When you're busy! I have no idea where the time has gone. I know everyone is busy, but when I tell you that I have been busier than ever before of late, it does not even come close to describing how busy I've been. Anyway, I'll stop rambling and get to the point.
I'm going to Kellogg. Yes, I think many of you already knew that but I don't think I officially said it. That far? Yes! Do you know how cold it gets? Yes, I'm already bracing myself! Didn't their financial aid offer suck? Yes, it absolutely did! And you're still going? Yes, I absolutely am! Why? Because after all my soul searching, I decided to follow my heart and that's where it led me. The admit weekend only solidified my decision so now I have no doubt that it'll be one of the most challenging AND the most rewarding experiences of my life to date. There's just something about that place. It's the same way I felt about where I completed undergrad and I was very successful there so why change the formula now I say. I'll spare you on how much I'm disliking the process of getting prepared to move and how expensive this whole thing has been and is going to be...........ARRRRGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH, but I am looking forward to my last day at work in just over a month. Then I can focus on packing and stuff, instead of travelling the world like so many of my b-school counterparts. Yay!!!!!!
Did you catch that sarcasm? No? Oh well, guess I'm not too good at that. LOL. I keep reminding myself that one of the reasons I'm going to b-school is to improve my earning potential. Shoot, it better improve, exponentially, cos yo, I'ma hurt somebody if it doesn't! Another word of advice to those who are getting a headstart on the b-school process; START SAVING NOW! It is not a joke. Okay, now that I've gotten all that out, I will say that I know it will be worth the investment and that I really won't trade where I stand and my experience for anything. Through it all, God has taught me many leassons and proven faithful so I'm not worried. Really. It'll be ALL good. My current anchor when I'm feeling a little doubtful; "Seek your happiness in the Lord and He shall grant you the desires of your heart." - Psalms 37:4. That joint is my friend right now! LOL.
For those of you who have left comments about questions regarding the b-school process, I've added an email link so you can send me messages. Disclaimer #1: I am not an expert but will try my best to share as much about the process as I can. Disclaimer #2: Please give me time to respond to emails if you do contact me because did I mention, I am indescribably busy? LOL. Disclaimer #3: Closely related to #1 - you best believe I'll be as honest as I can if you ask me questions so please do not take personally whatever I say that you may deem unnecessary or mean. That is not the point. I may add more disclaimers as time goes.
So, gotta go. So much to do and so little time. I hope you are all doing well. Miss you guys - I really do. Not only do I have zero time to write, I barely read anymore. Take good care and I'll holla!
P.S: Uzo (Betty Boop) sweetie, I'll email you back soon. I promise!!!!!!
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
YEAH BOYEEEEEE!
As much as I detest Flavor Flav, I had to borrow his line. Or maybe Sally Fields' line is better - "they like me, they really like me". LOL. I heard from Chicago GSB, the last one on the list and I made it, WITH SCHOLARSHIP. God is good......all the time.
I must, yet again, reminisce on how gruelling the b-school application was and it feels so good to be where I am with 4 offers in hand and some very serious considerations to make. I'm just letting it marinate for a bit. I think I'm pretty sure about where I'm going but some folks are making it hard y'all. I'll keep you posted.
If I'm any example to anyone - hard work, lots of faith and a little bit of humility can go a long way. Peace y'all!
I must, yet again, reminisce on how gruelling the b-school application was and it feels so good to be where I am with 4 offers in hand and some very serious considerations to make. I'm just letting it marinate for a bit. I think I'm pretty sure about where I'm going but some folks are making it hard y'all. I'll keep you posted.
If I'm any example to anyone - hard work, lots of faith and a little bit of humility can go a long way. Peace y'all!
Thursday, March 06, 2008
ANOTHER UPDATE
So! I got my first "ding", which is what they call being denied in the b-school world. Cornell denied my application to their program. I think I should start at the beginning for this one. Cornell was a late consideration for me. I had decided where I was going to apply, but when I learned more about their dual degree MBA/Master's in Industrial and Labor Relations(MILR) program in late October, I got so excited about it because it would mean a very tailored curriculum that specifically addressed my goals and coming out with two degrees in two and a half years. I then went to a Forte foundation program and met a few Johnson School folks, was put in touch with a couple of students in the program and I was sold. I got so incredibly excited. Mind you, this is the only school on my list that I didn't visit since it was so last minute but I did my due diligence in other ways by researching the program, talking to alums and current students, and so on. So sight unseen though, Cornell became my first choice program. Additionally, because it's a dual degree, I had to complete 2 separate applications - one to the Johnson School, the other to the ILR School. I submitted both applications on December 16th and began to wait. And wait. And wait. I knew the ILR School wouldn't make a decision until April at the latest but because the MBA process is a multi-step one, I expected periodical updates from Johnson.
I want to try to remain as "hater-free" as possible, but unlike the other schools who carried out their processes in a timely manner, the Johnson School didn't. My application only went under review on March 3rd, two days from the decision deadline - since December 16, or to be fair, since the submission deadline of January 9!!!!!!!!! During the wait, the admission office was not very good about communicating with applicants about the process except to say they saw a significant increase in applications and were doing their best to manage the process. Many other schools had the same problem but the process was not sacrificed because of that. Needless to say, I was very disappointed with the whole thing and was not in the least surprised when I logged into my online account and saw a deny yesterday. Keep in mind that I was not officially notified of this decision - and haven't been yet. They should have sent me a message to check my status, but I haven't received one yet. I just took it upon myself to check it. Ironically, I got an email from the ILR School this morning saying that I've been admitted to their program with a full scholarship and a stipend! but obviously I won't be going since the Johnson School said no. Maybe I can defer it though so that I could get that degree in a couple of years - who knows?
I've asked myself why I was denied especially because I think my Cornell essays were passionate. Maybe I just couldn't get that across in the 400 words they required. Or maybe it was obvious that I hadn't visited because I believe my visits to the other schools were key when I was writing my essays. Who knows? What I do know is that this b-school application process can really be a crap shoot most of the time. I have spent a significant amount of time on the BusinessWeek b-school forums, my new addiction to tell you all the truth, and I see the amazing stats of people with perfect GMAT scores, amazing work experience, and who seem to have decent writing skills, denied from both top 5 programs and even sometimes top 30 schools who should be snapping those kinds of students up. Or at least, you would think so. So, there is an element of luck required, as well as lots of divine intervention I believe. That being said, the sting of the deny decision was very mild because I have been blessed enough to be admitted to three other programs, and one of them is a top 5 program, which is ranked higher than Cornell is. I believe that God works in the most marvellous of ways because more and more signs are pointing in the direction of Kellogg and the Chicago area and that was the last place I was considering when I started the process. It was my friend Michael who convinced me to check it out and I fell in love on my visit.
To Cornell - I'm sorry that you'll be missing out on the experience that is Ms. May! LOL. But I still think you're a great program with the potential to be a top 10 before too long. Hopefully next year, you'll do better with the process than you did this year.
I would also like to take this opportunity to offer my help to anyone who reads my blog that may be interested in b-school, and getting into a top program. Please reach out and I'll be happy to share my resources and give my two cents. Michael did the same for me - in fact, we connected through blogging - and I would like to pay the kindness forward. So my first piece of advice even though you haven't asked yet is to start early, at least one and a half to two years before you would like to enroll. Holla if you want to know more. Stay up y'all and since the weekend is almost here, make it a good one!
Ms. May
I want to try to remain as "hater-free" as possible, but unlike the other schools who carried out their processes in a timely manner, the Johnson School didn't. My application only went under review on March 3rd, two days from the decision deadline - since December 16, or to be fair, since the submission deadline of January 9!!!!!!!!! During the wait, the admission office was not very good about communicating with applicants about the process except to say they saw a significant increase in applications and were doing their best to manage the process. Many other schools had the same problem but the process was not sacrificed because of that. Needless to say, I was very disappointed with the whole thing and was not in the least surprised when I logged into my online account and saw a deny yesterday. Keep in mind that I was not officially notified of this decision - and haven't been yet. They should have sent me a message to check my status, but I haven't received one yet. I just took it upon myself to check it. Ironically, I got an email from the ILR School this morning saying that I've been admitted to their program with a full scholarship and a stipend! but obviously I won't be going since the Johnson School said no. Maybe I can defer it though so that I could get that degree in a couple of years - who knows?
I've asked myself why I was denied especially because I think my Cornell essays were passionate. Maybe I just couldn't get that across in the 400 words they required. Or maybe it was obvious that I hadn't visited because I believe my visits to the other schools were key when I was writing my essays. Who knows? What I do know is that this b-school application process can really be a crap shoot most of the time. I have spent a significant amount of time on the BusinessWeek b-school forums, my new addiction to tell you all the truth, and I see the amazing stats of people with perfect GMAT scores, amazing work experience, and who seem to have decent writing skills, denied from both top 5 programs and even sometimes top 30 schools who should be snapping those kinds of students up. Or at least, you would think so. So, there is an element of luck required, as well as lots of divine intervention I believe. That being said, the sting of the deny decision was very mild because I have been blessed enough to be admitted to three other programs, and one of them is a top 5 program, which is ranked higher than Cornell is. I believe that God works in the most marvellous of ways because more and more signs are pointing in the direction of Kellogg and the Chicago area and that was the last place I was considering when I started the process. It was my friend Michael who convinced me to check it out and I fell in love on my visit.
To Cornell - I'm sorry that you'll be missing out on the experience that is Ms. May! LOL. But I still think you're a great program with the potential to be a top 10 before too long. Hopefully next year, you'll do better with the process than you did this year.
I would also like to take this opportunity to offer my help to anyone who reads my blog that may be interested in b-school, and getting into a top program. Please reach out and I'll be happy to share my resources and give my two cents. Michael did the same for me - in fact, we connected through blogging - and I would like to pay the kindness forward. So my first piece of advice even though you haven't asked yet is to start early, at least one and a half to two years before you would like to enroll. Holla if you want to know more. Stay up y'all and since the weekend is almost here, make it a good one!
Ms. May
Friday, February 29, 2008
UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!
