When I grow up, I'm going to buy any toy I want.
This was the battle cry sounded whenever I went home empty-handed after a trip to Toys R Us with my parents. I wasn't a very good browser, and each time we went to the store "just to look around," I was reminded that I had as much independence as a shoe.
I'm sure that I sounded like one of those kids that now makes me say "No Ben, I don't think I want to have kids."
Their lies are familiar. Their voices unbearably whiny:
"Oh, I just have to have this. I've wanted this my entire life."
"I'll never ask for anything else again.
"I need this. I need this. I need this."
As Ben and I walked around a Toys R Us yesterday, I decided that I was going to exercise my independence and my Visa.
But what happens when you finally have money yet no real desire to purchase any toys?
That was the dilemma.
I ended up purchasing a Barbie. She has brown hair and bangs and is as sickeningly skinny as always. In the box, she looked like a complete tramp. I decided to purchase the doll as a reminder of the negative female imagery forced upon little girls as they question their own looks and role in society.
Plus, she was only $5.99 and came with a cute little purse.
And since I'm one of those little girls that Mattel managed to screw up, I just had to get an new outfit to go along with my new Barbie.
I chose this one because it looks like something Jennifer Coolidge as Sheri Ann Cabot would wear in Best in Show.
I need help. I know.
At least I didn't spend $70 and purchase the Barbie I really wanted.
Tougher looking than the usual Ken doll, this one has painted-on bushy eyebrows, a full beard, and chest hair, and he even sports a "born to ride" eagle tattoo. Although he cannot stand unsupported, he is fully jointed and easy to pose.
Boy, all of my old Barbies would have had fun with him.
