SISTER-2SISTER | LADIES ENJOY YOUR SINGLE SEASON & PREPARE FOR WHAT HAS BEEN PREPARED FOR YOU! 💍 ❤️

[@too2great8]

I have enjoyed and still enjoy my singlehood. I'll be 46 in July. I don't want kids, and marriage would be lovely, but that's up to God. In any season, I pray we all find enjoyment, love, and happiness. ❤❤

[@Queenie97]

Amen!

[@ucheiwuajoku1037]

Are you sure you're not my twin??????? This is not possible! How can you use my exact words with all the correct information about me 😮

[@mariaboletsis3188]

AMEN same here!!! Turned 47 in February. Been enjoying my singleness for years. the Lord has been SO good to me!

[@too2great8]

​@ucheiwuajoku1037 😂 now I have to ask when is your birthday?

[@KishaWynter]

This is so healthy!! 🥰 🥰 🥰

[@nightowl4206]

I got married last September to a wonderful man. I'll be 53 in June.

[@iky9815]

Congratulations!❤🎉

[@crystalroget4649]

Congratulations!! 🌹🌹

[@kundaidenga5689]

So beautiful and encouraging

[@naturallycandacemarie]

Congrats!! 🎈🎉

[@MsJani70]

Ladies, I am married with a 9 month old. I love my husband and baby, but I really miss being single at times. My baby still doesn't sleep through the night so I am absolutely exhausted! I have no time for myself - even finding time to exercise and take care of myself is so hard. Enjoy and embrace your single life because marriage and babies are hard work!

[@torrijones8434]

I wonder that sometimes when I ever get married or if I ever do will I miss being single sometimes there's more in life than just marriage I'll enjoy what ever comes for me I enjoy just taking care of myself people too crazy out in this world I'm gonna definitely embrace my single years

[@TheMayorEsq]

Thanks for this

[@dorothymatthews6690]

Thank you Fumi! This was brilliant! After being divorced twice at 45 i went back to school and received my bachelors degree at 50. Helped my daughter through law school and now she is a Judge! During that time i received several promotions on my job, bought two houses and working on the next journey at 65 years old. This was golden! Pray people and Jesus Christ will show you what to do! Im a witness. Still believing for another husband to rise off into the sunset! Pray Proverbs 3:5 ladies and Psalms 23 and 91 daily. The most high God will direct your path! God is faithful! Loved this Fumi! The Fumi line dating app! Wow! God showed me a similar vision to get other women and men married! This was truly prophetic! God has blessed you Fumi with a wonderful husband! Please pray for the same for your Fumi Nation followers!

[@juliarabotapi527]

Thank you for this video mama Fumi . I needed to watch this . I am 36 years old, single no partner no kids and I worry a lot about my future and it has to stop, it has to stop today! Thanks for reminding us that we need to enjoy and embrace our singleness. Love from south Africa 🇿🇦 ❤

[@sobelin78]

I'm getting Married to a Wonderful Family Man 🎉

[@jan854]

Congratulations 🎉❤.

[@Sino_Tee]

All my life, I have looked forward to marriage and kids. After I turned 25 last year, that started to change. I still want marriage and kids but now I have the desire to put that off for as long as possible😭😂 I enjoy having my bed to myself, I enjoy having only myself as my responsibility, I enjoy coming home at the end of the day and I can just watch cartoons and eat dessert without thinking of making supper for a man and a child😅 instead of thinking about buying formula and paying for school fees, I'm thinking about furthering my own education. I'm freely entertaining going to China to teach English. I'm honestly living and loving my single life. Yes I want a companion but not right now. I'm so grateful I'm my only concern right now and I yearn to live with myself joyously. Thanks for the video Auntie Fumz!❤

[@TerryCassie]

Thank you for commenting for both of us 😅

[@feliciadance1715]

This was really good Fumi🫶🏼 Thank you ‼️ The only thing that I would add is to develop a relationship with God while in your single season and if you already have one with Him, work on getting closer to Him. He is truly the only one that can transform your mind so that you think differently so that you will know what you truly deserve in the relationship that is right for you. He will help you heal from past trauma and give you a God given confidence. Allow our Father in Heaven who knows us best to give us instructions so that we don’t keep making the same mistakes by being disobedient and not choosing to live a Godly steadfast single life ❤

[@evekane2423]

❤ you've spoken for me my dear. Absolutely correct

[@sheilajackson386]

Amen

[@Sino_Tee]

Yes!❤

[@lovethokpara4114]

I totally agree with you dear.

