Lizzy Oke...

Looking Back...

2015-03-23T11:56:00.001-05:00

Hello World,
Long time no write on here... lol...

I did mention that I'd be posting more on my other blog, so those of you following me there know that I've not been MIA. However, I chose to write on here today because, March 23rd marks 7 years since I had the car accident. I don't think I've ever said anything on the anniversary of that day but today, I felt the need to because I think that I am FINALLY at a stage where I can fully say I celebrate March 23rd. It was the day before my Dad's birthday that I got in an accident that affected my spinal cord and left me to be in use of a wheelchair, so I generally always felt somewhat sad on March 23rd. BUT not no more! Shame on the devil.

Today I bless God for the gift of life and for all the wonderful things he's done for me.

This morning, I was drawn to go read this article I wrote for Bella Naija. After reading it, I was inspired by what the me of back then wrote. I am forever THANKFUL to God for giving me another chance at life. It's amazing how much a near death experience can change us. I have been living a life full or purpose and meaning and God has truly been wonderful despite all the challenges of life.

As I said in that article I wrote, "Physical disability does not mean mental disability and it’s not a plague. That a person is disabled physically, does not make them less important or condemned". A BIG THANK YOU to everyone in my life that has never made me feel less of an human being. Thanks to friends and well wishers.

Today is not one for mushiness or tears because I celebrate my life. I am not writing this for any other reason than to remind us all (yes myself included) of this bible verse: 1st Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it”.

It didn't look as though I'd ever get to a point where I talk about March 23rd with complete happiness, but here I am y'all. Today is March 23rd and I can happily think about how my amazing father is getting a year older tomorrow. I now declare March 23rd as my second birthday, because on that day 7 years ago, I was given another chance at a life full of purpose. I'm not where I want to be, and I know God is not done with me, but so far, I can say it's been GOOD!

I look forward to everything else God has in store for me, and I want to tell the world... GET READY, GET READY, GET READY!!!!!!!

Physical Therapy Update...

2013-07-12T07:11:00.001-05:00

Hello Y'all...

Hope you are doing wonderful today?
Hmm, does anyone even read this? Lol... jk.. I know people read because I see the stats, but lots don't comment.
That won't stop me from updating you guys though, so here we go.

As the topic states, this post is an update on my physical therapy.
See, ever since I involved you all in this via my fund raiser, I strive to update you because you deserve it for helping me out with your money and kindness by sharing my fund raiser page.

Well, today's update is just to say it's been over 3 months since I started therapy, and the journey has been wonderful.
There have been daily success and things that look Minor but are a HUGE deal to me and my therapists.
The improvements I see as a result of these months of physical therapy makes my faith stronger in God because I have seen my body do things it hadn't done in a LONG LONG TIME. I have been able to initiate movements in my legs, on my own, and do other things that I wasn't able to do before physical therapy. I am also now stronger than I was before I started therapy.
I generally try to share as much as I can with you all (especially via instagram), but the changes I feel from physical therapy are so immense that I don't fully know how to explain it.

Let me say now that You all will be amongst the first to know when I'm walking again, and I will CLEARLY state it that I'm walking!
I say this because when I tell people I have seen some improvements via Physical therapy, they sort of "wonder/assume" why I'm still on the wheelchair. LOL..
Physical therapy is a process. I chose to go through it coupled with my faith in God and the knowledge that he he ABLE to do all things in anyway he chooses.

I am very grateful to everyone who has in some way donated to my physical therapy funds. God Bless you all so very very much.

Next, I have to let you all know that I will be taking a forced break from physical therapy due to insufficient funds.
I have exhausted all funds (both donated and personal) towards physical therapy and I can no longer go for therapy because uhmm, they won't let me come to them for free. Lol..

I am trying to device other fund raising methods in the meanwhile and I will do my very best to continue physical exercise at my local gym, so that I don't lose all that I have gained in these few months.

If you have any ideas on how I can raise more funds, please email me at lizgurl@gmail.com.
Those of you who know me in person should also please let me know if there's anyway we can do something together around here (Dallas), to help me raise more funds. I'm open to suggestions y'all.

For those still interested in Donating Online, the fund raiser page is still up and running. CLICK HERE.
Please NOTE, the amount you see on there has been used towards physical therapy and there's actually only $250 left out of the $2383 the website is displaying.
This will also be written on the Fund raiser page so that people KNOW that the amount isn't actually what I have. The Good thing about that website is that they let one use whatever funds has been donated even before the goal is reached - and that's how I've lasted this long at Project Walk Dallas.

