Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Category: Entertainment / Media

  • Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl: Fun and Flawed

    Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl: Fun and Flawed

    I’ve always liked Taylor Swift’s music, but I wouldn’t call myself a full-on Swiftie. I think that helps me stay a little more… objective — which might come in handy while reviewing her newest album, The Life of a Showgirl.

    Released on October 3, 2025, the 12-track record includes:
    “The Fate of Ophelia,” “Elizabeth Taylor,” “Opalite,” “Father Figure,” “Eldest Daughter,” “Ruin the Friendship,” “Actually Romantic,” “Wi$h Li$t,” “Wood,” “CANCELLED!,” “Honey,” and “The Life of a Showgirl” (feat. Sabrina Carpenter).

    At first listen, I loved it. It felt fresh, fun, and classic Taylor — catchy choruses, cinematic lyrics, a little bit of heartbreak. I played it on repeat while painting my house and thought, “She’s done it again.” But as the internet started unpacking the lyrics and controversies, my enthusiasm started to fade. Am I deleting her from my Spotify playlists? Absolutely not. But my feelings have definitely gotten more… complicated.

    Let’s break it down track by track.

    1. “The Fate of Ophelia”

    Taylor opens with a haunting love song that uses the tragic Shakespearean heroine as a metaphor for heartbreak and redemption. It’s about finding safety and love before spiraling into despair — a nod to her very public romance with Travis Kelce. “Go, Travis!” indeed.

    2. “Elizabeth Taylor”

    This track draws parallels between the two Taylors — Swift and Elizabeth — both navigating fame, love, and constant scrutiny. With details like white diamonds and film-star romance, it’s a lush and cinematic ode to glamour and public scrutiny. Before this song came out, I was most excited about it! The actual Elizabeth Taylor lives in my head rent free.

    3. “Opalite”

    Taylor chose opalite — Travis Kelce’s birthstone — as a symbol of joy and transformation, though the lyrics also revisit past pain. One standout verse captures that past pain regarding Travis:

    “You couldn’t understand it
    Why you felt alone
    You were in it for real
    She was in her phone…”

    The imagery of “dancing through the lightning strikes” and “the sky is opalite” is gorgeous, however, this track has sparked controversy. Some listeners have criticized the line referencing “onyx nights” and the phrase “the sun will never set on the English empire” as racially insensitive — especially given Kelce’s-notorious- history of dating Black women, including influencer and sports newscaster, Kayla Nicole, which the above quote is about. The symbolism of moving from a dark stone to a light one feels icky. Are people reading too much into it? Maybe. But I can’t ignore that it feels tone-deaf as ever.

    View Kayla Nicole’s clapback below. Since it seems that Taylor threw the first punch, I’m all for it.

    Influencer Kayla Nicole, Travis Kelce's ex, recreates the forever iconic Toni Braxton diss track 'He Wasn't Man Enough' for Halloween
    byu/SLovesAutumn inFauxmoi

    4. “Father Figure”

    This song dives into exploitation and power imbalances — emotional, professional, or both. It immediately reminded me of Yellowstone’s Beth and Jamie Dutton dynamic. This references Taylor’s real-life struggles with her former label and the sale of her masters, nodding to Scott Borchetta and Scooter Braun. Many fans can relate to feeling betrayed by someone they once trusted or admired.

    5. “Eldest Daughter”

    “Eldest Daughter” captures the exhaustion of being the reliable one — the person who always holds it together, even when falling apart. It’s heartfelt and deeply resonant.

    But then there’s this line:

    “But I’m not a bad bitch / And this isn’t savage.”

    It’s… odd. Out of place, even. Some fans have called it a subtle microaggression, given Kelce’s connection to Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” and his dating history with Black women. Taylor’s famous for her Easter eggs, and this one misses the mark. At first, this line to me meant I can’t be what society calls beautiful or strong and that’s OK, but it’s switched up for me.

    6. “Ruin the Friendship”

    A nostalgic, wistful track about a high school crush she never acted on — until it was too late. It’s bittersweet and simple, urging listeners to take the risk before time runs out. “My advice is to ruin the friendship,” she sings, and honestly? Fair. This is probably my third favorite song on the album. Go for it!

    7. “Actually Romantic”

    Reportedly aimed at Charli XCX, this one’s sharp and clever. It flips the idea of rivalry into obsession — someone who dislikes you but still can’t stop thinking about you. It’s classic Taylor: petty, poetic, and painfully catchy. And, eh, not for me and that’s OK.