[@sharlenemullins1030]

Amen❤

[@BellaStrong]

"I wanted to be married, because I had so much love to give" powerful statement ❤

[@TerryCassie]

True ❤

[@gailainsley6939]

Singledom has been soo peaceful for me. I’m not sure how I’ll fit someone in but il leave it to God. 🙏🏽💖

[@tosin1018]

I’m struggling with this too. I cannot describe the peace I feel. As you said, I leave it up to God. 🙏🏾

[@TheMayorEsq]

I understand that feeling, you're just content within you

[@carolyndye2615]

I will be 55 in June and I truly enjoy being single after the death of my man in 2021, I have found myself again and it's a blessing for me. That who God has for me is for me. It's truly a joy to learn to love me again. So very grateful and humbled.

[@crystaljackson240]

Same situation here

[@favourogbonna1]

When Fumi said “I’m always ready for a picture” 😂😂😂 I got that

[@talktomenice6984]

I had a quick engagement and will be getting married next year. I have never been in a long term relationship, so feeling sure about someone has never happened before. I also realised that I had spent most of my singlehood waiting to meet my 'husband' to start my 'real life' Now that I am engaged, it has only dawned on me that I will be leaving my singlehood behind and the gravity of what being a wife really means. Eventhough I am engaged and couldn't be happier, I am choosing to spend the rest of my engagement time as my unofficial 'singlehood' to really start making the developmental changes I have always wanted to make for myself. I didn't realise that I was just wasting my singlehood like a sitting duck, and doing the occasional things that I wanted/needed to do for myself. I really love this video and wished you had made this a few years earlier 😂😂

[@roseliabrown6331]

j okk

[@TheWetlipzzz]

I'm a divorcee of a 23 year marriage. He got his law suit money and split and I have never been happier. Oh yes he got karma because even though he got a younger chick who has left him his knee replacement debacle kicked in and he had to go for repositioning twice. She probably left because the viagra didn't work...I digress lol I think Narcissim and watch out for the signs or something along those lines would be great topic to discuss. Thanks waiting for you to come to nyc

[@pisteuojustbelieve]

The dress aunt FUMI it GORGEOUS , FIRE 🔥 😍

[@christinemarimba1041]

Hi Fumi, I am in that season right now. I'll be 40 next month. I can attest to the truth of what you're saying, but I didn't see the pattern until listening to you now. So God has heard my prayer - this is encouraging. All of a sudden I was determined to settle my loans, became much more intentional with saving money, babysitting my niece for weekends or longer and just enjoying life out with my friends. I absolutely agree with you that the type of men you attract changes as you work on yourself and being the best version of yourself. One area that I would love for you to address is physical interactions whilst dating. I'm of the view that waiting for marriage to consummate is better, but I know that this is such a weird concept for some people to get behind. Thank you for this video, Fumi. I loved it.

[@love19895]

Just in case Fumi does not address this…waiting for sex after marriage is always the best thing. Whoever thinks it’s a weird concept to get behind that’s their business not yours. Your business if you’re a Christian woman trying to live a godly life is what the Bible says and that’s no sex before marriage. In terms of physical contact, my opinion, nothing more than a hug, a peck on the cheek, forehead, MAYBE lips (but no tongue kissing). Anything more, a person runs the risk of sex before marriage. Always try to do what pleases God not any man or woman and certainly not what the world thinks. Hope this helps🌷.

[@icmusic86]

Auntie Fumi I really needed this Sister to Sister. Especially I have been struggling with my single season. However, this video gave me brand new thing called hope. Can you do video of how to date in your 30's. Much love from Boston,MA ❤

[@LLL3712]

"The longest most important love affair you will ever have is with yourself "😊

[@sihlencala8619]

Wow,that dress is so you Fumi💃💃💃. Im happy for you❤

[@deelaw7692]

