tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19850131265249413892024-03-13T23:04:34.055-07:00@kesh@Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-84807620043204912182011-07-28T06:14:00.000-07:002011-07-28T06:16:32.760-07:00Wow it's been a long time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2yAivyQWwg/TjFfs9E8YSI/AAAAAAAAACU/8m9pb4ppgN8/s1600/coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A2yAivyQWwg/TjFfs9E8YSI/AAAAAAAAACU/8m9pb4ppgN8/s320/coffee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So much has happened since we last spoke. Michael Jackson died, the Saints wins the superbowl, the government has gone nuts and Lauryn Hill agrees to go on Maury...lol. Lawd knows I have an opinion/conspiracy about all of those issues but what strikes me the most as being interesting is what I heard on the news this morning. Were you aware that Dunkin Donuts(DD) sell more coffee than Starbucks???? How is this true? The DD coffee is cool but it's boring. Unless I'm making my own coffee I need a coffee experience. Starbucks just make you feel like you're serious about your coffee; you're a coffee connoisseur; you know something about coffee that the rest of the world don't and that's why you pay $20 for one cup. </span><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I go to DD and I feel like I'm settling. No where to sit. No one is conducting a million dollar deal at the table beside me and I only paid $3.00 for my latte instead of $5.00. AND the customer service is usually whack! Please don't get me started on McDonald's lattes, that's if their machine is working. I'll venture out to DD on McD as a convenience factor but for the most part I'm Starbuck's or bust! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9OO9E900.htm">http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9OO9E900.htm</a></span></div>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-6226883324767226722011-03-13T13:14:00.000-07:002011-03-13T13:14:08.517-07:00OMG...gas is outta control<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ALiht3_eftI/TX0g76co1TI/AAAAAAAAACM/OAdybK9CSDk/s1600/gas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ALiht3_eftI/TX0g76co1TI/AAAAAAAAACM/OAdybK9CSDk/s320/gas.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>So I filled my tank up yesterday and it cost me a whopping $51.00!!! That's outrageous. I do not have a SUV and I used regular gas. My car is a 98 Honda Accord and should not cost me $51 to fill up. I'm officially considering gas a luxury item.<br />
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After I filled my gas tank up I took a trip to Target. I had to get some odds and ends but since it's Target, of course I browsed the aisle. I saw two pairs of shoes ready and waiting for me to purchased BUT because I was scarred from my $51 gas purchased I didn't purchase the shoes. Those <b>two</b> pair of shoes from Target equaled <b>$38</b>. How sick is that???? I could have gotten two pairs of shoes with change left over for one full tank of gas. The problem is gas is a must. Of course I could take the bus but it takes too long and it can be a little dangerous and a lot of germs. Typically my car trips are quick...15 minutes or less.<br />
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Gas just isn't fair. You can't return it and you can't negotiate a discount. There isn't a GasRack, TJGas, or Gasoline Basement where you can search the racks for name brand gas at a discounted price. There's APPS that allow you to search for the cheapest gas in your area but typically it's only $.01-$.03 difference. By the time you go to the "cheaper" gas station you've used your discount during your travel time.<br />
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But alas there is a little reprieve. Giants & Shell. If you have a Giant card you can use your card at Shell gas stations. I did this and got a whopping $.40 a gallon off my gas. It was like Christmas in February. It was short lived though. I share my card with two family members who stay on the road so I forfeit points to them. With gas prices the way they are that should qualify me for wings and the pearly gate...IMJ!!!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-65239663554715204592011-03-09T13:14:00.000-08:002011-03-09T13:14:08.672-08:00I want to blog!<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8vnStWPH7aA/TXftcNkrc_I/AAAAAAAAACI/aykpS4S_3bw/s1600/blogging-requires-passion-and-authority-e1282142376774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8vnStWPH7aA/TXftcNkrc_I/AAAAAAAAACI/aykpS4S_3bw/s320/blogging-requires-passion-and-authority-e1282142376774.jpg" width="320" /></a>I mean be a real blogger. Someone who blogs and make it interesting. I look at blogs and constantly think...I can do that. It's just giving your $.02 and for those who know me...knows I like to give my $.02. The thing about blogging is that it's actually a job! To sit and think about what you're going write is work. Do you have an interesting topic, do you have photos, videos, links to links, etc? As I read these various blogs I realize that blogging is a community. I mean bloggers know bloggers. There's a method to blogging, people are creating best selling books from blogging and oscar winning movies from bloggers. It seems pretty incredible when you really think about it. You sit and give your opinion amongst thousands of others and somehow your thoughts, traveling or cooking adventure turns into a movie! How can I be down? I have opinions. I don't mind cooking from Rachel Ray's or Emeril's book if it means a movie deal.<br />
