*** I posted this little tid bit on my instagram yesterday to honor Justin Timberlake on his incredible tour and I thought I’d share because it gave me an idea for a blog post.***
For the past 2 years I have gotten the chance to fall back in love with an artist who I have always admired. Ever since his video explaining he was ready to release new music to the release of suit & tie to the release of both albums to the tour I have been on this non stop wild ride. Over the 2013-2014 period I was blessed to have been in the audience for three of his shows and they were all phenomenal. Justin Timberlake you are a true legend in the making, there’s a reason why they call you the next Michael Jackson. Best of luck as you close out your 2 year tour with these last 2 shows. Vegas is lucky to have you. It’s been an amazing time making fun memories with this album…and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us in the future. But not before you take some much needed time off! Pros need rest too. P.S. Congrats to you and @jessicabiel … I hear you’re gonna be a daddy 🙂 @justintimberlake
Over the past 2 years Justin Timberlake has been touring for an album or rather two volumes that brought us hit songs suit & tie, mirrors, tunnel vision, take back the night, tko and not a bad thing, along with videos. To the many magazine covers, tv appearances and awards shows we finally got to see him nominated for his own music yet again and see him grace the stage for performances and acceptance speeches, to a 2 minute mini *NSYNC reunion. It’s been amazing to see Justin Timberlake make his return to music. Below you can follow my past two years as a mega fan girl for The 2020 Experience….or what I’d like to call the greatest return to music…ever! Wow man when you come back you really come back! Looking back at all these posts makes be feel so great, that I have them to always look back on and remember. It was around the time of when I started this blog, that Justin announced his “come back.” I had been waiting tirelessly but it was definitely all worth the wait. Read along and follow my fangirl journey!
That last one pretty much sums up this obsession and tops this post off perfectly. I bet you were reading this thinking “man this girl is obsessed,” well I already know that and I am fine with it, I have accepted it so ha! No shame here my friends, no shame. I think I called it when I posted my “Year of Justin Timberlake” piece….but it was more like 2 years 😉 So hats off Mr. Timberlake and the TN kids, thank you for the music, and for the memories, we love you!….now go get some rest…you’re gonna need it! Daddy duty will be calling your name soon enough 😉 (I know I know he hasn’t confirmed…but let’s be honest here people. More on that when he does actually confirm!)
Shout out to a man who knows what hard work means! 2 years touring the world, giving fans a true experience, I can safely say I myself even witnessed history in the making. Only having to cancel/reschedule at most a handful of shows due to illness, he kept it going night after night. He’s shutting down Vegas tonight for the last show of The 2020 Experience world tour. I was at opening night for this tour and I can’t believe he’s been back 2 years already! Go out big tonight JT…and then go soak in some Epsom salt hahaha (just try not to wait another 7 years for the next one, huh?)
-<3-
*I do not take credit for the Justin Timberlake images used in this post most are credited to Justin’s facebook and JustinTimberlake.com*
So every year has it’s ups and downs but….let’s focus on 2014’s ups. And how do you back track on the past year?….by scrolling through your social media accounts of course…ie: instagram! In 2014 I experienced some cool things, I experimented in my fashion, was introduced to some great new music, my interests in television and story writing has found new visions and new favorites and my family and loved ones come at the center of all that is good in my life and in my 2014 year. Share a look as I highlight my favorite memories of 2014.
…cuz I freakin’ love them and have finally had the guts to rock em….#hippiechild
Handkerchiefs
….channeling my inner Rosie the Riveter meets Aunt Jemima!
The Jumpsuit
They have always been a fashion curiosity for me, I’ve always admired them but never had the guts to wear one so….Finally I decided to rock a jumpsuit and it wasn’t as bad I thought…. #itsallfunandgamestilyouhavetopee 😉
The new ‘do’
I seriously need a haircut again soon! Loved this look!
and I’m damn proud of it…this year it’s time to work on my cooking skills!
As for keeping my resolutions from last year I don’t think I was to good on my follow through. But I can say that this past year I did get at least one poetry video up, plus a few vlogging videos that turned out pretty cool. So this year my plans for this blog is to keep it growing and stick to a schedule, to keep writing, to keep filming and post a few more videos up. I definitely want to continue working on some short stories and maybe some longer scripts to post. I just got final draft screenwriting software for Christmas so I am super pumped to get to using that. And I’d really like to get back into writing some poetry. Of course the usual fashion, tv, music, reviews will continue as well. But I look forward to new writing experiences and new adventures here on michelleleighwrites. I do hope you stick with me! Thanks for reading!
So….What are some of your favorite 2014 memories? And are you a believer in resolutions?
Here’s to a happy and healthy new year 2015 to all!
So there are two things in life that I truly fan girl over. I fan girl over a lot of stuff but I’m talking full on next level fan girl shit. And that is for Justin Timberlake/*NSYNC, and the TV show “Friends.” During late August an announcement was made that made my fan girl radar kick into high gear. In honor of “Friends” celebrating the 20th anniversary of the day the pilot episode premiered and made fans fall in love with Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross, New York City would be host to a “Central Perk” Pop Up shop. A replica of the gang’s daily coffee hangout. I NEARLY LOST MYSELF! I did. I have been saying how they needed to do something like this FOR YEARS. I remember reading awhile back that the only Central Perk that existed was somewhere in London and well let’s face it being a New York girl, London isn’t really around the corner. So when I heard this news I was ecstatic. If you doubt my dedication to the show or my love of Central Perk…I say click HERE…and all will be understood. Yup that’s right July 2013, I hosted my very on Central Perk themed party….and it was a blast.
