tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47205433694386939682012-01-21T07:31:08.952-08:00Culture, Music, Life, & a Piece of the Pie.zakeishanoreply@blogger.comBlogger901100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-62293982908045187202010-08-16T16:24:00.000-07:002010-08-16T16:47:56.506-07:00

I met a man at the grocery store. His name is Dan. He worked there... scanning groceries in the express lane.He was supposed to be fast, but he wasn't.It was the express lane.15 items or less.His hands shook every time he reached for an item. If the bar code was not easily seen, he rotated the item, at his own pace until he found it. Then...beep. He very deliberately scanned the item.He may

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-29949224703114927022009-10-24T00:01:00.000-07:002009-10-23T23:12:16.479-07:00

Today is a day where we can all get involved at some level to make a difference in our communities; essentially, we can make change happen in the world around us. On this "national day to help others," we can step out of ourselves even just for a moment and do something.Check out the Make a Difference Day website to find projects in your area, or you can try volunteermatch.org to find places to

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-63150181938004860092009-08-16T13:45:00.000-07:002009-08-16T14:06:44.243-07:00

Each Sunday the Sweet Potato Pie Project highlights an organization, website, or blog that is moving toward global awareness, environmental responsibility, or social change.This week's "Sunday's Best" is Tees for Change.Andrea Ayers started this line of environmentally friendly, organic, positive message tees because of her need to be reminded of her own power and possibility.  She believes very

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-48124084294264370472009-08-15T00:30:00.000-07:002009-08-15T00:52:54.355-07:00

Beautiful things are hopeful, fresh, and breathtaking.So, if I could be a more beautiful thing, today I'd choose to be Kimora and Djimon's new baby boy, Kenzo.Kenzo, the little brown chocolate drop was awe inspiring on his own, then I had to see the love that Djimon and Kimora share, equally...genuinely.  Well at least that is the way it appears. That's just more beauty.Blended families are hard

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-54180847936553119932009-07-30T09:11:00.000-07:002009-07-30T09:46:00.519-07:00

OK...I can't help but be slightly annoyed that since 2007 a great deal of my life has been all about supporting Barack Obama, and I feel that I've been slighted. Don't get me wrong, I am glad that I knocked on thousands of doors, made even more phone calls, hosted countless house parties, organized a major get out the vote campaign days before the election where my home was basically a campaign

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-58197273461008738442009-07-22T21:45:00.000-07:002009-07-22T22:44:24.621-07:00

Beautiful things are emotional, reflective, and expressive.So, if I could be a more beautiful thing, today I'd choose to be....The performance from Melissa and Ade on tonight's So You Think You Can Dance. This number tackled the subject of breast cancer as choreographed by Tyce Diorio. It left most of the judges in tears.I was left wiping tears away as well. Well the fact that it was danced to

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-9152600442586757372009-07-21T20:13:00.000-07:002009-07-21T23:35:28.167-07:00

So today, as I browsed from blog to blog to blog, I ran across this awesome line of hand-painted clothing.  Alicia P.'s line of clothing, jewelry, and fine art did more than impress me, it got me to thinking.  I started imagining what my clothing line might be like; that is, if I suddenly became creative in that realm of expression. But somehow I don't think me and some fabric paints from

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-34358860748359197442009-07-20T15:47:00.000-07:002009-07-20T15:52:22.182-07:00

When you know you've wronged someone, just say sorry, and mean it.  I'm not saying that it always makes things better, but it's a start.  The one thing that could have made this a bit more acceptable, is if Chris just really freestyled from the heart.But since we live in the age of retractions and lawsuits, I guess it was best he had his words prepared.  Watch.  And tell me what you think.

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-72068384887267280682009-07-19T19:45:00.000-07:002009-07-19T22:52:53.470-07:00

Each Sunday, the Sweet Potato Pie Project highlights an individual, organization, movement, website, or blog that is moving toward global awareness, social change, and community service.This week's Sunday's Best is 46664.Yesterday, Nelson Madela's 91st birthday, also marked the first annual Mandela Day, a 46664 celebration.46664 is Nelson Mandela's Global HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-36918690700878804472009-07-17T14:53:00.000-07:002009-07-17T15:29:57.323-07:00

"...that's a unity."  These lyrics from this 1993 Queen Latifah hit naturally come to mind today, Bloggers Unite for Human Rights Day.While many of us exist in our slightly off centered, but perfect worlds, there is a woman out there is being mutilated.  How can I go on obsessing over the ending balance in my checking account knowing that.FGM, Female Genital Mutilation is religious, cultural,

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-74391267492044438302009-07-14T16:12:00.000-07:002009-07-17T22:32:34.562-07:00

Question:  Why is Simply Z. wearing this shirt?A.  Simply Z. likes to wear cotton Ts to survive the Las Vegas Summer Temps.B.  Simply Z. likes to send a message of Peace where ever she goes.C.  Simply Z. is thinks this Target T was reasonably priced and just her style.D.  Simply Z. is pulling a "Malia Obama."Well the answer is All of the Above and more.  I want to be reminded that peace starts at

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-39351699043359612672009-07-14T00:53:00.001-07:002009-07-14T00:53:26.371-07:00

6xy73j9a2d

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-80893928896614933762009-07-13T22:09:00.000-07:002009-07-14T00:53:13.680-07:00

"...in the world." This is one of my favorite quotes ever. It's truth, it's sarcasm, it's the moment. It's a feeling that even a powerful musical presence like Gwen Stefani could experience.The impression that I got from the article, in this month's Elle Magazine, is that Gwen is juggling, being a mom, a wife, a rock star, a fashion icon and it can become a little overwhelming.Kingston is a

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-16636223989806422482009-07-12T15:49:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:07:14.102-07:00

Each Sunday the Sweet Potato Pie Project highlights an organization, website, or blog that is moving toward global awareness, justice, and social change.  This week's "Sunday's Best" is Dropping Knowledge.The concept takes the idea of questioning the status quo to another level.  You pose the question and start the dialogue with yourself and people all over the world about their thoughts on the

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-17051141317909858942009-07-11T16:47:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:17:13.209-07:00

Beautiful things are gripping, inspiring, and provocative.So, if I could be a more beautiful thing, today I'd choose to be....The horn section in Maxwell's BLACKsummers' night Cd.  Keyon Harrold on trumpet, Kenneth Whalum III on saxophone, and Saunders Sermons II on trombone.  Together they are truly a beautiful thing.Check them out."Bad Habits"Maxwell"Pretty Wings"Maxwell"Help Somebody"Maxwell

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-90249818905772837012009-07-09T15:20:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:13:57.502-07:00

I start my day, every day with a classic Cup o' Joe, but afternoons?  They're different.  One of my favorite ways to spend the afternoon is stealing a few moments of quiet time with a cup of tea in hand.  More specifically Tazo Honeybush Tea...you see this afternoon's cup brewing in the picture on the left. And then it dawned on me,  my quest toward being a champion for social change is easier

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-64003226604134140542009-07-04T01:18:00.000-07:002009-07-13T13:42:52.475-07:00

Well even though these days it's all about Jay-Z's "Death of Auto Tune," you know... dressed in all black and a moment of silence and all.  I was pleasantly surprised at how much Jay-Z's concert at the Pearl at Palms Las Vegas was about celebrating life.Despite the 99 Problems a B***ch not being one and all of the other hard core lyrical subject matter and profanity, this man surprised me at the

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-5467463135073773842009-07-03T16:30:00.001-07:002009-07-13T16:18:19.953-07:00

"Three Little Birds", "Redemption Song", and "Could You Be Loved", reworked, remixed and better than ever. These are just a few things that I love about the new CD, "B is for Bob."Mr. Marley, the man, the message, the peaceful warrior, the social justice hero, and not to mention his simple mad coolness is now repackaged for kids in this new Tuff Gong production. These catchy classics can be

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-28910699453058746762009-07-02T09:49:00.000-07:002009-07-13T13:51:51.953-07:00

It was a small ceremony, in the back bedroom on the 2nd floor of a modest home in East Las Vegas circa 1983.   He was different version of his older self, he wore white pants and a yellow vest.  I wore pink rimmed short shorts and a rainbow t-shirt...I think.   There was no fanfare, no paparazzi, no kiss.  Just me and his music, his moves, his look, and I’m almost sure he screamed “woo” or "hee

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-66023808046519357402009-06-19T11:23:00.001-07:002009-07-13T16:02:25.529-07:00

"...I say the darker the flesh, the deeper the roots."  Does anyone else get chills when they hear 2Pac deliver these words in his rap classic "Keep Ya Head Up?"  I do.  I'm serious, I do...the kind of chills that raise the hairs on your arms.This week we celebrate 2 events that inarguably (IMHO) are 2 of the most influential occurrences to happen to Black Americans. The birth of TuPac Shakur and

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-52624501206509177112009-06-09T00:08:00.000-07:002009-07-13T13:48:41.703-07:00

"into me..." I'm sure this song is not talking about a sculptured afro pick crashing into the floor beneath it, but this is the first song I though of when I saw this image. Yeah I guess this could be a "Fight the Power" post but I'm going with the Dave Matthews Band.I first saw this image in a recent edition of GIANT magazine.  I wanted to know more about the art and the artist.  Sanford Biggers

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-43567207263883915932009-06-06T14:38:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:15:08.877-07:00

Waking up to CNN every morning, can make for some pretty depressing thoughts at the beginning of anyone's day.  But not this time. This particular morning on CNN, I met Danielle Galloway from Atlanta, graduating class of 2009.She 17 years old.She's homeless.In and out of shelters all of her life.She attended 10 different schools.Oldest of 6 children.Abused by a step father.Deserted by her

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-28062701526897884612009-06-05T23:13:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:17:35.259-07:00

"...draggin' all them bags, like that."  Erykah is one of my favorite singers of all time and her message to "pack light" has been chasing me around all day today. Plus this picture of her is simply breathtaking...so I had to post it.In the last month, a couple of "friends" have contacted me after a long "friendship break" initiated by me, to find out why I don't communicate with them anymore.  

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-57735427084240367972009-06-04T08:50:00.000-07:002009-07-13T13:51:37.824-07:00

"...Vegas Please."  I'm wondering if this is what these Buddist Monks said when they stopped at the "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign.It is true, you can see anything in Vegas, even on a random Tuesday night.  I wanted to hug them or bow or curtsey or something.I wanted to tell them about my "Yoga Body, Buddha Mind" book or "The Way of the Buddha" or my morning meditations and Sunday night Power

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-34615209454345420412009-05-21T19:24:00.000-07:002009-07-13T13:53:33.596-07:00

I went to the movies this weekend and suffered through Angels and Demons.  This was not the worst of my Sunday afternoon, as I was leaving I saw an idiot with this shirt on.Really?  You'd rather be waterboarding?  You idiot.What's worse is that this guy and his shirt have been on my mind for the last few days.

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-67081172215311881802009-05-20T13:24:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:22:00.534-07:00

Name Calling?  Labels?  Us?  Them?  Is that all you have? The Democrat-Socialist Party? Cute. For me this boils down to a scene in one 80s classic comedy.   “I know you are but what am I?”  said over and over again by the great Pee Wee Herman in Pee Wee’s Big Adventure. So isn’t it sad.  At a time when you should be going back to the drawing board and coming to consensus about your beliefs and

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-8688837047196014312009-04-30T01:33:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:15:41.460-07:00

Although this song comes to mind,  it’s more like 100 days and it seems like we hear from Obama every day, and that’s fine with me.  When he took oath he told us that this this would be a job of remaking America.  And it looks as though we are.  I mean there may not be major concrete changes... like we can’t all go to see a physician gratis and gas is not down to 50 cents a gallon, but problems

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-40879697787728069182009-04-26T16:05:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:07:59.158-07:00

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-12065156795414070942009-04-22T15:12:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:27:00.570-07:00

These lyrics are fitting because this weekend I was racing against the clock.  If you notice on the side of this blog there is a section marked “Sweet Potato Pie Project ‘projects’.”  In that section “The Final Cut” refers to my aspirations to make films, more specifically documentaries that touch on some of the same topics as this blog.   On the spur of the moment I entered into a contest

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-84056331542519090932009-03-05T14:16:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:09:50.133-07:00

The lyrics to this old school Moe Dee song are really not relevant to this blog post, but the title is.  Today My President hosted the White House Health Care Summit to address our out of control health care costs, the astronomical number of uninsured and underinsured Americans who are facing illness and economic ruin, and what we intend to do about it all.  I think that this is one of the most

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-26283603631209002912009-03-01T14:48:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:10:26.776-07:00

"Yes it is.  It’s the magic number".  Do you remember this cut from De La Soul?  Do you remember Three Feet High and Rising?  Three TImes Dope?  The Three Amigos?  It’s safe to guess that I love the number three and I thought it would be a good time to write about it. March, the third month of the year, is my favorite month...only December comes close to sparking such an emotional response. 

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-10130987514355160582009-02-27T16:28:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:14:17.943-07:00

"You’ve got issues. I got issues.  But I know I miss you."   These lyrics are so fitting for what I am going through right now.  And the issue is...I suck at blogging.  I mean, I really suck.   I haven’t posted in well over a month and the really sick part about it is that I’ve had so many things to say.   Oh, and I’ve been saying them.  Yeah, that’s right, I’m the best damn mental blogger you

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-14237482048173846962009-01-09T23:08:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:25:36.329-07:00

“...I am a nightmare walkin’, psychopath talking.”  King of my Jungle just a gansta stalkin.”  The truth is that I’m not really feeling so gangsta, it’s just that I’ve been thinking about colors all day and I don’t know why.   Literally colors, like crayons and stuff.  Thinking about what shade of brown Cafe’Girlpie would be or what variation of orange Sweet Potato Sigh might be. Colors are

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-29409917789682318032009-01-07T16:05:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:16:57.704-07:00

"...like the river to the sea."  Yoga Vinyasa Flow that is.  Yoga class was awesome last night, peaceful, serene, much like this Sade (she is one of my all time favorites) cut.  Yoga class this morning was beneficial, but not at all serene.  It was a Mommy and Me class in downtown Vegas with about 10 kids under three all doing their loud a$$ versions of downward facing doggie.  Yes, my little one

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-32609024026327747592009-01-05T00:08:00.000-08:002009-07-13T16:05:08.323-07:00

"...I've been here for years."  Well ok, not years but regardless, I'm back from hiatus and oh how I've missed the Sweet Potato Pie Project.  After a couple of months of wandering around in a Post Election stupor experiencing Obama withdrawl (I can actually be seen somewhere in this video, I'm sure), girlpie has returned.  I'm still trying to figure out what to do next now that I have lost my

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-77577626981570927252008-11-03T23:52:00.000-08:002008-11-04T00:35:51.661-08:00

"…give it all you got give it all you got." That’s what I’m reminding myself to do right now as this 2008 Presidential Election comes to a close. I’m in my house, which is a GOTV site for the Obama campaign. I’m directing people to various communities in my section of Las Vegas, to Get Out The Vote for Barack. We are hanging door hangers, talking to potential voters, persuading undecideds, and

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-15920028732967693142008-10-07T23:10:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:29:25.349-07:00

...Or you can get with that (one). Did McCain just call Obama “That One?” I don’t know what it sounds like to you, but to me he sounds as if he is dehumanizing My BO. WTF? It is a clear sign of disrespect and it alludes to a belief that that one is not even worthy of being on the same stage as this one. If you notice, this one rarely says that one’s name. This one wouldn’t even shake that one’s

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-20858627434827104692008-10-01T12:37:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:25:17.177-07:00

“…smokin’ indo sippin on gin and juice.” This might be deemed acceptable behavior for the next vice presidential nominee after the six pack is finished if Sarah Palin sets the standards.I haven’t taken the many opportunities that Sarah Palin has given me to totally crease her on this blog. I’ve decided to leave that to Tina Fey; after all she does it so much better than I ever could. But this

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-47685861241114655622008-09-24T00:10:00.001-07:002009-07-13T16:06:03.693-07:00

“… you say what is this.” You know this song from back then. You know back when Flavor Flav was just a hype man for Chuck D and not the reality TV star that he is today. Well, I thought of this song while I registered my uncle to vote today. In a way, we were fighting the power. My uncle, well into middle age, has never registered to vote. In fact, he thought he had lost all rights to vote

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-15187496442989795752008-09-18T00:41:00.001-07:002008-09-18T00:49:29.935-07:00

“…Pass the Popcorn.” This 1993 cut, by The Roots (then known as The Square Roots) is more than appropriate for this picture.This evening Barack Obama made another visit to Las Vegas, and me and the girls waited for him through scorching temperatures, desert rain, and insane crowds to get close to the man we consider to be the most important leader of our time, arguably any time.And of course,

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-72383780442348441132008-09-11T12:45:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:26:34.522-07:00

“…I hate these (fools) more than the Nazis.” I guess my boy Kanye wasn’t lying. Today Kanye West was arrested at LAX (the airport in L.A.—not the club in Las Vegas ) for taking his anger out on the paparazzi. He allegedly smashed the camera to the floor. This camera was valued at 10 Gs. I guess he didn’t like those flashing lights. Now ya’ll know I have a special place in my heart for Kanye West

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-25782561129729924152008-09-11T09:47:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:05:27.204-07:00

“…hail Mary, run quick see.” Those of you who know me know that I have been known to Hail Mary (full of grace), but these days I am more into meditation without the dogma. So, today I break away from the meaningless thoughts that consume my mind and direct my contemplations to the disaster that happened seven years ago today. I’m not talking about 9/11 TM (Trademark; re: Olberman’s rant last

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-55568238419964926362008-09-08T15:36:00.000-07:002008-09-08T15:40:57.304-07:00

So many people have asked me what I think about Sarah Palin. I have been unable to really answer this question because I haven't wanted to give her very much thought. She is a dangerous part of this campaign, but before I begin to rip her a new one in many future blog posts, I just want to laugh. Enjoy.

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-384488245693301752008-08-26T00:24:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:19:52.337-07:00

“…Isn’t she wonderful?” What a fitting song to play at the end of Michelle Obama’s magnificent speech tonight at the DNC. And I have to say, that I was in tears before she even opened her mouth.What a poised vision of beauty and strength—grace and honor. This woman has truly shown America just who she is. And I hope they like what they see, I know I do.I mean I’ve seen her speak before and I’ve

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-33278291744816543002008-08-22T09:18:00.001-07:002009-07-13T14:34:35.989-07:00

"…knows how to party." I mean we all know this to be true. But what’s more important is that California also knows how to take political action.In this photo, California is well represented. We have an L.A. native raised up in the Southwest part of Los Angeles, a stone’s throw away from Inglewood and we have an L.A. Laker who has made his home in Los Angeles, a long way away from Little Rock,

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-20845171214273157222008-08-01T14:28:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:17:41.976-07:00

“…it’s been inside of me all along.” These ideas, these core beliefs have been inside of each one of us, always. What I think is so important about Barack Obama’s rise to leadership in this country is that his very existence in this presidential race reminds us of this. This is the most powerful image I’ve seen in a very long time.Not only is this strength, courage, and wisdom in him, but it is

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-62294347730207982252008-07-28T16:54:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:43:18.039-07:00

"...do you wanna wanna...rescue me?" This is the song that popped into my head while I spending my time in the movie theater on Sunday. Well not so much for "Wanted." I thought that was very entertaining, smart, and sort-of original. You have to remember that one of my favorite movies of all time is "Matrix" and this movie channeled that a little.But throughout the time I wasted watching "The

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-51729844339571540102008-07-25T10:05:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:36:46.450-07:00

"……I’m Bad.” Really...that's a lie, I’m just mad. I cannot believe that my boy Will was eliminated from “So You Think You Can Dance.” He is simply one of the most talented dancers I’ve ever seen. There have even been a few of his routines that have actually moved me to tears. You can't understand the guilt I feel for not voting, thinking that he would just naturally win. Bigger picture...could

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-41357126668203909242008-07-23T07:59:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:41:02.589-07:00

“…is doing her own thing.” I discovered this picture last night. It’s funny the things that you come across just when you are supposed to. Lately, I’ve been doing a little self investigation; tapping in to me, “the being,” and through this picture I’ve discovered that I have been just being me for a long time. It’s amazing how most of the children in this 3rd grade photo are standing there

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-86290212245964530462008-07-22T15:04:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:13:39.216-07:00

“in my four-corned room staring at candles.” That’s how I felt today when I was thumbing through cds in my car(yes while driving), just like Bushwick did on that crazy Halloween night in 1991. I picked what I thought was a Lauryn Hill cd and it was an Ice Cube cd. Then I glanced down and picked up the Lauryn Hill cd again, and it was a Juvenile cd. Confusion set in. I was Scarface and Willie D,

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-27834176093410315582008-07-21T09:08:00.000-07:002009-07-19T21:03:52.923-07:00

“…Happy Birthday to you. Happy Biiirrrthday!” Even though this song was originally created for Dr. King, it is appropriate for this occassion as well.Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid activist and South Africa’s first black President, celebrated his 90th birthday over the weekend, and he appears to be having the time of his life. But, I can’t help but think about the 27 birthdays he spent alone

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-89969304185799345102008-07-20T00:36:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:20:57.857-07:00

“…Hell naw, ain’t no way. What’s Wrong? Man he den stepped on my Jays.” Somehow I don’t think these are the “Jays” that Nelly is referring to in his new song. Nevertheless, I think that Wan would have the same reaction if someone stepped on these original “Obama” kicks.Wan Ali always has more glitz and glam than anyone else in the room….I said always. He has been designing and selling blinged out

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-14515479574165009292008-07-18T23:18:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:22:38.199-07:00

…that’s the kind of girl I need down with my team.” Well, obviously I’m down with Heavy D.’s team (Favorite Heavy D. cut = “Gyrlz, They Love Me” or wait maybe "Mr. Big Stuff"),I’m down with songs from back in the day, but I’m also down with (and very serious about) my coffee. And yes, I prefer organic sugar and SILK hazelnut flavored cream.This is why I was shocked to hear that Starbucks will be

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-53904973442508238522008-07-09T15:04:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:24:08.899-07:00

…They smile in your face, all the time they want to take your place; the backstabbers. So Jesse Jackson, you know…. Rainbow Coalition Jesse, “keep hope alive” Jesse, 4-5 syllable rhyming words Jesse, had to apologize today for saying some “crude and hurtful” things about our next president Barack Obama. Apparently, what the good Reverend thought was a private moment turned out to be anything of

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-52908933736085250212008-06-26T10:19:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:32:37.076-07:00

…"come to find out…” those of you who are Biggie and Junior M.A.F.I.A. fans know the rest. The song has plenty of expletives and questionable content, but in 1996 I didn’t mind at all, and on a day or two in ’08 you might find me singing them while listening to the old school lunch hour on my local radio station.This is not about Notorious BIG, he’s just the lyrical inspiration for this post.

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-77257712554252497662008-06-25T16:33:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:16:43.303-07:00

…in this very strange world, hoping I could learn a bit ‘bout what is true and fake. This is what I think Juno MacGuff is afraid to admit, but cleverly masks with her quick wit and sarcastic sense of humor. Juno has been officially added to my list of favorite movies.This was the smartest Saturday night I’ve had in a long time, the best movie I’ve seen since in a while. Little Miss Sunshine, one

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-73201395799636829322008-06-02T21:13:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:39:55.735-07:00

....'cause you asked for one, 'cause you need one you see." Well, this may be what this young lady is saying, but I actually don't even need one. All I need right now is this performance from my favorite 5th Grader...I couldn't ask for anything more."Love Song"Sara Bareilles

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-16256268949526128332008-04-22T01:36:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:27:38.520-07:00

“…no, no can do.” This is what I hope Pennsylvanians say to themselves if they even for a moment lose their minds and consider voting for HRC today in the Pennsylvania Primary. Today is the day many of us have been waiting for. It all lies in the hands of the good folks of Pennsylvania. I pray they get it right. Over the past several weeks, we’ve seen a myriad of events take place. We’ve seen

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-24224477594432038762008-04-17T15:56:00.000-07:002008-04-21T14:13:06.806-07:00

“…get, that dirt off your shoulder.” That is precisely what Barack Obama just had to do after last night’s debate, if you can call it that. It was 45 minutes into this biased forum before a single issue that directly affects the American people was posed to Senator Obama. Instead Snuffleupagus (er, I mean Stephanopoulos) and his Big Bird counterpart, Charlie Gibson decided to use their media

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-48847628230190708442008-04-02T21:59:00.000-07:002008-04-03T14:08:14.579-07:00

It’s Nevada Reading Week and parents were invited into our neighborhood elementary school to read to students. I jumped at the chance to read to my daughter’s class on Tuesday. The students enjoyed the book selection. It’s one of my favorites, Heaven’s All Star Jazz Band by Don Carter (author and illustrator). This picture book highlights the importance of the historical figures in jazz in a way

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-52979390150588273482008-04-01T12:11:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:00:30.296-07:00

“…chain of fools.” This is an interesting day for me. This is the day that my mother prayed I would not be born. She did not want me to be labeled a “fool,” so like the wonderful daughter I am, I obliged and came to meet her one day earlier.This does not mean that there aren’t many fools out there in our midst. Here is my top 10 list of April Fools, foolish things, or ideas of 2008 (don’t get mad

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-18378012158065393102008-03-31T23:36:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:28:12.391-07:00

“…it’s your birthday.” That is, without a doubt, my favorite birthday song ever. And although I didn’t do any partying in da club, I had a wonderful day. This is very rare, but I was truly excited about every gift I received. I mean I always like that people think about me and purchase a gift, but it is truly special when you see that people buy you things that are really you….and all on the same

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-8595749644883286842008-03-30T10:16:00.000-07:002009-07-13T15:21:39.721-07:00

"...I ain't fallin' short; I got the money and the power." This had to be what Bush got krunk to before he came out to address the nation about the state of this war we are in.When I think of the 4,000 soldiers who have lost their lives for money and the power my heart truly aches for them and their families. We know though, that thousands more lives have been destroyed as a result of this M & P

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-17365705205722914632008-03-28T17:20:00.000-07:002008-03-28T17:53:14.713-07:00

"...do ya step." You really don't have to do a step for this one. Just snap your fingers like you are in a poetry lounge and listen to this awesome poem (some questionable language)."Snap Yo Fingers"Lil' John

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-3938218152919504012008-03-27T23:01:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:32:17.283-07:00

“…no more sleepin in bed. No more backward thinking time for thinking ahead.” I feel sick, I’m disturbed, but not shocked. A few things occurred today which lead me to the video below about the North American Union and the VChip.In addition to running into an acquaintance at the grocery store this morning, who shined a light on this YouTube video, I also watched our president give a speech

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-8599583933510671142008-03-26T15:14:00.000-07:002008-03-26T15:21:54.856-07:00

“…lights so bright, palms sweat, blackjack on a Saturday night.” Apparently what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay here and that is true for these postcards you see in the image on the left. With all of the negativity constantly pouring out of every media outlet, I thought it important to let folks know that there are still many positive things going on in this presidential race.A few Obama

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-60554620689311637242008-03-19T12:19:00.000-07:002009-07-13T15:13:32.420-07:00

“….Lay down that boogie and play that funky music ‘till you die.”The world is still whispering, no bump that, shouting and yelling about Obama’s audacity to tell the truth about our country. Even after the dynamic speech by Barack, telling it like it really is, and offering resolution by way of moving forward for the greater good of America, they still don’t understand.The pundits, commentators

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-12842329522210607112008-03-18T17:46:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:03:59.354-07:00

..."Huh huh huh hu-uh huh, I know this much is true.”Barack Obama is the truth. And I believe that this country has been yearning for someone to come out and say publicly what many Americans quietly murmur behind closed doors. Race issues are real. They are not figments of imaginations. They don’t belong to sore losers and are not what some might deem sour grapes. They are problems that affect

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-37946344424547530562008-03-15T03:51:00.000-07:002008-03-15T03:54:08.916-07:00

Despite what they all say... "Yes We Can"President Barack Obama

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-68606772326604301902008-03-15T03:39:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:48:56.523-07:00

“…and learn to fly again, learn to live so free." Those of you who know me personally or through my writing know that I am deeply inspired by music of all genres. This old 80s hit popped into my head as I pondered this Jeremiah Wright situation. America truly has a case of broken wings.What I’ve come to understand is that this is not a just a Jeremiah Wright problem or only a Barack Obama problem

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-58109396382892052682008-03-13T15:20:00.000-07:002009-07-13T14:47:06.994-07:00

“…What you want.” This is exactly what Keith Olberman did last night. I would love the opportunity to write something very witty at this time, but Keith said it all last night. My ego is buried. Keith…you have the floor.“Say Say Say”Paul McCartney & Michael Jackson

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-23805021117079913052008-03-13T14:40:00.000-07:002009-07-13T15:12:08.089-07:00

“…and the rest will follow. Be colorblind don’t be so shallow.” It is quite a shame that this 2008 Democratic Presidential race is turning out to be about race. Over the past few days, Geraldine Ferraro has created a mess of this contest and then has enough gall to play the victim."If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position," Ferraro said. "And if he was a woman (of any color) he

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-46998512379886690102008-03-10T09:46:00.000-07:002009-07-13T16:07:36.410-07:00

“I’m a criminal.” This is what Dr. Desai should be saying to himself as he awaits his fate. Healthcare is one of the most important issues facing Americans today. In fact, it is how some of us are choosing a presidential candidate. Whether you support Universal Healthcare, Affordable Healthcare for All, or the American healthcare system as it exists today everyone has to be concerned with the

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-6887350606708647412008-02-27T09:39:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:11:45.684-07:00

…she’s dancing in a video next to 50 Cent. Pink’s idea of the 1st female president is quickly slipping away. Although Hillary Clinton may not be scantily clad in a compromising position on “BET Uncut,” she is; nevertheless, exposed…especially after her performance at last night’s debate in Cleveland.Hillary Clinton as a Commander in Chief? I certainly hope not. After complaining about going first

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-5596060805755529902008-02-26T09:25:00.000-08:002008-03-13T15:59:40.611-07:00

…of a good friend. To the heart and mind, ignorance is kind. Yesterday I went into a new local bakery to satisfy my sweet tooth with something other than a sweet potato pie. No different from any other day, I was wearing something Obama and the owner’s face lit up instantly. She “loved” my ObamaMAMA T-Shirt and even asked where to get one. I made small talk about barackobama.com, the recent Clark

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-58504654336597299822008-02-25T13:16:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:20:16.833-07:00

…don’t you think…a little too ironic? Well obviously Hillary hadn’t quite crossed her Ts and dotted her Is when she began launching her attacks on Barack Obama for plagiarizing lines in his speeches. It seems as though he is not the only one inspired by other people’s words. This was reported on yesterday’s Meet the Press. Funny."Ironic"Alanis Morisette

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-73279149815673495092008-02-24T05:39:00.000-08:002009-07-13T16:01:42.173-07:00

…’Steada treated, we get tricked; ‘Steada kisses, we get kicked. Although this image depicts happiness (amid chaos), the fact remains that yesterday marked another shameful day for democrats in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Clark County Democratic Party hosted a mere caricature of what was supposed to be a serious event, the Clark County Democratic Party Convention. This is where the pledged delegates

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-28759959113241788652008-02-22T06:34:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:19:32.823-07:00

If at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off and try again. I guess “trying again” was Hillary Clinton’s strategy during Thursday night’s democratic debate. Although both candidates were very civil during the first 45 minutes of the political conversation, Clinton, once again when back to her core and tried to turn this thing negative claiming that in terms of speeches, Barack Obama was not “

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-50579001438332265162008-02-22T06:11:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:21:03.877-07:00

