The Strangest Thing Happened on Our Flight to London

 

What’s up wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people!

Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today. I have a rather unexpected and intense story to share from our recent flight to London. Buckle up (pun intended), because this one really shook me.

We were flying from Montreal to London — a 6-hour and 20-minute flight with the kids and my sweetman. You know how it goes on long flights: you try to pass the time with movies, books, podcasts, or a little game on your phone. Well, I chose to play a picture-matching game that gives you four image clues and you guess the word they’re pointing to.

But here’s where it got weird.

About 5–10 minutes into the game, I started getting a strange string of clues — pictures of plane wrecks, fire, ambulances, and finally, the last puzzle literally spelled out the word “DISASTER.”

Y’all, I froze.

There I was, thousands of feet in the air, with my precious children and my sweetman beside me, and this game was throwing what felt like a spiritual attack right at me. As I came close to completing the word “DISASTER,” something in me said STOP.

And I did.

I quickly closed the game, silently but fiercely cancelled every evil plan of the enemy, and began to pray over my family. I knew it wasn’t just a game — it was a reminder to stay spiritually alert, even in the most “normal” of moments.

Instead of playing games, I ended up watching a light-hearted movie, trying to shake off the uneasiness.

But here’s where it gets even stranger…

24 hours after we landed safely at London Heathrow, I saw the heartbreaking news — there had been a plane wreck involving Air India, en route to London Gatwick. The tragedy claimed lives and left many injured. My heart broke.

That news haunted me for weeks. I prayed for the families affected and asked God to comfort them deeply. And at the same time, my heart overflowed with gratitude to God for covering my family with His protection and granting us journey mercies.

It was a vivid reminder that life is fragile, and sometimes we get little nudges — even through a phone game — to pause, pray, and stand on the promises of God.

If you’re reading this today and traveling anywhere soon, I just want to encourage you:

🙏 Pray before you go.

✈️ Speak life over yourself and your family.

🙅🏾‍♀️ Don’t let fear or negative signs shake your faith.

🙌🏾 Trust that God’s hand is mighty to save — even in the sky.

Stay safe, stay joyful, and stay prayerful.

With love,

Maryam 💛

Red Split Lentil Akara & A Lesson in Courage (Plus a Special Gift for You!)

 

Hey guys, welcome to Maryam’s Joyful Life blog!

Today is a beautiful day, and I’m so happy to share something amazing with you—a recipe, a story, and a little encouragement if you’re feeling stuck.

Let’s start with the food (because YES please 🙌🏽).

I made akara with red split lentils—and let me tell you—it turned out absolutely amazing! 😍

My big sister Aisha, who I’ve been visiting in London, shared her special recipe with me. She’s not just a BAWSE businesswoman, she’s also one of the best home cooks I know. She whipped up this version of akara using red split lentils, and it blew my mind. I had to try it for myself back in the kitchen.

So the day I decided to make it, my Sweetman stood beside me, clearly excited but also lowkey checking in like, “Did you remember everything Aisha said?” 😂

I know he meant well, but it made me feel like I needed to prove to myself (and maybe a little to him too!) that I could do it—and do it well.

Guess what?

It turned out beautifully.

Golden brown on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and full of flavor. Everyone who tried it loved it, and I felt SO proud—not just because I made something delicious, but because I didn’t let fear stop me from trying.

We all have those moments—where we wonder if we’re “ready enough” or “good enough” to try something new. But sometimes, the breakthrough is on the other side of just doing it anyway.

So if you’re reading this and have a goal or dream you’re hesitating on—go for it. The goodness you’re imagining might be waiting for you just beyond the fear. 💛

🍽️ 

Red Split Lentil Akara Recipe (My Sister Aisha’s Version)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red split lentils
• 1/2 onion (chopped)
• 1 scotch bonnet (optional, for spice)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Seasoning cube (optional)
• Water (for blending and soaking)
• Oil (for deep frying)

Instructions:

1. Soak the lentils in water for 1–2 hours, then drain completely.
2. Blend the soaked lentils with onion, scotch bonnet (if using), and just a small amount of water to help it blend. You want a thick, spoonable batter.
3. Add salt and seasoning, and mix the batter well to incorporate some air for fluffiness.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.
5. Scoop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown, turning halfway through.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve with pap, custard, or on its own as a delicious, protein-packed snack! 😋

🎁 

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Thank you for reading and being part of this joyful journey with me. Whether it’s in the kitchen or in life, let’s keep growing, creating, and believing in the power of taking that first step.

With all my love,

Maryam 💕

A Magical Day at London’s Sky Garden – A Must-See Experience!

 

Hey what’s up wonderful, amazing, sweet, and lovely people!

Thanks so much for checking out my blog today. I’m super excited to share another joyful adventure with you all—and this one is straight out of a dream! ✨

A couple of weeks ago, my family and I had the chance to visit the Sky Garden in London, and let me tell you… it was such a magical experience! 😍

Imagine the top three floors of a skyscraper in downtown London transformed into a lush indoor garden. Yes, that’s what the Sky Garden is—a stunning oasis built right at the top of a 33-story building! The moment you step off the elevator (which only goes to that floor!), you’re welcomed by a breathtaking view of greenery, flowers, bars, restaurants, and a spectacular panorama of London.

From up there, you get an almost 360-degree view of London’s most iconic landmarks. It’s absolutely beautiful—Big Ben, the Shard, the London Eye—you name it, you’ll see it! Whether you’re lounging with a drink or munching on a sandwich, the ambiance is peaceful and refreshing. We loved just sitting back as a family, soaking it all in.

✨ Here are a few tips if you’re planning to go:

• It’s free to visit, but you must reserve your tickets online at least 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Walk-ins are not allowed, so don’t forget to plan ahead.
• Be sure to bring your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment!

The next time you’re in London, be sure to check out the Sky Garden. Trust me, it’s a London memory you’ll never forget. 💕

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to visit MaryamsJoyfulLifeLuxuryVacation.com for all of your travel needs. We’re here to help you plan your next amazing adventure! You can also call us at 470-765-2745—we’d love to make your travel dreams come true. 🌍💼

Also, if you feel inspired to make a difference, please consider donating to Dream Big Corp. Your generosity helps us support families and individuals in need.

👉 Click here to donate

And always remember…

Don’t let anyone steal your joy! 💛

With love,

Maryam