My friends and I had been planning to go for weeks. But things kept coming up and we kept having to put it off. The shop opened up September 17, 2014 and closed October 18, 2013. ONLY A MONTH! A MONTH! The more I read about it, the more I knew I had to make time to get there. I am a huge TV nerd, and I love behind the scenes footage, I love props and getting to learn things about what goes on behind the camera of my favorite shows. Set secrets are my weakness. I love them! So when I heard we would be able to take a picture on the famous orange couch, I was super stoked! I can’t even explain to you how much of a tv nerd dream that has been for me. And even hosting my own party to try and make it happen couldn’t lessen the joy I felt when I actually got to do it! I sat where Jennifer Anniston sat!
Here’s my journey…(in pictures)
Walking toward it…noticing the massive line we were in store for…[4 blocks long just to give you an idea]
Finally waiting in line!
My friend and I got there around 2 in the afternoon we went on Columbus day. And I don’t think any other day would have made a difference….there was going to be a line either way and I have to say we were really lucky with the weather. It wasn’t too cold, not hot, and the rain held up until we were all said and done and on our way home…then we got soaked sans my brilliant idea not to bring along an umbrella. Throughout our wait we got a few time updates as we moved along the line. From a wait of nearly 4 hours from when we got on line, we finally made it to the front of the shop at around 5. What I found so interesting was how considerate the host at the door was. She briefed us on how the shop worked and where we had to go for our picture with the couch and where the gift shop line was and urged us to take pictures. She also shooed away passing people who were stopping and taking pictures through the door, stating that all of us waiting online deserve to take as many pictures as we want, that people just walking by do not just get to waltz in and steal photos. I thought that was really cool of her. 3 & 1/2 hours later and we are in! We are greeted by Pat the Dog and an array of other Friends memorabilia and specific character wardrobe.
Next we move on to a glass case showcasing props used in many different episodes, all enveloped in episode stills of the show and cast photos surrounding us.
Next we move onto the coffee station…where we not only got our choice of FREE coffee but also got blessed with some very signature set props
The worker’s shirts said “How you brewin’?” haha genius!
After we got our free coffees we explored at bit more before waiting on the line to take our picture on THE famous orange couch. How cool are those signed scripts, did you know the show was almost called “Six of One” or “Friends Like Us.”
They had a big flat screen playing friends clips and there was a definite 90’s soundtrack playing over the sound system…pretty sure I remember singing along to “I believe I can fly.” On the wall behind us were some sketches of the signature sets. Also notice the umbrella holder from the show was there as well!
***Heading to the COUCH!***
They had someone taking pictures for you…but you were allowed to have someone take a picture for you using one other personal device.
Then you were given a card with a website and photo code to obtain your FREE picture.
Sitting on that couch was surreal, I did my best to take it all in. I have to admit though I was a bit skeptical of whether they were telling the truth that the couch was the real couch used on the show. But once I saw it in person and saw how dingy and dirty and flat the cushions were, I knew it was the real deal! haha. And I was cool with it! The only thing missing were our big coffee mugs; they made us put our coffee down when sitting on the couch #nospillzone. But other than that it was super awesome to live out a tv nerd fantasy of mine. I even sat in the green chair on the side [I hope that was the real chair too] and had a little fan girl moment for myself just before heading to the gift shop area.
The gift shop area was right at the center and across from the coffee station. When we got to it, there wasn’t much left. I really wanted a mug or a bracelet but they were sold out of the mugs and they had a few bracelets left but they wanted like $40 for one bracelet. So I settled on a central Perk frame to put my picture in, a magnet and a bunch of buttons.
You couldn’t use cash; only debit or credit cards, which was kind of annoying but I guess with all the craziness they didn’t want to be responsible for managing money too. They had like an iPad type credit card swiper. But thankfully I had read up beforehand and knew to have the money on my card and also they give you an option of being sent a receipt through email or text. Which is good.
After the gift shop, I remember turning to my friend and asking where the gold frame around the peephole was…that I remembered reading it was supposed to be there and that I hadn’t come across it and low and behold it was cleverly discussed right near the gift shop exit.
It was encased in a peephole esque tv box playing a few Friends clips and it was see through so when you looked close you saw the frame but from the side you can see clearly. This was a replica of the original.
All in all it was an amazing experience. The 3 and a half hours weren’t as bad as I thought and once we got the first block down we moved quicker to the front. The only downside was I had to pee! We were so close that I thought I’d make it, but when we hit the block of the entrance they said we’d have to wait about another half hour (which didn’t end up being true) but I ran into the deli/café next door to use their rest room anyway. I wasn’t about to take any chances of having to rush through my once in a life time chance of seeing all of this amazing tv stuff. When I came back I was trying to get back on my place in line and I was stopped by a security guy. I was like “I just went to the bathroom. I’ve been here the whole time.” [Mind you this guy saw my face like 10 times throughout the waiting period.] My friend was screaming over saying “she’s with me, she’s with me” and he almost didn’t let me in. I just stopped talking and looked at him with a face. Then all the girls that were waiting behind us in line that whole time were screaming out “she was here, she was here, let her in.” And he was like “Oh ok, they say you were here…I’m sorry, if you weren’t I wouldn’t be able to let you in, but they say you were, so go ahead.” And I was let in. I was like yea I was getting in here no matter what….you would have seen me flip out, there would have been tears…it would have been a scene.
