Turkish Vibes for a Black Girl

Hey everyone,

I know I've spoken quite a lot about Turkey but I feel I need to say this too, because its playing on my mind.

General Vibes:
March is not peak season so the hotel and 'excursion type' things were relatively quiet, which was cool as I really needed the head space. Everyone who I came across was so polite and helpful, there wasn't any problem with language at all. From what I noticed the majority of the tourist were English and or German, which would be perfect expect I know any Dutch whatsoever. Not that it mattered, everyone was very inclusive so you feel really looked after.

There are a few things you should look out for; the hard sale. As a tourist in any county I guess this is to be expected. But occasionally I felt it was a bit full on, so best to have your wits about you. Being black, every now and then especially in the Town centre locals would just stare or ask to take a picture with you. They seem to be genuinely surprise that you (a black person) are there and address you as 'Chocolate'. Even walking along the street people who beep their horn to get your attention. I love flattery as much as the next girl, but this much more then that.

London is quite 'multicultural' so I have never really had this before, or knew what to feel about it. The comments and looks were not done in a malicious way (most of the time it was polite), so I'm not offended as such... just... puzzled, I guess. There was not any other black people that I noticed so perhaps there isn't much exposure to black people and their culture in those parts, as to why the people reacted like that? I am by no means labelling Turkey as racist, as I did have good time and I would absolutely go back.

 I'd be interested to know, has anyone else had a similar experience or opinion on the matter?

Until next time x

An Inspirational Quote That Will Grow With You

Hi everyone,

As I have got older I've noticed I worry a great deal more, suddenly I'm not as expressive because I do not want to offend people or be seen in a bad light. I have become more concerned and protective over the people I love. When away from them, I am anxious or overly emotional.

I find myself thinking about my future; finances, housing, my family, my health or my relationships (or lack of). This are things I never really cared about before not because they are not important, but I thought it its was better to focus on the hear and now, and just blindly assume things would fall into place. Which is not a bad attitude to have, but maybe a slightly young attitude to have.

I'm not saying to stress about the raising cost of homes of the UK, the up and down troubles in the NHS, or the horrible attacks on France and around the world; it would drive you crazy if you did. But I think its good to be wise about the future and to a degree sensible.

Its amazing how the small things that can remind you of what's important. Recently someone said something to me and its only until now that it stank in and I can really appreciate the depth and beauty of the words.

"That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them." 

Matthew 6:25-26

Amen.

Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2014

As some of you may know cancer is something I’m quite passionate about and have mentioned a few times on this blog, but today makes the observance of the 10th Annual Mesothelioma Awareness Day.

There are some things you shouldn’t miss. Yet every day cancer robs someone of these precious moments. Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelial cells. These cells cover the outer surface of most of our internal body organs, forming a lining that is sometimes called the mesothelium.

By far the main cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. When we think of asbestos, we tend to think of old swimming pool centres and old sheds. We tend not to think about what it is or how it can harm us. Your risk is greater if you were exposed to large amounts of it from an early age for a long period of time. However some people say they have no history of an heavy exposure to asbestos.

This year 10,000 Americans will die of asbestos related diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma and 200,000 will be living with asbestos. Alarmingly this product is still not banned in the US putting thousands at risk, over something that is preventable.

Mesothelioma commonly sits dormant in the body to 20-50 years after initial exposure to asbestos. Up to 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year.

The key to surviving mesothelioma for the longest time possible is to catch the disease when it’s in the earliest stages of onset. You can’t catch it early unless you have a mesothelioma diagnosis. And the only way you can get one of those is if you see a mesothelioma doctor. 

For more information please see http://www.mesothelioma.com/

I hope you have found this post useful and can join me in supporting a fantastic cause.

Take Care x

You Just Made My Day

Hey everyone,

Hope your well and enjoy the sunny weather were having. I was chilling in the park and I got thinking how lucky I am. And how grateful I am to have this slice of happiness in my life.