    8. “Wi$h Li$t”

    My personal favorite. It’s all about imagining a future with Travis — kids, love, stability, domestic bliss. Taylor leans fully into the “trad wife” fantasy, and I love that she owns it. As long as it’s her choice, there’s nothing wrong with wanting a soft life. 10/10.

    9. “Wood”

    My second favorite — and let’s be honest, we know what this one’s about. Taylor insists it’s not, but lyrics like:

    “Forgive me, it sounds cocky / He—matized me / Redwood tree / It ain’t hard to see…”

    say otherwise. It’s playful, confident, and just cheeky. Like, it’s OK girl — we know what wood is about. You’re grown, honey.

    10. “CANCELLED!”

    Here, Taylor revisits the chaos of cancel culture — the Kim and Kanye fallout, public backlash, and the media circus. It’s about standing by friends when they’re under fire, with a nod to Sophie Turner. A fiery, loyal anthem.

    11. “Honey”

    A sweet, gentle ballad about reclaiming words that once hurt you. “Honey” used to sting; now it’s a term of endearment. It’s soft, loving, and clearly inspired by Travis. I can’t even be mad — it’s adorable.

    12. “The Life of a Showgirl” (feat. Sabrina Carpenter)

    The album’s title track closes with a wink. It’s framed as a conversation between a young dreamer and a weary veteran of fame — one warns, the other dives in anyway. It’s a commentary on the glamour and grind of celebrity, equal parts confession and contradiction. . It’s classic Taylor: self-reflective, dramatic, and a little whiny about how hard it is to be famous, yet she admits she loves it too. My love for Sabrina Carpenter revives this song for me.

    Final Thoughts

    Will I “cancel” Taylor or delete her music? Hell no. But I do think this album includes some questionable lyrical choices and microaggressions that make me side-eye her a bit. I don’t love it as much as I did at first. With Taylor, nothing is ever just what it seems — and sometimes, that mystery is more frustrating than fun. I think Taylor remains a master of mystery — nothing she writes is ever straightforward, and that’s both her gift and her curse.

    What did you think of Taylor’s new album? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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  • ⭐ Sinners (2025) Review — The Movie That Just Stole My Whole Heart

    ⭐ Sinners (2025) Review — The Movie That Just Stole My Whole Heart

    I am so excited to write this review because… wow. Sinners has absolutely taken over my life. As someone who has adored Harry Potter since childhood, I honestly never thought anything could dethrone it — but here we are. ⚡️

    This movie climbed right up to the top spot for me, and it hasn’t let go.

    Before anything else, let me clear this up:
    Yes, Sinners is a horror/vampire movie… but if you think that’s all it is, you’re missing 90% of the magic. There is gore (horror fans, you’ll eat well 🩸), but the film is so much richer than the genre suggests. It digs into colonialism, exploitation, cultural identity, survival, and Black resilience, all while weaving together Chinese-American, Black, Choctaw, and Irish histories in a way that is intentional and powerful. 🌍

    Honestly? Sinners is shaping up to be the movie of 2025 — and with Ryan Coogler directing, I’m not surprised.
    If you know Coogler, you know he loves a journey filled with subtle details and brilliant little easter eggs. 🥚

    Sinners

    – Director: Ryan Coogler 🎥
    – Rating: R 🔞
    – Release Date & More: April 18, 2025 (Watch in SELECT theaters over Halloween in October 2025) 🎃

    💥 The Smokestack Twins & the World of Sinners

    Set in the South during the Great Depression, the story follows the charismatic Smokestack Twins — both played by Michael B. Jordan — as they return home after working with Irish and Italian gangs in Chicago. They’re trying to open a juke joint after… let’s just say “borrowing” money from the wrong people. (Valentine’s Day Massacre tie-in? IYKYK. 😉)

    We follow them over the course of a single day:

    • Smoke → serious, Irish-styled, business-focused
    • Stack → carefree, Italian vibe, discovers talent, including his cousin Little Sammie 🎶

    Then Sammie performs.
    And everything changes.