But never the less I went, I saw, I conquered and I actually did manage to put my camera down here and there and actually take it all in. What a cool experience and worth the wait!
I think Eight O’clock coffee did a damn good job. The staff was nice, the atmosphere was that of a coffee shop, and looked like Central Perk! Despite the crowds of people and the amount of things to look at, everything moved rather smoothly and it was a cozy comforting experience. The different stations made it all easier and organized and I never felt pressed for time or rushed. It was so cool to see all the set pieces and stage props and everything. I’m such a huge Friends fan, it is my absolute favorite show, and this was such an amazing thing to experience and it was free! My favorite thing! haha. Take a picture sitting on the orange couch from Friends…check. #bucketlist It did so well, they really should open up a real coffee shop here in NYC for good!
And for my fellow Friends fans who do not own the box set…BIG NEWS…
I’m back…it’s been a minute since I last posted….#technologyissues
Anyhow moving on to today’s antics…
*******
Ok folks let me break it down for you…
Fall is upon us…
*Fall fashion
*Fall colors; change in makeup namely darker lipstick shades and nail polish
[Oh hey Essie’s “Wicked” how you been girl?]
*Jeans/leggings
*Big Cozy sweaters
*Fuzzy socks…[I had a pair on the other day and my god daughter was scared of them, she couldn’t see my feet and I think that bugged her out! Haha #kids]
Demi Lovato
*Light jackets; Leather Jackets #GetYourDemiOn
*Cardigans and Scarves #thatsmyshit #thatsmyshit
*Boots
*Moccasins
*No more sweating for no reason other than breathing…[shout out to summer]
*Hair styling is easier, [shout out to humidity…you won’t be missed. #NoOffense]
*The Walking Dead#Walktober…who’s having a premiere party, invite me over!
Sunday, October 12th! @ 9 on AMC
[Other fall TV show premieres…
Shout out to Chicago PD coming back this Wednesday!]
*Crisp cool weather
*Crunchy leaves…[show of hands who goes out of their way to step on leaves???]
*Soup and sandwiches for dinner…[#cozy… where’s my snuggie/imaginary cuddle buddy?]
[Thank you Starbucks, Thank you Dunkin Donuts…I’m not a crazy pumpkin flavor lovin’ girl, but I do enjoy a good pumpkin kick from time to time.]
*Halloween decorations & costume decisions
*Scary Movies
*Pumpkin/Apple Picking
*Carving Pumpkins
*Baking Pies… Eating Pies #WhoDoesntLovePie
*Halloween also starts off the Holiday season…whilst Halloween then a b-line to Christmas…
#Thanksgiving #IAppreciateYou
*Applefest Warwick NY [It’s a big out door flee market, you can find the coolest most unique things…but quick tip of the day…where comfortable shoes, it’s ALOT of walking!]
So there you have it….Fall, welcome back you sassy thing you.
Download on iTunes, find on Amazon, or in Walmart, etc.
I realize this is quite late. But better late than never, right? 😉
“I think the entire compilation is a really good overall encasing of what *NSYNC was known for; talent and entertainment and for basically making all us young girls giddy as hell! It’s a serious throwback and we 20 something year olds have basically named ourselves the nostalgia generation. So if this fits you, and you’re a hardcore *NSYNC fan, buy it!”- Michelle Leigh Writes
It all started with a tweet. Isn’t that always the case? We are living in the new digital age. R.I.P sweet typewriters, dell computers, aim, and let’s face it…aol.com. Anyway, getting back to the good stuff. On July 28th my jaw dropped for a brief…VERY brief second when 1/5 of *NSYNC; Lance Bass sent the tweet pictured below.
A NEW *NSYNC album. And only ONE day notice! But I need to dig out my t-shirt and my bobble heads and…. BUT HOW CAN YOU DO SUCH A THING to a MEGA Fangirl!
*pause for fangirl moment*
Click the link, Michelle, click the damn link…
$13.88??….what get it for $11.88 at Walmart!
In that minor second of happy panic I knew it was too good to be true.
Oh. It’s just another form of a greatest hits album. So it’s not really “New” is it?
Sigh.
*pause for 90’s girl sigh*
Fangirl hearts breaking everywhere. EVERY.WHERE. Mine amongst the many.
*Although I have to admit the faux *NSYNC reunion rumors are getting easier to ignore, it’s happened just too many times, I won’t believe it until I see it with my own eyes!
Nope boys I don’t buy it…try again. #IWANTAREALREUNION
I took my slight frustration to my Facebook; as we all do. Don’t lie. You do it too.
July 28th my status read:
So apparently Walmart’s releasing a new *NSYNC album tomorrow, swell, glad I had no idea…P.S. it’s basically a greatest hits…which just sucks…don’t give false hope Walmart just don’t!
July 29th my status read:
Omg my inner 90’s self is so pissed…Dear Media, *NSYNC did NOT “drop a new album” none of the guys knew about it AND there’s no new music on it!