After 16 years of being in an abusive relationship (mainly vebal) we didn't even get married - I wasn't what he wanted, I was what he needed as a stepping stood, this was my belief. I left with three children into the unknown, but luckily, I had a part-time job and my degree, but he did pay most of the bills. It's been three yrs since leaving, and I can truly say it's been peaceful in our home. I feel like I'm starting over again its slightly scary but I'd rather this, than going to back to being broken. Im focusing me, the children, sorting my finances, going to gym and attempting to fun!!🎉

[@pileshongwe7827]

Please do an episode on bouncing back, finding yourself and moving on as a single mom after a break up from your fathers child

[@jessicacantu3394]

Auntie Fumi is dropping so many golden nuggets for us single women. I love it. I wanted all those thing in my 20s and life had a way to show me I was not ready. In my 30s now and rebuilding a relationship with myself. I absolutely love this phase of my life.

[@barbaraodametey8548]

Ghanaians are you here??! Rep here ❤❤❤ we live and love!

[@carolyndye2615]

That dress is Fabulous!!!

[@PisceanEmpath]

Fumes I love the outfit. Kudos to the person that sent it to you! Also thanks for the advice!

[@primrosebvindi7834]

Right!. Our Beautiful Fumski looks Absolutely Stunning in this dress!. Thank You so very much to the person that gifted our Fabulous Aunty Fumi 😊❤. Thank You Aunty Fumi for this gem of a video, with so much to learn in regards to our daily lives. 😊❤❤

[@sihlencala8619]

South Africa is first today 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@siphokazintetha1857]

Yaas! 🇿🇦

[@maryryan]

South Africa 🇿🇦

[@prisca2blessedxoli662]

Yeeeessssssa siswam

[@ndilekamomoza4538]

Ewe yes phakathi within the inside

[@1SwiftAngela]

Nice😎

[@sharonheadley935]

Hi Fumi. I am now in my single season after failed relationship after failed relationship. I am 48. Now getting to truly know myself and what I really want. All those things you mentioned I am doing right now and its truly eye opening. I am excited for my 50th next year, but in the meantime I am learning and growing. Thanks always for the right words at the right time❤

[@jumpscare1530]

Have you checked out this man named RC Blakes Jr? His advice regarding relationships and dating is amazing, I love listening to him and Fumi, like a mom and dad lol

[@emmanuellar.belzince6134]

32 was my turning point too. I embraced my single hood at 30.

[@SianaRepmad]

Thank you so much. This was an encouraging reminder to keep going and enjoy my life

[@MariDorot]

Mama Fums you always look beautiful but today you're absolutely gorgeous. Possible topic for Sister to Sister: "How to put yourself and your well being first when you have small kids and/or are caring for family members". I feel like I just go through the motions every single day and am always super tired. There's nobody who can offer support so I have to do everything myself. I feel like I can't break from this cycle somehow.

[@joybrooks564]

Fumination has great taste. That dress is giving fabulousness 🔹thank you for the great advice. One has to be ready for a spouse. We have to be whole,the other person can’t do it. We and God do that first

[@katrinkarlsdottir]

I am loving that dress! It looks fantastic. I am so glad that my beloved and I both agreed that we still need days that are dedicated to self. We both were happy being ourselves and we friends before we began dating. I get to have "spa days" and he gets "boys days" Sometimes we decide to do them together. Our communication is good enough to say when we feel we need a day to ourselves. Neither of us feels that we gave up any opportunites to be together.

[@rosiejosie2]

Thanks Lady fumi, I'm glad for these talks....please speak on when you feel you're loosing yourself in your marriage.....love you❤❤❤

[@invertedbeautiful]

You could join the year of the bride fast by pastor tiphani . It'll help you sooooooooo much❤

[@adjeleyomanyesowah295]

I love you for this Mama Fumi❤. I just turned 30. I sat with myself and made a resolve to never allow myself sink into depression for whatever external pressure. Rather, intentionally get to know myself and get ever closer to God. I'm going to live and love my life like never before!❤❤ And this video strengthened my resolve 🎉

[@ladyv1281]

Thanks for this, I haven't had a real relationship since I was 30 and I'm 37 now. I feel so hopeless being single with no kids at my age.

[@sandramsimango9526]

Same here turning 38 trust Gods timing ❤

[@tiffanyguzman4405]

Same here but I recently met a woman who got engaged at 47 for the first time, you have so much time, there is no time limit on finding someone, don't worry about it, I've even seen people in their 70s find eachother

[@blacksongbird100]

I'm learning to enjoy my single season. I've been divorced for 8 years. My kids are grown and one of them has kids. Being single is definitely an adjustment from being married but I'm determined to embrace this place in my life. If it's meant for me to remarry, I will.

