It’s refreshing to be back on this platform once again. The magazine has remained consistent which is very important, to everyone who works behind the scenes to make it a success; I say kudos to you all.
The year 2023 has come with lots of mixed feelings and realities that we are currently trying to process and adjust to, regardless of what strata anyone belongs to the effect is mutual. Special moments for me however are seeing that confidence is placed in me to carry out new tasks to play in the Health, Hospitality and Creatives space in Heirs Insurance Group.
Each time anyone becomes a major part of a growing concern it’s important one gives his/her best because it’s a vote of confidence which I don’t take lightly.
Honestly, my top 2023 moments would be that indeed Nigerians as a people didn’t exasperate given the way the polity was heated. This is the only country we have and must continue in any way we can to make it work, kudos to every Nigerian.
So, sharing my special moments under the mistletoe brings to mind the joy of reuniting with loved ones, the timeless tradition of exchanging heartfelt gifts, and the enchanting laughter that fills the air during this magical season, which is my favourite season by the way, and I know that I am not alone. These moments serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds that enrich our lives.
Thinking about the best moments of 2023, I keep going back to a mix of tough times and wins. In those times, I found strength, learned important things, and celebrated my successes. Each experience, whether happy or hard, has helped me grow and change.
When I look at how Christmas used to be and how it is now, I notice how traditions have changed, family bonds have become stronger, and I’ve learned to appreciate the simple joys of the season more. As time has passed, I’ve become more thankful and aware of how important it is to be together.
As for the goals I set in January, I’ve been on a journey of trying new things, adapting, and not giving up. Some goals have turned into real achievements, while others have led me to new dreams and goals, showing how beautiful it is to keep growing and changing.
As December approaches, I’m thinking about whether the season will be ‘detty or clean’. Big lie, I am not thinking anything because this season is going to be extra extra DETTY. If I hear! Who clean help, lol! We are outside! (insert backflip emoji) lol. Anyway, the excitement of fun celebrations mixes with the peaceful feeling of looking back, and both have their charm. The balance between having fun and thinking deeply marks the start of a new year and the hope for new beginnings.
Looking for the best places to visit this season has shown me a lot of different and interesting destinations. For the loud and fun, the likes of Zaza, La-Vella, The Library and the newest rooftop club on top of the Mega Plaza building etc, to visiting the sunny and warm beach of faraway places at Ilashe, the boat cruise to Ilashe, partying and chilling with friends at the luxury beach houses is so giving festive. Having a lovely dinner afterwards at some of the beautiful restaurants like Z kitchen, Kaly, Slow, Noir, Spice Route, Turaka, Quays, Oceans5 by Riviera (for flavorful pasta dishes), KI Lagos, Rococo Restaurant to visiting Buttermilk and Cafeteria Lagos for those sumptuous breakfast/brunch after the long nights of partying( the best hangover cure is good food), lol.
99 days of January (laughs & crying at the same time) is usually a struggle getting through, Is HOUSE RENT your mate?? I am having palpitations thinking about it now; adulthood is a SCAM indeed. Jessica please, behave yourself! you are an adult (sad face). Anyway, the long month of January needs both strength and a light-hearted attitude. Taking care of yourself, being with loved ones, and looking forward to new starts have been important in getting through this time with hope and a positive attitude.
Looking back, 2023 has been full of big lessons. It has shown how strong people can be, how important it is to understand and care about others, and how hope always lasts. These lessons will guide us as we go into 2024, and we’ll want to grow, connect with others, and find our purpose. To say the least, I want to better myself and do more in 2024 because life is given in instalments, so any opportunity we get let’s give it our best shots.
Usually, to stay around family members, and enjoy the company of siblings, parents, and friends, that’s my tradition.
Christmas movies? nothing special these days, there are plenty of movies on Netflix which continue to challenge the traditional going to the movies. So, nothing special. But many people love to watch classic Christmas movies such as Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, Elf and The Polar Express. etc
My Christmas wish is that we stay alive and healthy, I wish to get plenty of Christmas gifts, eat special holiday meals, party and spend time with family and friends.
As I mentioned earlier, I wish to spend quality time with loved ones and spread joy and kindness while achieving personal goals.
For those of us who love Christmas, the holiday is a magical season with that traditional nostalgia and the promise of togetherness. It’s a time to party in the beauty of twinkling lights, the warmth of festival gatherings and the simple yet profound joys of the season.
Beyond Christmas rice and chicken(lol), Christmas holds a deeper significance for many of us. It symbolises HOPE, RENEWAL, and the celebration of FAITH. It is a time for reflection, gratitude and for reaching out to those in need, embodying the spirit of compassion and empathy.
As for celebrating the New Year, whilst some people celebrate with lively parties with fireworks etc, some of us attend crossover services. Though, I had gone to a crossover service before, went home got dressed up and went to a New Year party, I always make sure to crossover into the new year in the presence of God.
The new year is a gift but if we look beyond the calendar, it’s just life going on. I am actually in between, a bit of this and a bit of that.
Thank you.