I was contemplating posting my invoices so that you all see that your money was in fact spent on physical therapy, but I was told It's not that serious, especially since I kept showing pictures while I was at project walk. Lol..
Well, I hope that statement is true ooo, cos I don't want wahala. Hahahaha.

Alrighty y'all, That's it for now.
Please continue to keep me in your prayers, and again, THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS HELPED IN EVERY WAY THEY CAN! *BIG HUG*

Project Walk Fund Raising Page

Oh before I forget, Project walk actually had a One Year anniversary dinner thingy, and it was lovely.
Below are some pictures from the dinner.

First up, Two Pictures I took with two of my physical therapists. (They had a photo station at the dinner and pictures we took were printed immediately).

And Here's what I wore to the Anniversary dinner.
I Blogged about this look/outfit on my Beauty Blog. I also talked about wearing high heels on the wheelchair. :-)
P.S: Times like this I wonder why I have two blogs. Lol.. I think I need to merge them soon, that way everything is connected. Oh well... Random thoughts.

I Know I have lots of P.S in this post already, but one more..
P.S: In case you didn't notice when I said it, personal funds have also been exhausted (not just donated funds), and I want to use this moment to thank my parents for their continued support - especially just by letting me be who I am and being supportive through everything without ever making me feel less than a FULL human being.
Since I am taking a forced break from physical therapy, I uhmm shall also be seeking what is known as as Day In, Day Out JOB - so pray for me y'all. :-D

That's it for now.. finally.
Till Later, God Bless.

Counting my Blessings...

2013-06-10T23:28:00.002-05:00

Hello world...

How are you all doing today?

Well, it's been a while right?
Yep.. this lady has been busy.

But I'm here now and I'm about to give you a piece of what has been going on.

I am still going for physical therapy at Project walk - although I took a two weeks break because I traveled for my friends wedding in ATL. It was fun and it was a beautiful wedding. Love is a beautiful thing and I am totally looking forward to my own big day.
The mini vacation was also much needed. Some times a change of environment is very much needed.

Here's a picture of me from my friends wedding.

Next up, My therapy fund is still going and I thank everyone that has donated so far. God bless you.
As I stated, I am still going for physical therapy, and constantly asking my therapist to take pictures of me during therapy became uhmmm, what's the word - a bit unserious like. lol.. Sooo, unless my little brother or a friend/family follows me to therapy, I hardly ever get any "during work out" pictures. I feel I have gotten stronger and I won't shy off asking them for a picture or video when something EXTREMELY cool happens. Y'all know I love pictures!

I also have been a bit mehhh - this was before my vacation - about a lot of things.
Mehhh in the sense that I just want MORE for myself and life in general and it almost felt like those things I wanted weren't happening. But as I got thinking, and sort of praying I realized I was being a bit dramatic. God has actually been amazing in my life.
Surely there are some goals I set for myself that I haven't actually accomplished yet, but in the general look of things, those things are obviously not necessary for my survival and happiness. I am living, not lacking or wanting, and don't have any cause to sorrow in any part of my life or family member's life.

My moment of thought brought about this status I posted on my facebook page some minutes ago. Here it is.

Thankful to God for his blessings. He has actually always been on MY side. Though I keep asking for MORE, MORE, MORE (like that little girl in that AT&T commercial), God has always given me exactly what I needed when I needed it (Scary how true this is now that I think about it). I have never actually been stranded and he has always provided. Many times than I can count he has used my talents, personality, other people, and even that which I consider as a misfortune to set me in places that I couldn't have otherwise dreamed of being - Proverbs 18:16.

Father I'm sorry for every time I never thanked you for your blessings. I'm taking a moment to count my blessings right now, and I also thank you for the things you've blessed me with that I don't even see or realize.
Oh and in my true human nature of always wanting more of your blessings, Baba, You know how I be, no need to front..lol.. so I must say now that I am certainly looking forward to all that you have in store for me. :-)

And that, my friends is how I want to end this post.
I choose to count my blessings today and I'm glad I can see God's hands in my life.

I urge you - yes you - to count your blessings today. You'll be surprised how blessed you are.

Oh and here's another picture from my time in Atlanta. :-D

I have blogged about these looks on my beauty blog - so make sure you're following that blog if you want details on what I'm wearing or to stay updated on my beauty/fashion steezeee.

Also... Hmmm, should I mention this?

Ok I will, you can follow me on instagram for up to date pictures. I'm not hiding anything on there, but remember when you follow me that you CHOSE to follow me ooo. Lol.. Don't preach or lament on how many pictures I post. lol..