    His music is so pure that it cracks open the veil between life and death — which brings a group of vampires out of hiding, led by Remmick, a 200-year-old Irish vampire with a deeply complicated past. 🧛‍♂️

    🩸 A Slow Burn That Pays Off

    Some people criticize the slower first half, but I actually enjoyed it. We get to meet the characters and see the weight of their histories. The real action and gore come later — but the payoff is worth every second.

    This film doesn’t just say “Look, vampires!”
    It uses them to explore different types of evil:

    • Supernatural evil → vampires
    • Human evil → the KKK
    • Spiritual/emotional pressure → Sammie’s strict preacher father

    There’s more depth here than the genre usually gives credit for, and that’s why it stuck with me so much.

    🧛‍♂️ Remmick: The Villain Who Isn’t Simple

    One of my favorite parts of the movie is how Coogler uses Remmick to explore the parallels between Irish and Black American histories.

    Remmick understands oppression — he’s lived through the British invasion of Ireland. He even references this pain while reciting the Lord’s Prayer, and it’s honestly chilling. 🙏

    He’s drawn to Sammie because of the way Sammie’s music can conjure ancestral spirits and reconnect him to a past he’s been cut off from for centuries.
    But the tragic part?

    He’s become the very thing he hates.

    By transforming people into vampires against their will, he erases their cultural identity — essentially replacing them with a hive mind. People debate whether that symbolizes “white men erasing Black culture,” but the truth is more layered:

    Historically, the Irish were viewed as non-white, inferior, and disposable.
    During the potato famine, the British took most of the good food for themselves, leaving the Irish to starve.

    Coogler doesn’t simplify this — he lets it be complicated.

    🎵 The “Devil at the Crossroads” Vibe

    If you love folklore, you’ll catch this immediately.
    Sammie’s raw, spiritual music mirrors the classic story of meeting the devil at the crossroads — power traded for destiny, gifts that can bridge the living and the dead.

    It works beautifully with the film’s themes.

    🔥 The Choctaw Nation & Hidden History

    This movie surprised me with how far it went in honoring real historical moments. The inclusion of the Choctaw people is more than symbolic — it’s tied directly to the 1840s, when the Choctaw Nation sent money to starving Irish families during the potato famine.

    In Sinners, the Choctaw characters appear as Firekeepers, spiritual protectors who can sense Remmick’s danger and step in as warriors of light. Their scenes gave me chills.

    🧚 Still Not Done… Because There’s SO Much More

    There’s so much more to explore in this film; I haven’t even touched on the Irish Fae yet, the romantic relationships of the twins, or the Chinese-American role in the south!

    And yes — like any good Coogler movie, stay for the end-credit scenes. There are two, and they tie everything together.

    🌍 Final Thoughts

    Sinners is a horror movie, but at its core, it’s about resilience, culture, identity, and the weight of history. The more I watch it, the more layers I find. It’s the kind of movie that stays in your mind long after the credits roll.

    If you’re even slightly curious, give it a try. You might walk out with more questions — and honestly, that’s part of the magic.


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  • Review: The Little Mermaid Live-Action 2023

    Review: The Little Mermaid Live-Action 2023

    Credit: Disney

    Have you ever watched Disney’s The Little Mermaid? The classic animated tale of Ariel—the curious teenage mermaid who dreams of life above the waves—has enchanted audiences for decades. Despite her father King Triton’s warnings, Ariel falls for a human prince and risks everything to be with him. Her fateful deal with the sea witch Ursula sets off a chain of events that test love, sacrifice, and identity. It’s one of those timeless Disney stories that stays with you long after the credits roll.

    When I was little, The Little Mermaid was my movie. I wore out the VHS, sang along to every song (badly, I’m sure), and dreamed of being part of Ariel’s world. So when I heard that Disney was bringing the story to life again—this time with Halle Bailey as Ariel—I felt that same spark of excitement.

    I’ll admit, I was hesitant. Disney’s live-action remakes have been a mixed bag. But from the moment Halle appeared on screen, I knew this one was different. Her performance was pure magic. I actually teared up in the theater—seeing a young Black woman as a Disney princess on the big screen was powerful.

    When I was a little girl, my ballet teacher once gave me a bag with a Black ballerina printed on it. That small gesture meant everything because, back then, representation like that was rare. I still have that bag. Sitting in the theater, watching Halle Bailey as Ariel, I couldn’t help but think of my younger self—how much it would’ve meant to see someone who looked like me in a role like this.

