Day 2

Woke up early today, made several phone calls then tried to go back to sleep which didn't quite work. The calls and texts kept coming in...

I ended up going to an engagement reception on the mainland with a friend. It was last minute thing so had to rush to get ready. 

Eye make up done, hair partially straightened, outfit selected. All I had to do now was iron my outfit. My travel iron decided to give up its ghost just like that, no warning no nothing. -__-  

My friend was in a haste so I called the laundry extension... No answer.

I ended up wearing the only item in my luggage that was not creased, a fuchsia dress. Had a few sand-flies enjoy my sweet London blood, but I survived. 

I sometimes question the reliability of DEET sprays *rolls eyes* 

Anyway the engagement; it was really lovely to see Nigerians from different tribes celebrating together. The majority of attendants wore aso ebi, or Ankara dutch wax prints (a type of traditional African clothing).

Food was lovely, music was great, atmosphere was vibrant and the venue was beautifully decorated. The catering team served up mains, starters and desserts that were pretty much international standard. The Canape's and exotic looking desserts were definitely stomach teasers!  But for some reason I just wasn't in the mood. People kept asking if I was Ok… I guess I suck at disguising my feelings lol.  Deep down I felt extremely under dressed because I couldn't wear my chosen outfit, and was unable to straighten my hair properly because of time. My make up was also minimal….. managed a coat of mascara. The person that invited me ensured me prior to arrival not to worry, that 'its just a small engagement party'… small indeed, when I saw the attendees dressed in a range of creative aso ebi styles (the same colour code but different designs), glamorous clutch bags to match, and pristine wrapped gele (traditional head dress) without a crease in sight. Make up on every single female was on 'fleek' and to top it off the grand hall, which had been decorated in snow white drapes and silver décor infused with lilacs and pinks my jaw just dropped! How could I be dressed so informally.

A woman behind me actually complimented me for looking ‘simple’ which I found strange. This was so not the time, or place to be looking simple. 

Anyway we left in the evening, my friend had some alcohol which I wasn't too happy about but hey, got back to my hotel in one piece, ordered some pepper soup then headed for bed.