My username: @thediylady.

Therapy Fund Raising: CLICK HERE

And that's it for now.

Till later, God Bless.

Update: Featured on BellaNaija

2013-05-08T19:42:00.001-05:00

Hello All,
I have amazing news today, I was featured on Bella naija today. Spoke about the therapy fund, my style, staying fashionable while being on the wheelchair, and of course my nails and nail art!!

Please click here to read all about it.
Share your thoughts with me and whoooo hooo.
For those who don't know, Bella Naija is a lovely, huge and popular website especially in the Nigerian community.

Well, that's it for now. I'm grateful for BN for sharing My Style and for helping me share the fund raising page. Till later, God bless.

Project Walk Update: Video and More...

2013-05-02T20:13:00.000-05:00

Hello All,

Lizzy here again.

Today I have a video from some of my Physical therapy session at project Walk Dallas.

For my first Fund Raiser, I expressed how I'd love to go to project Walk for intense therapy on my goal to walk again, and thanks to God and to you all, my initial goal was met, and I embarked on the journey. As I type this, it's been about 2 months since I went back to Project Walk and it has been an amazing journey.

I tried to keep you all updated via my blog and I hope I did a decent job at that. Lol. I also updated via my facebook page and Instagram.

Without further ado, I must say Project walk is certainly all about getting each and every person that comes to them BACK ON THEIR FEET. The Intense therapy and continuous motivation I get by my physical therapist over there is beyond me and I just love the fact that I have ALSO SEEN SOME IMPROVEMENTS in this short period of time! God has been good to me...

BUT... there is still a but... More money is needed to keep me at project walk.

For my first Fund Raiser, I really didn't know what to expect, and I was very afraid to ask for what I considered to be A LOT of money, so I limited the amount to $5000, which was only enough for 2 months of therapy at project walk. 3 times a week for two hours each day.

I really really really need your help if you can read this post. No amount donated is too small, and I would appreciate it if you can share my fund raising page and youtube video with your friends and loved ones.

Here's the Video for your viewing pleasure:

I would like to Increase the days I go to Project Walk to 4 times a week for 2 hours every day if I can. I have chosen to dedicate this time in my life to this GOAL of walking again. I have lived what they call an Optimum life on the wheelchair, and I have set aside physical therapy and everything to get my degree. I could go ahead to get a job and continue living life as I know it, but I refuse to settle for less, especially since this is one thing I haven't actually tried before.

I will be ALL over the place posting my Fund raising link and Youtube Video trying to get the word out there to raise enough money for staying at project walk for Physical therapy for as long as I need. I pray to God that it won't be much long, and I assure you that whatever amount I have left at my disposal should I begin to walk before all the money you donate is used up, I'll donate that money to a CHARITY. Seriously!! :-)

After tasting and seeing, and feeling for myself that project Walk is indeed a blessing, I am not settling for less. I have Faith in God and know that he can use any means to perform the good he has in store for those who love him, and all I can do is My Part and let him do the rest.

You can click the picture above, or CLICK HERE to go to the new fund Raising Page and please help me share.
Also, feel free to us the DONATE NOW picture on your blogs to help me spread the word. Just make sure the picture is linking back to the Fund raising page. :-)

I'll continue to update you all via my blog, youtube, instagram and wherever else I can all over the internet. Lol..
God Bless you all, Thank you.

Happiness is....

2013-04-15T17:27:00.000-05:00

Good day everyone...
Today's post is just a random one..

Therapy is going well in case you're wondering but I just want to write some small stuffs on the blog today.

As the title of this post says...
Happiness is ....
Not Guaranteed
Fleeting
But importantly, Happiness is... A choice.

Yep, that's what I think of Happiness. It's a choice we all have to make at some points in our lives.
If one always has to wait for the perfect conditions, or situations before s/he can be happy, I'm sorry to say, that individual might live most of their life a sad, sad person.

I have learned in life that our situations/conditions aren't always how we want them to be. But If you wait for everything to be perfect, you'll most likely never find happiness.
We all have to, at different points in our lives, Choose to be happy!
This isn't an easy decision, but it's a good thing to always remember. Choosing Happiness!

I am not saying one shouldn't feel or express their sadness at certain situations. So, I hope no one wants to start a debate on that. Lol..

This is just a general life rule I try to live by. Choosing happiness and knowing that my God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that I can imagine. - Ephesians 3:20.

