saturday 30 May 2015

103-year-old twins died days apart

Glens Thomas and Florence Davies, Britain's old twins have demonstrated the bond between them even with death. The twin sisters, Glens and Florence were residents of same care home and died on 23rd of April and 20th of May respectively.

Forbes: World's 100 most powerful women

For the fifth year running, Angela Merkel, the Germany chancellor has been listed as the world's most powerful woman in 2015. Following her closely on the list is 67-year-old USA presidential hopeful, Hillary Clinton. At No. 3 is Melinda Gates, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation co-chair. America first lady, Michelle Obama is at No. 10 position and billionaire & TV mogul, Oprah Winfrey at No. 12. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth is 41st on the list.

When former Nigerian Presidents hang out!

This is what you get when ex-presidents also go on social media. From left is General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Chief Ernest Shonekan and General Olusegun Obasanjo. These are great sons of Africa who have earned their respect by serving diligently as former presidents of Nigeria.

What a profound picture!

Nigeria's New President, his Vice and Spouses

Pic Credit : Bayo Omoboriowo
Here is Nigeria's new President Gen Muhammadu Buhari and wife Mrs Aisha Buhari (right) and his Vice Prof Yemi Osinbajo and wife Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo ( a grand-daughter to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nigerian nationalist and statesman who played an important role in Nigeria's independence crusade) on the left.

Good looking you'd all admit with me yeah?

Nigeria has a new President

Pic Credit: Bayo Omoboriowo
On Friday 29th May 2015, Nigeria's new President was sworn-in in a ceremony that symbolized a change of power from one dispensation to another.

Muhammadu Buhari who emerged as the winner of the March 2015 election between two leading rival parties was inaugurated in the nations capital Abuja. In the venue of the inauguration were more than 50 African leaders and representatives including many other dignitaries.

As Buhari takes over from Goodluck Jonathan, he thanked the the former President for paving way for a peaceful transition of power and also gave voters a big acknowledgement for voting the candidate of their choice.

In his inaugural speech, the 72-year-old " Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy,". He added "Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems."

Here's wishing the new President a peaceful reign with his vice -President.

Chimamanda Adichie dazzles year 2015 graduates at Wellesley College


The award winning Nigerian author and novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie gave the Commencement Address to the class of 2015 at Wellesley College's 137th Commencement on Friday, May 29, 2015 in Wellesley, Massachusett, United States.

The nonfiction writer in her speech said "...Please do not twist yourself into shapes to please. Don’t do it. If someone likes that version of you, that version of you that is false and holds back, then they actually just like that twisted shape, and not you. And the world is such a gloriously multifaceted, diverse place that there are people in the world who will like you, the real you, as you are."

Watch the interesting video.

Today's Wise Saying

"Old age does not come in just one day." - Nigerian Proverb

Monday 25 May 2015

Sikh man who removed his turban to help a boy rewarded.


Leaving a young boy to bleed shortly after an accident was not an option for a Sikh man, Harman Singh who didn't give it a second thought but to remove his turban to help stop the little 6-year-old boy's bleeding till the paramedics arrived.

Singh, 22, who has made headlines was rewarded with a very special surprise by a New Zealand TV station. Take a look.

A song for peace and freedom


As Nigerians awaits change of dispensation in the coming week, the fuel scarcity that has loomed the country has got citizens scouting for any source of fuel at different ridiculous price to enable their businesses thrive and to commute. 
I watched this song and amidst all ills it named, I think the present situation in the country needs to be added to the social ills plaguing the country presently.

Today's Wise Words

Love this! I am always trying to tell people to be proud of their heritage, accents and culture. They need to hold on to their identity but learn the language to improve their need to speak it for a good purpose.

Sunday 24 May 2015

Today's Wise Saying

"Judge not your beauty by the number of people who look at you, but rather by the number of people who smile at you." -African Proverb

Tokyo speed train cleaners make their rounds in seven minutes

Watch Shinkansen bullet train full speed cleaners carry out their duties in seven minutes. They marvel you as they diligently clean the cars. A Tokyo journalist Charli James named it the "7 minute miracle" when he put the cleaning crew together to make this clip. Wonderful watch!

Saturday 23 May 2015

Did you know?

The Nigerian Television Authority began broadcasting on 31 October 1959 under the name Western Nigerian Government Broadcasting Corporation (WNTV). It was based in Ibadan, South-West Nigeria and it was the first television station in Tropical Africa. 
These are Yoruba dancers during a cultural dance programme in 1960.

Today's Wise Saying

Well said.