It doesn't matter what mood I'm in or that I don't spend as much time as I’d like too with him. His there with a wagging tail and plenty of kisses - not in the face though I think that's gross.

It just dawn on me that Kyzer is my best friend and I am just in ore how  much I appreciate every second with him. Over the years from puppy to adult, we had a few health scares and it truly break my heart when his in pain but all worked out in the end - praise God.

The way he would come into the living room, sit down next to me, fart, then leave. I don’t know if you guys have ever had the misfortune of smelling and dog fart. But it is worst thing ever and sometimes I swear the fart smells worst then the poo.

Kyzer is quite a verbal dog and often tries to talk me, I imagine his telling me about his day and how  hot he is because his covered in fur.

His getting older and slowly but surely his developed a cataract in his eyes, so his eyes slight is not so good. He bumps into doors sometimes which I normally chuckle at, because he does it with a smile and his just so happy. Its like a cute old man whose shocked that a door has materialised out of nowhere.

The attitude of a dog is definitely something to be admired, their positivity, enthusiasm, loyalty and love are things that we humans struggle with. I have learnt so might from him and love him so much.

"No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich." - Louis Sabin

I just wanted to share a bit of what's important to me on here, I know not everyone can relate or isn’t a pet owner. But the attachment you build to your pet is truly amazing, maybe you guys feel similar towards your pets? Let me know if you have a pet and can relate.

Have an awesome week guys x.

2014 - Battle On

Hey everyone,

Can you believe its the end of the year already? It is no longer 2013!

Before I get into the that; I'd just like to say hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, full of family, friends and joy.

I was planning on doing a few Christmas posts, I even typed them out, but I really didn't feel like it. I was trying to feel Christmasy and get into the spirit of things but it just wasn't happening, it just felt like something was missing. Don't get me wrong getting involved with charities and stuff helped but *sigh*. Of course that is not to say I had a bad Christmas; indeed food was cooked, people gathered and a few gifts were exchanged. Yes, I'm thankful and grateful for everything I have but it all just felt hollow. I think that is why I didn't post those Christmas entries, if I'm not feeling it what is the point - got to honest right? That feeling has also carry through to now, the last day of 2013.

Hmm... kind of depressing I know, are any of you guys feeling this way? Or are you completely the opposite, has this Christmas and New Years been amazingly fantastic for you?

OK so what of 2013? Well, it hasn't been my best year in terms of achievement but on reflection I'd say its been a year of strength. Throughout this year there have been knocks, disappointments and tears but despite all those things putting me down, making me feel worthless and like giving up. I'm here! Thanks be to God.

I feel incredibly secure giving the Lord thanks and praise, I know everything will be alright and there is plan in motion. Sometimes things happen and I find myself asking why? I'm trying my best to do the right things so why is this happening? I try help and support everyone why do they choose to hurt me? But I have to have faith that God is good and wouldn't give me anything that I could not handle, and only has the best intentions for me.

So I look to 2014 standing strong motivated that better is yet to come. The trials and tribulations in 2013 and 2012 are just bruises and scars of a battle that God won. I pray for patience a revived attitude, continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

So with that said I wish you all the best for 2014, may it be full success, victory and a breakthrough, in Jesus name. Amen.

See you in the New Year

Coming Together

Hey everyone,

So last Sunday was the day of my Race of Life - Cancer Research charity race which also happened to be the hottest day of the year. Woo! it was seriously tough, I was sweating bullets and my legs felt like weights. It is amazing how much of  a difference heat can make, I guess it my thought as I only practised at night before hand. When I got to the park I was so overwhelmed by the amount people participating and supporting. It just kind of hit me that all these people be doing anything with their day right now and yet they choose to support, challenge themselves and come to together.  

So many people involved -  truly amazing

Really proud of my self and all the ladies who completed Race for Life, there was great energy and everyone supporting and encouraging each other. I finished the race in 32 minutes, which is slightly over my target, but the heat played a huge part - I was really dehydrated. But still very proud and happy with what myself and the rest of the ladies achieved.

Sweaty smiles across the finish line :)

 Thank you to all the people who donated to Cancer Research x

Fools Easter

Hey everyone,

How is it April already? Hope your well and hope your having a cracking Easter haha see the joke there lol. But seriously I just wanted to say have a blessed Easter.

... Out of His sorrow came our joy.

This year I've been spending loads of time with the family, which has been great. Plus on top of that I had my cousins baby shower. Spending this quality time has really made me appreciate having each and every one of them in my life. and I'm really looking forward to the new additions. 

How cute are these cupcakes? They were really yummy too first cupcake I've had that hasn't been dry.

This was made by a family friend, out of baby clothes, nappies and accessories, she is so talented and creative.

Did you have a good Easter?

Take Care x

Water Snake Dumplings

Hey everyone,

You've probably noticed the increase of red lanterns throughout the streets, which can only mean its that time of year again Chinese New Year. 

This year is the Year of the Snake or more specify the Year of the Water Snake. Apparently *Water Snakes are influential and insightful. They manage others well and tend to be good for organizations to utilize as staff. They are quite motivated and intellectual, very determined and resolute about success. (*sourced: http://www.usbridalguide.com)

I love CNY, I like that I can see, learn and interact with different cultures and things that i wouldn't necessary through my normal everyday activities. For a run down what was going on London please see a post I did on Endz2Endz.

Sadly I didn't get to spend as much browsing and watching the performances as I normally do ... so no dragon *so sad*

I love the fun of it all, plus it also gives my friends the chance to tease me with their red pockets - honestly how cool is this tradition (their like debt collectors lol).

But I did however get to have one favorite dishes steamed dumplings! Mmmm...

Wishing you all 'Kung Hei Fat Choi' (or Happy New Year) :D

Did any of you guys go to CNY London or anywhere else in the world?

Carry On

Hey everyone,

I’m not even sure how to begin this post; if any of you follow me on Twitter you’ll already be aware that these past few weeks have been a bit turbulent for me.  I did do a lot of writing about it, which ranged from cursing and complaining, to emotional sobbing and crying, it’s all in my drafts. But the last thing I want to do is drag you down as well, because it’s what would be the point. It’s Easter you should be having fun, going to church (if that is what you do) or pigging out on Easter eggs. So no matter what I’m feeling, I want to hear about good Easters and what everyone is getting up to. One day I may share that part of my world, but at the moment I’m just not ready for that. But what I will promise you is I that will be strong and carry on. I will try not to let pressures get me down or think less of myself. I’m just so confused right now; I don’t want to hurt anyone. But God is with me and I have count my blessing not my problems, right? :'(

I’m sorry this is such a depressing post I really don’t mean it to be, I’ll be back to my normal self soon, this is just a season and it will past.

Take care everyone x

Blessed

Hi everyone,

Just thought I’d do a quick post to say Merry Christmas and I hope you all have wonderful day. Filled with lots of laughter and love because we are all truly blessed to make it through the year. And it’s important to remember and recognize God is good.

Easter

Hey everyone.

I know it’s a bit late but Happy Easter, I hope you guys had fun.

My Easter was pretty cool, plus the weather really perked up especially on Good Friday. I spent the majority of the Easter holiday visiting family members and buying the usual bits and pieces. My nephew stayed with us for a few days, so it was really nice spending time with him. His really funny, his going through this weird phase of mimicking things that he hears. So his heard this advert on Vibes.FM for a comedy drama production. So now whenever anyone tells him something he shouts out ‘Nuh Stress Mi Out!’ – (with the accent and everything) it’s so funny LOL

Although it was great spending time my grandmas and the rest of the family, I feel really bad I didn’t go church at all this weekend. I totally forget about Easter eggs and stuff, but look today at work this was left on my desk.

Behold, my one and only easter egg (^-^)

Well I’m back at work now *boooo* but its ok because it’s the Royal Wedding tomorrow there is yet another Bank Holiday *yay* plus the May Day Bank Holiday. Which equals another long weekend of goodness! *Oooh yeah!*