EDIT (couple of days after... May 2nd to be exact): Now that I think about it, What I am explaining in this post isn't called Happiness, it's Called JOY. Inner JOY! Ha! Yep.. JOY!

Anyhoo... Today, I also have some pictures for you all from this past week (Tuesday). :-D

This next collage is what I call "The many faces of Lizzy". Lol...

And before I leave, I'd like to share a paraphrase of a message my pastor preached at church yesterday.

These are my words, but they were inspired by my Pastor's sermon.

Forgetting what God has previously done in our life is what derails most of us from waiting on Him for the future promises and gifts he has for us.

Remember the testimonies of yesterday, and look up to the God who has proved times and times again that he is ABLE!!!

That's it for now,

Till later, God Bless.

"How's Therapy Going Lizzy"...?

2013-04-03T18:40:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Today's post is basically another Physical Therapy Update, and more importantly to answer a question I have been asked by a couple of people since I started therapy. I also believe this is an appropriate question that'll be in the mind of most people, so why not write a blog post about it?. Lol..

Well, this is week Three since I started therapy. Yes, I know right? Time flies!!!
As stated previously, I go for physical therapy at project walk 3 times a week for 2 hours each day.

The answer to the question: How's therapy going Lizzy? Is ....
"Therapy is going well!!! There has not been a day since I started that I get home and NOT sleep! Seriously, it's that extreme to my body, at least in this beginning stage.
I am giving it my ALL and working myself out. I do what I am being instructed to do, and I've been challenged to do certain things I didn't think I had the strength or ability to do.
Project Walk Dallas has certainly helped me move past my comfort zone in a lot of ways and I must confess at this junction that there have been things I would say "NO" to at first (Because I don't want to break any bones), but they'd assure me to give it a try and they remind me I'm in a safe environment.
Everything is going as well as well is.

BUT, To Put it bluntly, I am not walking on my own yet. I haven't lost sight of my goal - which is walking, so, I will say, I am certainly working towards it with the help of the therapist and all the equipment available.

Spinal Cord Injury Recovery is a process and I am having to Train my brain and body to do things it could do before the car accident. I believe with my continued dedication, hard work, and the ultimate grace of God, I will have bigger, greater and better news for you all soon.

Please continue to pray for me, and I'll do my best to update you via this blog, my Instagram and Facebook pages. :-)

Here's a picture from today - Post therapy. I didn't have a Photographer available to take pictures of me during therapy. Lol

That's it for now y'all.
Till Later, God Bless.

Fund Raiser COMPLETE!! And Physical Therapy Update!

2013-03-22T00:58:00.000-05:00

Hello lovely humans!
Hope you're having a wonderful day so far!

Today, I have great news!!!

The Fund Raiser for my Physical Therapy has been successful!!!
A BIG THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN to everyone of you that donated and helped me spread the word.
I really wish I could give you all a big hug!!!
People I didn't know donated, and I am just overwhelmed by your kindness. May GOD ALMIGHTY BLESS YOU ALL ABUNDANTLY!!!

Here's a screen capture of the donation page!
Look, I even got $20 above the Goal!!!

I hope I don't need more money for therapy, because my prayer is that God will show up and SHOW OUT in my case as I combine work with my faith in him!

Also, I have now been to therapy Three times already this week. As I stated on the fund raising page, My Goal is to go 3 times a week, for 2 hours each day.

It's been an interesting three days, and I have been coming home to go straight to SLEEP because of all the aches in my body. Lol.. Good Aches though! They do say No pain, No Gain right?

This is a picture of me on the standing Frame at Project Walk Dallas. It feels great seeing myself stand tall like this. I'm looking forward to fully standing this way without support.

Well that's it for this quick update y'all!

Please, continue to put me in your prayers.

Till Later, God Bless.

Therapy Update: I'm Back in Therapy!!!

2013-03-18T23:55:00.001-05:00

Hello World!
How are you all doing today?

Well, if the title of this post hasn't already given away what I want to say, I'd like to say it Boldly!!!
I am Now BACK FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY at Project Walk Dallas!!!!

I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone of you that donated in my Therapy funds to help me go back to therapy.
When I decided to start the fund raiser, I honestly didn't know what would happen.
I Took a step of faith after praying and after so many people suggested I start the fund raiser.

I am still so amazed at how many people donated and shared the page with their friends!
I truthfully can't thank you enough!!! May the Almighty God Bless you all Abundantly, and I pray that whenever you need help, God will send you an helper Immediately!