    Halle Bailey was a great choice. She brought Ariel’s innocence, strength, and wonder to life while adding a modern grace that felt completely her own. And her voice? Absolutely breathtaking. It was such a beautiful touch to see Jodie Benson, the voice of the animated Ariel,, the original voice of Ariel, make a cameo—a quiet, graceful passing of the torch.

    Sure, I would’ve loved to see her hair a bit more vibrantly red (the iconic mermaid look!), but honestly, it didn’t matter. Between the stunning underwater visuals and Halle’s performance, I was all in.

    Credit: Jodi Benson

    If you’ve become a fan of hers, she mentioned a few upcoming projects in a recent Cosmopolitan magazine interview.

    Speaking of standout performances, Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric completely surprised me. His portrayal gave Eric more depth than ever before—and his new solo song, “Wild Uncharted Waters,” gave me chills. I loved how both characters shared the same yearning for freedom and self-discovery. It made their love story feel more balanced, more real. I can’t wait to see what other movies he’ll be in!

    Credit: ALAMY; PIERRE VILLARD/SIPA/SHUTTERSTOCK

    I really liked Ariel’s sisters, and I wish we could’ve seen more of them! They were all beautiful and full of potential, but their scenes felt fleeting. Hopefully, if there’s ever a sequel (please, Disney?), we’ll dive deeper into their stories.

    Credit: Euro ES Euro
    Credit: L: Matt Winkelmeyer/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images. R: Screenshot Disney+

    And can we take a moment to appreciate Jessica Alexander as Vanessa—Ursula’s glamorous alter ego? She nailed the perfect mix of beauty and menace. As for our beloved sidekicks—Sebastian, Scuttle, and Flounder—I know their realistic CGI designs divided fans, but I found them charming in their own quirky way. “The Scuttlebutt,” their new musical number, might not be for everyone, but I thought it was hilarious and delightfully chaotic—exactly what a kids’ movie moment should be.

    Credit: Disney

    Javier Bardem as King Triton was another pleasant surprise. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel seeing the No Country for Old Men star as Ariel’s father, but he brought a tenderness and quiet strength that made Triton feel more human. I also loved the added backstory—learning that Ariel’s mother was killed by a human gave their conflict much more weight. Oh, and discovering that Ursula and Triton are siblings! Genius.

    Speaking of Ursula, Melissa McCarthy played the role of the evil sea witch. She brought some comedy to the role, and I thought she did a great job paying homage to the original, but I didn’t think she added too much besides some funny moments.

    Credit: Disney

    All in all, Disney’s The Little Mermaid live-action remake was everything I hoped for and more—a love letter to the original, but with a bold, inclusive twist for a new generation. And I’m clearly not the only one who feels this way—it’s sitting at an impressive 94% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

    If you haven’t seen it yet, trust me: grab some popcorn, hum along to “Part of Your World,” and let yourself be swept away.

    Because sometimes, magic really does happen under the sea. 🐚✨

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  • A Little Disney Magic in My Kitchen: Tiana’s Beignets ✨

    A Little Disney Magic in My Kitchen: Tiana’s Beignets ✨

    If you’ve ever seen The Princess and the Frog, you’ll remember that irresistible scene — the one where Tiana’s beignets have everyone swooning. “Oh, Tia, you are bonafide genius. I’m gonna need about five hundred of your man-catching beignets for my ball tonight!” That line never fails to make me smile… and crave something warm, golden, and covered in powdered sugar.

    So when I found out that Disney actually released Tiana’s beignet recipe, you’d better believe I was in the kitchen faster than you can say “New Orleans.” I’m no professional baker — just a girl who loves a cozy kitchen moment — but this recipe was surprisingly simple to follow and turned out absolutely delicious.

    There was one tiny hiccup along the way (because what’s baking without a little chaos, right?). My vegetable shortening didn’t mix quite as smoothly as I’d hoped. I used Great Value this time, but next round I’ll be trying Crisco to see if it gives the dough that perfect, fluffy texture Tiana herself would approve of.

    When the beignets came out of the oil — golden, pillowy, and dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar — I felt this unexpected wave of joy and nostalgia. There’s just something about Disney magic that makes its way into real life when you least expect it. I even have a framed photo of Tiana in my kitchen as a little reminder to chase dreams, work hard, and enjoy the sweet things in life (literally and figuratively).