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I think what makes a good blogger is someone who is willing to "share." Someone who doesn't mind the world knowing their issues and trials and tribulations. WELL that ain't me. I can easy give my opinion on everybody else but I'll pass on sharing my feelings. SO I'll continue to spew off a paragraph or two once in awhile as long as you don't expect me to get all sensitive.Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-69499632560778354992010-12-02T08:01:00.000-08:002010-12-02T08:01:03.537-08:00Don’t talk to me. I’m not in the mood.<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EheLN-MDzrA?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EheLN-MDzrA?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">So I was watching the final episode of Weeds the other night and they were about to board a plane. Before boarding one of the characters, played by Richard Dryfuss, started discussing his plan on how to avoid someone sitting beside him on a plane. His technique was to write Jesus on his hat, that way a passenger would assume he’d talk religion the entire way. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I’m not a big plane converser. I don’t mind talking but I’d rather not. I don’t necessarily have a tactic. Most people tell me that until I smile I look mean. I think my tactic is too mean-mug. I don’t growl or anything but I appear unfriendly. There’s been a few times when some unassuming stranger breaks my mug and forces me to talk. I just think relaxing is the best thing to do while flying. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As much as I like to travel I still get anxious with each flight. To not be rude here are a few avoidance tips:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Sleep – Strangers can’t talk to you if you’re sleeping. If the stranger talks to you as soon as they sit down make sure you yawn a lot.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Eat Onions – Who wants to smell onion breath for hours. Grab yourself a bag of Funyuns before boarding. Also works with garlic.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Read – It’s all about looking busy. You will have a few strangers that will use your book as a reason to strike up a conversation but 70% of the time reading will work.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Listen – Keep your earphones on! It doesn’t matter how many times the stranger tries to talk to you do not remove your earplugs. Pretty soon the stranger will get tired of you saying “huh.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Talk – Talkers hate talkers because they like to dominate the conversation. Out talk the talker until the talker gives up!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Follow these tips and you’ll have a peaceful trip. Unless you’re the talker!</div><style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">Next to Korea, nobody can bite, copy, duplicate, etc. a handbag like New York. So if you want to skip the 20-hour flight and save money on a better “knock-off” go to New York. (Insert Legalese Here) Passport & Shoes does not support or encourage the purchasing of any materials posing as authentic. Now back to our regularly scheduled program. Delancey St. in New York is known for its stretch of “shops.” The shops’ names are unimportant. Your directions to the perfect underground shop may go something like this, on the corner; next to the alley; beside the coffee shop with the yellow and green awning; and not the coffee shop with the blue and red awning. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Delancey Street is all about the negotiation. The shop owner may have a strong accent but believe you me they understand you perfectly. The front of the store will have obvious duplicates. Your Gucci bag may have lower case “g” or your Fendi bag may actually have “l” instead of “f.” Hold your ground. Try not to appear obvious or anxious. The shop owner will eventually invite you to their back room, the Knock-Off Mecca. Only the designer will know what’s real and what isn’t. This is where the negotiations really take place. Don’t let them see you sweat! Keep eye contact! Walk away when they don’t accept your final offer. Believe me the walk away always work. It may not work immediately but before you leave Delancey St. be sure to walk pass that shop and I guarantee someone will encourage you to come in for that final deal. </div>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-62234356047775170602010-12-02T07:53:00.000-08:002010-12-02T07:53:05.252-08:00WTF…OMG…TSA It’s a hard job butt somebody has to do it!<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CTlmEV3MK4Q?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CTlmEV3MK4Q?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">Pat it down TSA…Pat It Down! What’s the less of two evils? The pat-down or the body scan. I guess it depends on who’s patting and who’s watching. I was listening to the morning show the other day and the comedian made a call to men. He said, “all men need to fly raw!” His description of flying raw was wearing sweat pants and taking at least half a Viagra pill. Wowsers! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Comfortable or not I do think that’s it’s necessary. Since the 9/11 attacks we’ve heard of individuals “testing” our security system, and in most cases our security system failed. According to the TSA blog site pat-downs are used to resolve alarms that occur at a walk-through metal detector. Weapons are advancing quicker than technology and my first priority is my safety. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As it stands only a small percentage of passengers will actually receive a pat-down. As long you continue to take off shoes, watch, underwire, earrings, laptop, pacemaker, loose change, metal plate, etc you’ll be pat-down free!</div>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-90324273413038731962010-11-29T17:19:00.000-08:002010-11-29T17:19:31.883-08:00Black Friday<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aeSgBL7gpAk?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aeSgBL7gpAk?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