I decided to start therapy before I reached the goal I set on the fund raising because I was ready to get things started.
Today (The 18th of March) was my first day back there, and as I type this, the pains in my body tells me I am indeed doing INTENSIVE Work-out, not just "Back to functional state therapy". Lol...

I am mentally ready for this, and I pray that the Lord God Almighty in his infinite mercies will crown my effort with success. The GOAL is to WALK Again, and I am keying in my faith and putting in all my physical effort to achieve this goal.
Please keep me in your prayers, and I know that Soon and Very Soon, I will share my testimony and invite you all to come and dance with me.... and oh yes, Eat some food and be merry. :-D

Here's a photo collage I made from my day at therapy Today.

The pictures obviously don't show you all that I did in 2 hours, but I Hope it's good enough.
I'll try my best to Document my progress and I'll keep on updating you via THIS blog.
As I type this, I am still in awe of how far God has brought me and once again, I truly truly pray that he crowns my effort with success.

The Fund Raiser Page is still LIVE and I will leave it Going at least until the Goal is reached.
So if you still want to donate, Please Go ahead and DONATE HERE.
Even after the goal has been reached, Please do not hesitate to donate. I hope that I won't need the Two Months of therapy because God is able to do above and beyond, but I'd like to have enough money should I need to do more than two months of therapy.
I hope that's understandable.

Anyhoo.... I am all smiles despite the pain I feel in my body from my first day. This is truly an amazing journey that I'm glad I have the opportunity to embark on.
AGAIN, I SAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL SO VERY VERY MUCH!!!!

Till Later, God Bless.

Fund Raising Deadline Date Extended...

2013-02-01T22:50:00.000-06:00

Hello,

I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who has donated so far. God Bless you mightily. I am amazed at how we were able to raise almost 50% in less than 2 months. May your pockets never run dry in Jesus name.
I want to thank everyone who has shared this Page with friends and loved ones. I see people I don't know personally donating to this fund, and it... It... Just blows my mind. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

Today was supposed to be the deadline for this fund, but since we are only at 46% collection, I am going to extend the end date till the end of February. I will keep sharing this page, and continue to pray for the best. God Knows exactly WHEN he wants things done, so I am not being anxious.

On another but sort of related note, Lol...
I now have a Facebook Page for my Photography Business.
I am currently giving discounts on Photoshoots, Event capturing and so on, so that I can raise more money for Therapy.
So, If you're in Dallas/Texas Area and you want your pictures taken by a sort of Professional... *coughs*, Email me ooo!!!!

CLICK HERE to Go to the Facebook Page where you can see some of my work. Like the page and stay updated.
CLICK HERE to go to the Fund Raising Donation Page
Thanks again.
The Fund raising end date has now been shifted till February 28, 2013.
God Bless you all. Till Later!!!

Happy New Year...

2013-01-15T09:03:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone...

It's coming a bit late, but HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I pray that this year will be a fruitful and prosperous one for us all in Jesus name.

Just a little update today.
I would like to thank everyone who has donated to the Get Lizzy Back to Therapy Funds.
A major thank you to everyone who has shared the page countless and numerous times! You guys are all awesome!!!

I'm doing my best to keep sharing the page, and I am so happy that the fund raising is going well so far.
I pray that we'll gather the said amount by the date I posted on there.

The new year has started well so far for me and I can only praise the name of God.

Here's a picture of me at church on the first sunday of the year...

I love wearing tailored native outfit. They fit so well and are comfortable even on the wheelchair.
I also have a Gele Philosophy, lol.. If you're going to wear a gele, MAKE IT BIG!! Gotta Love Geles (that is the Headtie on my head).

And here's a Picture I just took Yesterday. :-)

Follow me on Instagram if you have an account and are into that sort of thing. I post random pictures on there.
Username is TheDIYLady.

Stay strong world, and I'll talk to you soon.

Continue sharing my Project Walk Funds Please. :-)
Till Later, God Bless.

Update: I Want To Go Back To Therapy

2012-12-17T12:30:00.000-06:00

Hello World...

How are you all doing? Hope great?
Today's post is about a step I hope to take in the next couple of month.

I found out about a place called PROJECT WALK a while back. They help people with spinal cord injury to recover, be strong, and hopefully walk again.

When I found out about them, they were in AUSTIN, TX, and that was kind of far away from me.
Also when I found out, I was still in school and couldn't even pursue the opportunity because I wanted to finish my Nursing degree.

Anyhoo, Fast forward to after graduation... I discovered that project walk now has a branch in Dallas, TX, which is a WHOLE lot more closer to me.
I was happy and decided to go over there for a session.
Here's a picture of me at project Walk.