Since I posted yesterday, I learned that I'm in at Kellogg!!!!!!!!!! A freaking top 5 school. I cannot believe it. God is truly good. For me, Kellogg was what we in the b-school application world call a "reach" school - and I reached it...LOL! Hmmmmm......Cornell who? LOL. Just kidding. Or am I? Have a fab weekend guys. I sure will. God bless.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
GONE TOO LONG
Hey Y'all! I wonder if anyone still bothers to read my blog since it's been ages since I last updated. My people, make una no vex o. Na life o. So much has happened between Christmas and now that as much as I have wanted to write, I had no clue where to begin. So, I'll do a checklist of sorts and try to hit the highlights.
December
December
- Nigeria was a blast. I arrived on December 24th and immediately started hitting all the weddings and events. It was non-stop for real. Congrats to Bimbo, Ade, Titi, Damola, and to the many others who got hitched in December. Long may your unions last.
- Christmas Day was great. The first with the boo, and he didn't disappoint. Gifts for me and the whole entire family as well. He was not playing. LOL.
- The arrival of boo's brother and his American/Ghanaian gf (now fiance - more on this later). I finally got to meet her after many phone conversations, and she was even cooler in person. The boo's folks threw us a party to introduce everyone to us. It was lots of fun, very cool and an opportunity to see where boo and his brother got their "mojo" from. LOL
- Last, but certainly not least - it was absolutely fantastic to be home with my family.
January
- January 1 was a year for me and boo. It was very low key but great. Lunch at Lobster Pot and a movie and some we time. I put together a CD with our moments from the past year for boo (thanks ICY!), which he loved. I was promised a bigger celebration later.
- I threw a get together at the house for friends. It was great to have folks that I hang with in ATL and the US at my home in Naija. Shout-out to Yuwa for making sure she showed up, albeit when the party was over. Big-ups to Jess, Bola, Titi, Steve, Fred, Zee, Tunde and everyone else for making it memorable. Thanks to my sis, bro, dad, boo and mom especially for making it happen. And you know Naija time was in full-effect when people started showing up 4 hours after the party was supposed to start! As a side-note, Naija has a way of helping you distill the real people from the crap people in your life. Just saying...LOL.
- Also on party day, boo's brother and his gf returned from a day trip to Ghana ENGAGED! Boo's brother did good on the rock too, I might add. They missed the party but we celebrated afterwards anyway and caught up on their nightmarish 4 hour experience at the airport on their return.
- Boo made sure he took off work the whole time I was home, which was great so I got to see him all the time. It was fabulous and made me even more excited about what was to come. I was sad to leave Naija but hey, life must go on.
- My return to the States was pretty sad for me but I got tons of great news on my return. I completed my interview with Emory, found out that I was admitted at Vanderbilt with scholarship and invited to interview with Chicago.
FEBRUARY (Best month so far!!!! - LOL)
- I learned in Early February that I was also admitted to Emory with the possibility of an amazing scholarship. I also completed my interview with Kellogg and Chicago. As far as my MBA apps go, I'm 4 out of 5 so far and I'm extremely blessed. I know I'll definitely be going to school somewhere in the Fall and it's such a great position to be in especially after all the blood, sweat and tears. Again, a big shout-out to all my friends who supported me during the application process. I love you all! I'm still waiting to hear from Cornell about an interview and by the end of March, I'll know where I'll be going. Pray for me y'all.
- I went dress shopping with my gf in whose wedding I learned I'll be a bridesmaid, which is exciting! She looked beautiful and I cannot wait for the day. It's gonna be tres classy.
- My dad and brother came in town for a few days, which was exhausting, but wonderful. My brother also turned 18, and it's so amazing to see how much he's grown. 6ft 4 and still growing and smart as can be. Proud of him!
- My sis shared some absolutely fantastic news and I'm so happy for her. I'll leave her to let y'all know....LOL
- My mom is in town now...well, in NY and she'll be here with me next week.
- We added a new member to our family - Sage, a Pomeranian mix dog. She is in California with my aunt and we can't wait to meet her!
- Ummmmm....oh yeah......BOO is here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now, you know I couldn't keep that to myself. LOL. He arrived over a week ago and is with me for a cple of weeks before he has to start his job up North. We're hoping he can get on a project in ATL but either way, it's sooooooooo much better than a cross Atlantic deal. He has been spoiling me rotten since he got here and I'm telling you y'all, LIFE IS SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS!!!!!!!!. I can't even front. It's just so good to have his physical support and know that he's waiting at home when I get there. I'm showing him the city, he's getting to know my friends better, we've gone to church.....I could go on. It's just fabulous!
- 2008 for me has been fantastic so far. The positives have far exceeded the negatives and I am so so thankful to God for his grace, mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. It's more than I think I deserve but I am so grateful and I'll take it!
So, those are the highlights. If I left anything out, I'll come update it. I hope things are good with you guys. I haven't been able to keep up with the blog reading as much but I'm trying. Keep praying for me and I'll keep praying for you. Love y'all...ALWAYS!
Ms. May
Monday, December 17, 2007
DONE AND DUSTED - NAIJA HERE I COME!
Hey Y'all. A new month and I'm still at this whole application thing. Actually, the essay writing thing. It's kicking my butt, no joke but I'm trying not to let it get me down completely. It takes so much time, and saps so much energy but I'm trying to get it done as soon as possible for many reasons.
Above is the beginnings of a post I started on December 4th but never finished. It was titled "Trying to Stay Afloat". And I really was. It was tough going there for a minute trying to complete all my essays and submit my applications. At one point two weeks ago, I thought I was done, only to have to do it all over again. But I'm proud to say that I made it. Or should I say, I kept my head above water, and managed to swim to shore. All my applications were submitted yesterday and so now it's the waiting game - for interview invites, and admission letters. I thought my GMAT experience was tough and nothing could beat that but the essay writing experience was just as challenging. I hope the waiting isn't quite as bad. I would like to thank everyone was that was on my essay review committee. I appreciate all the feedback, as harsh as I thought some of it was. It pushed me and hopefully made me come up with some good stuff that will make those b-schools want lil ol me.
Now, on to more fun stuff. I'm off to Nigeria in a few days. Yay!!!!!! Now that the essays and apps are submitted, I can focus on being excited and getting ready for the trip - packing, shopping for last minute things and such. It's going to be so great. Tons of friends from here are going to be home. All the weddings, lunches, get-togethers and such - my calendar is already full. Oh, and the food - Ofada rice, REAL pounded yam, Yamarita - LOL. Ill also be seeing my family - my star sis, my always growing brother, my fab and funny mother and my darling dad. And of course, best of all, I get to see my honey again after a whole 4 months. It seems like a lifetime ago that I last saw him. Plus his brother is bringing his significant other, who is Ghanaian American, to Nigeria. I talk to her a lot but we've never met so I am so excited that I get to see her in person. And one of my very close friends is having her introduction/birthday celebration so that's going to be fabulous. I've invited a few folks to my home for a little shindig on the 2nd so that should be good too. Hopefully, it won't be one of those it's a little get-together that turns into a full-blown party things. I really want it to be as intimate as possible but we'll see sha. Uzo, I'd love for you to come as well so I'll holla.
So people, you know I can't leave y'all without being a little reflective about the past year. This has been an amazing year for me - beyond my wildest imaginations. I met the love of my life, built relationships with friends that I know will stand the test of time, have actually submitted my applications to business school, and grew spiritually this year. I would say it's been a year that will continue to bear fruit in the new year. I know it wasn't as great for many, but as long as you're still alive, tomorrow is another opportunity for something great to happen. A good friend of mine told me the other day that it's important for us to always pray for a helper - the one person that God can send to completely change the trajectory of our lives for the better. I feel lucky because I've had many helpers this year and I'm going to continue to pray for more - not just for me, but for my friends and family, and for whoever may need it. So if you're reading this and are happy that the year is coming to an end and taking the bad with it - I am praying for 2008 to be the year that God will send your helper. And if 2007 was great for you, then I pray that 2008 will bring even more helpers and more awesome things with it. Continue praying for me too, especially for my health. Merry Christmas, and a very Happy, Joyous, Wonderful, Helper-filled New Year.
Always,
Ms. May
Above is the beginnings of a post I started on December 4th but never finished. It was titled "Trying to Stay Afloat". And I really was. It was tough going there for a minute trying to complete all my essays and submit my applications. At one point two weeks ago, I thought I was done, only to have to do it all over again. But I'm proud to say that I made it. Or should I say, I kept my head above water, and managed to swim to shore. All my applications were submitted yesterday and so now it's the waiting game - for interview invites, and admission letters. I thought my GMAT experience was tough and nothing could beat that but the essay writing experience was just as challenging. I hope the waiting isn't quite as bad. I would like to thank everyone was that was on my essay review committee. I appreciate all the feedback, as harsh as I thought some of it was. It pushed me and hopefully made me come up with some good stuff that will make those b-schools want lil ol me.
Now, on to more fun stuff. I'm off to Nigeria in a few days. Yay!!!!!! Now that the essays and apps are submitted, I can focus on being excited and getting ready for the trip - packing, shopping for last minute things and such. It's going to be so great. Tons of friends from here are going to be home. All the weddings, lunches, get-togethers and such - my calendar is already full. Oh, and the food - Ofada rice, REAL pounded yam, Yamarita - LOL. Ill also be seeing my family - my star sis, my always growing brother, my fab and funny mother and my darling dad. And of course, best of all, I get to see my honey again after a whole 4 months. It seems like a lifetime ago that I last saw him. Plus his brother is bringing his significant other, who is Ghanaian American, to Nigeria. I talk to her a lot but we've never met so I am so excited that I get to see her in person. And one of my very close friends is having her introduction/birthday celebration so that's going to be fabulous. I've invited a few folks to my home for a little shindig on the 2nd so that should be good too. Hopefully, it won't be one of those it's a little get-together that turns into a full-blown party things. I really want it to be as intimate as possible but we'll see sha. Uzo, I'd love for you to come as well so I'll holla.
So people, you know I can't leave y'all without being a little reflective about the past year. This has been an amazing year for me - beyond my wildest imaginations. I met the love of my life, built relationships with friends that I know will stand the test of time, have actually submitted my applications to business school, and grew spiritually this year. I would say it's been a year that will continue to bear fruit in the new year. I know it wasn't as great for many, but as long as you're still alive, tomorrow is another opportunity for something great to happen. A good friend of mine told me the other day that it's important for us to always pray for a helper - the one person that God can send to completely change the trajectory of our lives for the better. I feel lucky because I've had many helpers this year and I'm going to continue to pray for more - not just for me, but for my friends and family, and for whoever may need it. So if you're reading this and are happy that the year is coming to an end and taking the bad with it - I am praying for 2008 to be the year that God will send your helper. And if 2007 was great for you, then I pray that 2008 will bring even more helpers and more awesome things with it. Continue praying for me too, especially for my health. Merry Christmas, and a very Happy, Joyous, Wonderful, Helper-filled New Year.