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Shop til you drop! Not for me, not this year. For the past 5 or so years my sister and I hit the stores on black Friday. Elbowing strangers and sneaking hands in to grab that 4am deal. This year, me and my sister opted out of the mess.<br />
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Of course, the budget has something to do with my lack of enthusiasm but more importantly I'm a member of a family who's pretty satisfied with what we have. Sure there are things that we want but we're not in need of anything. I remember fighting my way through the crowd last year to leave with items that were not on any special sale. I think I'm finally losing my zest for shopping BUT wait there's more.<br />
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I didn't go out but I did hold my remote! Ahhh yes!!! My new pleasure! HSN and QVC!!!! I remember when I was kid, maybe 11 or 12, and my aunt had a house filled with home shopping treats. Boxes were everywhere! She didn't even know what she purchased. Junk jewelry for everyone. Most people compare my shopping habits with my Aunt but HSN and QVC are now high quality retailers.<br />
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Emeril, Wolf Gang Puck, Mariah Carey, Iman, Serena Williams, NFL are just a few of the brands they carry. Once you add flexpay to the equation it's a done deal. Where else can you buy a Keurig for $99 with free shipping and 5 easy flexpayments of $19.99??? That's right no where. So "eff" the malls, grab your remote, and buy you and your family some Iman Global Chic faux fur shoes with matching jean jacket and purse! Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-67075081021263178452010-11-23T07:34:00.000-08:002010-11-23T07:34:16.263-08:00Suited up and ready to go...NOTSo yesterday I participated in panel discussion for entrepreneurs. It went well. I told my story and answered questions. There were a total of four of us on the panel two were suited...I wasn't one of the two. I didn't wear jeans and I actually had on a blazer but it was a far cry from a suit. I'm sure you've realized by now that it doesn't take much to get me fired up. SO one the suits, who was also a graphic designer, bragged about his design business and mentioned hiring someone. The thing that pissed me off was he nudged me when he talked about hiring someone. UMMMM excuse me Mr. Suit...I'm up here just like you are. I don't need your job!<br />
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Does a suit really validate your level of professionalism? As a graphic designer I understand first impressions. I looked professional. I didn't look boring but I don't even own a suit. They don't fit my personality. I don't like "matching" and I've never felt comfortable in a suit. Everyone always says you should own at least one suit. I don't think so. If you're not comfortable, it will show, and you will bomb out. That dude was smelling himself too much anyway and when I checked his website I was far from impressed. Hire me my ass....what about me hiring you Mr. Suit!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-5574098423802382862010-11-22T09:23:00.000-08:002010-11-22T09:23:06.592-08:00I got the "itis"Nope not tonsillitis, hepatitis or any other viral ailment but Senioritis. I haven't had senioritis since 1999, when I graduated from Clark Atlanta University. This is my LAST semester at Univ. of Baltimore and I can not wait!<br />
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Unlike most proud graduates I will NOT be participating in my graduation ceremony. Why not, you ask. I HATE GRADUATIONS. They are sooooo boring and impersonal and they also cost money. You need to buy the robe, hat, tassle, invites, notifications, etc. After paying $00,000.00 for the last three years you would think those accessories would be included in my tuition.<br />
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I am also thankful that I have a family saturated with graduates. Just a few years ago we had four graduates in the same year! A ceremony doesn't make me or my family less proud of me it just eliminates a few hours of useless celebration where they'll have to patiently await for their opportunity to yell my name for 3 seconds.<br />
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Geesh I'm cynical!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-90422934635885039912010-11-22T09:14:00.000-08:002010-11-22T09:14:26.007-08:00Finally My Final Project<a href="http://vividdesigns.tumblr.com/">An Ode To Typography</a> is my final project! I LOVE typography. I think it's a pure form of graphic design and through the use of Tumblr I'm hoping to show my love accordingly. I hope you join me as I take a journey through the world of type!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-72826867505867548842010-11-19T14:41:00.000-08:002010-11-19T14:41:37.138-08:00Going GreenNooo...I'm not going green! I do a little here and there, lightbulbs, recycling, and that's about it. I'm here to complain about the green goer. Not all of them just the bike riders. All I have to say is GET OUT OF MY WAY!!!!!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-54443127591254406712010-11-16T08:56:00.000-08:002010-11-16T08:56:49.246-08:00What's the Deal with #5McNabb McNabb McNabb you were sacked 5 times yesterday. Your performance was less than stellar but we all know there isn't an "I" in "team." So what's up with the Redskins??? Where is your offensive protection and how did your defense allow 59 points. The Eagles had a PERFECT game and broke all types of NFL records. You can't blame Jason Campbell for losing, who by the way is winning for the Raiders. John Gruden said yesterday that the Redskins just doesn't have any good players. Your paying Haynesworth $100M over the next 7 years but you're not even starting him. I've never been a fan of the Skins but since Donovan and Shanahan joined the squad I was hoping for the best. It ain't easy routing for them since they make so many mistakes. Keep your head up Skins you still got games to play!!!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-37581500125914447212010-11-15T15:18:00.000-08:002010-11-15T15:18:38.391-08:00More FootballI sponsored a group to the Ravens @ Falcons game last Thursday. I had a fantastic time although we didn't win. Atlanta is a great city and I see why there are so many "transplants." The weather and hospitality was awesome.<br />
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We arrived early Thursday morning, had breakfast at Waffle House, did a little sight seeing, attended a tailgating specifically for Ravens fan, and off to the game we went. The Ravens were front and center and despite being on enemy territory the Falcons were friendly. Now I have the fever to go to more away games.Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-27571925869386862092010-10-23T17:49:00.000-07:002010-10-23T17:49:00.306-07:00My rapping nephew...Halloween Style!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwEg5pvP2cDfnB_IuHz9iVghjEMUYzl_UjUcEX0Ut6icddnbEbsRftD5WaWWYw8BPzp4TqCB5BlNJuNDQYE' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-66705595355270228222010-10-23T17:37:00.000-07:002010-10-23T17:37:30.624-07:00Video IdeaI'm struggling figuring out what I want to do. I'm thinking I want to do something fun and relative to my family. I have a few family activities taking place this weekend so my video uploads will contain family time. I'm so quick to change my mind so this may definitely change.Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-35395723627034400132010-10-18T09:24:00.000-07:002010-10-18T09:24:46.172-07:00The Desperate Woman!So let's talk about it. Where do I start? I had a phone a conversation with a dear friend of mine with whom I often exchange theories. He told me (of course it's a man) that women are the problem. Yup we're the problem. According to his theory men in high school/college court their women "better" because women demand it "better." According to him, we're hot sh!t in our early years and we're in control of the dating game. We create rules such as; he has to drive at least a _____ type of car, he has to take me out at least ___x a week, and he has to "dress" like _____. And since men are so hormonal at that age they do whatever they have to do to make it happen. So think back to your college days. Did the guy with the nice car have the girls? Did the guy who dressed the best have the girls? Did the guy participating in "pharmaceutical sales" have the girls? If you answered yes, than my friend's theory has some validity. <br />
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So fast forward to today, do still have those same standards? Instead of a type of car...he should just have transportation. Instead of taking you out...we can watch an OnDemand movie and eat leftovers? Instead dressing a particular way...please wear clean clothes without holes. Some of these maybe extreme or not? If we're constantly lowering our demand the supply will also lower. When you're getting to know someone a date should not be at a house! If you took your time to look your best, you should demand that he also look his best. If you're working hard, you should demand a partner that works hard. Don't let age turn to desperation!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-18969802138537140212010-10-18T08:57:00.000-07:002010-10-18T08:57:07.605-07:00Feeling a little old!So just when I was about to get all over this song and the direction of today's music. I realized that the singer is Willow Smith, child of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith. She was born in...wait for it...2000!&(*#)(@! What is up with that? She's 10! So because she's only 10 it makes the song cute and not as stupid as I originally thought.<br />
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I do think she's a little grown for 10. I don't have any children but as I researched the song, to slam it, I saw pictures of her and that's a lot going on for a ten year old. My niece is 9, she's very expressive, but she still appears to be 9. This child here appears to be at least 14/15, and as a child, 4 years is a big difference. <br />
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I'm a little discombobulated over this one soooo I'm done!<br />
<object height="295" style="background-image: url("http://i4.ytimg.com/vi/sCBTjOfs9XI/hqdefault.jpg");" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sCBTjOfs9XI?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sCBTjOfs9XI?fs=1&hl=en_US" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="480" height="295"></embed></object>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-21729380654447003842010-10-18T08:37:00.000-07:002010-10-18T08:37:01.010-07:00Football Football FootballSo yesterday we (RAVENS) took a "L" and I have a few a comments about how we got that "L"...surprise surprise surprise.Well first of all I wasn't too surprised that we lost. No that doesn't mean that I'm one of those "Brady is the best" or "NE is untouchable" fans. But I do consider mental and emotional factors when it comes to football.<br />
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Factor 1: NE was home<br />
Factor 2: NE needed to vindicate from that playoff game<br />
Factor 3: Brady was quite annoyed with Lewis' referee comments<br />
Factor 4: NE was just coming off a Bye<br />
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Now back to the Ravens. I wasn't happy with our defense or offense but we're going to concentrate on the offense today. I like Flacco. I don't think he's a great QB but he does have potential. My issue with the offense comes from the lack of <b>confidence</b>. I still can't wrap my head around the decision to punt the ball with 4th and inches??? If that doesn't send a negative message to your offensive line than what does...oh wait I have an answer...punting at 4th and one! Give me a break. Flacco isn't Peyton Manning but he also isn't Kyle Boller. Are you telling me that at 6'6" Flacco couldn't put in a QB sneak for a first down. Did NE defense scare us? Another problem I have, which shows lack of confidence, and this lies with Flacco and the coaching and that's independence.<br />
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It is clear that Flacco only does what he's told...no more, no less. If the play calls to pass to Boldin than he passes to Boldin regardless of who is in a better position. Flacco needs to know where his receivers are and not just the receiver who is expected in the play. He is spending too much waiting for the receiver to become open and not surveying the field. He's holding the ball too much which is causing him to just toss the ball to Rice whose not able to pick up enough yards in the time allotted.<br />
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We need to use our weapons: Yesterday we heard T.J. once and McGahee never...this shouldn't happen. Our offense is becoming predictable. We have a fantastic offensive roster that we need to take advantage of. Flacco connects with one receiver and sticks with it. Although Branch was a former Patriot, Brady was able to use him as if he's been there all along.<br />
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Switch up the play: If I see one more toss to Rice as he runs for 3 yards I will scream. Can I get a pump fake, a screen pass...something beyond a toss. <br />
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There's no reason we shouldn't win against Buffalo but we can't take any team for granted. Let's go RAVENS!!!!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-72486839218514443932010-10-11T13:05:00.000-07:002010-10-11T13:05:33.989-07:00For the "Plump" Woman Only - This page will self-destruct of all others!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mjSdi089xOw/TLNshtaj8HI/AAAAAAAAAB4/bNkCmGe45OE/s1600/dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_mjSdi089xOw/TLNshtaj8HI/AAAAAAAAAB4/bNkCmGe45OE/s320/dress.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>I'm Fabulously Plump! I did a little shopping this weekend. It's been a treat week for me. I checked out Baltimore's plus-size boutique, <a href="http://www.kstaton.com/">K Staton </a>and picked me up a little dress number that will enhance my fabulously plump lifestyle. I also checked out the best shoe store in town, <a href="http://www.poppyandstella.com/">Poppy and Stella</a>, for some hot pumps that I can walk in and that gives my calf that <i>umph</i> that only a good heel can do for a calf. I have my bad days, but even on a bad day there are things that you will never see:<br />
<ul><li>My belly - Why-o-why do women with "muffin tops" or better yet "bundt cakes" choose to buy short shirts with their belly hanging out?</li>
</ul><ul><li>My roll - By default, you know that I have a roll but I don't feature it. If you have a roll please do not outline it by wearing your jeans underneath your stomach, tucking your shirt in, and then top it off by wearing a belt. Use your jeans as a control mechanism and tuck in your gut, not your shirt. </li>
</ul><ul><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mjSdi089xOw/TLNtZGdxqwI/AAAAAAAAAB8/7kKj8OgGi1E/s1600/shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mjSdi089xOw/TLNtZGdxqwI/AAAAAAAAAB8/7kKj8OgGi1E/s200/shoes.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li>My ass - Low-rise jeans are NOT for everyone. Plump women need to know what works and what doesn't work. Just because your jeans made it pass your thighs it does not mean that they fit. If you sit down and feel air at your crack, your jeans are too small. </li>
</ul><ul><li>My breast - You may catch me with a little cleavage showing, but my goodness, everything except for the nipple is blinding. If your cleavage is exposed so much that you can use it as a cup holder that's a problem! If your cute, let your face be the highlight and not your breast.</li>
</ul>This is not a joke! I'm telling you this because I love you. We need to stick together. We may not have as many options as smaller woman but we have options.Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-51351750833385870532010-10-08T08:47:00.000-07:002010-10-08T08:47:51.143-07:00If you want to know anything about me just read this post:Don't ask me why but today I feel like doing a tell all on myself. For the most part I am what you see but like everyone else I have a deep dark secret life that today I'm going to share:<br />
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My confessions<br />
<ol><li>I can't swim - The water scares me and when I'm in the water I feel like I don't have control of myself and I like to be in control.</li>
<li>I can't ride a bike - Balancing myself on two wheels never appealed to me especially when considering the idea of falling.</li>
<li>The best job I've ever had is the one I'm doing now. I love working for myself even though it can be a bit stressful.</li>
<li>I miss selling Tastefully Simple even though I still have a cabinet full of goodies.</li>
<li>I voted for Erhlich and would do it again if it wasn't for my sister.</li>
<li>I want to be a contestant on Amazing Race.</li>
<li>I have a favorite uncle.</li>
<li>Fish and grits are my absolute favorite meal.</li>
<li>I don't like chocolate cake.</li>
<li>My car hasn't been washed in over a year.</li>
<li>Because I work from home I usually don't shower until the afternoon. </li>
</ol>Well that's it. You know all about me. I can no longer hide behind my dark side. Don't judge me. Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-56370291312025545722010-10-04T08:44:00.000-07:002010-10-04T08:44:48.352-07:00Football and the Pety Rules!Yesterday was a fantastic football day! The Ravens won!!! McNabb got a little Philly revenge!!! and the Bengals lost to the Browns!!! Any given Sunday is right. The Bengals lost was huge even though we're tied for division leaders it was still a good reward. This season has been full of surprises so far. Even the mighty Peyton Manning has falling to 4-4. That 59 yard field goal will be in the record books for a long time.<br />
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I will admit watching football sometimes is so aggravating. I understand the rules are there to protect players but some calls are uncalled for. At what point are the rules interfering with playing the game? I go back to that dreaded Detroit Lions touchdown. The ball was an obvious touchdown but because he didn't keep the ball in his hand we he stood up the team lost the points. That whack ass rule is not protecting a player's health and it seems inconsistent.<br />
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Watching some of yesterday's highlights I saw T.O. walk into the endzone, lay the football at the goal line, and walk away. Is that not the same thing that Calvin Johnson did? He had clear possession of the ball he just left the ball on the ground instead of coming up with it. Even taking your helmet off lends for a penalty. I understand taking it off and throwing it down but give me a break.<br />
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Bring back the Mean Jo Green, Lawrence Taylor, and O.J. Simpson days of football playing!<br />
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<object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/esqRNLLXH8Y?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/esqRNLLXH8Y?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-69467355914155540492010-10-03T09:42:00.000-07:002010-10-03T09:42:57.948-07:00I LOVE Baltimore!Yup, that's right, I Love Baltimore!!!! Baltimore is charming! Baltimore is the city that reads! Good Day Baltimore!<br />
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I get so annoyed when people complain about Baltimore. Move! No one is forcing you to live here. This isn't a country, it's a city, a very small city. I like going out knowing that I'm going to know at least one other person there. I like finding jewels in the city like 36th St., Belvedere Square and Mt. Washington. Baltimore may not be diverse like D.C. or New York but so what. We're not trying to be any other city other than BALTIMORE! We have good restaurants, good shopping, and an okay nightlife. Since my clubbing days are long gone I could care less about the night life.<br />
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Baltimoreans are nice. We may look a little a mean at times but it's because we're thinking about something. If you speak to us, we'll speak back. If you ask for directions, we'll give them. Don't offend us and do not talk about our town.<br />
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I lived in Atlanta aka the Dirty South aka ATLGeorgia but it wasn't for me. It was nice, plenty to do, plenty people to see but it was just Atlanta. Once you leave Atlanta...crickets. Not in good ole Baltimore. We're the pearl in the Oyster. Our shell consist of NY, Philly, and D.C. all in driving distance. Their rough exterior protects our "Charm."Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-19414638036491143002010-10-03T09:25:00.000-07:002010-10-03T09:25:19.283-07:00All the Single Ladies<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GVchsrlP59I?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GVchsrlP59I?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
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This is my favorite episode of Sex in the City! It's like the single woman's anthem to being completely single -- no kids, no husband! Often times I feel the pressures of being single...not in a bad whoa is me kinda way but in a "she can do it, it's <i>only</i> her." Working from home without a family automatically places me at the top of people's call list. I'm happy as a single woman and I'm happy for my relatives and friends who have the package. <br />
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Like the Carrie Bradshaw character, I now quantify my gift givings when those fluffy, overly decorated, pastel pieces of mail are spotted in my mailbox. They're automatic BILLS. Whatever you're getting invited to...trust and believe it requires a gift. Sometimes those gifts are public so if you're giving a crappy gift, everyone will know it.<br />
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That's when I go into my memory bank of gift giving and receiving. Please spare me the "you don't give to receive" look. You may not, but I do. The invitation get the wheels turning...did they come to my housewarming, what about the birthday party, did they at least purchase something from the tastefully simple catalog, how long has it been since we actually talked or hung out? The long lost "friend" is the worst type of invitation. If you haven't seen me in 10+ years please don't send me an invitation that will require me bringing you a gift. Most of the time after you've given that gift you lose contact with that person again. Let's meet for drinks, lunch, or something that will be an equal financial burden.<br />
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Of course there are always some exceptions to my rules. I am a very dedicated person. I keep relationships with people for a long time. I get overjoyed when I hear of my relatives and friends life accomplishments. When that happens budgets are broken, gas prices are ignored, and the past is the past!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-60535456482604601162010-09-27T12:31:00.000-07:002010-09-27T12:31:42.431-07:00I share too much informationSo at first I wanted to talk about <a href="http://specials.msn.com/A-List/Lifestyle/Weird-college-classes.aspx?cp-documentid=25433841&imageindex=1&cp-searchtext=unusual%20college%20classes&FORM=MSNIIT">weird college courses</a> and when I found the article I immediately post it on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/">Facebook</a>, along with the other blogs I wrote and what I did earlier this morning. Then I thought to myself who the hell cares and why do I want to share. It's no ones business what I'm doing in my classes. They're not giving me a grade and I'm 99% sure they won't even read the damn thing.<br />
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Social networking is narcissism in its purest form because everyone does it! It doesn't just take the role of celebrities but kids, adults, grannies, companies, activist etc. You're dammed if you have a page and post nothing and you're dammed if you have a page and post everything. I have over 100 photos of myself posted on facebook...I know I'm cute but geesh that's a lot.<br />
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As Americans we defend and try to protect our privacy as much as possible but turn around and share everything on Facebook! I don't think I've gone one day without checking my Facebook status. Maybe when I was on a cruise and couldn't but it's become part of my daily routine just like showering and eating. My name is Akesha and I'm a narcissist!Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1985013126524941389.post-78120285959509028692010-09-27T12:01:00.000-07:002010-09-27T12:01:51.539-07:00Female MC'sSO...I guess I'm on a feminist tip today which is a little unusual for me. So while I'm catching up as if I'm in high school, I have VH1 Soul playing in the background and Salt-N-Pepa is on. Oh how I miss the late 80s early 90s of hip-hop. The female rappers were on FIYA! We had Salt-N-Pepa, Yo-Yo, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and of course the one hit wonders like 357, Tigra and Bunny, & Monie Love. Those were the days. Now who do we have? Whack ass Nicki Minaj. I believe that if she had some competition she wouldn't be as popular.<br />
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I know Lil Kim is trying her best to stay alive but I think the cosmetic surgeries and the fact that she hasn't changed puts her at a disadvantage. I mean you're in your 30s still portraying the whore role. You're image hasn't evolved at all. To those who were there when you originated you're old news. To the those that may be new to your music you're seen as a has been.<br />
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Other female hip-hop artist evolved out of hip-hop. We all know Queen Latifah has branded and diversified herself well beyond hip-hop. MC Lyte had a recurring role on sitcoms and I've heard her distinct NY accent being used as a voice over plenty of times. Unlike, there male counterparts, female hip-hop artist aren't replaced. Once they move on other rappers aren't available to take their place. Hopefully female rap artist won't just fade to black.Akeshahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11924499112781497844noreply@blogger.com0