After my session there, I couldn't go back because of the out-of-pocket funding.
They don't take insurance and require each person to pay out-of-pocket.

When I posted the above picture on my facebook page and instagram as a way to tell my friends on there and inspire them that FAITH without WORKS is Nothing, I was amazed at the amount of people that sent me messages saying they were willing to donate to get me back to therapy.

With this show of kindness from people and after months of waiting and thinking hard about therapy, I finally decided to start a Get Lizzy Back To Project Walk Fundraising page.

My life since the car accident has been a long and interesting journey, But through it all, I have been able - by the grace of God - to maintain my faith that I will walk again.

It has been a trying period in my life, but GOD has been faithful and helped me through so much. I Thank God for wonderful family members, friends, and well wishers all around me.

As I stated before, I got my Bachelors of Science in Nursing degree despite being on the wheelchair, and I continue to push myself - Lol...ha. I just said PUSH - But... Anyhoo, I try not to place limitations on myself.

I am a firm believer that with GOD, all things are possible. And this is one of the main reasons why I went to project Walk. I believe that I will walk again, but I also know that Faith without work is nothing.

If you didn't click the previous link, Please CLICK HERE to be directed to the Fundraising page I started to get me back to Project Walk.

My prayer is that, doing this, coupled with my faith as well as God's Mercies will Get me back on my feet and walking again.

After I get the funds, I'll go to Project Walk, and Be sure to keep you all update through my blog.

Please keep me in your prayers.

I'll greatly appreciate whatever amount you choose to donate.

God Bless you and thanks for reading/Donating.

With Love,

Till Later, Lizzy.

Abandoned?

2012-10-11T03:30:00.002-05:00

This Blog Looks really abandoned. Lol...
The blog post is titled abandoned because I feel like I've ignored this blog.

Truthfully, yes I have but that's because I post on my other blog a lot more. THAT blog is my Hobby Blog and I post about random things on there.

Please CLICK HERE to check it out if you're interested.
I hope everyone who bothers to read this is doing alright and putting God First. He alone is awesome and worthy.

Life is going well for me and I can't complain. Once again, Follow my Other Blog to Keep up with me.

Here's a Picture of me from my last Birthday (August 2012), which I Blogged about in my other Blog HERE.

Take care y'all.
God Bless.

A Little Update...

2012-05-30T11:57:00.001-05:00

Hello All....

Well, to say I've abandoned this blog would be an understatement.

I Hope everyone is doing very well? That is, if anyone still checks here for updates... :-)

This is just an update to say I'm fine and well. I'm still believing, keeping my faith alive, and I know that My Miracle hour is on its way. As I stated in my Bella Naija Interview, I won't let anything keep me down, and I'm glad that God has been good to me till today.

I don't post much on here because I don't really know much that should be put on here, but I am still interested in Going to Nigeria to go advocate for disabled people.
I don't know exactly how I'll go by doing this, but I know that God will make a way.

I'm looking into contacting some NGOs. I'm seriously considering sending mail to some groups I've seen that already advocate for disabled people. If you know any groups, or companies that fit this description, please let me know by commenting below, or by sending me an email.

My dream is not dead, and I know that though it takes a while, I will make it to the finish line. :-D
We can cause change to happen and I'm not going to relent.

Oh and here's what I look like as at Last week.

P.S: I have ANOTHER BLOG I regularly post on. It's more of my Hobby Blog, But if you're interested in Checking it out, Please CLICK HERE to go there.

That's it for now People.
Take care Y'all. God Bless.

Happy New Year

2012-01-05T09:32:00.002-06:00

Picture by Google

Hello all...

I know you must have heard so many of these by now, but I know my own is the one you've been waiting for all along.. abi? right? Don't lie, I know how you feel.. Neglected? Lol.. Sorry, I've just been occupied with some things. Ok, Ok, let's not drag this on... I Just want to wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Many Many Many more wonderful years to come in Jesus name. May this Year be all we wish for and more in Jesus name. Health, Joy, Peace, Happiness, Prosperity, Wisdom, Knowledge, Wealth, Success and everything God has in store for us shall be our portion in Jesus name. I pray that this year brings us all our heart desires. May God's plan for each and everyone of us be fulfilled. No Evil shall befall us or any of our loved ones in Jesus name. God speed in this year!!! Now Go out there and Conquer because we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS!!!

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

New years' day was so wonderful for me. Ringing in the year at church! Singing and dancing and glorifying his name. Then again at church on Sunday morning, praising the name of the most high. I lost my voice, but it was all worth it!