Always,
Ms. May
Thursday, November 01, 2007
BACK IN THE BUILDING!!!!!
Hey Y'all! What's good? It's been a long time and I apologize for being MIA. I have so much going on and unfortunately blogging has taken a back seat. I owe you many updates and I'll try to cover them in this one so guess what? It's gonna be a long one!
So, last time I blogged, Chrisette Michelle was in my CD player and my GMAT exam was looming. Since then, Jill Scott has replaced Chrisette and I conquered the GMAT!!!!!! Thank you so much to all who inquired, prayed for me, and wished me well. While I won't tell you how abysmal my first two scores were but I will say that my FINAL (yes, FINAL cos for one moment I even contemplated taking it again...LOL) score is 160 points higher than my last attempt. So all those studies that show that your score cannot improve significantly beyond the 2nd try are ridiculous - I'm proof that it's not true!
So what worked for me? I think everything just came together for me this time. I worked with a tutor on the Quant section because that was my problem area, kept up study on my Verbal cos that was my strength and I didn't want it to be affected, took all the practice tests I could get my hands on, made sure I knew my stuff and felt confidence, and the key - I let go, and let God. And it worked! I walked into that exam believing that I would walk out with a smile on my face and I did. No one can understand how much of a weight was lifted off me when I got done. It meant that I could move forward because I felt STUCK, STIFLED, and STUPID with that exam hanging over me and it was like I could finally come up for air when it was done! So now I can apply to ANY school I want to and there's nothing like feeling that you have choices, is there?
So what now? Well, I am applying to 5 schools which means lots of essay writing and those essays have to be PERFECT. Ever since I became an MLT fellow earlier this year, all I've heard is "the essays are important", "it's your opportunity to tell your story", and "your essays can make or break your application". So yeah, I get it which is why it's taking up a huge amount of my time. I have 20 essays to write for all the schools, and one of the programs I'm applying to is a dual-degree program as well. I've been struggling with the essay writing though. At first, the issue was finding the motivation to write and one of my friends theorized that it was because I was burned out from prepping for the GMAT. I have finally begun to write, and sent my initial essays out for review and let me tell you - it's a tough and emotional process!
You know people are trying to get the best out of you by being critical but it's so tough to hear especially when you think you're a fairly decent writer - LOL. But I know not to take it personally, and appreciate all the help and feedback I'm receiving. In addition, writing those essays requires significant reflection. I mean, I'm all for reflection and do it constantly but man!, when a b-school essay asks to you clearly and succinctly articulate what it is you're most passionate about and why, for example, you begin to realize that while you may kinda, sorta know the answer to that question deep down inside in your heart of hearts, that is just not good enough. Anyway, it looks like most of my applications will be sent in round 2 in January, and feedback won't come till around March. I hope to blog more often to try to document my whole application experience instead of starting a whole new one just for that. Maybe my experience will help others applying or planning to apply. I find that I've become somewhat of an expert on the whole process from GMAT prep to applications to school research, and program strengths, and b-school resources.
Moving on. I am now in the throes of the travel season at work which means that since September, your girl has been tripping from one place to the next on business. It may sound like fun and I do enjoy it, I won't lie, but it's tough to focus on essays and finding time to have fun and see friends when I'm in two to three cities a week sometimes. And I travel on weekends too, which sucks sometimes. Finding time to cook, eat healthy, exercise (not that I do anyway, but you know...LOL), do laundry, and all those other important day-to-day things is tough. It's winding down now though, so I'll be going on my last trip just before thanksgiving.
So where have I been in the last couple of months? Well, I'm writing this from my hotel room in Clinton, SC - very unglamorous, I know. I've also been to Greenville and Spartanburg SC, Miami, AL, MS, Daytona Beach, and MN (MLT stuff though. I'm off to Baltimore next and then Kansas City and I'll be through for the fall! I'm looking forward to spending Thanksgiving in Cali with my diverse family - Nigerian, Mexican, Polish, American blended family - LOL. I'm excited. I'm still keeping my fingers that my boo will be here in time for that, but if not then it's not God's will. I shouldn't complain cos I saw him in August and yes, I will see him again in December cos I'm going home but you know how it is. A woman in love and all.......LOL. I miss you so much my darling - and Happy 10th month anniversary!!!! Can you believe we've managed to do this LD thing for this long and it's only gotten bigger, better, and stronger? You're my heart honey, and I thank you so much for your patience, love, support, encouragement, and honesty. I always wanted and prayed for someone who put me first and God heard me because you do that always, and without hesitation. Te amo, mi corazon. OK!
Finally, if you don't already, you need to head on over to Funmi Iyanda's blog to check out the series of posts she's doing on "the good society". It's a very interesting take on the issue of collective and personal good and why we (Nigerians) need to embrace the idea of collective good to be able to move forward. It's certainly something I've always thought about and believe in, especially seeing it on display here in the US on a daily basis. It works! Ms. Iyanda puts it more eloquently and in a more scholarly way than I can so go check it out, and support her cause as well. I plan to.
God bless you all. Really. Thank you all for everything and please keep praying for me as I work on my essays and send in my applications. You are a blessing to me and will be duly rewarded for your prayers and support. Have a great rest of the week and stay up! Anything is possible, if you just work hard AND believe - I am an example. Love y'all.
So, last time I blogged, Chrisette Michelle was in my CD player and my GMAT exam was looming. Since then, Jill Scott has replaced Chrisette and I conquered the GMAT!!!!!! Thank you so much to all who inquired, prayed for me, and wished me well. While I won't tell you how abysmal my first two scores were but I will say that my FINAL (yes, FINAL cos for one moment I even contemplated taking it again...LOL) score is 160 points higher than my last attempt. So all those studies that show that your score cannot improve significantly beyond the 2nd try are ridiculous - I'm proof that it's not true!
So what worked for me? I think everything just came together for me this time. I worked with a tutor on the Quant section because that was my problem area, kept up study on my Verbal cos that was my strength and I didn't want it to be affected, took all the practice tests I could get my hands on, made sure I knew my stuff and felt confidence, and the key - I let go, and let God. And it worked! I walked into that exam believing that I would walk out with a smile on my face and I did. No one can understand how much of a weight was lifted off me when I got done. It meant that I could move forward because I felt STUCK, STIFLED, and STUPID with that exam hanging over me and it was like I could finally come up for air when it was done! So now I can apply to ANY school I want to and there's nothing like feeling that you have choices, is there?
So what now? Well, I am applying to 5 schools which means lots of essay writing and those essays have to be PERFECT. Ever since I became an MLT fellow earlier this year, all I've heard is "the essays are important", "it's your opportunity to tell your story", and "your essays can make or break your application". So yeah, I get it which is why it's taking up a huge amount of my time. I have 20 essays to write for all the schools, and one of the programs I'm applying to is a dual-degree program as well. I've been struggling with the essay writing though. At first, the issue was finding the motivation to write and one of my friends theorized that it was because I was burned out from prepping for the GMAT. I have finally begun to write, and sent my initial essays out for review and let me tell you - it's a tough and emotional process!
You know people are trying to get the best out of you by being critical but it's so tough to hear especially when you think you're a fairly decent writer - LOL. But I know not to take it personally, and appreciate all the help and feedback I'm receiving. In addition, writing those essays requires significant reflection. I mean, I'm all for reflection and do it constantly but man!, when a b-school essay asks to you clearly and succinctly articulate what it is you're most passionate about and why, for example, you begin to realize that while you may kinda, sorta know the answer to that question deep down inside in your heart of hearts, that is just not good enough. Anyway, it looks like most of my applications will be sent in round 2 in January, and feedback won't come till around March. I hope to blog more often to try to document my whole application experience instead of starting a whole new one just for that. Maybe my experience will help others applying or planning to apply. I find that I've become somewhat of an expert on the whole process from GMAT prep to applications to school research, and program strengths, and b-school resources.
Moving on. I am now in the throes of the travel season at work which means that since September, your girl has been tripping from one place to the next on business. It may sound like fun and I do enjoy it, I won't lie, but it's tough to focus on essays and finding time to have fun and see friends when I'm in two to three cities a week sometimes. And I travel on weekends too, which sucks sometimes. Finding time to cook, eat healthy, exercise (not that I do anyway, but you know...LOL), do laundry, and all those other important day-to-day things is tough. It's winding down now though, so I'll be going on my last trip just before thanksgiving.
So where have I been in the last couple of months? Well, I'm writing this from my hotel room in Clinton, SC - very unglamorous, I know. I've also been to Greenville and Spartanburg SC, Miami, AL, MS, Daytona Beach, and MN (MLT stuff though. I'm off to Baltimore next and then Kansas City and I'll be through for the fall! I'm looking forward to spending Thanksgiving in Cali with my diverse family - Nigerian, Mexican, Polish, American blended family - LOL. I'm excited. I'm still keeping my fingers that my boo will be here in time for that, but if not then it's not God's will. I shouldn't complain cos I saw him in August and yes, I will see him again in December cos I'm going home but you know how it is. A woman in love and all.......LOL. I miss you so much my darling - and Happy 10th month anniversary!!!! Can you believe we've managed to do this LD thing for this long and it's only gotten bigger, better, and stronger? You're my heart honey, and I thank you so much for your patience, love, support, encouragement, and honesty. I always wanted and prayed for someone who put me first and God heard me because you do that always, and without hesitation. Te amo, mi corazon. OK!
Finally, if you don't already, you need to head on over to Funmi Iyanda's blog to check out the series of posts she's doing on "the good society". It's a very interesting take on the issue of collective and personal good and why we (Nigerians) need to embrace the idea of collective good to be able to move forward. It's certainly something I've always thought about and believe in, especially seeing it on display here in the US on a daily basis. It works! Ms. Iyanda puts it more eloquently and in a more scholarly way than I can so go check it out, and support her cause as well. I plan to.