[@soade8720]

Hi Fumi, please please do an episode on "people pleasing".

[@canditate740]

Thank you, Fumi! My birthday is this week! I’ll be 38. I needed this sister to sister - this is the message I needed to hear! I love you! 💕 Love you Fumi Nation💫

[@Badgyaltandy]

I have thoroughly enjoyed today's conversation. A lot learned and will be implemented. Thank you, Aunty Fumi.

[@zah9074]

Yess Sister 2 sister is back! Thank you.❤

[@ShirleyToolsie-kr5yq]

Hi Fumi I’m glad to be able to communicate with you. You are so right it surely does take a lot to be married. I know because I’ve been married for sixty years. It is certainly a lot of work.

[@ZethuNgomane]

You're such a vibe, and thank you for the advice😊. I spend most of my time wondering, i wanna change my life and enjoy the present.

[@I-am-Taliesha]

This made me cry. Thanks for your words of wisdom, Auntie Fumi!❤

[@MaatlaThipe]

I have enjoyed this video, hoping for more content like this. I needed to hear this. I am a 25 year old single mother who stopped living once i had my daughter 2 years ago because i was mad at myself for falling pregnant, however this video reminded me that i am still young and i can still enjoy myself and live my best life ❤❤

[@emgdoll3452]

If I could like a video 100000 times, this is that video. I embrassed everything about myself since I was a child, nobody, I repeat NOBODY could tell me anything else than everything you said since the last video. My mum tried, she lost, I am strong on this. I have a little sister who is depressed because she was abandoned by her parents (complicated family dynamic), and she is desperate to find love while I keep telling her EVERYTHING you mentioned on the video. Last week she was diagnosed with depression and while I am not there physically, I keep repeating (since 12 years) that she has to go to therapy, fix herself and stop expecting a man to come and fix her. i had to share this video with her. I would add that healthy men can see through it all and run coz it is tooooooo much to deal with.

[@jackiecolbert3915]

Amen come on preach. I was married for 21yrs when my ex husband decided to cheat and walk away. Single season for 2yrs now and just starting to enjoy it.

[@rhondas3264]

I could make a necklace with all these pearls of wisdom.

[@lynncarol5525]

Thx you thx you thx you sooo much Fumi. I really needed to see this video. A week ago my (bf) boyfriend told me he love me, bt he's in love wit his ex. It crush me so bad bc I love him wit everything in my body. And it's soooo much more to the story bt I feel a lot better now. I just trun 40 in March and you just confirmed a lot of stuff to me. I'm goin to start eating healthier, I love make anyway, doing my hair more etc. I just got a second part time job and I'm going to Start working on my card, and just getting out there. Have that opening mind you was talking ab. Anyway love you and thx you aging ❤❤❤❤❤❤ ✌🏾

[@thehairpinnacle]

Aunty Fumi Mi!!! God bless you for all of the lives that you have touched and are touching with your voice!! ❤❤❤

[@rachelrache76]

Beautiful dress whoever sent it know your style

[@genuinamendes5057]

Aunty Fumi ❤ You have no idea this video brought tears to my eyes as I was just wondering how and what craziness should I be doing since I’m single Writing my mays goals This is God s work and confirmation Yes mummy’s going back to school, going to be nicer to myself cause I deserve it I deserve the world Going to take care of me and my mental and spiritual self I hope one day u realise how u change people’s lives for the better Thank you so much for everything so far and beyond Keep up the amazing work and may god bless you and yours too Ps: this mummy ain’t got no kids 😂😂 Yeeeeeet

[@kengie121]

Thank you for this Auntie Fumi. 34 and going to follow your advice and borrow some of that razor sharp focus of Uncle Yula. Blessings

[@stephanieayi86]

I need to break off from loving my own company and going out more. Having a hard time bringing myself to stepping out 😢

[@TheMayorEsq]

Had that too, even missed gym for the past three weeks but I'm trying again

[@blacksongbird100]

I feel you. I'm on a solo vacation now. Making myself get out of the hotel. 🤦🏿‍♀️

[@essenamalokpa2376]

Aunty Fumi !!!!! How do I loooooooove you❤❤❤... Your laughter, your presence, your energy give me life!!!!😘😘😘

[@rosebrendahkatusiime7117]

Hi Auntie Fumi! You are looking gorgeous! I live and love the dress 👗. Please 🙏 when you get the link please share.