    If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s an easy, cozy afternoon project — best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee and maybe a Disney soundtrack playing in the background. And if you do give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

    Here’s to channeling our inner Tiana — mixing, frying, and dreaming big — one delicious beignet at a time. 💛✨

    Courtesy of Disney
    Step 4
    The final product!
  • The Royal Conversation We Needed: My Thoughts on Oprah’s Interview with Meghan & Harry 👑✨

    The Royal Conversation We Needed: My Thoughts on Oprah’s Interview with Meghan & Harry 👑✨

    When Oprah sits down for a tell-all, you know it’s going to be good. But when it’s Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry across from her? Let’s just say — this wasn’t your average Sunday night interview.

    I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to watch at first. But as a biracial Black woman, curiosity (and maybe a little hope) got the better of me. And I’m so glad it did. From the moment the conversation began, I found myself nodding along, relating to Meghan in ways I didn’t expect. It was raw, vulnerable, and—finally—real.

    This wasn’t just a royal chat over tea. It was an unfiltered look into the experiences of two people navigating love, identity, and impossible expectations under the world’s microscope. Here are a few moments that truly stuck with me.

    💬 The Conversation About Archie’s Skin Tone

    When Meghan revealed that there had been “concerns” within the royal family about how dark Archie’s skin might be, I froze. It was painful but not shocking. Harry confirmed it wasn’t Queen Elizabeth or Prince Philip, but still—the damage was done.

    As someone who has lived through the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) weight of colorism, I understood exactly how loaded that question was. It’s not just curiosity — it’s a reflection of how deeply racism can run, even when it hides behind polite tones and royal titles. Some people see a mixed-race baby and automatically assign them an identity that fits their biases. That “in-between” space can be isolating — you’re too Black for some, too white for others, and somehow never just you.

    👑 The Title That Never Was

    Let’s talk about Archie’s missing title. Traditionally, royal children need the Queen’s approval to receive the titles of “Prince” or “Princess.” William’s children were granted theirs—Charlotte and Louis included—but Archie? Not so much. For the first royal child of color to be denied that recognition carried symbolism that couldn’t be ignored. Representation matters — even in a palace.

    As Meghan explained how painful that experience was, I couldn’t help but think about how many of us have felt “snubbed” in smaller, quieter ways. Those moments when you realize that, no matter how much you achieve, some people will still see you as “other.”

    Representation matters, especially when it’s within an institution that symbolizes so much tradition and visibility. It was a subtle but loud message, and one that didn’t go unnoticed.

    📸 The Photo That Never Happened

    Remember the iconic royal baby debut outside the hospital? Meghan and Harry didn’t get that moment. I had assumed they opted out for privacy reasons—but no. Meghan revealed they were not offered the opportunity.

    That stung. Because those first photos aren’t just about the royal tradition; they’re about belonging. About being seen.

    📰 Harry’s Wake-Up Call on Racism

    One of the most powerful parts of the interview was hearing Harry admit he didn’t fully understand racial bias until he experienced it alongside Meghan. It reminded me of how deeply embedded privilege can be—even among those who think they “get it.”

    Oprah brilliantly contrasted media coverage between Meghan and Kate—where Kate was praised for eating avocado toast, and Meghan was vilified for it. It was such a clear example of how bias quietly works its way into everyday narratives.

    💔 “Megxit” and Moving On

    When the couple decided to step back from royal duties, they weren’t trying to rebel—they were trying to breathe. Harry clarified that he had spoken with the Queen in advance, though later, the palace’s response suggested otherwise.

    Hearing them describe losing their security and being cut off financially, while still facing intense scrutiny, made me realize how heavy their reality was. Meghan’s candidness about her mental health struggles was heartbreaking—but it also showed so much strength.

    ✨ Why It Matters

    Watching this interview felt like watching a cultural shift happen in real-time. It was uncomfortable, necessary, and strangely healing.

    Sharing your truth, especially when the world wants you silent, is a radical act. Meghan and Harry’s honesty reminded me of how vital it is to have these conversations — even when they challenge the systems we’ve been taught to respect.

    Oprah handled it with the grace and gravity only she can bring, creating space for hard but necessary conversations. And watching it all unfold, I couldn’t help but think of Princess Diana — how her legacy of honesty and compassion continues through her son and his family.