So what’s the deal with this album? *NSYNC members had no clue this was being released. Why was the label being so secretive? Well after Lance’s tweet, I googled my ass off…naturally. And checked my *NSYNC related sources and by sources I mean I stalked the guys social media accounts and found that the “new” album was a compilation of old hits, some unreleased/unreleased commercially tracks, some fun collabs and covers, soundtrack contributions and some random tracks that were released as side projects. [AKA the Britney Spears/*NSYNC McDonalds CD]
Lance did a whole interview about the album release on his radio show and he basically won me over! Listen to it HERE!
By the way take my Facebook anger with a grain of salt. I wasn’t angry at the band or their music. I LOVE their music. I love them! I was just frustrated that no one knew about this album. The guys should have been notified it is their voices, and some of the tracks Sony used on this CD were actually written by members of the band. And I’m not gonna lie even though I knew it wasn’t gonna happen, I was secretly hoping for real deal 2014 music. Not to say that the unreleased tracks aren’t boss. Cuz they are. But being the psycho fan I am, I pretty much heard 99% of the album (unreleased tracks and all) back in the 1996-2002 time period, thanks to Lime Wire.
OMG who remembers Lime Wire?
Initially my first thought was well I have almost all of these songs; I own all their albums and have most of the other singles thanks to Lime Wire again. (I was a kid, please don’t punish me…free music is free music.) But when the thought of not buying the CD came into my mind, my 90’s fan girl grilled me and put her hands on her hips, tapping her foot at me. She was pissed. So naturally I gave the album a listen on YouTube. [GOD I LOVE YOUTUBE!] And I basically fell in love. So a month later and here we are. “New”/ Old *NSYNC album playing in my ears. I guess I’m growing up a little since I didn’t run out and get it right away, I waited it out….
But I was up in Pennsylvania on vacation and consciously sought out a nearby Walmart and bought my copy. (So there’s that.) I guess there are some things I just can’t help. It was the right thing to do. Here’s how it went.
My Brother: What’d you get?
Me: What do you think I got? (holds up cd)
My Brother: (gives me a face) So you bought a cd you already have all the songs to?
Me: Um that’s not true…there’s unreleased music.”
#ImJustified
My cousin: “I didn’t know people still bought cds?”
Me: Oh I do. I love cds. There are some people that I just feel like I need to own their CD.”
I gotta say new album or not, *NSYNC looked nice back up on a shelf….right next to Ms. Britney Spears. The way it should be.
Band member Lance Bass said of the album on his radio show, Dirty Pop: “There’s a lot of these songs I don’t think I’ve ever heard, I remember recording them but I’ve never heard them before, so I’m interested in just hearing them.” JC Chasez tweeted about the album’s release, stating: “I had the strangest dream last night that some old friends and I had a top 10 record on iTunes. Crazy right…” “Chris Kirkpatrick said of the album; “It’s great to release some of the songs that had never made a record before! I’m glad our long time fans get some new music!” Joey Fatone also said; “Pretty interesting this album comes out, which I really had no idea, and it’s in the top of Amazon and iTunes… we owe it to our fans. Thank you.” –Via Wikipedia
And yet Justin Timberlake has yet to comment. But instead of getting all angry fan girl on him, I will just chalk that up to the fact that homeboy needs to learn how to tweet for himself more. I hate seeing –Team JT (no offense Team JT, we do appreciate the updates).
***
Random thoughts while listening….via my twitter
The world is ready for a REAL reunion, give the people what they want.
JC’s vocals are SICK!
Chris kills it in “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”
*NSYNC were vocalists…always knew it, always believed it, still do!
The universe is tryna tell ya’ll somethin…REUNION!
The Essential *NSYNC is boss, such good vibes listening to it.
***
There is something about listening to *NSYNC and hearing young Justin Timberlake vocals that transports me back to the amazingness of the 90’s and my childhood and how everything was just so much easier. Memories are connected to those songs. And hearing those voices again just reminds me of what made me fall in love with them in the first place. It’s a feeling I can’t seem to let go of.
*Some of my favorites*
(not including the original *NSYNC hits and awesomeness…
we’ve all heard them and we already know we love them!)
Off of Disc 1
Music Of My Heart- Gloria Estefan & *NSYNC
Are You Gonna Be There
If I’m Not The One
Off of Disc 2
More Than A Feeling (Boston Cover)
Best Of My Life
The Lion Sleeps Tonight
Trashin’ The Camp- Phil Collins & *NSYNC
On The Line (seriously though how GOOD is that movie tho!)
That Girl (Will Never Be Mine)
Falling
Feel The Love
*NSYNC may have been known as a boy band, but they started off as an A Capella group. If you really take the time to listen to their self titled debut album, you will see that their vocals are a lot more clear and there is less room for fancy background music and beats and you realize they actually can sing. They all harmonize so well together, and each shine in their own tone of voice, creating a nice dynamic group. It was a beautiful thing to see vocals that fell through the crack back then, like “I Thought She Knew,” “Sailing,” and “Selfish,” be given new life on this album. I think the entire compilation is a really good overall encasing of what *NSYNC was known for; talent and entertainment and for basically making all us young girls giddy as hell! It’s a serious throwback and we 20 something year olds have basically named ourselves the nostalgia generation. So if this fits you, and you’re a hardcore *NSYNC fan, buy it! And if you’re not, buy it anyway…maybe after hearing such a great selection of songs; it’ll turn you into a fan. Crazier things have happened.
However, do I think they missed a few key songs? But of course.
“What’s Going On”– (Marvin Gaye Cover) All Star Tribute; feat. *NSYNC
Just a few that came to mind.