Thanks for reading. Till Later, God Bless.

God is Still God

2011-12-16T23:02:00.000-06:00

Hello lovelies...
I know it's been a while since I posted on my blog, but please forgive me for that. :-)

I'm sure most of you see all around you that Christmas is here, and that means that the year is coming to an end. During this time of the year, most people reflect on all that they have accomplished throughout the year; and when they do this, they either feel good, or feel bad about themselves or accomplishments. As the year is coming to an end, it appears that most people begin to wonder why they are still in the same position that they were at the beginning of the year or they count their blessings and are happy about all they've accomplished.

A couple of days ago, I sat down and began to count my blessings but I got tired as I was counting because I deemed it irrelevant since I was still breathing and I was able to count. I mean, what other proof did I need that God was still God and has been good to me? When I stopped counting, I began to praise God, not just for what he has done, but for what I know he'll do in my life. I am determined that this year will end in a bang for me.

You might not be where you thought you would be, but remember that God's time is the best. Psalms 115:3 says that "Our God is still God and he does what he pleases". The confidence we have as children of God is that, what God pleases to do will eventually be for our good and not for evil because Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future".

You see, because of these promises, we ought to remain calm and let God be God over our lives. We can only do what we're capable of doing and if you feel you've done all you could do this year, but are still not where you felt you would be, don't worry too much. God is still God.
As it is with most things, "letting God be God" is easier said than done. But I believe that as humans, we have the power and ability not to be driven by what we feel.
Praise your way through the rest of the year. If there's anything else you would like to accomplish before the year is over, get to work, and start doing it.

God is still God, and he will never forsake his people. Are you serving him with all your might and heart? Are you really trusting in him? If yes, then worry not, because when God is ready, he will not only show up, He will show up AND SHOW OUT!!!
My God doesn't do things in a mediocre manner, he is after-all the same God who turned water into wine (John 2: 1-11).

I leave you all with this words today: Keep Calm and Carry On because God is Still God.

Till later, God Bless. :-)

Praise is What I do.

2011-10-24T00:03:00.001-05:00

Me singing in my church choir.
During our 5th Year anniversary on Oct. 16/2011

I love praising and worshiping God. I am not ashamed to say there are times when I don't feel like praying, or when I don't even know what to pray about. But in those times, I can always bank on praising, worshiping and just singing at the top of my lungs to declare how glorious God is.

Oftentimes, when I don't feel like singing, I go on Youtube and listen to worship songs (I have a playlist), and before I know what's going on, I'm singing, worshiping, and praising the King of Kings.

I have way too many favorites when it comes to songs, but there are two songs that kind of sums up my post today - and they are Don Moen's song titled "I will Sing" and William Murphy's "Praise is what I do".

Learn to worship and praise God in spirit and it truth. It's a different realm and it's beautiful. God inhabits the Praise of his people (Psalm 22:3), so use your voice to declare his majesty. He doesn't care how you sound, he just wants your praise.

Here are both songs with lyrics.

ENJOY...:-)

I WILL SING

PRAISE IS WHAT I DO

P.S: Feel free to share some of your favorite worship songs with me in the comment. I am always happy to learn new songs. Share with me y'all.. :-)

Watch and Pray

2011-10-21T12:15:00.003-05:00

Hello again everyone.
I promised I would update my blog from time to time, and this is one of those times.
As I stated in my first post, I will be writing whatever just comes to my mind, so please don’t think everything I write is my “Life story”. Lol. They could be things I got while reading a book, watching a movie, having a conversation with a friend e.t.c. When it relates to me however, I’ll be sure to point it out, so as to take any form of guesses out. (Fair enough right?)

Today’s post is one I’d like to Title “Watch and Pray”.

I am grateful for wonderful people around me, and I’m sure everyone appreciates real, caring and loving people. Take a moment right now and reflect on those people around you; those whom, without, you wouldn’t be who you are right now. I bet you probably have a couple of people floating in your mind… right? Well, do they know you appreciate them?

Be grateful for every friend you have who never fails to tell you the truth no matter how much s/he knows it'll hurt you to hear it. Those kinds of friends are hard to come by. BUT, be careful with friends who ONLY point out the negative things in your life; those friends who always seem to disappear when you've achieved something great, but are the first to appear when something goes wrong.