Artist displays creativity on wall while on a paddle board

Sean Yoro, a Hawaiian born artist, saw the use of abandoned walls of New York and decided to give the wall a make over, by transforming them with amazing different paintings of women.
Yoro took to the waters with his paddles and a paddle board to enable him get to the best areas of the wall for his art.
He fantastically did well, balancing and maintaining concentration whilst painting .Take a look.

Thursday 21 May 2015

Christian mother and a Muslim daughter's route to happiness


Patricia Raybon and her daughter Alana braved the path of tolerance and understanding when they realised Alana's conversion to Islam was not an easy topic to digest within the family.

In their bid to understand each other's struggles, they decided to co-write a book titled "Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace"

Watch and see how they came to reconcile their religious differences.Interesting!

Paracetamol could affect boys in the womb

Researcher at the University of Edinburgh have found following a study that paracetamol use for a long a period during pregnancy could affect boys' testosterone production in the womb which may have infertility implications in later life.
They have therefore advised minimal dose in limited time during pregnancy.

Like a typical Nigerian warning..Expectant mothers! Expectant mothers! Expectant mothers!!! How many times did I call you? A word is enough for the wise!

Nigeria's Sosoliso plane crash survivor graduates

Nigeria's Sosoliso plane crash survivor, Kechi Okwuchi has graduated with a First Class from University of St Thomas Houston Texas, United States on May 16th 2015. She was the most outstanding student for her major in Economics. Okwuchi also gave the commencement address to the class of 2015 at her school.

How beautiful! Well done Kechi.

'Rich Dad Poor Dad' author speaks

The popular book 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' authored by Robert Kiyosaki was well embraced by a lot of people all over the world. The book is addressing people who want to change their financial status. This video is an old clip of Oprah show featuring Kiyosaki, explaining how to break away from financial difficulties with cogent points. Watch!

Who knew 'GoGirl' existed?

I have heard about the menstrual cup which I featured on this blog sometimes back , but just realised there is also another one called the 'GoGirl', a female urination device.

'GoGirl' allows you to pee while standing up. This helps you when you find yourself in a place with too many crowd, disgusting sites, distant or place where there is non-existent bathrooms.

This funnel sometimes called a Female Urination Device(FUD) is said to be neat, discreet and above all hygienic.
Looks like a good idea.."Invention they say...." It looks like what every mother of a girl child should have especially when travelling in and around country roads.

Another picture below to find how to position device

How picky is your child?

It can be difficult for parents trying to find the most appealing food to a child who is not so keen about eating. Some 'picky eating' children sometimes do not eat nutrient balanced meal because they either do not like a particular food available in the meal or have preference for something else.

I know some children who will take a very long time to finish a small portion of food given to them whilst there are some who would turn the dining table to a 'sit and moan' chair for lack of interest in food.
Parents as usual don't relent, they try to find tips, information and learn and share stories to encourage other parents who have found themselves in this same fate of their kids being picky.

What were your tireless efforts? Have you experienced this? I would be glad to hear from you. You never know, a parent might be reading and learning from your comment.

How true?!

This post was meant for me and it went straight into my heart. I love to indulge myself and feel guilty afterwards...Heheheheh. How many people are in my shoes?

Mrs Obama and her GimmeFive Campaign


In Mo Abudu's words,"If you can think it, you can do it" Mrs Obama is at it again. The First lady, 51, established the “#GimmeFive” concept so as to celebrate the fifth anniversary of her fitness campaign “Let’s Move”. 

A campaign she has engaged celebrities like Beyoncé , Ryan Seacrest and Ellen DeGeneres to help promote it.

Don't I just adore this mother of two? Just take a good look at how fit she did all the routines in the demo?

Dear blog visitors

Dear blog visitors, do you know I'd like to hear from you? I would appreciate if you leave a comment or two, just to know if there are criticism or concerns...Or better still, what you'd like us to talk about more often on this platform.
Kindly send a comment or query to let us know your thoughts on any of the post on this blog.

Thanks

The Duchess.

World Leaders doing their 'Duty' by Photographer Cristina Guggeri

Art People Gallery posted some of Cristina Guggeri's works on Facebook. I must say they are nice and creative. For a moment, I could almost argue that these world leaders do not do 'their business' at all. lol. Whose picture is the most hilarious?

More pictures after the cut

Today's Wise Words

"Gender equality is more than a goal in itself. It is a precondition for meeting the challenge of reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development and building good governance."- Kofi Annan

Tuesday 19 May 2015

Did you know?

Malcolm X would have been 90 today. He was born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska.

Yale University honours Anjelique Kidjo and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala amongst others

Pictured are (standing, from left) Jeffrey Friedman, Angelique Kidjo, Peter G. Schultz, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dean Kamen, (seated, from left) Elon Musk, Janet Yellen, President Peter Salovey, Larry Kramer, and Gayatri Spivak. (Photo by Joy Bush)
President of Yale University Peter Salovey on Monday May 18th presented honorary degree to nine individuals amongst who are Africans, Nigeria's Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Beninese born musician Angelique Kidjo. They were awarded for having achieved distinction in their respective fields at the 2015 Commencement ceremony held on Old Campus.

According to YaleNews, their citations were stated as follows;

Mary Berry the cook

Mary Berry is a well known English food writer and television presenter. She is very popular on so many TV cooking and presentations and also well known for her stylish dressing. The 80-year-old can cook anything 'cook-able'. From pastries to roast dishes, Berry churns out tips to help make the art of food making easy and beautiful.

I always watch her every time she presents especially to see the colours she would play with regarding her dressing. She made me love cooking with fresh herbs. She has loads of books for tips and also to address some cooking myths and all.

Today's Wise Saying

"A united family eats from the same plate." - Baganda proverb

What's your take on Lupita's Gucci dress?

Check out what Lupita wore to the 68th annual Festival de Cannes during the opening ceremony at the premiere of Le Tete Haute on May 12, she looked stunning as she made her way to the red carpet.

Is the dress a yay?!

More photos after the cut.

How long does it take you to cut your tomatoes?

How come no one ever showed me this?..Cutting tomatoes in 5 minutes..Only if you have seen this done before should you not watch otherwise, watch and learn.

Monday 18 May 2015

Ahoyyy Matey!..Johnny Depp's pets in trouble in Australia

The Department of Agriculture in Australia has asked Hollywood actor Johnny Depp also known as 'Jack Sparrow' in Pirate of the Caribbean to remove his dogs from the country or have them put down.This is coming as a result for failing to declare them on entering into the country in his private jet a month ago for the shooting of Pirates of the Caribbean.

The country's agriculture minister said: " He has decided to bring to our nation two dogs without actually getting proper certification and the proper permits required.  Mr Depp has to either take his dogs back to California or we are going to euthanise them. He's now got about 50 hours left to remove the dogs."

Similarly,the country's immigration minister said: "The (dogs) should be screened like everyone else".
Australia have strict quarantine rules.You may need to watch 'Nothing to Declare' to have a feel of Australia on things of this nature.

The Simpsons voice over departs

I might feel this development as a loyal fan of this animated show. Harry Shearer, the actor who voice some characters in Simpsons is leaving the show.
The actor made the announcement over social media claiming non-renewal of his contract.

Harry voices Mr Burns, Ned Flankers, Smithers and Scratchy on the show.

Hope I won't be doing more of voice recognition than watching the show I have always enjoyed when next it's on. lol

'The Dress' that caused rows

Remember recently the social media was in frenzy over the colour of a particular dress with over 10m tweets on it within a week? Closed ones too for once had opposite views on this apparel with no unified answer.
American researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Wellesley College have attempted putting the differences to rest by asking 1400 people of which 300 had no clue of the picture, questions on the dress.
Outcome reveals 57% believed the dress had blue and black stripes, 30% felt it's white and gold, 10% said its blue and brown.
The researcher speculates that differences in position on the dress is about artificial and natural lightings and about experiences of people to lighting whether they stay awake during night or daylight hours.
My take after this research is that no one is wrong on this dress. It also confirms we all see life in different perspective. End of discussion!

Shoprite's owner backed firm buys into UK's New Look for £780m

Brait, an investment vehicle backed by Christo Wiese owner of Shoprite is acquiring 90% holding in United Kingdom high street fashion retailer New Look for a whooping £780m.
This is following Brait's recent interest to acquire 80% of Virgin Active gym owned by Richard Branson for £680m.
Christo Wiese is a 73-year-old South African billionaire with £4.4bn networth.

By this development, New Look footprint might soon be in Nigeria. In event of that, remember you heard it here first.

Today's Wise Saying

"You can live a long time without love but you can't live long without water" - Australian saying

Are you a health tourist?

In the recent United Kingdom polity, Nigel Farage (The leader of UK Independence Party) stated over half of those diagnosed with HIV each year were born overseas. The politician said "What we need to do is to put the NHS there for British people and families,". He made the statement like the National Health Service (NHS) would be over stretched if immigration is not controlled.