*NSYNC’s transition to more pop like music happened in their second studio album and the world loved it. Songs like “Bye Bye Bye” and “It’s Gonna Be Me” made us all sing at the top of our lungs and dance those synchronized dance moves we all know and love. But their third and final album (as a current band) was a play on their new found fame, with songs like “POP” and “Gone” we saw the boys had turned to men and they wanted to be recognized as such. And to be recognized as actual artists. Hence….Justin Timberlake’s soon to be exit from the group, breaking teenage/pre-teenage hearts everywhere.
For me, *NSYNC is always going to be golden. They were such a crucial part of a golden era and I loved everything they’ve ever put out…even the album they had no clue about. It’s a great 2 disc, 34 song track list,!!!!34!!!! ($11.88 at Walmart…2 discs, 34 songs, I’ve bought many cds in my life and I thought that was a steal!) The album pays homage to their vocals and gives us all a little hope that one day it may just actually happen. If you ask me I think if the label was looking for some kind of validation from the fans as to whether or not an *NSYNC album would do well on today’s charts. Well I think you got your answer.
The Essential *NSYNC was released July 29th. And was quite beautifully received by fans, via twitter people praised their favorite old tracks and newly released favorites. It was even in the top 10 albums on iTunes, next to new generation boy bands. Fangirls got you *NSYNC. Always. Believe in us. We believe in you. Come back for real and you’ll see.
2013 Vmas “Reunion” a year ago…hmmm and this album just dropped…hold onto hope fellow fangirls!
Ugh these dang reviews always turn into a love affair of me pouring my guts out to you…so let’s wrap this up before I think of more to say. In a nutshell, 90’s girls will never forget and never let you go…accept that *NSYNC. Accept that Justin Timberlake. And tweet me back will ya? #HowRude 😉
If you missed my usual lyrics sharing I usually do in my album reviews…share some of your favs with me in the comments below, let’s fangirl together!
tweet with me @Shellbelle91
“The album pays homage to their vocals and gives us all a little hope that one day it may just actually happen. If you ask me I think if the label was looking for some kind of validation from the fans as to whether or not an *NSYNC album would do well on today’s charts. Well I think you got your answer.”- Michelle Leigh Writes
For so many years women were told they couldn’t do something as well or as effective as men or that they couldn’t be as powerful as men could. And to that I say….Fuck it. (excuse my french). It’s incredible to see how far women have come and how much drive there is to continue that progression.
In fact, I guess it isn’t exactly a progression, because the drive and motivation for women to do as we wish and say what we feel and think has always been within the hearts of all women everywhere.
And with that said, I’d like to share these two campaigns I’ve come across as of late.
Campaigns with positive, inspirational messages for women, and young girls everywhere.
Let’s start with the Always campaign that I’ve seen plastered all over facebook…
#LikeAGirl
“When did doing something “like a girl” become an insult?”
“Why can’t “run like a girl” also mean win the race.”
*I love this ad because it goes to show how societal restraints have distorted a phrase that could be used to motivate. It shows how young people can change the view of that, and that they have the power to do so. I respect “Always” and female director Lauren Greenfield for doing such a stellar job on this campaign. It brought tears to my eyes, I have to admit.*
“In my work as a documentarian, I have witnessed the confidence crisis among girls and the negative impact of stereotypes first-hand,” said Lauren Greenfield, filmmaker and director of the #LikeAGirl video. “When the words ‘like a girl’ are used to mean something bad, it is profoundly disempowering. I am proud to partner with Always to shed light on how this simple phrase can have a significant and long-lasting impact on girls and women. I am excited to be a part of the movement to redefine ‘like a girl’ into a positive affirmation.”
-Lauren Greenfield
*******
Next, I’d like to share this empowering message brought to us by Pantene.
Not Sorry #ShineStrong
“Why are women always apologizing?”
“Don’t Be Sorry…Be Strong and Shine.”
*I loved this concept the minute I saw it. I love how they took something used throughout social media to make a clever point. #SorryNotSorry is basically used to say you don’t wish to apologize for what you are doing. As a woman I find myself apologizing for stupid little things all the time and it’s amazing to see that women don’t always have to say sorry for speaking their minds or for being bold in their actions. Or for simply being who they are. Men never make apologies, so why should we.*
“As women, we weaken our own strength (in ways men never do) at work, at home, during moments in between. Sorry is more than just one, little, reflex word.
Pantene #ShineStrong stands for women empowerment. This video highlights some of the ways that we, as women, weaken our own strength.”
Ok 90’s babies…listen up, because we have much to discuss.
As you may have heard the childhood memories maker series “Boy Meets World” that shaped the hearts of many of us; “Boy Meets World” has been reinvented and brought back into a new series spinoff “Girl Meets World.”
For those who aren’t familiar with Boy Meets World, it was a story of a young boy named Cornelius “Cory” Matthews who with the help (and at times push from) his best friend Shawn finds his way through all the mistakes and ups and downs of being an adolescent. We watch Cory grow from a young boy, to a young man, and we get to see him go from thinking girls have cooties to falling in love with Topanga (What’s a Topanga?…get out just get out!); the weird girlwho may or may not decide to shave her legs, and who draws red lipstick hearts on her face and tribal dances in Cory’s kitchen during their brainstorming for a school project. We watch as Cory balances all the different relationships in his life and we see the people and the life lessons that shape the man he is today.