    For me, this interview wasn’t just about the royals. It was about the universal need to be seen, heard, and understood — no matter where you come from. It was about resilience, representation, and the beauty of reclaiming your story.

    And while the royal family might not change overnight, one thing’s for sure: the world is listening.

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  • 🍷 My First Impressions of the New 90 Day Fiancé Season

    🍷 My First Impressions of the New 90 Day Fiancé Season

    Warning: Spoilers ahead for the first episode of 90 Day Fiancé!

    Sunday nights are officially back to being my favorite night of the week — thank you, TLC! 🙌 I swear, they deserve a medal for still managing to find couples for us to obsess over during a pandemic. My little ritual has become sacred at this point: dinner, a glass of wine, and the glorious chaos that is 90 Day Fiancé.

    So let’s dive right into my first impressions of this new season’s cast of lovebirds (and trainwrecks 😂).

    💔 Jovi & Yara

    Oof. My first impression of Jovi? Not great, y’all. He gives off major immature vibes and seems completely unprepared for a serious relationship. When he started bragging about his “free spirit” lifestyle and stripper escapades, I couldn’t roll my eyes hard enough. 🙄

    And then — the airport pickup. Imagine flying 30 hours to see your man, and he gets mad because you don’t want to go sightseeing immediately? Boy, please. Common sense, where you at? I’m rooting for Yara, but something tells me this one’s going to be rocky.

    Image from Screenrant

    🐄 Brandon & Julia

    Ohhh my gosh, where do I even start?! Brandon lives with his parents… on a farm… and brings Julia, a gogo dancer from the city, to live there too. This has all the makings of a beautiful disaster.

    From his mom setting him up on a dating site (yes, really) to his $10,000 credit card debt and his mom calling a gynecologist for Julia — I can’t! 😂 I totally get why his mom is concerned, but whew… this situation is already giving me secondhand stress. Buckle up, Julia.

    Image from PEOPLE

    😒 Mike & Natalie

    Image from RealityTVWorld

    Does Mike even like Natalie? I honestly can’t tell. He seems about as excited as a soggy piece of toast. The man only lights up when he’s cuddling his cat — which, honestly, same, but still.

    If there’s zero enthusiasm now, I’m not sure how this is going to work out long-term. Someone get this man a cup of coffee and a reason to smile!

    🔥 Rebecca & Zied

    Image from Heavy.com

    Ah yes, Rebecca and Zied — back again for more chaos (and yes, I’m here for it). First off, Rebecca’s new job at Joella’s Hot Chicken has me curious — I’d 100% go through that drive-thru just to say, “Hey, aren’t you from 90 Day Fiancé?” 😂

    But oh boy, the drama’s already brewing. They’re staying with Rebecca’s daughter and her daughter’s boyfriend… and Zied is not thrilled about that. Something tells me this household’s about to turn into a full-on reality show within a reality show.

    💞 Tarik & Hazel

    Image from ChampionDaily

    We only got a small glimpse of Tarik and Hazel this episode, but color me intrigued. Hazel’s bisexual and looking for a girlfriend — yes, you read that right — while being engaged to Tarik. I can already tell this season is going to bring some big conversations (and probably some major drama).

    🍿 Final Thoughts

    Y’all, I am so ready for this season. Between farm drama, cultural clashes, awkward family moments, and questionable decision-making — this is peak 90 Day Fiancé content.

    It’s my favorite Sunday night ritual: dinner, wine, and pure TLC chaos. 🥂 I’d love to know what you think of the new cast! Who’s your favorite so far? Who’s driving you nuts already? Let’s chat in the comments — I need to know I’m not the only one yelling at my TV! 😂

  • TLC’s I Love a Mama’s Boy: A Wild Ride I Wasn’t Ready For

    TLC’s I Love a Mama’s Boy: A Wild Ride I Wasn’t Ready For

    Wow — where do I even begin? As a longtime fan of TLC (yes, I’m one of those people who plans my Sunday nights around 90 Day Fiancé), I was curious when I Love a Mama’s Boy premiered. It falls right between 90 Day Fiancé and Pillow Talk, taking over that prime slot once held by Smothered and Unexpected. And let me tell you — those shows suddenly seem tame after this one!

    From the very first episode, I was both fascinated and slightly horrified. The dynamic between these mothers and sons is… intense. Many of the moms seem genuinely unaware of how unhealthy their attachments have become, and I found myself thinking, maybe therapy wouldn’t be such a bad idea here. Meanwhile, the girlfriends and fiancées? My heart truly goes out to them. The emotional tug-of-war they face would test anyone’s patience!