God bless you all. Really. Thank you all for everything and please keep praying for me as I work on my essays and send in my applications. You are a blessing to me and will be duly rewarded for your prayers and support. Have a great rest of the week and stay up! Anything is possible, if you just work hard AND believe - I am an example. Love y'all.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
IF THERE EVER WAS A WORD TO DESCRIBE ME........
The closest anyone has come is Taiye Tuakli-Wosornu, with this awesome article. I identified with the characteristics and struggles he (she?) describes so strongly. Folks, I am Afropolitan. Are you? Read the article and then let me know what you think. I'm interested to see who identifies or doesn't.
Thanks Wande!
Afterthought: I was so excited about the Afropolitan article that I failed to metion that it is a part of a sort of anthology of articles, some written by familiar names, that attempt to answer the question "Where is Africa now?". Read the others if you have time as well. Peace!
Thanks Wande!
Afterthought: I was so excited about the Afropolitan article that I failed to metion that it is a part of a sort of anthology of articles, some written by familiar names, that attempt to answer the question "Where is Africa now?". Read the others if you have time as well. Peace!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Good Friends Are Hard To Find, I Think I'll Keep Mine....Thank You Kesingsheen!
Ok...funny title I know, but does anyone who grew up in Naija remember that ad for the hair cream, Kesingsheen? "Good hair is hard to find, I think I'll keep mine. Thank You Kesingsheen". Well, I do! So I modified it a bit cos y'all I have me some good friends and so it really should be, Thank You God!!!!!!
A lot has gone on since I last graced these pages with my presence. I was on a roll for a while but I told y'all it wouldn't last, didn't I? LOL. Anyhoo, the past few weeks have been a roller coaster of fun and hard work. Amidst studying for my GMAT, and work and life, I had 8 family members visit from London which happily took up a ton of my time. I had a blast spending time with them, especially the kids ranging in age from 4 to 15, and showing them Atlanta. They were here for about 8 days with one full weekend so I rented a minivan for the weekend, rounded up the troops and we visited Zoo Atlanta, Atlantic Station, Lenox, Phipps, (what, you didn't know they were local attractions....lol), and best of all, the MLK National Historic site. I had never been, and when I say that the experience was the most memorable and heartwarming thing we all experienced together, I am not exaggerating. Even the little ones somehow felt the magnitude of the man whose life story we were experiencing....no joke. It was amazing!
We weren't able to squeeze in the Aquarium, the World of Coke and Six Flags so there's a lot left to do next time they come.....or at least that's what we told them anyway. LOL. On their last night, I took the grown-ups downtown for dinner at Gladys Knight Chicken and Waffles, and ran into the coolest chick ever, Leona Lewis, the British girl who won X Factor in the UK. She was the nicest and we chatted and she told me she's in ATL recording with Ne-Yo. We took pics and left her to her meal. I think I'll be stopping by GKCW a bit more often now - never know who I might run into next!
The fam left the next day and then it was back to studying and having some fun as well over the long weekend. I hit up my first Final Fridays (TiwaWorks) party in a long time, and had an absolute blast, VIP style! The Naija crew was in town for the weekend and represented well. Also my friend's sis had a baby who was named after me....LOL. Not really, we just have the same name - so I spent some time with them as well. Then fast-forward to last weekend - my BDAY weekend. I was expecting it to be very low-key. On Friday, the boo made sure I got some flowers since he couldn't be here to celebrate with me and I had dinner with my girl Cris at Cheesecake Factory.
Saturday was spent with family and at a shindig at another friend's place. We had a ton of fun dancing and playing musical chairs. Note to people - musical chairs as an adult can be brutal!!!!! The people I played with were taking absolutely no prisoners...LOL. My bum still hurts from falling on the floor. LOL. Anyway - my friends made sure I stayed till midnight and sang to me and put a candle on a piece of cake for me. The we stayed and gisted till the early hours. On Sunday, I went to church and it was just ALL about thanking God and giving Him praise.....I didn't ask for anything. I just sang, and danced and praised Him. Then I met up with my friend Michael at Sal Grosso for what I thought would be a quiet dinner, only to find my friends from the night before and more at the restaurant. It was a blast and I realized even more than ever that I am so lucky and blessed to have good friends - people who I consider family now. I was also spoiled with gifts by them, as well as all of the phone calls, text messages and FB messages I received.
Me being serenaded at my birthday dinner. I got serenaded twice too. Once in English and once in Espanol! Who's a lucky girl then?
Just to take a moment to reflect, this time last year, I was lamenting about this. It's amazing the difference a year makes. I spent most of last year reflecting, making decisions about who and what was important to me, making changes that would move me forward and closer to the life that I have envisioned for myself and hopefully closer to my life's purpose. Last year was spent cleaning out my closet and this year, I have seen the benefits of doing those things. I have seen God's goodness just manifest itself in my life in ways I could not have imagined and I am ever so thankful. As always, I am still a work in progress, but the progress is happening and reaping rewards. The biggest change has been the QUALITY of people I now surround myself with. It is really true that you attract who you are, and it is wonderful being surrounded and loved and cared about by good, like-minded people. So to the boo, and to T, S, W, D, T and M especially - thank you so much for being there and for being such amazing friends.
So, this is the end of my gist o. You all have a blessed week. Make it count for something, you know? Make it count! Love Y'all and I hope to be back soon with another Changing the World article. Peace!
A lot has gone on since I last graced these pages with my presence. I was on a roll for a while but I told y'all it wouldn't last, didn't I? LOL. Anyhoo, the past few weeks have been a roller coaster of fun and hard work. Amidst studying for my GMAT, and work and life, I had 8 family members visit from London which happily took up a ton of my time. I had a blast spending time with them, especially the kids ranging in age from 4 to 15, and showing them Atlanta. They were here for about 8 days with one full weekend so I rented a minivan for the weekend, rounded up the troops and we visited Zoo Atlanta, Atlantic Station, Lenox, Phipps, (what, you didn't know they were local attractions....lol), and best of all, the MLK National Historic site. I had never been, and when I say that the experience was the most memorable and heartwarming thing we all experienced together, I am not exaggerating. Even the little ones somehow felt the magnitude of the man whose life story we were experiencing....no joke. It was amazing!
We weren't able to squeeze in the Aquarium, the World of Coke and Six Flags so there's a lot left to do next time they come.....or at least that's what we told them anyway. LOL. On their last night, I took the grown-ups downtown for dinner at Gladys Knight Chicken and Waffles, and ran into the coolest chick ever, Leona Lewis, the British girl who won X Factor in the UK. She was the nicest and we chatted and she told me she's in ATL recording with Ne-Yo. We took pics and left her to her meal. I think I'll be stopping by GKCW a bit more often now - never know who I might run into next!
The fam left the next day and then it was back to studying and having some fun as well over the long weekend. I hit up my first Final Fridays (TiwaWorks) party in a long time, and had an absolute blast, VIP style! The Naija crew was in town for the weekend and represented well. Also my friend's sis had a baby who was named after me....LOL. Not really, we just have the same name - so I spent some time with them as well. Then fast-forward to last weekend - my BDAY weekend. I was expecting it to be very low-key. On Friday, the boo made sure I got some flowers since he couldn't be here to celebrate with me and I had dinner with my girl Cris at Cheesecake Factory.
Saturday was spent with family and at a shindig at another friend's place. We had a ton of fun dancing and playing musical chairs. Note to people - musical chairs as an adult can be brutal!!!!! The people I played with were taking absolutely no prisoners...LOL. My bum still hurts from falling on the floor. LOL. Anyway - my friends made sure I stayed till midnight and sang to me and put a candle on a piece of cake for me. The we stayed and gisted till the early hours. On Sunday, I went to church and it was just ALL about thanking God and giving Him praise.....I didn't ask for anything. I just sang, and danced and praised Him. Then I met up with my friend Michael at Sal Grosso for what I thought would be a quiet dinner, only to find my friends from the night before and more at the restaurant. It was a blast and I realized even more than ever that I am so lucky and blessed to have good friends - people who I consider family now. I was also spoiled with gifts by them, as well as all of the phone calls, text messages and FB messages I received.
Me being serenaded at my birthday dinner. I got serenaded twice too. Once in English and once in Espanol! Who's a lucky girl then?Just to take a moment to reflect, this time last year, I was lamenting about this. It's amazing the difference a year makes. I spent most of last year reflecting, making decisions about who and what was important to me, making changes that would move me forward and closer to the life that I have envisioned for myself and hopefully closer to my life's purpose. Last year was spent cleaning out my closet and this year, I have seen the benefits of doing those things. I have seen God's goodness just manifest itself in my life in ways I could not have imagined and I am ever so thankful. As always, I am still a work in progress, but the progress is happening and reaping rewards. The biggest change has been the QUALITY of people I now surround myself with. It is really true that you attract who you are, and it is wonderful being surrounded and loved and cared about by good, like-minded people. So to the boo, and to T, S, W, D, T and M especially - thank you so much for being there and for being such amazing friends.
So, this is the end of my gist o. You all have a blessed week. Make it count for something, you know? Make it count! Love Y'all and I hope to be back soon with another Changing the World article. Peace!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Simple Love's Hard To Come By........
I'm back AGAIN! Can't help it...LOL. When you're inspired, you're inspired I guess! I've been bumping the Chrisette Michelle album non stop for a few weeks now and I just keep falling in love with her voice and her words over and over again. My favorite part of this particular song, "Good Girl" is highlighted. I was listening to the album on the way home and as I listened to this song, I thought about how much time "the boo" gave me when I was home. Every single moment was mine, and that quality time is the best kind of gift you can get. It really isn't about the things, it's about the moments. And you only get moments from time together. So, again honey, thanks for the moments. "Sang" it Chrisette!
What Can Really Make A Man
No Gold Or Money, Clips And Honey
Dips Dont Make A Brother Know
No Dont Make A Brother Golden
What Can Really Make A Man
Is He Really Real
Let Me Let You Know The Deal
What What What
[Verse 1:]
What Makes A Man Golden? (What?)
Is Not What He's Holdin' (What?)
[?] (What?)
And How Fly His Clothes Is (When?)
When Brothers Impress Us (When?)
Attractions Just Natural (When?)
Just Good Conversation (When?)
Ain't Got To Be Packin', No
[Hook:]
Simple Love Money Cant Buy
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
I Dont Need No Sugar Daddy
I Can Be Ya Sugar Mommy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls, No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
I'm Just Trying To Live The Life
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
[Verse 2:]
A Man Puts His Time In (Where?)
You Usually Find Him (Where?)
'cuz Thats Where His Home Is (Where?)
So He's Steady Grindin
Oh Why Do My Sistas
Steady Find Mistas
Who Swear What They Give Us
Is Better Than Quality Time
[Hook:]
Simple Love Money Cant Buy
Simple Loves' Hard To Come By
I Dont Need No Sugar Daddy
I Can Be Ya Sugar Mommy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls, No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
I'm A Lady And I'm Hard To Find
I'm Just Living My Life And Now
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
When A Brother Try To Get The Goodies
With The Blinged Out Chain, Let Me Hear You Say
"Hey! I'm a Sugar Momma"
When A Sugar Daddy Try To Get The Digits
With The Same Old Game, Holla Back
"Hey! I'm a Good Girl"
If Ya Got Ur Own Dough
Yeah Ya Got Ya Own Money
Let A Brother Know
"Hey! I'm a Sugar Momma"
If Ya Gotcha Own Whip And Ya Money Aint Funny
Ladies Let 'em Know
"Hey! I'm a Good Girl"
I'm A Lady And I'm Hard To Find
I'm Just Living My Life And Now
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
Im Just Trying To Living My Life And I
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
What Can Really Make A Man
No Gold Or Money, Clips And Honey
Dips Dont Make A Brother Know
No Dont Make A Brother Golden
What Can Really Make A Man
Is He Really Real
Let Me Let You Know The Deal
What What What
[Verse 1:]
What Makes A Man Golden? (What?)
Is Not What He's Holdin' (What?)
[?] (What?)
And How Fly His Clothes Is (When?)
When Brothers Impress Us (When?)
Attractions Just Natural (When?)
Just Good Conversation (When?)
Ain't Got To Be Packin', No
[Hook:]
Simple Love Money Cant Buy
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
I Dont Need No Sugar Daddy
I Can Be Ya Sugar Mommy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls, No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
I'm Just Trying To Live The Life
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
[Verse 2:]
A Man Puts His Time In (Where?)
You Usually Find Him (Where?)
'cuz Thats Where His Home Is (Where?)
So He's Steady Grindin
Oh Why Do My Sistas
Steady Find Mistas
Who Swear What They Give Us
Is Better Than Quality Time
[Hook:]
Simple Love Money Cant Buy
Simple Loves' Hard To Come By
I Dont Need No Sugar Daddy
I Can Be Ya Sugar Mommy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls, No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
I'm A Lady And I'm Hard To Find
I'm Just Living My Life And Now
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
When A Brother Try To Get The Goodies
With The Blinged Out Chain, Let Me Hear You Say
"Hey! I'm a Sugar Momma"
When A Sugar Daddy Try To Get The Digits
With The Same Old Game, Holla Back
"Hey! I'm a Good Girl"
If Ya Got Ur Own Dough
Yeah Ya Got Ya Own Money
Let A Brother Know
"Hey! I'm a Sugar Momma"
If Ya Gotcha Own Whip And Ya Money Aint Funny
Ladies Let 'em Know
"Hey! I'm a Good Girl"
I'm A Lady And I'm Hard To Find
I'm Just Living My Life And Now
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
[Chorus: x2]
I'm A Good Girl
Ain't To Many Good Girls No
Ain't Too Many Good Girls
(Who) Got They Own Dough
(Who) Got They Own Flow
(Who) Aint Looking For Sugar No More
Simple Love's Hard To Come By
Im Just Trying To Living My Life And I
Trying To Be A Lady
Brothers Holla At Me
If You Love A Lady Who Dont
Need A Sugar Daddy
Monday, August 20, 2007
Blogging Bug
I'm back again y'all. You better enjoy it while it lasts....LOL. I guess I'm subconsciously trying tohonor my anniversary month by blogging more frequently. I assure you, it won't last....:-).
Anyhoo, weekend was nice and laid back. Worked the door at a TiwaWorks/some other folks FUSION event on Saturday....a mix of Naija and Caribbean music. For a first-time event, I'm glad to say that Naijas repped for Tiwa. The other promoters who shall remain nameless barely brought anyone out. Ran into a fellow blogger who comments on my blog periodically and always says nice things. It was nice to put a face to the name. Turns out we totally have some history as well. Nice seeing you hon. I also reconnected with someone I went to elementary school with! Crazy, right. She's now a fabulous pastry chef at a really posh, acclaimed restaurant in the Buckhead area of ATL....I already see my wedding cake being designed and made by her....LOL. It's a small dang world o.
I pretty much unpacked and studied the rest of the weekend but this week I'm getting back to full-force studying since my exam is set for September 17th. Arrrrrrrrggggggghhhhhh! This is the last time I am taking this GMAT especially since it has had power over me for way too long. I will kill it! I will kill it! I will kill it! Prayer. Positive self-reinforcement. Visualization. Positive thinking. Study. Study. Study. Prayer. Positive self-reinforcement. Visualization. Positive Thinking. I think you get the picture. As always, your prayers and good wishes are needed and much appreciated.
On to Naija trip news. It was the best time ever. I will not do it justice in any way shape or form and cannot go into too much detail as per na tori I tell them for ibise so I could go. I will say that this trip was mostly spent with family and it was really nice. I also attended a couple of weddings of course - congrats to Omo and Oma & Wande and Dapo, and a Bach Eve for my friend Toyin whose wedding was on the 18th. I missed Low's birthday dinner due to family commitments but from the pics it looked like it was a blast. The boo took the whole time I was there off work and gave me every single second of his time, which in my book makes him the BEST man I know. He was truly at my beck and call, from taking me to get food, to taking me to get my hair done, to doing some family runs and going to church with us. I also got to spend time with his family which was amazing. The best part of the trip was just knowing he was next door.....that's a story for another time. LOL. So honey, thank you for making my trip so wonderful and making me feel like a queen the whole time. Thank you for stepping up when it came to my family as well. I am so grateful to God for you and I cannot wait to see you again!!!!! The memories will stay forever fresh.
In other news....my fabulous celebrity sister Ms. Minx turned 25 yesterday. I am extremely proud of what you have accomplished in your 25 years and look forward to being able to celebrate many more significant occasions with you. I hope you had a beautiful day because you deserve nothing less. God bless you and keep you and make His face to continually shine upon you and grant you all of your hearts desires. I love you.
And finally, speaking of birthdays........mine is coming up in a few weeks. September 9th to be exact. I'll be a big fat 26. My 25th birthday wasn't much to write home about since it was the day after our house was robbed last year and I didn't feel much like celebrating. Obviously, it's important to praise God and be thankful in good and bad but I will say that this year has been an exceptionally good year, full of many blessings, and I definitely will go to church, especially since it's on a Sunday, and praise God very loudly. Otherwise, I have no clue what I will do. I'm not in the mood to throw a party, especially since I'll be studying for my exam. We'll see sha. Any birthday ideas will be appreciated. This year, I also decided to ask family members who usually give me pressies to donate to my b-school application fund cos those joints run about $200-250 each and I'm applying to about 6 or 7 schools. However; to any friends who read this, below is my dreamwishlist for my birthday so should any of you decide to give me gifts, it won't be too difficult...LOL. It's actually pretty similar to my Xmas wishlist except for the IPOD and MacBook and of course, Idris is no longer on the list, for obvious reasons...LOL. Peace Y'all.
- I can dream and wish, right? LOL
- More realistic wish, I think. The Speedy 30 - the mid size. I got a different one at Christmas but I'm still waiting for this one!
- Still on the list. As last time, the necklace to match the bracelet would be great too.
- This represents giftcards. Favorite clothing stores include; Ann Taylor LOFT, The Limited, H&M, Mango, Nine West, Nordstrom, and Zara. Giftcards to bookstores also count.
Anyhoo, weekend was nice and laid back. Worked the door at a TiwaWorks/some other folks FUSION event on Saturday....a mix of Naija and Caribbean music. For a first-time event, I'm glad to say that Naijas repped for Tiwa. The other promoters who shall remain nameless barely brought anyone out. Ran into a fellow blogger who comments on my blog periodically and always says nice things. It was nice to put a face to the name. Turns out we totally have some history as well. Nice seeing you hon. I also reconnected with someone I went to elementary school with! Crazy, right. She's now a fabulous pastry chef at a really posh, acclaimed restaurant in the Buckhead area of ATL....I already see my wedding cake being designed and made by her....LOL. It's a small dang world o.
I pretty much unpacked and studied the rest of the weekend but this week I'm getting back to full-force studying since my exam is set for September 17th. Arrrrrrrrggggggghhhhhh! This is the last time I am taking this GMAT especially since it has had power over me for way too long. I will kill it! I will kill it! I will kill it! Prayer. Positive self-reinforcement. Visualization. Positive thinking. Study. Study. Study. Prayer. Positive self-reinforcement. Visualization. Positive Thinking. I think you get the picture. As always, your prayers and good wishes are needed and much appreciated.
On to Naija trip news. It was the best time ever. I will not do it justice in any way shape or form and cannot go into too much detail as per na tori I tell them for ibise so I could go. I will say that this trip was mostly spent with family and it was really nice. I also attended a couple of weddings of course - congrats to Omo and Oma & Wande and Dapo, and a Bach Eve for my friend Toyin whose wedding was on the 18th. I missed Low's birthday dinner due to family commitments but from the pics it looked like it was a blast. The boo took the whole time I was there off work and gave me every single second of his time, which in my book makes him the BEST man I know. He was truly at my beck and call, from taking me to get food, to taking me to get my hair done, to doing some family runs and going to church with us. I also got to spend time with his family which was amazing. The best part of the trip was just knowing he was next door.....that's a story for another time. LOL. So honey, thank you for making my trip so wonderful and making me feel like a queen the whole time. Thank you for stepping up when it came to my family as well. I am so grateful to God for you and I cannot wait to see you again!!!!! The memories will stay forever fresh.
In other news....my fabulous celebrity sister Ms. Minx turned 25 yesterday. I am extremely proud of what you have accomplished in your 25 years and look forward to being able to celebrate many more significant occasions with you. I hope you had a beautiful day because you deserve nothing less. God bless you and keep you and make His face to continually shine upon you and grant you all of your hearts desires. I love you.
And finally, speaking of birthdays........mine is coming up in a few weeks. September 9th to be exact. I'll be a big fat 26. My 25th birthday wasn't much to write home about since it was the day after our house was robbed last year and I didn't feel much like celebrating. Obviously, it's important to praise God and be thankful in good and bad but I will say that this year has been an exceptionally good year, full of many blessings, and I definitely will go to church, especially since it's on a Sunday, and praise God very loudly. Otherwise, I have no clue what I will do. I'm not in the mood to throw a party, especially since I'll be studying for my exam. We'll see sha. Any birthday ideas will be appreciated. This year, I also decided to ask family members who usually give me pressies to donate to my b-school application fund cos those joints run about $200-250 each and I'm applying to about 6 or 7 schools. However; to any friends who read this, below is my dreamwishlist for my birthday so should any of you decide to give me gifts, it won't be too difficult...LOL. It's actually pretty similar to my Xmas wishlist except for the IPOD and MacBook and of course, Idris is no longer on the list, for obvious reasons...LOL. Peace Y'all.
- I can dream and wish, right? LOL
- More realistic wish, I think. The Speedy 30 - the mid size. I got a different one at Christmas but I'm still waiting for this one!
- Still on the list. As last time, the necklace to match the bracelet would be great too.
- This represents giftcards. Favorite clothing stores include; Ann Taylor LOFT, The Limited, H&M, Mango, Nine West, Nordstrom, and Zara. Giftcards to bookstores also count.
Friday, August 17, 2007
CHANGING THE WORLD - ONE ACT AT A TIME
I'm hoping to make a couple of Changing the World posts a month. Most of the time, it'll be articles but every once in a while, it may just be an image, or a song, or as it is in this case, the lyrics to a song.
I mentioned the artist, Chrisette Michelle a few posts ago. I did eventually buy her album, which is awesome by the way, and there's a bonus track on it called "I am One" that I just love. I listened to the lyrics and the sentiment of the song really embodies what this series is supposed to be about - just one person reaching out, can make a difference not just in another life, but in the world. One becomes two, and together they are stronger and better. Even more, the two can become three, and four and so on........get my drift?
The song is hopeful, global, local, personal, beautiful, forgiving, unpreachy, simple, and most of all, speaks to the importance of us pulling together. I'll try to post the song later. So, here are the lyrics.
Hello my sister
Did you make a mistake?
There's life in your belly
And it's too much to take.
Hey there my friend
I heard of your Dad.
He was a hero
when the towers were crashed.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
And together we'll find one more
Hey little girl
Little Indian girl.
Can I give you some bread
And a piece of my world.
Look to my fingers
There is hope in my hand
Come to my pocket and I'll give what I can.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
And together we'll find one more.
If one can do anything
Then two can change the world.
If one can make a difference
And together we're so much more.
There was a flood not long ago
It took my people and it tattered my soul.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
You may not have much
But alone I am one without you.
I mentioned the artist, Chrisette Michelle a few posts ago. I did eventually buy her album, which is awesome by the way, and there's a bonus track on it called "I am One" that I just love. I listened to the lyrics and the sentiment of the song really embodies what this series is supposed to be about - just one person reaching out, can make a difference not just in another life, but in the world. One becomes two, and together they are stronger and better. Even more, the two can become three, and four and so on........get my drift?
The song is hopeful, global, local, personal, beautiful, forgiving, unpreachy, simple, and most of all, speaks to the importance of us pulling together. I'll try to post the song later. So, here are the lyrics.
Hello my sister
Did you make a mistake?
There's life in your belly
And it's too much to take.
Hey there my friend
I heard of your Dad.
He was a hero
when the towers were crashed.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
And together we'll find one more
Hey little girl
Little Indian girl.
Can I give you some bread
And a piece of my world.
Look to my fingers
There is hope in my hand
Come to my pocket and I'll give what I can.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
And together we'll find one more.
If one can do anything
Then two can change the world.
If one can make a difference
And together we're so much more.
There was a flood not long ago
It took my people and it tattered my soul.
I am one
And I'm reaching for you
I am one
And together we're two.
I'll be your strength and I won't let you fall
You may not have much
But alone I am one without you.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
ROSS KNIGHT DONE DID IT AGAIN!!!!
Oh to be loved, cherished and adored. This time, it was the proposal to his girlfriend. Amazing! Enjoy and I'll be back with details of my Naija trip soon.
The narrative is here.
The slide show is here.
Let me take this opportunity to say a big fat congrats to my girl, Biodun, who recently got engaged. God Bless you and keep you both, may He make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, may He lift up the light of His countenance upon you, and grant you peace, joy, love, success, prosperity, happiness and more. Amen.
Love is a wonderful thing...........when that love is a mutual adoration, it can move mountains and change the world. So I believe.
The narrative is here.
The slide show is here.
Let me take this opportunity to say a big fat congrats to my girl, Biodun, who recently got engaged. God Bless you and keep you both, may He make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, may He lift up the light of His countenance upon you, and grant you peace, joy, love, success, prosperity, happiness and more. Amen.
Love is a wonderful thing...........when that love is a mutual adoration, it can move mountains and change the world. So I believe.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
HAPPY BELATED ANNIVERSARY TO ME...LOL
Hey Y'all. Have you missed me? It seems not so.....well, maybe except for Ms. Uzo. Thanks for checking in girl. LOL.
I've been in Nigeria and just returned yesterday. I didn't really have the time to check email and do anything online while I was home so I missed my 1 year blog anniversary which was on August 10th. I can't believe it's been that long, even though I've been choppy with updating.
When I think about what this blog means to me, it started as a way to express myself, albeit not anonymously, but it has become more than that. It has reinforced my belief and hope in the future of Nigeria. I am part of a Nigerian blogging community full of amazing people, with diverse interests and talents, full of creativity, ambition and drive, many of whom are committed, as I am, to making a positive contribution to the growth and development of a better Nigeria in some way, shape, or form. In addition, I have made friends - Biodun, and Miguel, to name a couple, who have added exponentially to the quality of my life. I have found old friends. I am able to keep in touch with other friends in a unique way. I have been inspired by other bloggers, whom I would love to meet and get to know as well.
In the last year, I have shared significant moments with many of you. You have rejoiced with me, encouraged me, supported me and reaffirmed my faith, optimism and hope in human and Nigerian nature many a times. I appreciate everyone who reads silently, and voices their opinions by commenting as well. I look forward to another year of blogging. I'm not making any promises to blog more often or anything like that. I want to do more frequent updates and really develop my "Change the World" series but other than that, I'm not sure where it'll go. However; I am sure that wherever it goes, it'll be an experience that I will cherish for a long time to come. Happy Belated Anniversary to me!
I've been in Nigeria and just returned yesterday. I didn't really have the time to check email and do anything online while I was home so I missed my 1 year blog anniversary which was on August 10th. I can't believe it's been that long, even though I've been choppy with updating.
When I think about what this blog means to me, it started as a way to express myself, albeit not anonymously, but it has become more than that. It has reinforced my belief and hope in the future of Nigeria. I am part of a Nigerian blogging community full of amazing people, with diverse interests and talents, full of creativity, ambition and drive, many of whom are committed, as I am, to making a positive contribution to the growth and development of a better Nigeria in some way, shape, or form. In addition, I have made friends - Biodun, and Miguel, to name a couple, who have added exponentially to the quality of my life. I have found old friends. I am able to keep in touch with other friends in a unique way. I have been inspired by other bloggers, whom I would love to meet and get to know as well.
In the last year, I have shared significant moments with many of you. You have rejoiced with me, encouraged me, supported me and reaffirmed my faith, optimism and hope in human and Nigerian nature many a times. I appreciate everyone who reads silently, and voices their opinions by commenting as well. I look forward to another year of blogging. I'm not making any promises to blog more often or anything like that. I want to do more frequent updates and really develop my "Change the World" series but other than that, I'm not sure where it'll go. However; I am sure that wherever it goes, it'll be an experience that I will cherish for a long time to come. Happy Belated Anniversary to me!
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
CHANGING THE WORLD - ONE ACT AT A TIME
SAN FRANCISCO - For years Dr. Victoria Hale could see the problem. The world's poorest people — from India to Africa — were dying from curable diseases while big drug companies did little to help.
Then one day she admitted to a cab driver, an African immigrant, that she worked for a big drug company.
"He rolled his head back and laughed and said, 'You all have all the money!'" she recalls.
Hale quit her job, took out a loan and began working on a crazy dream — a nonprofit drug company.
"I wanted to do something that would put the world in a new place, put it on a new path," she says.
Hale began searching for drugs whose patents had expired, or that were sitting on a shelf because there wasn't enough profit in them. And she found one.
She brokered deals and organized a drug trial in India to combat deadly black fever.
"All these patients (in this room), if they don't get treatment, will die within six or eight months," says Dr. C.P. Thakur, India's former Minister of Health.
Including 10-year-old Dilip. But Hale proved an old, neglected drug will inexpensively cure black fever. Dilip walked out 100 percent cured. Her efforts could save 200,000 lives a year.
And then Hale met Dr. Jay Keasling, a Berkeley professor who helped invent a cheap way to synthesize a drug already proven to cure malaria. Their new partnership — his for-profit company Amyris Biotechnologies with her nonprofit Institute for OneWorld Health — could soon help save (we're not making this up) millions of lives.
"Amyris will make no profit, and OneWorld Health will make no profit," says Keasling.
"She had a vision," says Tachi Yamada. "Most people who are visionaries start out with a vision."
Yamada works for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which decided along the way to give OneWorld Health $150 million.
"I actually think she's a real hero," says Yamada.
Then one day she admitted to a cab driver, an African immigrant, that she worked for a big drug company.
"He rolled his head back and laughed and said, 'You all have all the money!'" she recalls.
Hale quit her job, took out a loan and began working on a crazy dream — a nonprofit drug company.
"I wanted to do something that would put the world in a new place, put it on a new path," she says.
Hale began searching for drugs whose patents had expired, or that were sitting on a shelf because there wasn't enough profit in them. And she found one.
She brokered deals and organized a drug trial in India to combat deadly black fever.
"All these patients (in this room), if they don't get treatment, will die within six or eight months," says Dr. C.P. Thakur, India's former Minister of Health.
Including 10-year-old Dilip. But Hale proved an old, neglected drug will inexpensively cure black fever. Dilip walked out 100 percent cured. Her efforts could save 200,000 lives a year.
And then Hale met Dr. Jay Keasling, a Berkeley professor who helped invent a cheap way to synthesize a drug already proven to cure malaria. Their new partnership — his for-profit company Amyris Biotechnologies with her nonprofit Institute for OneWorld Health — could soon help save (we're not making this up) millions of lives.
"Amyris will make no profit, and OneWorld Health will make no profit," says Keasling.
"She had a vision," says Tachi Yamada. "Most people who are visionaries start out with a vision."
Yamada works for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which decided along the way to give OneWorld Health $150 million.
"I actually think she's a real hero," says Yamada.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Kelly Rowland Collapses in Nigeria
O ga o! Click on the title for more. I guess Beyonce forgot to tell her sister that Nigeria is damn hot!
UPDATE!!!!!!!!!
Go here to see the collapse. Sandra Rose, an ATL celebrity news blogger, seems to think it was a publicity stunt. Whatever! It looked painful.
UPDATE!!!!!!!!!
Go here to see the collapse. Sandra Rose, an ATL celebrity news blogger, seems to think it was a publicity stunt. Whatever! It looked painful.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Just a quick one........
I've been meaning to update that the so-called militants released the little girl I talked about here. Thank God. But they've since kidnapped a few other oil workers. We need a resolution, a revolution......something sha.
On to lighter matters though. I found out that I met Dolapo, the designer of the fabulous UrbanKnit bags and scarves after the fact! LOL. I was in London earlier this year as my avid readers know, and I went out to dinner with a group of fabulously young and talented Nigerian folks. Dolapo sat across from me at dinner and was just mad cool and unassuming. We all had great conversations going on around the table but I chatted with her specifically about her career as an architect. I had absolutely NO clue that I was sitting across from a cool fashionista and I mean that in the best way possible...LOL. I've been coveting one of those bags since I saw a feature on either Bella's or Icy's blog....I can't remember so I'm open to being corrected. I definitely plan to buy one once I extract myself from all the gbese that my GMAT prep is costing me....LOL. Or better yet, my birthday is coming soon....HINT, HINT. And by soon, I mean September!!!! LOL. More on that another time. So anyway, you guys support UrbanKnit o. I love it when I see my Nigerian sisters doing the damn thing.....an architect who also has a love for fashion and uses her technical skills to develop beautiful, sturdy, pieces in traditional fabrics. Nothing like it man!
I meant to put up another Changing the World piece today but I haven't had the time to look up anything but I will soon so that the series actually can be a series...LOL. So bear with me.
Finally, anyone else loving Chrisette Michelle?!!!!!!!!!! That young woman can SAAAANNNGGG! I love Golden and If I Have My Way. I'm about to go download the rest off I-Tunes this weekend. Here's the video for If I Have My Way. Have a fab weekend everyone. Love Y'all!
On to lighter matters though. I found out that I met Dolapo, the designer of the fabulous UrbanKnit bags and scarves after the fact! LOL. I was in London earlier this year as my avid readers know, and I went out to dinner with a group of fabulously young and talented Nigerian folks. Dolapo sat across from me at dinner and was just mad cool and unassuming. We all had great conversations going on around the table but I chatted with her specifically about her career as an architect. I had absolutely NO clue that I was sitting across from a cool fashionista and I mean that in the best way possible...LOL. I've been coveting one of those bags since I saw a feature on either Bella's or Icy's blog....I can't remember so I'm open to being corrected. I definitely plan to buy one once I extract myself from all the gbese that my GMAT prep is costing me....LOL. Or better yet, my birthday is coming soon....HINT, HINT. And by soon, I mean September!!!! LOL. More on that another time. So anyway, you guys support UrbanKnit o. I love it when I see my Nigerian sisters doing the damn thing.....an architect who also has a love for fashion and uses her technical skills to develop beautiful, sturdy, pieces in traditional fabrics. Nothing like it man!
I meant to put up another Changing the World piece today but I haven't had the time to look up anything but I will soon so that the series actually can be a series...LOL. So bear with me.
Finally, anyone else loving Chrisette Michelle?!!!!!!!!!! That young woman can SAAAANNNGGG! I love Golden and If I Have My Way. I'm about to go download the rest off I-Tunes this weekend. Here's the video for If I Have My Way. Have a fab weekend everyone. Love Y'all!
Thursday, July 05, 2007
WHY?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Really, WHY?!!!!!
I have watched as the weeks and the months have passed with more and more stories of kidnappings, and death in this region. In fact, I'm almost surprised when I don't hear anything about the Delta region. I have waited for the booming voice of the new government to speak loudly against these occurrences and possibly present a plan of action but alas, she remains quiet.
When will our government even begin to take some responsibility and attempt to address some of the issues in this region?!!!! Will it perhaps be when a child dies? Even though all human life is valuable, for some reason a child's life seems to be more valuable. But still, would it be enough to mobilize our ass of a government to do anything? I doubt it, and it saddens me.
For some reason, this story conjures up the movie "Man on Fire" in my mind. With the recent spate of child kidnappings, will the targets in that region need armed guards to protect their families, or simply lock them up so home becomes a prison? If the government doesn't do anything, perhaps we need a "Man on Fire" to go and take out all these militants. I am not a proponent of violence but maybe in this case......hell, I don't know.
I have to ask myself sometimes, are these militants really going about getting what they want in the best way? Hasn't their mission and message gotten lost in all the kidnappings for ransom and killings? What do they really hope to acheive with all this?
As much as I try to be optimistic about Nigeria, it is moments like this that almost successfully overshadow my optimism.
I have watched as the weeks and the months have passed with more and more stories of kidnappings, and death in this region. In fact, I'm almost surprised when I don't hear anything about the Delta region. I have waited for the booming voice of the new government to speak loudly against these occurrences and possibly present a plan of action but alas, she remains quiet.
When will our government even begin to take some responsibility and attempt to address some of the issues in this region?!!!! Will it perhaps be when a child dies? Even though all human life is valuable, for some reason a child's life seems to be more valuable. But still, would it be enough to mobilize our ass of a government to do anything? I doubt it, and it saddens me.
For some reason, this story conjures up the movie "Man on Fire" in my mind. With the recent spate of child kidnappings, will the targets in that region need armed guards to protect their families, or simply lock them up so home becomes a prison? If the government doesn't do anything, perhaps we need a "Man on Fire" to go and take out all these militants. I am not a proponent of violence but maybe in this case......hell, I don't know.
I have to ask myself sometimes, are these militants really going about getting what they want in the best way? Hasn't their mission and message gotten lost in all the kidnappings for ransom and killings? What do they really hope to acheive with all this?
As much as I try to be optimistic about Nigeria, it is moments like this that almost successfully overshadow my optimism.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
CHANGING THE WORLD - ONE ACT AT A TIME
I am a strong believer in the philosophy that one person making a difference in the life of one person or more in their community is making a difference in the world. Everytime I see or hear about people doing this, it inspires me and also reminds me that good people exist in a world where we hear more about the evil that men do. As a result, I've decided to start the CHANGING THE WORLD series. I'll be putting up stories, articles and the like about people who are making a difference in their corners of the world. I hope you get inspired as well. Peace y'all!
A PASSION FOR BASEBALL
Jinan, Shandong Province – "You see," Wang Liqiang gestured through the windshield at a taxi that had cut our car off at the traffic light. "This is what I'm talking about."
Wang, an otherwise laidback Shandong native sporting a small potbelly, was working up to his argument.
"China's changing all the time," he continued. "People used to behave okay. Now with all this development, it's chaotic all the time, and the young people have lost a sense of who they are."
He turned to me. "Baseball will bring that sense of order back."
Baseball?
"It teaches people manners," Wang was hitting his stride now. "Baseball is a nine-person sport. Everyone has a position to play. Everyone knows what he needs to do. Everyone has to work together."
‘Baseball is like life’
Spend time in Wang's company and you soon discover how impassioned the 38-year old is about making America's pastime into China's too.
The former businessman runs the Shandong Zhanwang Baseball and Softball Club from a tiny office in the Shandong capital of Jinan. His goal is to increase China's exposure to the ballgame by bringing the sport to young boys across his hometown province.
Wang's zeal for baseball originated when he first saw it played in 1990 – "at the National Games," he said. "The national team wasn't very strong. But the sport was rather quiet and peaceful."
Wanting to learn more, he went out in search of a book explaining baseball. Then he began following the Chinese national baseball team across the country to watch their games. Before long, other aspects of the sport clicked with him: not just the emphasis on mental aptitude but also courtesy. "Players are required to bow when they meet their coach!"
As China stepped up the pace of its rapid economic development in the 1990s, Wang came to the conclusion that baseball was essential. "Life is like finding your position on a baseball field," he said. "The rules of baseball can help you regulate your life and find your goal. Many people don't have goals. Baseball trains the Chinese people…to fight for their goals, fight for their whole life."
So Wang quit his job in marketing and advertising. He sold his home. He sold his car. And on April 18, 2002, he founded the Shandong Zhanwang Baseball and Softball Club.
‘One ball, one soul’
Slogans like "One ball, one soul" in Chinese characters decorate the walls of Wang's office, housed in a school where baseball isn't played and where he says he might be evicted from since the authorities don't see any benefit to having him there.
Wang shrugged and batted away the suggestion that he’d ever leave – an attitude that has served him well in overcoming challenges during the five years he's run the club.
These challenges – the sport’s lack of visibility, coaching/instruction, fields, equipment – stem from baseball's patchy history in China. Although it arrived as early as 1863 (four years before Japan), it never gained the same foothold here as it did with neighboring countries, particularly as baseball was banned during the Cultural Revolution.
The game has since flourished in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where leagues for all different levels of play have developed and from which strong talent has emerged – but has languished in China.
Take equipment. Although Chinese factories manufacture mitts and baseballs for foreign companies, those products aren't widely available to buy in China. So the resourceful Wang has worked relations with potential sponsors and connections to other baseball clubs in Japan and South Korea to obtain bats, balls, and mitts – often well used and broken in.
"Mr. Wang is crazy about baseball," said Harry Shi, a Hong Kong-based businessman who met the club owner four years ago. Shi was so impressed by Wang's passion that he persuaded his employer at the time, American sporting goods company SSG, to sponsor the club. SSG donated 120 baseballs, 24 bats, and one pitching machine – all of which were extremely difficult to come by in China, let alone a small coastal city like Jinan.
Wang also has had to find different ways to fund the club apart from his own money --he's sunk more than $130,000 since 2002. He just doubled the $10 annual dues to enroll their boys in his baseball club. It's a nominal training fee he uses to help pay for basic office expenses, playing in competitions, and, of course, travel.
The club's teams try to travel around China, as well as South Korea and Japan, to see ballgames since they're rarely broadcast on Chinese television. (In fact, we "discovered" Wang and one of his teams in Tianjin. The team had driven five hours by bus to the port city as soon as the boys had finished school at 2 p.m. that Friday in order to catch the Tianjin Lions play the Shanghai Eagles.)
An uphill battle
It's also been tough trying to raise the profile of baseball in schools. In a country where there are only 60 full baseball diamonds, one of Wang's tasks has been to persuade school authorities in Jinan just to provide a small space for boys to practice catching. That means vying with basketball courts and soccer fields – two sports that are far more popular in China.
Wang said 2005 and 2006 were tough years.
But whenever he considered quitting, he thought about the boys. "I see the kids love it so much," he said. "How could I do that to them?"
His perseverance has paid off. One of his club's teams won third place in the 2004 national junior competition. And while only two schools in Jinan had baseball in 2002, there are now about a dozen participating in his club. Wang hopes one of the club’s alumni, just about to finish university, will come back to help coach the teams.
Roughly 200 boys, ages six to 17, play on the 14 teams – including his 14-year-old son, a nephew, and a cousin. "It's a family business!" he laughed.
Team sports a good thing single child China
In fact, Wang has found staunch support from the Parents' Association to develop the club. At a practice session that afternoon in Jinan, parents came out to watch their sons play in a concrete schoolyard.
"Each kid is the only child in the family [and] they often get lonely," said Jiang Ai-xia, the mother of 12 year old Zuo Shou-qie, who just started playing baseball this year. "Letting them play baseball helps cultivate their team spirit and encourages them to play with other kids."
Zuo's performance as first baseman may have been a little erratic, but it didn't diminish his enthusiasm. "Baseball teaches us the power of cooperation…and skills," he said. "Although my skills are not that good."
The boys grin bashfully when they're being interviewed, only allowing their enthusiasm to shine off the field when they talk about baseball's future here, "China is just starting…. Once we start loving baseball, we definitely will beat the other countries," said one boy.
Another explained why they like the Yankees, "Their pitchers throws super fast. They hit also very hard and very far!"
Wang, who is normally stern coaching his team from the sidelines, beamed with pride.
"Five years ago, when I started [this] baseball [team], many people thought I was crazy," he said, especially since he wasn't in it for the money. "Five years later, many people think we are the best in Shandong."
A PASSION FOR BASEBALL
Jinan, Shandong Province – "You see," Wang Liqiang gestured through the windshield at a taxi that had cut our car off at the traffic light. "This is what I'm talking about."
Wang, an otherwise laidback Shandong native sporting a small potbelly, was working up to his argument.
"China's changing all the time," he continued. "People used to behave okay. Now with all this development, it's chaotic all the time, and the young people have lost a sense of who they are."
He turned to me. "Baseball will bring that sense of order back."
Baseball?
"It teaches people manners," Wang was hitting his stride now. "Baseball is a nine-person sport. Everyone has a position to play. Everyone knows what he needs to do. Everyone has to work together."
‘Baseball is like life’
Spend time in Wang's company and you soon discover how impassioned the 38-year old is about making America's pastime into China's too.
The former businessman runs the Shandong Zhanwang Baseball and Softball Club from a tiny office in the Shandong capital of Jinan. His goal is to increase China's exposure to the ballgame by bringing the sport to young boys across his hometown province.
Wang's zeal for baseball originated when he first saw it played in 1990 – "at the National Games," he said. "The national team wasn't very strong. But the sport was rather quiet and peaceful."
Wanting to learn more, he went out in search of a book explaining baseball. Then he began following the Chinese national baseball team across the country to watch their games. Before long, other aspects of the sport clicked with him: not just the emphasis on mental aptitude but also courtesy. "Players are required to bow when they meet their coach!"
As China stepped up the pace of its rapid economic development in the 1990s, Wang came to the conclusion that baseball was essential. "Life is like finding your position on a baseball field," he said. "The rules of baseball can help you regulate your life and find your goal. Many people don't have goals. Baseball trains the Chinese people…to fight for their goals, fight for their whole life."
So Wang quit his job in marketing and advertising. He sold his home. He sold his car. And on April 18, 2002, he founded the Shandong Zhanwang Baseball and Softball Club.
‘One ball, one soul’
Slogans like "One ball, one soul" in Chinese characters decorate the walls of Wang's office, housed in a school where baseball isn't played and where he says he might be evicted from since the authorities don't see any benefit to having him there.
Wang shrugged and batted away the suggestion that he’d ever leave – an attitude that has served him well in overcoming challenges during the five years he's run the club.
These challenges – the sport’s lack of visibility, coaching/instruction, fields, equipment – stem from baseball's patchy history in China. Although it arrived as early as 1863 (four years before Japan), it never gained the same foothold here as it did with neighboring countries, particularly as baseball was banned during the Cultural Revolution.
The game has since flourished in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where leagues for all different levels of play have developed and from which strong talent has emerged – but has languished in China.
Take equipment. Although Chinese factories manufacture mitts and baseballs for foreign companies, those products aren't widely available to buy in China. So the resourceful Wang has worked relations with potential sponsors and connections to other baseball clubs in Japan and South Korea to obtain bats, balls, and mitts – often well used and broken in.
"Mr. Wang is crazy about baseball," said Harry Shi, a Hong Kong-based businessman who met the club owner four years ago. Shi was so impressed by Wang's passion that he persuaded his employer at the time, American sporting goods company SSG, to sponsor the club. SSG donated 120 baseballs, 24 bats, and one pitching machine – all of which were extremely difficult to come by in China, let alone a small coastal city like Jinan.
Wang also has had to find different ways to fund the club apart from his own money --he's sunk more than $130,000 since 2002. He just doubled the $10 annual dues to enroll their boys in his baseball club. It's a nominal training fee he uses to help pay for basic office expenses, playing in competitions, and, of course, travel.
The club's teams try to travel around China, as well as South Korea and Japan, to see ballgames since they're rarely broadcast on Chinese television. (In fact, we "discovered" Wang and one of his teams in Tianjin. The team had driven five hours by bus to the port city as soon as the boys had finished school at 2 p.m. that Friday in order to catch the Tianjin Lions play the Shanghai Eagles.)
An uphill battle
It's also been tough trying to raise the profile of baseball in schools. In a country where there are only 60 full baseball diamonds, one of Wang's tasks has been to persuade school authorities in Jinan just to provide a small space for boys to practice catching. That means vying with basketball courts and soccer fields – two sports that are far more popular in China.
Wang said 2005 and 2006 were tough years.
But whenever he considered quitting, he thought about the boys. "I see the kids love it so much," he said. "How could I do that to them?"
His perseverance has paid off. One of his club's teams won third place in the 2004 national junior competition. And while only two schools in Jinan had baseball in 2002, there are now about a dozen participating in his club. Wang hopes one of the club’s alumni, just about to finish university, will come back to help coach the teams.
Roughly 200 boys, ages six to 17, play on the 14 teams – including his 14-year-old son, a nephew, and a cousin. "It's a family business!" he laughed.
Team sports a good thing single child China
In fact, Wang has found staunch support from the Parents' Association to develop the club. At a practice session that afternoon in Jinan, parents came out to watch their sons play in a concrete schoolyard.
"Each kid is the only child in the family [and] they often get lonely," said Jiang Ai-xia, the mother of 12 year old Zuo Shou-qie, who just started playing baseball this year. "Letting them play baseball helps cultivate their team spirit and encourages them to play with other kids."
Zuo's performance as first baseman may have been a little erratic, but it didn't diminish his enthusiasm. "Baseball teaches us the power of cooperation…and skills," he said. "Although my skills are not that good."
The boys grin bashfully when they're being interviewed, only allowing their enthusiasm to shine off the field when they talk about baseball's future here, "China is just starting…. Once we start loving baseball, we definitely will beat the other countries," said one boy.
Another explained why they like the Yankees, "Their pitchers throws super fast. They hit also very hard and very far!"
Wang, who is normally stern coaching his team from the sidelines, beamed with pride.
"Five years ago, when I started [this] baseball [team], many people thought I was crazy," he said, especially since he wasn't in it for the money. "Five years later, many people think we are the best in Shandong."
Monday, July 02, 2007
One Of Those Days
It has been one of those days when I really miss my family. I have lived away from my mom and dad to varying degrees since I was 10 but except for about 2 years, until 2005 my sister has always been on every journey with me. We haven't necessarily always been in the same place but at least she's been close by. I certainly treasure my alone time and acknowledge that I've been forced to be more outgoing, more social, more personable, more open and more of a lot of other things that I probably wouldn't be because I've been and lived alone. Still, every once in a while I have moments, sometimes fleeting and other times, like today, prolonged, that my alone becomes lonely.
The days that I could pick up the phone and have marathon conversations with my sister when she lived in Dallas are gone. Now I have to catch up with her life through short and sweet text messages, 5 minute phone calls, or juicy tidbits on her blog. I talk to my mom and listen to stories of them hanging out, and doing fun things without me. Lots of "wish you were heres" and "we missed you today at....". I feel like I am missing out on important moments. Not just in my sister's life but with my parents and brother too. There was some comfort when there were two of us here but now, it's me, myself and I and most times it's fine but today is just one of those days when it hurts.
The days that I could pick up the phone and have marathon conversations with my sister when she lived in Dallas are gone. Now I have to catch up with her life through short and sweet text messages, 5 minute phone calls, or juicy tidbits on her blog. I talk to my mom and listen to stories of them hanging out, and doing fun things without me. Lots of "wish you were heres" and "we missed you today at....". I feel like I am missing out on important moments. Not just in my sister's life but with my parents and brother too. There was some comfort when there were two of us here but now, it's me, myself and I and most times it's fine but today is just one of those days when it hurts.
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