Um yes this is sitting pretty on their book shelf…
In the new series we follow Cory and Topanga’s family as they raise two children; Riley and Auggie. This story is about Riley’s journey into the world and how she will make it hers and step out of her father’s slightly taller shadow.
I have to say when I heard about this I nearly combusted. I’m an extremely nostalgic person. And Boy Meets World was such a great show to grow up with that it made me super excited to relive that feeling. The buzz this show was and still is getting was crazy and only made the premiere even more of an anticipation. The interviews, the behind the scenes photos, the guest stars; It was like a giant flashback that I didn’t mind living in forever.
However, with that being said. There is something you need to understand going into this. Before even watching the pilot. You need to understand, Nostalgia is all well and good. But we can’t live in the past. Girl Meets World will not be Boy Meets World. And it shouldn’t try. What it needs to do is be it’s own show yet embracing opportunities for homage to where it all starting. And I have to say, in my honest opinion, I liked it! It was adorable. Granted being that it’s on Disney channel, the target audience is significantly younger then most of us 90’s babies are, and the writing has to remain a little more PG then it was on Boy Meets World. BUT it was fun to see Cory and Topanga as parents, did anyone else secretly feel like an Aunt. 😉 I had to tune in to see how they pulled this story together, and I’m glad I did.
Girl Meets World premiered on tv on Friday, June 27th at 9:45. (Regular time: Fridays at 8:30 starting July 11th, *no new episodes the week of July 4th*)
As far as I can remember, when we last saw Cory, Topanga and the gang, Topanga had received an internship offer in New York, and she and Cory were off to New York to start their new lives as a married couple just out of college. Along for the ride were Eric and of course Shawn. While Rachel and Jack were off to the peace core. Whoever knows what happened to Angela. Haha. And left in Philly were the rest of the Matthews family; Amy, Allen, Morgan, and baby Joshua. [Clickfor goodbye scene.] And last but certainly not least, the very beloved, very insightful Mr. Feeny. Who before dismissing his class for the very last time, said something that will always stay with me “Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do good.” As Topanga asks “Don’t you mean do well?” And he replies simply… “No. I mean do good.” It’s a scene that gets me Every. Damn. Time.
So with that picture in mind, fast forward 11 or so years later…til new aged Girl Meets World.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
Cory and Topanga are parents to Riley and Auggie, living in New York, where Topanga carries a briefcase and wears and blazer and Cory is best known as Mr. Matthews; John Quincy Adams’ U.S. history teacher, and also Riley’s worst nightmare since she’s in his class. And he’s trying to run her life, so she says.
The opening scene is between Riley and her best friend Maya. As they try and decide whether or not Riley can stand up to her father and tell him she wants to ride the subway by herself. Thinking she’ll know his answer, Riley and Maya decide they have a better chance of getting what they want, by sneaking out her bedroom window. (Cory and Shawn flashback? I swear they didn’t know what the front door was until they were about 15. haha)
Just as they do, Cory chases them back in, only to explain to her that the world is hers and let’s her go. It is here that we notice the instant dynamic of the show. Where Riley says to Maya…
“How long do I have to live in my father’s world?” -Riley
“Until you make it yours.”-Cory
“Will you still be there for me when I do?”-Riley
“Right here. We’ll be right here.”- *ENTER* Topanga
****The moment I almost cried, Oh the feels… the nostalgia got to me.****
Cory plays a protective father, striving to help his daughter Riley make the best choices for herself and we see a daughter who is trying to find her way and find who she really is. Riley is a good girl, always used to following the rules, but while her best friend Maya is a rebel, Riley wishes to be “cool” like her and goes on a mission to “reinvent” herself. Much like the dynamic between Cory and Shawn. Cory was always the more levelheaded, think before doing something stupid, while Shawn never thought. Maya is the female version of Shawn in this case. The rebel with a cause. It’s really cool to see this dynamic with two females in the roles. I think it causes for a different perspective and doesn’t re-tell the story Cory had to tell.
*Girl Meets World reenacts Boy Meets World Archived Photos*
Girls are going to experience everything differently, they are going to feel differently about things. They are going to go through certain things, the boys never did, or never understood. P.S. it’s Girl Meets World and I think Topanga should have more lines as she is the original Girl. Because after Cory was the Boy in Boy Meets World he became the Boy in Boy Meets Girl and well, Topanga was that Girl. Topanga held the responsibility to portray the girl’s perspective in Boy Meets World. She was independent and made choices that were her own. Despite giving up Yale to be with Cory, Topanga never made her life all around a boy, she knew there were other aspects to life. She never NEEDED Cory, she knew how to survive without him, she just Wanted him. There is a difference. And when the opportunity to move to New York came, she took it, with Cory supportively by her side. And let’s face it Topanga (the mom) is way more suitable to deal with Riley’s up and coming teenage girl, mood swings then Cory (the dad) will be. And I believe Riley and Maya have a better understanding of the term “woo her,” than Cory and Shawn ever really did.
Speaking of Wooing. Enter Farkle. Farkle is the new Minkus of the group. Spoiler alert, I believe he’s Minkus’ son…BUT besides the point Farkle is the very smart, very much in love with Riley and Maya. He definatley will try his hand at wooing. We’ve already seen a few attempts at flirting. The same way Minkus was infatuated with Topanga, Farkle is infatuated with Riley (and Maya.) The friend dynamic between Topanga, Cory, and Shawn, seems like it’s going to be relived through Farkle, Riley, and Maya.
Enter Lucas. Riley’s cute “subway boy”, who turns out to be a new student in her history class, who she has her sights on. Riley much like Cory has a lot to learn about flirting. *Thumbs up*…doesn’t count Riles. Just ask your father. While Maya much like Shawn, is going to be the trusty friend flirting guide.
While most of the time I was kind of expecting “Uncle” Shawn to pop up, I realized it made sense that he didn’t. Not in the first episode at least. When trying to brand a new show, and make it it’s own, having the initial dream team of Cory and Shawn in a show entitled Girl Meets World, may just squash all the efforts of Riley and Maya’s friendship.
The show also follows Cory and Topanga’s life; raising their children. So the way they did it made sense. They had to set the stage for the story that will be told. However, knowing that Farkle is Minkus’ son (the audience doesn’t know just yet, but I’ve read it) and seeing that Riley is Cory and Topanga’s daughter, I half expected Maya to be Shawn’s daughter but I’m not sure how likely that is. However, I wouldn’t put it past the creators to have Shawn pull a Mr. Turner and become a badass motorcycle riding, mentor to Maya. Hell Shawn did like to write, maybe he can teach English. 😉 Although seeing how Shawn moved to New York with Cory and Topanga at the end of Boy Meets World, Shawn is a must for a guest star. And from what I’ve seen Shawn, Amy, and Allen are to be in future episodes. Uncle Joshua has also been rumored to have been cast, so that should be super fun to see.
Eric was missed dearly as well. But the few seconds Cory’s son Auggie had on screen was enough to convince me that Auggie inherented his uncle Eric’s sense of humor. He was totally aloof and made absolutely no sense, and he had me cracking up. Which leads me to believe that Riley and Auggie’s relationship could possibly mirror Cory and Eric’s, except this time Riley’s the older sibling.
What we did get that was a true token and treat to fellow Boy Meets World fans like myself came towards the very end…as Cory and Topanga graced Riley with her very own Metro Card to ride the train herself….
“You trust me with this?”- Riley
“You showed us we can.”- Topanga
Riley goes and comes back and her parents are waiting for her as she gets of the train.
“You guys waited to come pick me up?”-Riley
“We told you we’d always be here for you.”-Topanga
Behind the scene there’s a huge poster with Mr. Feeny on it that reads “It’s cool to stay in school” and then Mr. Feeny himself appears (in what I can only suspect is in Ghost form) as he says-
“Well done, Mr. Matthews.”- Mr. Feeny
Then after a smile and nod from Cory he disappears.
And I was a goner….it was such a slight homage and yet it was enough for me to want to tune in every week, to see what else they’ll have for us.
I hope they do this throughout the series, as if Mr. Feeny serves as his conscience. He did say in the final episode of Boy Meets World, that Mr. Feeny would always be with them. And well, it’s amazing to see that he is.
What I loved most about the episode were the small hints back to Boy Meets World. They were pretty subtle, but they were there. Aside from the ones I’ve already mentioned, there were a few others…
Farkle falls asleep and mumbles in his sleep just like Cory and Shawn used to do.
Cory uses his class (and his parenting style) to teach valuable life lessons, about being who you are and making the world your own. Much like his parents and Mr. Feeny did with him.
Cory calls his students by last name…for example, Maya Hart..is Ms. Hart in his History class. And gives his students the class room floor whenever they have something to say. Much like Mr. Feeny used to do in his HISTORY class. Talk about following in the footsteps of greatness.
They used the same transition music they used to use in Boy Meets World. Listen closely!
Riley and Maya stage a no homework rebellion, similar to when Cory and Shawn rebel against the idea of taking a test in Mr. Turner’s class when he said there would be no test if they just read the book. However, while Riley followed along in Maya’s plan, she secretly still does the homework for both herself and Maya. Proving that she knows the difference between right and wrong and where to draw the line. While Cory went right along with most of Shawn’s crazy anecdotes. And suffered the consequences later on, which usually lead to the grounding of a lifetime and a lot of groveling. Riley gets her own Metro card and more freedom for being who she is and knowing her limits.
I think eventually Girl Meets World needs to be switched over to abc family, right now it’ll do ok on Disney. Riley is still so young. But if the series lasts til she gets older, I think it’s going to be a little difficult to tell certain stories on a network like Disney. The original Boy Meets World used to air on abc. And although it never crossed a line, I think a lot of the appeal of the show was the idea that the humor was a bit risky within reason and the show actually dealt with serious life lessons and issues kids and teens and adults face. On a network like Disney, Riley’s story won’t be able to get as far as Cory’s did. So being that abc family is abc 7’s sister network, it would just make more sense. abcfamily is home to many shows with a young audience yet they have a little more freedom to tell stories and express issues a little more aggressively and maturely.
With all that being said. Godspeed, Girl Meets World. It’s the same creators as Boy Meets World, so I have a great deal of faith! As a 90’s baby who til this day still laughs hysterically at Eric’s Feenayyy call, tears up when Shawn has difficulty telling Angela he loves her, and who is still looking for the Cory to her Topanga, I still tune in to watch the BMW reruns and will continue to see where Girl Meets World takes the newest Matthews Family installment next. And remember kids…
Dream. Try. Do good.
Girl Meets World airs Fridays at 8:30 on Disney Channel.
P.S. Who else caught that Jackee Harry guest star spot…
Today marks the 5th Year Anniversary of Michael Jackson’s Death. Till this day I almost still feel like it’s a cruel joke. And what’s even sadder is that out of the two major things that happened that day, (his death and my high school graduation) the former is what actually always comes to mind first on this day.
I’ve always found it odd when they called the date someone passed away an Anniversary. Aren’t Anniversaries causes for celebration; as in a wedding anniversary, or the anniversary of a couple’s first date or first kiss, or first whatever. It’s usually a celebration of love. But when someone passes, the love or adoration or respect of their craft you once had for them doesn’t just go away. And it never will.
So I guess Anniversary is a fitting term. Because despite rumors or speculation or hearsay, I choose to believe at the root of it we are all human beings trying our best. And I’d like to think we all have good in us. So let’s not mourn that he’s gone, let’s celebrate all he’s left us with. Let’s celebrate what a true talent he was and still is.
I’ve said my piece about Michael’s passing and his legacy many times. The world is missing out on having his true presence with us everyday. But he lives on, in music. So I wanted to remember him today, on this 5 Year Anniversary of his passing first by Rocking my MJ “Off The Wall” tee but more importantly through sharing his music hence broadcasting the impact he’s had on the world through that music.
*Here are some of my favorite MJ songs/music videos/performances*
The Way You Make Me Feel (an all time favorite)
Smooth Criminal (that lean move though)
You Rock My World (“Chris your kickin’ with the wrong leg” ;))
Have you ever said something out loud and then instantly regretted it, because you are immediately met by a harsh response. Instantly shot down and treated like you’re a total asshole because you simply don’t know something. Or simply were just stating something or asking a question…
What I wanna know is…
What gives another person the right to tell you…
What you like?
Who to like?
What to find interesting?
What to do?
or most importantly
What to feel?
I’ve always been someone who tries to see things from all sides. Don’t get me wrong, I have a very strong set of morals and values, and I can be stubborn when defending them. But when faced with something I try to put myself in the other person’s shoes too. And it’s amazing to me how some people can be so narrow minded, and just think of themselves, or just think the world is simply black and white. Because I’ll tell ya something. The sooner you come to terms with the fact that the world is a whole mess of grey that can turn to color in all different hues and shades, you’ll be able to be much more accepting of the things that don’t fit in your predetermined little categories.
When you attack someone’s character…you are perfect right?
I mean how else can you judge?
Quick newsflash…no one is perfect.
You’ve heard this before.
Believe it.
Learn it, Live it, Love it.
So in the age old saying; If you don’t have anything nice to say just don’t say anything at all.
The snide comments
the judgmental faces
no one deserves any of it
no one deserves to be criticized as a person
Everyone has their own problems.
This life isn’t easy. We all feel the pressures of life’s obstacles. You never know what kind of inner battle someone is facing. You never know what may be going on in their personal lives.
I always try to treat people the way I’d like to be treated. The golden rule people. And granted I fall short of it sometimes too, after all I am human.
But that golden rule is a concept to keep in mind. It isn’t hard to grasp. So have compassion the next time you feel the urge to use your voice in a negative way.
Opinions are our own, and we are entitled to them. We all are.
Sharing those opinions can be a great cause for informative conversation, it can lead to bonding or to debate. Either way it can be both a learning process, when opinions are cared for and understood. You don’t have to always agree, but you can always choose to be respectful.
But criticism can come in many forms…harsh or constructive…make sure yours is the latter.
The older I get, the more I realize that everyone is different.
And that’s ok.
The way you are, the opinions you have, the things you like, how you treat people, may be different from how other people live and different from how they will treat you and others. The way you do things and how you handle things will be different then many people you come into contact with throughout your life.
But kindness…
and the act of being kind is universal.
It doesn’t take much, and doesn’t cost a thing.
So the next time you feel the burdens of an unkindness, stand up for yourself, and be vocal. Just because you are a kind, compassionate person, doesn’t mean you deserve to be used as a doormat, and walked all over. If that person doesn’t get it, it’s on them. You can only do so much, at the end of the day, you know you are a good person, trying to do the best you can, that’s all you can control. What other people do and how they act, and the negativity they throw out, is not yours to fix. Know your limits, and trust yourself. Follow your heart, it’ll guide you.
*** I posted this little tid bit on my instagram yesterday to honor Justin Timberlake on his incredible tour and I thought I’d share because it gave me an idea for a blog post.***
vision, take back the night, tko and not a bad thing, along with videos. To the many magazine covers, tv appearances and awards shows we finally got to see him nominated for his own music yet again and see him grace the stage for performances and acceptance speeches, to a 2 minute mini *NSYNC reunion. It’s been amazing to see Justin Timberlake make his return to music. Below you can follow my past two years as a mega fan girl for The 2020 Experience….or what I’d like to call the greatest return to music…ever! Wow man when you come back you really come back! Looking back at all these posts makes be feel so great, that I have them to always look back on and remember. It was around the time of when I started this blog, that Justin announced his “come back.” I had been waiting tirelessly but it was definitely all worth the wait. Read along and follow my fangirl journey!![justin-timberlake-plays-the-barclays-center-0b06ba9019f969d2[1]](https://michelleleighwrites.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/justin-timberlake-plays-the-barclays-center-0b06ba9019f969d21.jpg)
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Michelle Leigh Writes 