Highlights of my journey to 23!

I recently turned 23 and I thought it would be a great idea to have a virtual journal of how the last year went by.

Over the last twelve months, I felt super excited, thankful, loved and at peace. But I also got worried, scared, confused and tired.

I know God loves me and that He is in charge of my life. He always does what’s best for me. I didn’t always acknowledge this when things got overwhelming but I’m glad I know it and nothing can make it untrue.

Alright, here’s to the memories of the year! In no particular order, these are some highlights.

Experienced music and words in a beautiful way

I attended a poetry show by Titilope Sonuga. Thanks to my friend, Margaret who invited me and paid part of the ticket price as an incentive to attend. This was something new for me and I thought I would be bored. But I enjoyed it. It was a nice vibe. Beautiful setting, good music and heartfelt poetry. Maybe this is part of adult fun. It’s something I’d be happy to do again. Staying out at night and the drive afterwards was also cool.

There was also an amazing stage play of Moremi by a production house that I got to watch and I loved it.

I also attended a music concert by Johnny Drille, Johnny’s Room Live. Even though the event didn’t start on time, it was a really beautiful evening. Love and butterflies. Soothing voices. Then I got a drink mix from a mixologist and didn’t feel like my best self for two days. Other than that, I loved the experience.

Me and the star of the show, Titilope Sonuga

I also attended a TEDx event in Lagos. It was a beautiful experience. Enlightening and inspiring. I also liked that the gathering made you think of how to make your world a better place. Then I got interviewed by Ebony Life TV and it aired. Cool stuff when your dad shouts your name in the house that you’re on TV. A big thank you to Daniel for the ticket.

At the TEDx event

Had mini-celeb moments with authors

I got noticed by a few authors whose books I loved reading and reviewed. I won a competition organised by Eniola Prentice, the author of the Still series. That got me featured as a character in the recent volume of the series and cool cash that I spent on my wardrobe. I also participated in a blog tour for the book release.

Also, I won a giveaway from Ufuomaee, the author of The Church Girl. That got me two autographed copies of the two volumes of the book. Laju Iren, the amazing author of Loving Amanda and more books that I love also replied to my comment on Instagram. By the way, all three authors now follow me on Instagram.

Failed an exam, then passed

I’ve failed employment assessment tests before but failing my last professional exam on my first attempt was a different kind of blow. But I had a retake and passed. That made me an affiliate member of ACCA. Less than five months to go and I become a professional member with ACCA suffix to my name. My professional price also goes up!

The message that made my stress of almost 3 years worth it

Visited the Republic of Benin

I took a road trip with a tour company from Lagos to the Republic of Benin for a short stay at La Casa Del Papa. Though I wasn’t a fan of the journey, I loved the time when we weren’t on the bus. I loved the peace and relaxation from the noise of Lagos. The resort also had a beach so it gave a great vibe. There’s gist about this trip but that would be in another post. So, make sure you subscribe to know when it’s published.

At Lake Ganvie village, Benin Republic

My 21st birthday wish came true

When I turned 21, my birthday wish was to be dating by my next birthday. That didn’t happen. And I’m glad it didn’t happen because God knew best that I wasn’t ready. Fast forward to a few months after my 22nd birthday, my wish came true. Of course, there’s more to say about how dating has been but that’s for another post too. Subscribe to the blog for that.

A cake I got on my birthday

Gave a presentation at the office

One of the things I wanted to do in 2019 was to give a presentation to an audience. So, I’m glad I got this opportunity. And more importantly, I talked about a subject I love. It was about respecting the need for a balance between work and other aspects of life. There might not be a perfect balance but be conscious of the imbalance and be intentional to bridge the gap. There is more to life than your job!

I’m open for more talking gigs. Don’t hesitate to invite me to speak, especially on subjects you believe I care about.

My hair got a new look

I’ve thought about getting a hair cut for a long time but it finally happened this year. From overthinking it to going through with the cut, I’m loving the look now. My head also gets to be free.

First time at the salon to cut my hair. I didn’t love the outcome as much.

On the second cut and style that made me love the look

Had a 10 hours bible study

My first reaction on seeing the event flyer was that I doubt it was something for me. 10 hours! But I loved it. I didn’t even realise we had done about 10 hours studying about Jesus when it ended. The Bible is such an amazing book. I was also amazed that so many people paid to study about Jesus. This faith we profess is real. The newness of our hearts is true.

Throughout the year, I looked through the Scriptures and it’s beautiful how you fall in love learning about God’s love for you. I believe I also improved in the prayer bit but there’s more work to be done.

My participant card for the study

Started a podcast

I got to like podcasts during the year and I’ve enjoyed listening to a few hosts. I also love that I can just record audio to share my message with an audience, all from a free application. It sounds easy but maybe it’s not that simple. Regardless, I’m glad to start Learning, Growing and Sharing with Oyinkansola. Be sure to listen and give feedback. Thank you.

The podcast cover photo

Alright, that’s not all that happened in the last twelve months but that’s all the highlights I’m sharing for now. Thank you for being interested and being a part of my world.

Glammed up on my 23rd birthday

No worrying allowed!

A few days after I turned 23, I started getting those worry vibes and I wrote about my feelings to God. While writing to Him, I got reminded that I have nothing to worry about. The future might be unknown to me but He knows everything. He loves me and He always does what’s best for me.

The first page of my letter to God

The rest of the letter was me writing what He says about me and not about my feelings. He cares about how I feel but I’m not my feelings, they are volatile to be the basis of my worth.

I’ve realised that keeping a journal of my talks with God serves as a great reminder for me whenever I get all up in my feelings as an adult. I’m glad to have a loving Father who pays attention to every detail of my life. I can be thankful always because I already have the best in Him.

That’s all for now. Thank you so much for reading through. I’d love to read from you.

What advice do you have for me on my journey to 24 or a general tip on navigating life?

Thank you!