I titled this post “watch and pray” because if you’re not vigilant – that is, if you don’t watch – you won’t notice the people in your life who fall into the category of “negative people around you”.
If you don't pay attention, if you don't watch, you won't realize you have negative people in your life, because they will shower you with love when things are going bad, so much so that you begin to think they care about you. You have to be careful and probably refrain from friends who seem to always downplay your success with words like "My cousin made a 4.0 in college, but I'm happy you made a 3.95", “it’s nice you bought a Toyota, but my brother just bought a Mercedes Benz”.

Flee from friends who only show up to pity you, with words like "that sucks, eyah, pele, God dey" but are never around to say "You did it, that's my girl/boy, congratulations or I knew you could do it".

When you find yourself only able to say "s/he was there when I lost my cat, s/he was there when I lost my mom, s/he was there when I broke my head, s/he was there when my boy/girlfriend dumped me", but you don't remember s/he being there when you graduated, when you had a baby, got married, or got an award, then you need to start praying that s/he gets out of your life.

This brings me to the second part of my title, Pray. Aside from making an effort to stop talking to or cut out the negative people in your life, you need to Pray. Prayer should be included in all you do and I say pray because some people have the same spirit the boy in Matthew 9:14-29 had in him. That spirit in them – like in that boy – can only be driven out by prayer (Matthew 9:29). The negative people in your life will always be there to point out what a failure you are, and they will never help you move forward. You can’t make any progress when there’s negativity around you. Their words are "don't worry, you only a failed a college class, remember that time you broke your tooth?” It appears their job is to point out only the negativity in your life!

The pity and words of negative people can leave you dry – feeling or acting LESS than the person you really are. Also, since they always show up when something negative happens, it will appear as though nothing good ever happens to you. Flee from these people.

Earlier, I stated that you need to pray because, not answering their calls won't do it. Let's face it; they'll probably appear at your mutual friends' birthday party and sit near you, forcing you to tell them "what's been going on with you" - so that they can add that to their already long list of things going on in your life. When you start saying the good things going on with you, they somehow manage to switch the topic to something bad that has happened to them – and this in turn gets you in what I call “the pity mode”. When you’re in this mode, you end up saying something bad that has happened to you just to make them feel better about their situation. You will most likely end up saying, "Aww… sorry friend, it's been long we saw each other, I didn't know you broke your hand... I also got a big bruise in my leg when I ran into the garage with my bicycle yesterday ".

You see what just happened there? You were trying to run away, but they got you again. You didn’t want to tell them anything about yourself, but once they got you in the “pity mode”, you had to be nice. You wanted to relate… but now, they have YET another thing to add to the list of negative things that happens to you! At the risk of sounding like a nagging mother or persistent pastor, I will say to you right now: trying to run away from the negative people around you alone won't do it. You have to add prayer in the midst.

We all will experience some unpleasant things/events in life. Misfortunes are bound to happen, failure is sometimes inevitable, but you don’t need people around you who always point these things out to you. Search your life, see if you have some negative people in your life, and take action. Do something about it now because you’re only cheating yourself if you let negative people dictate how you feel about yourself. A lot of people think they are not progressing because of something they’re doing wrong, but most people who have potential to succeed are being pulled back by the negativity around them. You can be happy, and you should have people who celebrate your success around you.

Remember, Any friend who doesn’t help in your spiritual walk with Christ is questionable, but a friend who draws you nearer to God is a friend indeed.

My prayer point for everyone is:
Yoruba: Oluwa gba wa lowo awon Ota Ti wa'n se bi ore oo!
Translated in English: Father Lord in heaven, deliver us from enemies that act like friends.

First Blog!!!

2011-10-10T00:42:00.001-05:00

Hello all,

Thanks for visiting my blog. I am new in the blog-world, or should I say Blogosphere? Ok, I don't really know Blog-Slangs, so forgive me. I'll get the hang of this soon.

Most of you on this blog right now probably know me personally, heard about me, or came on here as a result of reading my story on BellaNaija.

In case you've not read my story, well here's your chance to go on BellaNaija, read it to learn a little bit about me. :-)

Anyway, in case it's not clear yet, my name is Elizabeth Oke and I finally decided to start blogging!

In this blog, I will be sharing a whole bunch of things ranging from stories of my life after the tragic car accident, my message on disability awareness in Nigeria, words of encouragement/motivational posts, random musings... in fact, let me just say, posts on this blog shall be about WHATEVER COMES TO MY MIND.

Bookmark this page, follow me, write the address down, do whatever it takes not to forget this blog's address (lol) and stay tuned for more posts from me.

God bless you all, and have a wonderful day. :-)

Some Pictures of myself: