Pinchworthy: The Lion King 3D

*CHEEKIE NOTE*: Hey, ya’ll! So, as you can tell, I took a little impromptu break for a week. I needed it; I’m back. Fin. (After the credits roll: Oh, and I missed ya’ll a bunch!)

Three-dimensional swag.

To the surprise of no one, this Disney stan decided to venture out and see The Lion King: 3D. It premiered on September 16th (and YES, I went opening night) and will be featured in numerous theaters for a limited time. TWO WEEKS. You better get that 3-dimensional Lion Kang in yo life!

To say I had a ball would be the understatement of the century. I haven’t seen The Lion King in theaters since its debut in 1994, which is what… *goes to calculator app* … SEVENTEEN years ago!!

I was absolutely GEEKED when I learned that my favorite Disney film was returning to the big screen. I mean, seeing Scar’s Remi virgin weave and my favorite character Rafiki kicking ass in 3D?! An honor, yo.

A few highlights of the evening…

– Three-Deez (no VSB): Not even throwin’ shade at 3D. It’s just the term “3D” lends itself to incorporating the term, “deez.” Well, at least it does in my convoluted mind. Anyhow. I know there are those that only sees 3D as a gimmick… um, which it is. It is what it is. Poignant. I think it’s mostly for the kiddies and I neither hate or love it. However! I must admit like a mug that certain parts of this movie truly benefited from this “gimmick.” Particularly the opening. The “Circle of Life” opening scene is so full of pomp and circumstance and the 3D features really took it to a whole ‘nother level. When Zazu enters the screen as soon as the singer lets out that first dramatic, “It’s the cirrrrrcle of liiiiife!” and it appears like he came from outside of the screen to then the screen? I definitely let out a, “that’s dopeness” head nod of approval.

– Sing A Song. Full of the faith that the dark past has taught us. Oh, wait. Wrong topic. My bad. So, one of the greatest things about classic Disney movies is the fabulous soundtrack. And of course, The Lion King ranks amongst the top dawgs. Or um, cats. This movie’s soundtrack is perfection, IMO. My favorite is “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King.” Simba prancing around sanging about how he’s gonna run shit? It’s a Leo’s theme song! Seriously, when each song came on, it was like everyone else in the theater ceased to exist and I was engrossed in my own little Disney-sponsored world. Ya’ll shoulda seent my eyes! They were wide-eyed JUST like a little kid. So, if we’re talkin to scale, basically like this: o_o.

– It’s The Details. I’m always intrigued by what one seems to notice or pay attention to after re-watching something… especially if the time-span is separated by several years. Perspective and hindsight. While watching, I found myself highly appreciating the details in the animation… the drawings. It reminded me how much I’ve always loved how Disney makes a point to create their characters in the likeness of the person who voices them. Like Whoopi Goldberg’s hyena, Shenzi! Her lips! Those are Whoopi’s lips! And Timon truly moving like a meerkat? Meerkats occasionally stand up tall and straight and when Timon did it, I couldn’t help but smile. And of course, hearing the dialogue as an adult… lawd, Disney is always on some clever ish.

– Audience Appreciation. Part of what sets the movie theater experience apart from the home theater experience — other than the larger screen — is the audience. To me, becoming engulfed in the audience’s reactions and bonding over the flickering images on the screen is what I love about going to see a movie in a theater… or in Chi-speak, at the show. It’s one of the reasons why I think there is something special about going to the show to see a movie. The audience for The Lion King pleasantly surprised me. For one, while I know that The Lion King is a popular movie, I just didn’t know exactly how popular it was (then again, apparently it “roared” to the top of the box office this weekend with a $29.3 million opening!). I mean, I know I’m a stan, but to be in a room filled with other big fans was something else. And when I say, filled, I mean it was FILLED. There were folks standing in aisles because they didn’t want to sit in the front row. Seeing so many people so excited to see this movie really touched me. From past generations to future generations. Showed how timeless the film is. And the enthusiasm was off the chain. Folks actually cheered as soon as the sun rose in the opening scene and there were various moments where it was interactive such as when the grown-up Nala and Simba became affectionate (various “ooooohs” and “awwww sookie sookie nahs”). Great times.

Overall, there was no way I couldn’t see the return of my Lion Kang in theaters. Pinchers, did you see it yet? If so, how did you enjoy it? Do you plan to? YOU ONLY HAVE TWO WEEKS. No pressure.

Love ya like crazy people love gathering at train stations,

Cheekie

Pinchworthy: See’s Candies

*CHEEKIE NOTE*: A thousand apologies for leaving ya’ll stranded and pinchless this past Monday, but I was sending off my niece to her first year of college (At my alma mater, NIU! Go Huskies!). The fam all gathered for her move-in day in the dorms, and man there was shole a lot of allergen-prone ish in the air because I cried.

I see you, See's!

There comes a time when you’re introduced to something that makes you thank AND curse the universe, simultaneously. This is one of those times.

Two words: See’s Candies. What’s funny is that it took me going to an entirely different country to be introduced to this blissful yumminess. When I went to Toronto, I met BP and Legit Soul for the first time in person and they each greeted me with what is sure to be my new addiction.

When I got to Max’s house, BP showered me with a B-day card and a box of the candies. She said, “I always give these to people as a token of Cali!” Caught up with the excitement of finally getting there, I didn’t open the box right away but was thrilled to get it. Because, duh, I love candy. Adore it, even. Later on in the evening, we happened to be talking about the infamous candy and BP mentioned that she happened to have a few in her purse and she wanted everyone to try some AT THAT VERY MOMENT. The candy?

THESE:

*Homer Simpson Drool*

Butterscotch Pops, yo. Also known as “heaven in your mouth.” (I just made this up; See’s has not endorsed this slogan, whatsoever) Once I popped that lollipop into my mouth, I hummed Weezy’s “Lollipop” to myself I was in love. They’re a pretty nice size, too! The Canadians said it was a huge size, but the American (and CHICAGOAN… double-whammy) in me downed that sucker like a pro. *sly grin and wink*

Later on that night, I was swimming in See’s… sea. *doubles over in laughter at own pun* …

Anyway.

Then Legit Soul decided to add crack to a dope fiend by also giving me a Cali token. The chocolates (pictured way above). LAWD. Talk about melt in your mouf. I didn’t get to savor them until I got home (And they didn’t even melt! Went through an entire bus/plane ride intact!) and boy, was it worth the wait. Like Legit mentioned, I appreciated that none of the chocolates involved that surprise fruity ish. It was all nuts/caramel/non-fruity insides. Win-NING.

So, yeah, See’s definitely has a new stan in me. And when I was recently GChatting with Legit, she made the mistake of letting me know that you can order these goodies online. Awwwww, sookie sookie nah!

Pinchers, have you tried the deliciousness that is See’s Candies? Any other candy recommendations? Hit me up (contact page here) if you want to either SEND ME SOME or give suggestions so that I can order them! Obvious emphasis on the former. Tee hee. And if you haven’t tried them, you dayum well should. Thank me (and BP/Legit Soul, who represents the entire state of California now, as far as I’m concerned) later.

Love ya like Facebook loves making decisions for you,

Cheekie

P.S. Let’s not even talk about how I MURKED each of these boxes of candy already. At all. Grazie.

Pinchworthy: Obol Bowl Sons Soggy Cereal

*CHEEKIE NOTE*: So, on my quest to turn my rinky-dink blog into a legit rinky-dink blog, I’ve decided to start another series. Pinchworthy: Where I’ll showcase ish that makes me so excited I am remiss in hiding it. Thus, I won’t. I’ll share!

 

 

This is precisely my facial expression when my cereal deterioates.

 

I was trolling the Al Gore internets when I came across something magnificent. Wayment. Lemme backtrack for a hot second.

Remember my post where I lamented the very existence of soggy cereal? Yeah, that one. Caught up like Usher? Cool.

Ok, back to regularly scheduled programming. Amongst my trolling, I saw Cloud10LV say something funny in my timeline. Which ain’t unusual. That ninja is hilarious. Follow him on some pied piper ish. I decided to hit his blog since I hadn’t in a while and lo and behold, this beauty was the most recent post at the time.

My face after seeing the picture alone ~~>> O_O (which, ya’ll KNOW is scientifically impossible)

Jigga WHOWHATWHENWHEREWHYHOW?!

The Obol Bowl. The answer to my prayers! Two things…

1. How did I not know about this ’til today?! Ya’ll don’t understand. I had given up on cereal save for granola and (more recently) Honey Bunches Of Oats’ “Just Bunches” (which is a Godsend!). I had no faith left in reglah cerea, period.

2. Who loves me enough to get me one (or two… or three; three begats free shipping!) of these joints? *wistfully gazes at the sky*

Man, I am so excited about this existing that I want to hug a squirrel. It’s that serious. Ya’ll know I don’t fux with squirrels.

To get out a little bit of my excitement, allow me to express what the Obol Bowl is better than…

– The second coming occurring on a Monday while you’re at work eye-hustling the clock.

– Watching your worst enemy get a paper cut on that meaty space between your thumb and your trigger finger.

– Saturday happening over and over again on some Groundhog Day swag.

– Landing the trash-ket-ball (behind the back) shot on the first try.

– Searching for a parking space then all of a sudden driving up towards a space where someone is JUST getting out of it.

– Your birthday wish actually coming true.

– The other side of the pillow in July.

– You.

Man, I feel like dancing in response to this discovery. So, I’m gonna wrap it up here and lend the floor to you, Pinchers. What do you think of the Obol Bowl? Is it the best idea evah? (the only acceptable answer) Or is it plenty stupid and unnecessary? (false)

 

Love ya like Peppermint Patty loves Charlie Brown,

Cheekie

P.S. You dayum right I’mma bout to actually get up and dance around the crib after I finish this post…

Sir. You’re Too Sexy For Your Shirt.

 

This didn't make the list. At all.

You know what I love (that isnt rice, ice cream, Disney or Pixar)?

Men.

You Y-chromosome havin’ mofos are kinda my weakness. Shhh, don’t tell nobody. Hell, don’t tell yourselves or you’ll be forced to use it against me.

Ah, the Male species. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

Well, I’m not gonna count the ways actually, just list them. Leggo:

– That’s Just My Baby Daddy. Wait, No It Ain’t. Still Hot, Doe. Man, listen. Men with kids is some sexy chocolate ice cream waterfalls ish. There’s something about men interacting with children that makes my nether-regions be all, “Your wish is my command!” And it don’t even have to be a father with his child. Just seeing a guy naturally blend with the kiddies is some sexified ish. The images of a guy carrying his grinning daughter on his shoulders, a guy tossing his tickled son into the air, or a guy standing in front of his classroom of ankle-biters is just… *faints on top of the next thing on the list*

– Can We Talk For a Minute? Boy, I want to… well, hear your voice. I’m a sucker for a nice man voice. The deep timbre, the subtle mischievous lilt, everything about Idris Elba’s voice… all’at. And I adore the husky undertones of a guy’s voice when he first wakes up. That is probably one of the manliest things a guy can do without even trying. And if you use that voice to whisper into my ear? Dude…

– You Don’t Smell Like Teen Spirit. I’ve mentioned my weakness for great cologne game before. And to quote what I told Max in my “Any 10 On Tuesday”, “Hell, you could be Gollum’s nephew and you can make me double-take with some great cologne. Of course, I’d double-take the fuck back to where I was looking before once I saw your mug, but at least you made me look.” That basically sums up how powerful it is. A conservative (emphasis necessary for you Steve-Harvey-suit-wearing-ninjas) amount of cologne definitely upgrades ya on the sex-o-meter by default, in my book.

– Walk This Way. Forgive me Father for I have sinned, but I’mma use this word: swagger. Yup, that’s what makes a great man walk. A man with a dope walk makes me want to get to know him better. I love the easygoing-ness and chill way a man that is sure of himself walks down the street. And no discrimination, but my melanin-brethren have this down pat. Makes me wanna do the come-hither finger-motion. Get yo fahn self over heah…

– Touch Me, Tease Me. I don’t wanna get into every single way a guy touches me that gets me randy because this post will have a 39,758,269* word count. So allow me to specify the one that I think I love the most: touching me on the small of my back. *Leiomy-drops upwards at the very thought* Join me and let’s get inside our minds for a minute. Imagine walking into some generic spot like… the restaurant. As you enter the door, his hand randomly meets the small of your back while he guides you in front of him. Ladies, I’m not just getting shivers up my spine, my spine is actually shivering. Woo, chile.

– Put A Smile On Your Face. I love smiles. I love laughs. Basically, I love happy people. Yeah. YEAH. Yeah. Yeah. But, there’s something to be said about a guy’s smile. Well, when he has a great one. Sorry, Busey. And like the voice, I love a mischievous smile. A sly smile. One that slowly forms from the outermost corners and then breaks out into a full one. This one is usually paired with bedroom eyes or eye-boning, hence the sexiness. And on the laugh tip, I adore a jokester. Just the simple act of being naturally funny is super sexy. Throw a well-timed joke in conversation and I’ll be feeling extra loving after I’ve calmed down from the giggle-fit.

– Just Be A Man About It. Excuse me while I hop in my DeLorean and set women back a few years and say: I love when a man takes control. Well, actually lemme expound. Ok, so, I’m not really a bossy person in general so that’s a part of Leo-ness that I’m not in tune with. However, where I DO identify with my fellow felines is that it’s mighty hard to control me. Like, I automatically reject things not done my way unless you’re well… special. So, I find it extra hot when that guy tells me about myself or demands that I do something. Takes me aback in a good way. But, with anything, too much of it can be a turn-off, of course. Don’t get it Twizzlers-twisted, I’m still on my Janet Jackson control over here.

Pinchers, time to share what you find sexy in the opposite sex. What about men, women, or “other” gets that blood pumping?

 

Love ya like Derwin Davis loves to seduce me (via Tee-Vee) with his boxer briefs,

Cheekie

 

 

 

*I did a real-life calculation to arrive at this number, by the way. o_______O

Oh, You Fancy? Huh.

 

Get like Marge.

As a nosy observer, I appreciate the little things.* Those seemingly inconsequential things that seem to be a part of your daily routine, but somehow feel special.

One of those things is the “fancy moment.” You may know of this moment via Drake, T.I. and Swizz Beatz (née Toucan Sam). The example they give specifically, is “nails done, hair done, everything did.” Basically, it’s that moment where you feel pretty. Oh so pretty. Witty and bright, too!

I guess for the fellas, the equivalent would be “swag.” Oh, that word is trite and overused? So is oxygen.

*moonwalks on to the point*

I definitely encounter certain instances where I have a little pep to my step. Allow me to brush these particles off my shoulder while I share a few of…

What Makes Me Feel Pinchably Fancy.

– Pro-Nails Game Proper. Word to Kid Sister. So, yeah, I’m borrowing part of the Drake’s “Fancy” lyrics with this addition, but it’s true. You know this. Especially if you follow me on Twitter and suffer my various nail polish Twitpics all up and through your timeline. I can’t even tell you when this obsession started. Because if you knew me just a couple years prior to today, you’d never know I even tolerated nail polish. I mean, I never wore it. Presently? I probably change it every other day. And I adore bright colors, in particular. I’m not sure why I feel extra fancy when the nails are done because most people hardly notice them, but they make me feel fly.

– I Whip My (So Fresh & So Clean) Hair Bagginfoaf. It’s not so much about my hair being freshly done, but I feel extra special right after a fresh hair wash. Hell, I feel great during the process. There’s nothing like a good nail-to-scalp head massage when I’m shampooing/conditioning. And I just love the way my hair SMELLS afterwards. I’ve been on a hair-gasm kick lately since transitioning to natural and I’ve been paying closer attention to it in general, so this is a newer fancy feeling for me. Seeing those bouncy-bouncy curls slowly grow into fruition makes me just wanna kiss myself. Muah!

– Bag Lady. Ladies. Gentleman. Whatever Lil’ Kim is. I have a confession: I am a handbag addict. Purses, totes, hobos, satchels, clutches, crossbody… all dem ninjas. MINE. You know how some women love shoes? Well, I love bags. Don’t get me wrong, I love shoes as well, but I’m pretty sure I have more bags than shoes. That is my vice. And when I get a new one, I fling it over my shoulder or the hook of my arm and strut like no one’s bidness.

– Summer, Summer, Summertime… Dress. One word: legs. I think my favorite time of the year is when I’m able to first bust out the summer dress and give my legs free. Sure, I wear dresses during cooler months, but they are in the bondage of tights. They cute too, but there’s nothing like a smooth, Neutrogena-Body-Oiled leg to get your sexy on. With the sun shining, a perfectly-fitting summer dress just gives me an overall sunny aura. Summer dresses can turn my life into a musical, having me burst into song talmbout, “HELLO WORLD THERE’S A SONG THAT WE’RE SINGIN’… COME ON GET HAP-PEEEEE! *twirls*” Yes, twirl. Because you gotta twirl in a summer dress.

I better stop there before I get too fancy for ya. Because ya’ll ain’t ready. You know what you are ready for? Sharing! Pinchers, when do you feel your most fancy? What specifically triggers your fancy/swag? Feel yourself.

 

Love ya like Chris Breezy loves how to clean up his “angry issues” image by throwing chairs… (-_-),

Cheekie

 

 

 

*Not ALL little things are worthy of appreciation, let’s make that clear RIGHT NOW.

Nom Nom Nom: Thanksgiving Edition

I see Mr. Turkey is DESPERATE to change Dubya's mind about the butchering...

 

As your tummy probably told you (via growling), Thanksgiving Day is on the horizon. And that brings food, food, and oh yeah… food. I’m guessing the holiday version of the “Freshman Fifteen” would be the Thanksgiving Thirty?

Anyhow, since the holidays can put people in a sharing mood, I figured I’d share my favorite Thanksgiving dishes. These dishes have been a part of my life since forever and eating them always gives me a little dose of heaven.*

Alas, I present:

My Top Five Thanksgiving Viddles

1. Greens. Oh, just typing out the letters “G-R-E-E-N-S” just makes me shiver with bliss. Grandma Cheekie used to often make collard greens with rice and it was divine. However, my favorite type of greens is mustard/turnip greens mixed with spinach. My sister puts her foot in some mustard/turnip greens. I’m not really the great cook in the family (hell, I can’t compete! but I do learn some things!) so I usually do the preparing. And “preparing” greens ain’t no picnic. We don’t do that canned shit. We use fresh, multiple bunches of greens. Every Thanksgiving, I pick and wash the greens. And greens are dirty (bugs and air-thang), so it takes several different rounds of washing to get them to an edible state. But, lawdhamercy is it worf it. I complain and complain about having to pick/wash the greens, but I end up saying it’s all worth it when I’m eating it. I do this routine every year, too. I do have to admit, I feel all kinds of salty when I pick/wash 10 bunches of greens only to watch them shrivel up like peen in Antarctica when we toss the greens in the boiling pot, causing it to appear as if I didn’t do that much work. Rude. They still tasty dinna mug, doe. *Homer drool*

2. Macaroni and Cheese. Or should I say “cheese and macaroni?” I’ve mentioned my bizarre relationship with cheese before, and this is one of the items that I love to be super cheesy. The cheesier, the better. And let me get this clear right now, I don’t fux with that box shit. Kraft Mac’ N’ Cheese or whatever other ish that comes with powder cheese is NOT macaroni and cheese, IMO. I’m talmbout baked macaroni and cheese. As far as I’m concerned, there is no other kind. The kind with the hardened cheesy top, giving it sort of a different texture. Mmmmm!

3. Peach Cobbler. For some strange reason, I actually didn’t get to taste Mama Cheekie’s infamous peach cobbler until later in life. Maybe she went on a peach cobbler hiatus while I was staying with my grandma? Who knows. Either way, I cannot believe I went half of my life without knowing the taste of this pure heaven. Mama Cheekie isn’t exactly known as the “cook” in the family, but Lawd she throws the eff DOWN on that young peach cobbler. It is the perfect amount of tart/sweet and, of course, my favorite part is the corner since the breading is a bit crunchier on the edge. Yum!

4. Cornish Hens. You know how everything tastes like chicken? Well, these actually taste like chicken considering it is pretty much a damn chicken. It’s like a mini chicken. Our family never really had a huge turkey as our main meat (in fact, my mama prefers duck), so cornish hens would be the meat stuffed with (and placed among the) dressing. Which, I have to mention that, yeah I (and many other Black folks) don’t do stuffing. It’s DRESSING. I love this so much because it’s a very lean meat and it’s mostly white meat, which I love. Oh, don’t worry, that applies mainly to food, brothas. *sucks fingers*

5. Sweet Potato Pie. Another one of Mama Cheekie’s treats. Every Thanskgiving (since living on my own), I always have to request my own personal pie to take home with me because it is so good. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I’m a spoilt youngest daughter. Hey, in my defense, she does it for other folks, too. She’s doting that way. Anyhow, the pie is extra good with a dash of Cool Whip. Oh, and by the way: Sweet Potato Pie > Pumpkin Pie. You mad? *salivates*

Pinchers, it’s your turn! What are your favorite Thanksgiving Dishes? Do share, I’m interested in seeing what kinds of different dishes ya’ll cook out there! Your IP address will get banned if you say ‘chitlins.’ Ok, no it won’t. (It might)

 

Love ya like Nicki Minaj loves Fridays that are pink,

Cheekie

 

 

 

*Idris Elba would give me an overdose of heaven, by the way.

A Diva-Licious Night: 7 Things I Loved About The Rae Lewis-Thornton Event

When Rae speaks, you best listen. Fact.

This past Thursday (July 15th), was Rae Lewis-Thornton’s* social media event, An Evening With Rae: A Meet, Greet & Tweet Up, located at Encore Lounge (Hotel Allegro). It was her first event in all of her years as a HIV/AIDS-awareness public speaker, and the first meet up/tweet up focusing on HIV-awareness period. History, two-fold!

I remember when Rae spoke at my high school when I was a freshman, and the absolute command she had on everyone’s attention. And, chile, it is no easy feat to capture the attention of teenagers. I never forgot that. Or her. She was always in the back of my mind.

Cut to several years later, I’m browsing The Red Pump Project‘s website and I see Rae’s website linked. I’m thinking to myself, “Where have I see this lady?! I just know I know her from somewhere, but can’t quite put my finger on it.” But then, I see that she mentioned speaking at schools and I was like, “Eureka!**” So, I dug into her archives and read every post, wishing that I’d get to truly meet her (and cursing myself for not being able to attend The Red Pump Project event held in her honor).

Cut to now and I see she’s having this event. Um, calendar cleared! I mean, that day was already clear, but there was no question. Plus, I figured I’d get to meet a few e-folks.

Bottom line, I had a blast. Here are seven reasons why:

1. The Photographer. Um, Errol Dunlap? Is pretty fabulous. Here’s the pics he took from the night***. Even the little interaction I had with him was pretty cool. I got there a bit early and there were only a few people there so I took a pic with @Stylish_Living, and he told us to hold up our drinks in the sweetest, most amicable way. I loved how he took pics without being annoying or intrusive about it. It kinda felt like a buddy taking candid pics. He knew exactly when to take them and how. Cool peoples. Look him up if you need photography work.

2. The Swag Bags. I saw Rae’s live-tweets when she’d frequent one of her favorite stores. She’d mention her event, and they’d just up and shower her with gifts. And by these tweets alone, I knew the swag bags (and raffles, to be mentioned next) would be fabulous. Never would I have imagined they’d be as incredible as they were. I didn’t truly look through my bag until I got home, and man…listen. Ya’ll should’ve seen the cheesing grin on my face. I wish I could take twitpics of it all, but I’m writing this on a Sunday night and I’m lazy right about now. Maybe in the future? Anyhow, the swag bags were that business.

3. The Raffles. When I walked into Encore, what first caught my eye was the table filled with goodies. And I don’t mean the kind Ciara provides, I mean things like handbags (*swoon*), books, complimentary tickets, and other greatness. I’m serious, that table was completely full of stuff. And when the host later announced that it was 80-something things to raffle off, I was like, “Dayummm!” Not only were the raffle prizes themselves great, some of the reactions of the winners probably made my night. One lady screamed so loud, I thought our martini glasses would break. Another lady did a holy ghost dance and almost took off her wig. Foolery heaven. And, yes, that’s right, I won something! Since Rae is a tea connoisseur, one of the prizes she raffled was something close to her heart: a tea strainer. Oh, I’m fancy, huh? I was just up cutting me some cake when the host called my number. I went over there “Woooooo”-ing and I even did a little shimmy. Ok, a lot of shimmy. I might as well not lie. Folks were there. Anywho. The host had to check me and was all, “Um, don’t get too excited, lemme check the number first.” Man, I love ya, but I was excited! Shoooot. Plus, I can read, damn! Thank Levar Burton, for that. And. What.

4. The Ladies at my Table. First off, I got to meet @SimplisElegance, who is super sweet. She looked fly, ya’ll!! And to Delores and Therese, I gotta send an e-wave to ya’ll! You were both very friendly and entertaining and I’m glad I met ya’ll!

5. The Shrek-tini. You read that right. See, since Shrek, The Musical is playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, right next door to Encore, the lounge decided to have Shrek-themed drinks. There were several others (such as a Princess Fiona drink, a Donkey drink, etc), but I kinda ended up with mine as a fluke. Anyhow, it was a nice sweet drink made with Absolut. Very cute. Very green. It even had a little gummy worm in it. *chuckle*

6. The E-Personality Meeting. I am so giddy writing about this right nah, but I met a blogger-trifecta! Three blogs I’m a fan of? The three ladies who write them? I got to meet. Afrobella (@afrobella), Kindred Smile (@kindredsmile) and, Luvvie (@luvvieig). Luvvie, in particular, I’ve been meaning to meet her for like 2 years and failed even though we live in the same city. Yeah, that’s a super fail. I can’t e’en begin to tell ya’ll. But anyhow, the meeting has been done. You mad? Anyhow, all three are super cool chicks. I also got to meet @RenishaRenewed, who is fabulously cool. Still mad?

7. The R to the L to the T. Miss Diva, herself: Rae Lewis-Thornton. Lawd, I can’t even find the right word to describe the diva-liciousness she embodied. A thesaurus, though helpful at times, wouldn’t be able to fulfill the deed. Because that lady? Is classiness personified. If you can live through AIDS — a quite unglamorous disease, to say the least — and still rock a Chanel purse, pearls, sleek black dress, and a “yeah, I’m the ish” attitude altogether? You Michael Jackson bad. Period. Point and blank. I couldn’t take it all, she was so fabulous. And super sweet. She mingled with everyone at every table, standing at every nook. Everyone. She worked the room like a pro. She made everyone feel at home. Like family. So much so that I couldn’t just shake her hand upon seeing her (even with the limited interaction I had with her prior on Twitter, and in high school, I didn’t get to speak with her up close…so much chaos that day), I had to hug her. That’s the kind of warmth she exudes. My kinda person.

Overall, I had a great time. Met great folks (I linked these above, but really, check out the twitpics), had great drinks, ate great food, munched on great cake, and got to witness the greatness of a Rae Lewis-Thornton speech. I’m smiling at this very moment just writing about it. I’m looking real pinchable about the face right now.

Don’t.

Love ya like Huggies loves putting babies in denim hot pants,

Cheekie

P.S. This past weekend must have been my official e-folks meetup weekend because I also got to meet @BeezHunny, my e-twin (for serious, if you look at our interactions on Twitter you’d see “OMG, me too!!!” or some variation, like 50-lem times). She threw a surprise brunch/tweetup for her BFF, Smithers (who is effing AWESOME, by the way). @RenishaRenewed attended too (heyyy, girl!) and fun foolishness was had by all.

*If you don’t know much about her, click that link and learn you something.

** I don’t e’en talk like that.

*** Psst, I’m in the first one. Gray dress.

Reach for the Sky: 3 Main Things I Loved About Toy Story 3

So, I know this ain’t the official TS3 promo pic, but this shirt is too fabulous to not post here.

Remember when I said I’d do a review of Toy Story 3? No? Well, allow me to make like F5 on a PC and REFRESH your memory with this link. Got it? Great.

Please be warned that this review — like most, if not all reviews — may be a bit spoilery. I’m warning you not because it’s the right thing to do, but because I effing HATE to be spoiled myself. Sympathy for the win. See how I bolded AND drowned this warning in red? I care.

Oh pinchers, lemme tell ya it was super hard for me to narrow down three concrete things I really loved about Toy Story 3. But, I wanted to be all clever and shit by making a list of three in honor of the third installment of the Toy Story series. Genius? I think so.

Short Review: It was the fucking best I ever had. No Drake. Long-ish Review: Please see below.

I now present you with the three main things I loved about Toy Story 3:

1. The Andy/Woody relationship dynamic. This was definitely my favorite aspect of the film. It’s what ultimately made me shed the waterworks at the end. I loved the fact that as Andy grew up, so did Woody. And at the same pace! Brilliant, if you ask me. Which, you didn’t. And yet, I’ve answered. Anyhow. I’ve always related to “that special toy” aspect that Andy and Woody shared. I effing busted out laughing when he held up Woody and Buzz while deciding what to do with them and he abruptly tosses Woody into the “college” box and Buzz into the “attic” bag. It was so hilarious, especially since Woody was so worried about being replaced in the first Toy Story installment. Just like Andy, even though I knew I was “too old” for those toys, they always held a special place in my heart. For me, it was my Barbie doll collection (something I’ll probably blog about in the future) and I actually didn’t get rid of them until last year. I donated them…just like Andy. The difficult decision Andy makes with Woody in particular tugged at the heartstrings and I left the theater emotionally satisfied. Pixar always had that effect on me and it definitely did with this wrap-up of my favorite series.

2. The Opening Scene. Similar to the film, Up, I really enjoyed the opening scene and follow-up montage. I appreciated the decision to truly place the toys in the setting that Andy created for them. Brilliant. It made me think of the opening scene of the first film where you could still clearly tell he was playing with the toys. In the third film, all of the action was happening as if the toy characters were truly real. No hands handling them, just them. I think showing it this way was definitely an effective pre-cursor to the “Andy growing up” home-video montage. That scene spoke to the wide (and wild) imagination we each had as a child. I thought it was a great way to start this particular film…the end of a saga.

3. Ken, the Accessory. Seriously, wasn’t it hilarious how he was called just an accessory to Barbie? Anyhow, I loved this character. I adored the “Barbie/Ken meet” scene like no one’s business. I cracked up at the subtle nods to his questionable sexuality. I died a thousand splendid deaths when all of the toys thought they received a letter from Barbie and when they realized it was actually Ken who wrote it, Woody brilliant broke the fourth wall and gave the audience the “knowing side-eye.” Yeah, it was stereotypical, but in that cute way. And I just realized Michael Keaton portrayed his voice! I thought he was a fantastic character. By the way, if you haven’t seen his special promo (which involves Ken) for the film, you need to. I’ll provide you with the sustenance. Don’t thank me later…or in gum. I accept U.S. Currency and hugs. In that order.

Overall, I enjoyed this film like a plate of warm rice for dinner followed by ice cream for dessert. And if you know me, those two things are manna from heaven. I definitely recommend you pretend like you’re taking some little kid to see it go out and enjoy this film if you haven’t already.

To those pinchers who have seen it, what did you like best about TS3?

Love ya like the Chi wind loves throwin’ dem ‘bows at trees lately,

Cheekie

Dear Pixar: We Should Be Together Too

Oh, Pixar, I’d drink your computer-generated bathwater.

In honor of the upcoming premier of the Pixar-gasm known as Toy Story 3 (Friday, June 18th, bishes!!!), I’ve decided to present the following:

My Ode To Pixar.

I’m a Pixar stan. It brings me joy like ol’ dude who brought Mary J. Blige joy. The main thing that I — and my fellow Pixar stans — love about Pixar is that while its movies are animated and kid-friendly, it deftly incorporates adult-themes in a way that parents can enjoy with their children while remaining inoffensive to both demographic groups. No easy feat. Pixar movies aren’t just animated movies, they’re simply movies… that happen to be animated.

Another thing I admire is Pixar’s devotion to story. While Pixar arguably holds the CGI-crown, that’s not what truly makes their films so fabulous. The Pixar team views story as a primary factor and as a screenwriter, I truly appreciate that. It’s why my dream job* is to write for them one day. Wish upon a star, Jiminy Cricket.

So, since I’ve noticed that several cable channels have been running a little Pixar marathon in celebration of the upcoming Toy Story 3 premiere and I’m in a nostalgic mood, I’ve decided to go through my Pixar journey via each feature film. In blog form. Annnnnd go:

Toy Story. *nostalgic sigh* Picture an eleven-year-old Cheekie in the theater, buck-eyed** in amazement. Pixar’s attention to detail sealed my love from the jump. Woody was my homie. I loves me some Tom Hanks, and he had me saying “Reach for the skyyyyyyy” at random moments like a psycho person. And when he abruptly screamed (after a long silence), “YOU! ARE! A! TOYYYYY!” I died laughing for a good 50-lem minutes. To this day, it is in my top 10 funny moments. And the very idea of centering a story around what all kids think/wonder (their toys coming alive when they leave the room) was effing genius. My favorite of them all. Simply because it was my first.

A Bug’s Life. Again with the detail. I loved how Pixar took us straight into the anthills and other places where bugs roam. The great one-liners centered around bugs (Fly: Hey waiter, I’m in my soup). The brilliant decision to create a rivalry between the ants and grasshoppers (word to Aesop). And Heimlich? Comedy platinum.

Toy Story 2. Jessie’s Motherfrickin Song. Need I say more? I don’t, but I will. I loved the concept of Woody finding his toymates and fully realizing that Andy won’t have him forever. It was great character development, which yes, I’m saying “character development” for an animation. A quote-unquote kid’s movie. Because Pixar is that damn dope. There was also character growth for Buzz when he realized how delusional he was while interacting with the Other Buzz at Al’s Toy Barn. Good times.

Monster’s Inc. My love! I loved me some big, blue and furry, Sulley. One time (no band camp), I actually entered to win a giant life-sized furry Sulley at Toys-R-Us. Didn’t win. I’m sure my mama is pleased because she would’ve had none of that in her abode. Seriously, it was, like, 6 feet. And Boo?! Most precious thang evah. My sister said I look like her. (WTF) Her “kitty” at the end warmed my heart like a golden Hawaiian bun. And yes, I cried at their goodbye scene. I can’t thug it up ALL the time. *pout* Also, Billy Crystal’s Mike Wazowski was fantastic. All in the delivery.

Finding Nemo. Probably the most quotable of them all. “Aww, you guys made me ink” being my favorite. Ellen D’s (See how I tried to give her a homie nickname? It’s partly about being cool and partly about not quite knowing how to spell her surname/being too lazy to look it up) Dory was perfection in terms of casting. Dory is a neurotic, spastic character and if anyone has that voice, it’s Ellen. Her friendship with Marlin was epic. And the Nemo/Marlin reunion scene? Bliss!

The Incredibles. I’ll admit I procrastinated in seeing this, but I slapped myself silly for doing so because it ended up being in my top 3! The concept was terrific. Ex-superheroes in mundane suburban life? Tons of adults can relate to that (minus the superhero part, unless you’re Barack Obama) feeling. Jack-Jack is super adorable and I love how he ended up being the wild card hero. And I loved Violet because she spoke to me. The too-shy-to-talk-to-that-special-guy me. *sigh*

Cars. Also procrastinated in seeing this one. But, it didn’t have the same effect as The Incredibles. It wasn’t one of my favorites, but I still enjoyed it nonetheless. Maybe it loses points because Owen Wilson (who I irrationally hate) voices the protagonist, Lightning McQueen? Seriously, though, it was a good film. I enjoyed the one-liners (“For the love of Chrysler!”), little gags, and the friendship between McQueen and Mater (the latter of which was a great character).

Ratatouille. This one may be the most well-written. Loved the “foodie snob/garbage rat” dynamic. Instant conflict. And it really mirrored what us Black folks go through regarding the “too big for your britches” battle we have to fight. The main character, Remy, struggled between staying true to his family (i.e. staying “down”) or risking that by branching out into the restaurant world. My favorite thing about this movie was that it was basically a love story to food. There was so much attention given to food, it was basically another character. And you couldn’t help but love the adorable Linguini.

WALL-E. Effing genius film. I truly appreciate a film that can show rather than tell. “Telling” is the easier way out in writing and this movie managed to effectively present a story with little to no dialogue. And effectively, at that. The relationship between WALL-E and EVE is one of the most epic romances of all time. OF ALL TIME. That montage of WALL-E trying to impress her is hilarious and had me dying with giggles and glee. This movie also made me cry. Of course. I’m a crying fool. Which is a nice segue into…

Up. Easily tied as second place in my top 3, with WALL-E. The opening montage is pure cinematic brilliance. I’ve probably never cried during the first few minutes of a film, but I did here. In fact, I cried all up and through this film. My thug wasn’t just on the floor, it was in the basement. Carl and Russell’s relationship was the most poignant story evah… in the history of Aristotle. And, oh lawd, the reveal of Alpha’s voice had me on the floor, dying in a sea of giggles. And the “cone of shame?” Mastercard priceless.

Whoomp, there it is. My thoughts on all that is Pixar feature films. Hopefully, my love shined through your computer and gave you a hug. Because that’s what Pixar brings me. Sweet Love. Anita Baker.

Moral of the blog: Pixar is better than you. Fin.

Love ya like Bodie loves hawking loogies,

Cheekie

P.S. Ya’ll don’t understand: I am super geeked about seeing Toy Story 3. Yes, I plan to see it on its premiere date. And yes, I will provide a review.

*My other dream job is to be Idris Elba’s lip chap.

** It is virtually impossible (without the virtually) for my squinty-eyed ass to get buck-eyed, so Pixar making my eyes go buck speaks to how fierce they are. And. What.

Friday Foolery: Mini Side-Eye

In my spare time, I like to browse the interwebs. One common theme I’ve noticed over the years is the power of the mighty side-eye. This, to be exact >> o_O.

It is used by bloggers and commenters alike. It is probably the best way to describe that “WTF” reaction. That “Um…ok” reaction. That “Can’t. Compute.” reaction. All’at.

There have been some monumental side-eyes of note in this here bubble we call pop culture. Such as this one. Or these two political gems. And we can’t forget this fab one. And, to bring it all home, a classic.

All of those light up my life like Snoop Dogg lights a joint, but none of these are my favorite.

My ultimate favorite side-eye in the history of corneas is:

Direct Link

OMG, she wins at seeing.

There could never be a better side-eye if you turned to the side and gave a side-eye…on a sidestreet. She has it down PAT, and she ain’t even past diapers! Imagine how refined her side-eye game would be when she hits 30 and would have experienced enough hot-messes to give true side-eyes!

What I also love about her side-eye is how she infectiously laughs after doing it, but when her parents cue her, it’s all business in T-minus 1 second. The quickness in which she can go from one extreme emotion to the other is admirable. Yes, I admire a baby. Yes, I believe this little gem to be my best friend in my in head. Judge me.

I wish I could’ve done that as a baby! Imagine the possibilities!

I could’ve given a MEAN side-eye to…

– The boy who took my naptime space at daycare.

– The nurse who told me in babytalk that the shot wouldn’t hurt.

– My mushy diaper.

– Our cat.

– Bert and Ernie on “Sesame Street”

I could go on for minutes. Bottom line is, you wish you could side-eye with such ferociousness. And I wish it too. Let’s wish together. Because it’s Friday.

Oh, and Happy National Donut Day!! (As my thighs say “NOOOOOOO!”)

Love ya like Blanche Devereaux loves young cubs (R.I.P. you lusty hussy),

Cheekie