In the video clip put together by BBC Free Speech some of the people he was talking about were met and they all had this to say to Farage's claims. Nigeria's Bisi Alimi had his take too..Watch.

Sunday 17 May 2015

David Beckham: Are you a dad or a father?

According to this ex-footballer and super dad, he said: "... All I think is that I'm a dad, I have four kids, I'm married, I do the school run every morning and make the dinner every night."

I think every man should draw inspiration from each and every alphabet in this statement. Can I hear Victoria snoozing away in her sleep ...Hahahahah.

Its World Baking Day today!

Its World Baking Day today May 17th. Its a day set aside to bake for someone who matters to you and to show how much you care. Do something unexpected, bake them a cake, a pie or anything bake'able'! lol!

Liverpool FC Steven Gerrard takes a bow

As expected, it was a standing ovation for Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard as he bows out of the football club. Yesterday's match against Crystal Palace at Anfield by the 34-year-old marked his last home game for the club before proceeding to LA Galaxy. Gerrard had joined LFC aged 18 and has enjoyed a 17-year professional career with the club.

Though he left with a game to play, the footballer has 185 goals to his credit with seven major trophies. He said: 'I look back at it with pride. I am really proud of what I have achieved here, all the trophies I've won.'
Steven made 708 appearances for the club he captained for 11 years making many to regard him as the club's greatest player.
He will surely make remarkable impact in the USA's Major League Soccer that he's joining as well.

Remember 'You will never walk alone' Steven!

Amazing Zumba Sunday


Something amazing that happens when you get into your Zumba class on a Sunday. Your instructor puts on Nigerian music (Psquare's 'Shekini' to be precise) and you feel she is not doing justice to the song. I came home, googled a Zumba class to see a clip and this is what I found.

This instructor did justice to the song. Enjoy!

Rihanna made history with Dior

Its all 'bling-ing' as Rihanna features in Dior's ad campaign. The French designer named the singer as face of the brand making her the first black woman for that role. The campaign was shot at the Palace of Versa ills in Paris. Rihanna joins the lists of models such as Daria Strokus, Melissa Stasiuk and Xiao Wen Ju, all of whom have featured in the Secret Garden series.

In the 27-year-old singer's response to the ad, describes her feelings saying  'It feels fantastic,' she says. 'It is such a big deal for me, for my culture, for a lot of young girls of any color. She added 'I think, to be acknowledged by Dior is just, it means a lot as a woman to feel beautiful, and elegant, and timeless.'

Its good to know Dior is embracing diversity. Anyway, it's all to attract new markets I guess. To Dior marketing team, note that I can equally echo your brand via this blog. 'wink' ;)

My email contact is on this blog.  

More pictures after the cut.

Prince Harry's ex bares legs in a fashion show

Guys in-the-house need to be here to help put the last jigsaw in this puzzle. What would be your reaction when your ex stuns the world with the outlook above? Walk back to her or simply move on?

Anyway the damsel above is Cressida Bonas, Prince Harry of United Kingdom's ex. The star was the cynosure of all eyes at the Cruise 2016 Resort collection presentation held at the Palais Bulles in Theoule-sur-Mer, France, where she adorned a black sequinned mini dress by Dior signature.
The Prince is almost at the same time in New Zealand expressing his wish to start a family.

A bit at a crossroad on the mind set of the lady and the Prince. Who walks away from Prince Harry given a first instance? Who? Well, guys would you take a walk from this imposing figure?

Today's Wise Saying

"By crawling a child learns to stand." - African proverb

The beautiful Kano City

This is Kano city in North-western Nigeria. I just saw the picture and I think its beautiful.

Do you have a picture of a city you would want us to feature on this blog? Kindly send them in with your comments.

Georgia Aquarium's Whale Birth Video

Have you ever seen a whale go into labour and give birth...I hope you all remember whales are mammals?! Watch this Baby Beluga's clip and see the support this Mummy whale got while birthing..Wonderful I must say!

Friday 15 May 2015

Leslie Morgan Steiner: Why domestic violence victims don't leave

I have just watched this and I intend to help anyone needing to listen to this woman. She hit the nail on the head and she made her points succinct.

Domestic abuse should never be condoned..It comes indifferent patterns in different relationships.

Take a look!

Today's Wise Saying

"Happiness requires something to do, something to love and something to hope for" - Swahili Proverb

Nigerians grab £6.5 London apartments

Harrods Estates has reported nearly 50 percent increase in London. Mayfair apartments buying are by West Africans, majority of who are Nigerians. The property company disclosed wealthy entrepreneur and oil magnates are spending up to £6.5 to acquire the apartments.