[@estherbriggs8310]

The dress is gorgeous classic and so are the words you have shared.

[@aquillabennett8223]

Thankyou l needed to hear this l was feeling sad but something said stop, relax, and exercise it will clear your head. I'm enjoying exercising in the morning.stop worrying about being single and embrace it my life l must say is beautiful. If God allows me to see it l will be 50 in July lm going to celebrate all that month. I am realizing whatever God has for me. It is for me no matter what it is.Im the means time I'm going to continue to be me.Travel, buy stilletos, dance,and drink a glass of wine, laugh,live, and love.

[@Msjaibrezzi]

Thank you so much, Auntie Fumi! You don’t even know how much I needed to hear this. Thank you for your wise counsel. May God continue to bless you, and keep looking fantastic ❤️✨

[@bellememorie]

Oh my Fumi, I did not realize that I was mysteriously unsubscribed. I have been getting your IG posts, but i just figured you were taking a break from KZbin. Seeing your subscriber numbers just thrilled me for you! You look amazing as always and your advice is always on point. So glad you are thriving! 💜

[@panicontheargo7034]

I look forward to your videos every day. You are such a gem Fumi. God bless you and keep doing what you do❤

[@tshegofatsomaupa9442]

Aunty Fumi this video was aimed at me. I went through a breakup in January and it was hard. Now I’m working on me and my debt so that I can travel and enjoy myself

[@adritherealtor]

Hi Fumi! I’ve been watching your videos while I was in my miserable marriage, during my divorce and currently as a single mom with 4 boys. Your videos have truly helped me through the darkest and lowest of times. Helped me pick myself up and carry on without my toxic ex. Etc. I’ve seen your videos where you talk to and empathize with us single moms, and I love you for that. Boy is it HARD. I watched this video yesterday while washing dishes, cooking for my boys, cleaning, and a million other things. I really do want to take much better care of myself (like lose a lot of weight, take care of my mental health, skin) but it is SOOOOO difficult when I have to raise 4 boys, manage 2 careers/businesses (realtor and photographer) and everything else alone. I’m trying to do self care my way, but as you’ve mentioned..when you have kids you are DEAD LAST. I’m trying Auntie Fumi. Love you so much for everything you do.

[@Lady.747]

Fumi I love listening to you. No matter how young/old/single/married one is; it's always good to be attentive to every word coming from you. You are so real and ready for anything. Love your dress. Stunning on you❤❤

[@drich-1]

21:35 great video great advice!! Thanks Mama Fums 💜

[@StephaniaDesir]

that dress is lovely.. I can't wait for you to shared who sent it to you because I will purchase it and thank-you for the encouragement for this season of my life

[@reeceyb7279]

I have enjoyed this so much Fumi, love that dress. Your glowing extra in this video. Thank you.

[@houseofheart]

Fumi says: "...the happy times we created a long the journey...". Beautiful wisdom. ❤🎉

[@gbiga]

Thank you thank you thank you Big Sister.

[@driveng8845]

Thank you so much Mama Fumes ❤❤❤❤. We can keep it here....part 2 and perhaps a part 3. This has inspired and encouraged me. Thanks a million. 🎉🎉🎉

[@Ms2T]

I love this!! Thanks Mrs. Fumi!! 💙💜🦋

[@julietlove3831]

Absolutely beautiful Auntie funm thanks so very much is very important for us to work on ourselves God Bless you 🙏🙏✝️😍❤️

[@MsRewaFranklin]

Yes Sister I Love This. So so so true.

[@qp2116]

Fumi, that was a WORD. Great talk.

[@velmaanangwe4217]

Hey Fumi please launch that app😅 also could you make a video on how to turn down the people you're not interested in without leading them on.

[@Lydia_m]

This is so timely and speaks to me. I am turning 32 this year and although there are days where I yearn for companionship, I choose to be single to learn more about myself in this new season of my life. I am learning so many new things about myself on a daily basis and I am excited to see the Lydia I'll grow into throughout my 30's. thank you mama Fumz .

[@goldenmelanin9258]

Love this Fumi ❤ I recently turned 30 and I get all the questions about marriage and kids but I feel like my life has only now started! I was deeply insecure, depressed and in toxic relationships throughout my 20s. I’m going to purposely enjoy this season in my life 🙏🏾

[@Mimi-tt7qr]

The glow mama 💥 keep shining we love you Fumi nation forever😍

[@justjoan4010]

I enjoyed this segment sooooo much, Fumi. You’re so talented, real, knowledgeable and beautiful inside and outside. May God continue to bless you and yours. ❤

[@aaliyahbrown779]

Excellent fumi i was very depressed and this soothed my soul

[@valentinengare3022]

I can listen to our sister Fumi for as long as i can..❤ much love from kenya.

[@ManassehBB]

Thank you, Mama Fums ❤

[@PatriciaMartin-ot6nu]

Gorgeousness on 1000 this dress is all you ❤

[@waawcoumba52]

I liked this sis to sis thanks lady Fumi. I’m 42 and I wanna be the best version of myself in and out and share all this Love with my Half 🥰

[@SIYS242]

I appreciate this episode as a single woman. Thank you Fumi!

[@jaddah52]

I live on Singleton Blvd, and I live for it Thanks Fumi

[@Onyinyechi35]

After divorce from a narcissist 😢......let the dating streets be lonely as hell..... you'll be sooooo happy and relieved and singing praises to God every morning and evening as you are going to bed hugging your lonely pillows and enjoying the peace.....

[@rbraxton00]

That’s a beautiful dress.

[@DaraKFulton]

I really LOVED this Sister 2 Sister. I really needed it. Id love for you to do an episode of how to regain your singleness/love for self after a divorce (when you didnt choose it and was left). Im struggling mentally and have been since my ex-husband left me. I dont know how to enjoy my singleness because I have lots of health issues and recently had spinal back surgery so I cant do much. I just feel broken and not sure how to move forward. Thank you and love you always Aunty. I hope you received my package 📦 ❤️❤️ -Dara

[@rellyb8224]

Mama Fums, Please do a s2s on traveling alone as a single woman. My favorite trip ever was a two-week solo trip to Mexico. I am planning to travel and live around the world, and I know this will change my life, perspective, and future. I love ❤️ u and cannot wait to hear the details. Eating my popcorn 🍿 in wait 🎉😊

[@tiffanydaniels2462]

Fumi thanks always for the great advice, one day can you talk about your experiences with going into perimenopause/ menopause😘

[@karenwade6713]

Fumi that dress is giving me life, I need it!😊 You look fabulous as always 💕

[@sipiwemutemwa9758]

Solid advice as always Auntie Fumi 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@kimsummers9791]

Fumi! Thank you for opening my eyes on how to know your self. Writing down what you like and don’t like… light bulb moment. You are my big sister even though I’m older than you by 5 years 😆 I’m so glad I found you on this channel. I look forward to seeing you daily. ❤️🥰😘

[@susanahiable6244]

I love this Gorgeous black dress, big Sis. Looking gorgeous.

[@Realaliatianna]

Fumi you have no idea how absolutely frustrating I’ve been with dating. But I know there is still so much work that needs to be done on myself. Thank you ❤

[@bomikazinomzanga6835]

Thank you Aunty Fums as always you never disappoint, for me this was just another reminder of how to take good care of myself and funny enough you always come with these beautiful messages to me or IAM forced to listen in on your videos at a time where I am starting to have doubts you know, when I am feeling like I'm drained and lost like kinda weighing my decisions and you give those back hand slaps and be like," girl this is the way to life", I am forever grateful to you, for you to moulding me into this beautiful lady😊 and god fearing mother of two beautiful boys, IAM slowly getting there sis, I get it now, we may be virtual but the lord entrusted you to mold me to be a role model to my sister.

[@esinamrays6246]

I bless the day I followed your channel. You’re amazing ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️. Lots of love from Canada 🇨🇦

[@staceyannbarnes313]

Thank you for your advice.🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲💯💯

[@favourogbonna1]

Really trying to enjoy my single season and just have fun with it. Thank you mama, you look fabulouso 🔥🔥

[@Pamperedrita]

My heart needed this...