I know just what you’re saying. So please stop explaining, don’t tell me cause it hurts. "For the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country. And not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change. And I have been desperate to see our country moving in that direction."Michelle Obama spoke these words and instantly drew criticism from

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-69863108565538795912008-02-17T12:17:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:19:09.160-07:00

…stand up for your rights. This week, Stevie Wonder was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. Using this honor as a social and political platform, the longtime humanitarian spoke to the audience about social responsibility. He focused on the youth and encouraged them to be a part of the solution, as opposed to silent victims, by exercising their right to vote, especially in this

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-70915074526889289232008-02-12T13:37:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:12:50.774-07:00

…I remember, I remember when I lost my mind. It had to be about two years ago. I went from long sleep filled nights, to catching calf cramps at 2:00 a.m. every night, bent up like a fat pretzel, to nursing five times a night (not to mention multiple times during the day), and now getting up countless times a night to a little voice turning big in the dark, “Mommy, Mommy, Mommy.”Little Cookie baby

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-1702243797736103252008-02-11T09:23:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:22:19.312-07:00

Although a surfer’s anthem, there really isn’t a whole lot of depth to the words in this song. A spirited laugh, the famous lyric, and the percussion and guitar let loose. ‘Nuff said.This weekend, Obama’s message of hope and change moved like a wave, from the south through the middle of America and was balanced out between two coastal states. On coverage from Washington State, one caucus goer

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-62470819096778404322008-02-09T13:10:00.000-08:002009-07-13T16:16:16.785-07:00

...It’s bigger than you. And you are not me. This week religion has been echoing around me everywhere I turn. From Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, a conversation I was included in at a bar about fellowship and church-hurt, a talk-show about the law of attraction, Romney suspending his run for the presidency and the role his religion played in his electability, and Oprah’s new book club selection A

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-20842437556938086502008-02-07T10:44:00.000-08:002009-07-13T16:04:31.779-07:00

…(Clintons) swearin’ they on top, but I’m coming for they number one spot. You know the rest. The past 48 hours has been filled with up to the minute coverage on what my mom calls, “The best reality show on television.”This democratic race for the presidency is more than a contest, for me it is an emotional investment. As my stock goes up and down, I refuse to diversify. All of my political hope

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-52321971805332379272008-02-07T06:52:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:18:11.108-07:00

…Everyone must stand alone. I hear you call my name and it feels like home. Yesterday I did some calling of my own. I contacted a few churches to inquire about Ash Wednesday services. I had big plans to attend mass, feel all liturgical, and walk around town with a cross on my forehead. And paired with the new environmentally friendly shopping bags I had planned to use at the market, I dared

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-82897221015686282802008-02-06T11:06:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:17:42.537-07:00

…Oh, yes it will. Tuesday’s votes are in and this race continues; the battle between fresh and stale moves forward to Nebraska, Louisiana, and Washington this Saturday; Maine on Sunday. These February 5th contests were close. My latest results say that Barack earned 475 delegates on Super Tuesday (HRC 492). He won the approval of Americans in 13 states (HRC 8).I’m a fair person and I must give

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-59151658317893005962008-02-05T07:28:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:16:53.459-07:00

…Oh, Lord. I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, Oh Lord. Well, maybe I’ve only literally been waiting since my state of Nevada got it wrong on January 19th, according to the popular vote. But the direct lyrics from Phil Collins seem more than appropriate on this Super Tuesday.I woke up with my stomach in knots. I know that those who know Barack best say that he is serene during

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-81804312038340794702008-02-05T00:02:00.000-08:002009-07-13T15:10:46.883-07:00

…And a crawfish pie, fillet gumbo. I guess this is how many folks will celebrate Mardi Gras. Eating too much, drinking too much, and enjoying all the excess before it is time to give it all up. No place will have a greater Fat Tuesday party than Bourbon Street, New Orleans. Louisiana visitors and many locals will flock to this historical street and party like no other day throughout the

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-11749043657214005142008-02-04T13:19:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:52:34.369-07:00

...Can’t you see I’m burning, burning? …Burning up pissed. This weekend I tried to get emergency care for my baby over and over again to no resolve. This is not an issue of no insurance or being underinsured; actually I am one of the fortunate few in our country who has decent health coverage with few limitations on providers, procedures, or authorizations. I don’t even need a referral to see a

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4720543369438693968.post-9463115662676035882008-02-02T21:10:00.000-08:002009-07-13T14:51:58.403-07:00

Here we are weeks into the 2008 and I’m still the same old me. I need to push forward with many of the promises that I have made to myself, the oaths I’ve made to my many good ideas. But there is always something holding me back from completion, from putting it all into a motion that is different from just spinning my wheels. Folks love my energy and respect my accomplishments, but there are

zakeishanoreply@blogger.com1