In the words of Shirley Humphrey, the estate agent director: 'The key thing is owning a home in London they can use for a minimum of a few months of the year.' The surge in interest occurred in the last 12 months.

Hmmm..This reports in only of London, you and I can imagine other major cities of the world ..I need to double up my efforts to be on this list of entrepreneur . I believe Harrods won't close their books until my request comes in. lol.

Photo: Former Nigerian First lady and Princess Diana

Stumbled into this Lady Diana and Mrs Maryam Babangida's picture. These women were really classy.

Whats your opinion?

Ran into this picture somewhere. I have nothing but respect for this teacher!

Jamie Oliver records song for Food Revolution Day


British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has put together a song to encourage a petition to be signed for the launch of Food Revolution Day which kicks off today 15 May. 'Food Revolution Day' campaign is aiming to add mandatory practical food education in school curriculum.

The restaurateur said “It’s essential that we arm future generations with the life skills they urgently need in order to lead healthier, happier, more productive lives. I passionately believe this is every child’s human right and I hope you agree,”.

Not only did he bring artists like Sir Paul McCartney, Ed Sheeran, Alesha Dixon and others together to do a song for the campaign. He also set up a petition page where he states "My wish is to create a strong sustainable movement to educate every child about food, inspire families to cook again and empower people everywhere to fight obesity."

I totally agree and connect with this. We need to put the right food in our bodies.

Sign petition here www.foodrevolutionday.com

Thursday 14 May 2015

Awww...Uzo Aduba shows off Mum

American actress Uzo Aduba, posted a picture of herself and her mum on her Facebook page.
The Primetime Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Guest Actress and mother were both guests attending The Paley Center Tribute to African-American Achievements in Television at Cipriani Wall Street on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, in New York.

Its good to finally add a face to her much talked about mother who never likes to miss her gym Zumba classes.

Beautiful mum!

Today's Wise Saying

"A thread will always follow the path of the needle" - Kenyan Proverb

Wednesday 13 May 2015

Happy birthday to Stevie Wonder

Happy 65th birthday to Stevie Wonder. The American musician was born as 'Stevland Hardaway Judkins' on May 13,1950.

Many happy returns Stevie..You make a lot of people happy especially with your birthday song! Its evergreen!

Beckham: 'Our children need to work hard'

Fashion designer, Victoria Beckham also known as 'Posh' has revealed her endeavour to be a good mum like every other mother. She said "I feel the constant struggle to be the best mother I can, whilst setting a good example to my children to work hard".

She continued: "Being in a position where they live such a privilege life, it is important that our children understand humility, that they appreciate how their parents have worked very hard to create this life for the family and that they too, have a responsibility to work hard, and never, ever take anything for granted,".

I tell you nature wired mothers similarly my mother's voice, echoes similar wordings as I type this.

Very proud of your parenting etiquette Posh spice, well done!

Today's Wise Saying

'There is no cock without comb' - Congolese Proverb

Prince Harry mesmerizes the world doing the 'Haka'

Prince Harry of Wales pulls off moves with delight when he joined the army of soldiers to perform the traditional Maori 'Haka' in his visit to Linton Military Camp in Linton, New Zealand.
Throughout his performance, the Prince of Wales, 30, kept a strict look of concentration and good coordination to carry out what he had learnt some 20 minutes before the presentation.

Although I did not see him bulge out his eyes and tongue like the rest of the soldiers, but it was so cool to watch.Take a look.

Face of a new team

The United Kingdom Prime Minister David Cameron hosts his first Tory - only cabinet after his Party's success at the polls. He remarked 'I want everyone round this table to be absolutely clear what we're here to do and who we are here to do and who we are here to do it for.' Mandate to ones team can't be simpler.

Best of luck all.

Ronaldo donates to Nepal

Cristiano Ronaldo does not only touch football, he touches lives as well. The football star exhibited his kind heart by giving £5m to victims of Nepal earthquake.

This donation is believed to be made through Save the Children. He made donation as well to victims of the Tsunami in Indonesia.

Permit me to add a new word - 'Individual Social Responsibility' like 'CSR' to our day-to-day lexicon.

I want to be like you Ronaldo.

Do you know world's ... No.1?

Johnson-Thompson and Ennis-Hill
Here's the new Heptathlon world No.1 queen, Katarina Johnson-Thompson. The 22-year-old athlete took over the mantle from Jessica Ennis-Hill who took time off competition to start her family.

Go girl!