    It’s wild watching how differently these men treat their partners versus their mothers. There’s this strange mix of aloofness and blind devotion that honestly makes me want to yell at the screen — in the best, most reality-TV-loving way possible.

    By the halfway mark, I was squirming in my seat. Some moments were so cringe-worthy, I had to change the channel for a breather (and maybe pour another glass of wine). But as uncomfortable as it gets, I Love a Mama’s Boy is addictive in that classic TLC way — messy, dramatic, and impossible to look away from.

    Whew, baby. I can’t imagine being in those women’s shoes! I truly hope everyone involved finds some balance, therapy, and maybe just a little healthy distance.

    Have you watched I Love a Mama’s Boy yet? It’s definitely not your average love story — and I’d love to know what you think. Would you stick around for the drama, or run for the hills?

  • First Presidential Debate of 2020

    First Presidential Debate of 2020

    Here are some memorable moments:

    “I don’t wear masks like him. Every time you see him, he’s got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away from them, and he shows up with the biggest mask I’ve ever seen.”

    –President Trump

    “By the way, I brought back Big Ten football. It was me, and I’m very happy to do it and the people of Ohio are very proud of me.”

    –President Trump

    “Mr. President, please stop.”

    –Chris Wallace

    “He wouldn’t know a suburb unless he took a wrong turn.”

    –Former Vice President Biden

    “Will you shut up, man.”

    –Former Vice President Biden

    On a more serious note, I am appalled by the divisive rhetoric spewed by President Trump. This harmful and toxic pattern needs to come to a stop. If you would like to locate a fact-checker for the debate, please click here. For a general fact-checker on candidates, click here.

    Here is some information about how to vote in the upcoming November election. Together, we have the power to make a difference.

    Step 1: Be sure to register to vote. Check vote411.org for instructions on voting and visit sos.iowa.org for instructions in Iowa. https://www.ballotready.org/ is also an amazing resource.

    Step 2: After you’re registered to vote make sure you know about the different ways to cast your ballot. One great way is absentee voting. Check vote411.org for instructions on voting and visit sos.iowa.org for instructions in Iowa. You can also check out https://www.ballotready.org/

    Step 3: Understanding your ballot and voting in elections are forms of civic engagement. Voting is an opportunity to shape your community and take care of its pressing needs. Below are examples of down-ballot (state or local) seats you may see—research all the candidates on your ballot by visiting vote411.org or https://www.ballotready.org/

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    August 2020


  • Movie Review: Mulan (Live-Action) — A Fresh Take on a Classic Heroine

    Movie Review: Mulan (Live-Action) — A Fresh Take on a Classic Heroine

    I finally watched the Mulan live-action remake this weekend with my fiancé, and honestly — I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it! Between the controversy and all the early reviews, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the film turned out to be beautifully done and full of powerful moments. Here’s what stood out to me most:

    💄 Mulan’s Makeup & Costumes

    Can we take a moment to appreciate the makeup and costume design? Absolutely breathtaking! The artistry behind Mulan’s look was both elegant and historically inspired. Every detail — from the subtle symbolism in her colors to the intricate fabrics — added so much depth to her character. The makeup might have leaned a bit dramatic at times, but honestly, it worked. The overall visual experience was stunning.

    🐉 Xianniang, the Witch

    One of the biggest surprises for me was how much I adored Xianniang (played by the incredible Gong Li). While I originally hoped the live-action version would stay closer to the animated film, this addition brought an unexpected layer of complexity. Xianniang’s story felt symbolic — showing what Mulan could become if she let her power isolate her. It was haunting, empowering, and completely mesmerizing.

    👑 Jet Li as the Emperor

    Epic. Just epic. I do wish they aged him up slightly for the role, but it’s Jet Li — he can do no wrong. His calm authority and subtle power were perfect for the character.

    🎖️ “Honor to Us All” Moment

    One of my favorite parts of the movie was when Mulan finally restores honor to her family. The emotion in that scene hit so beautifully — it felt like a love letter to the spirit of the original.

    🌸 The Reveal

    Without giving too much away, Mulan’s reveal as a woman plays out differently in this version — and I actually loved it. It felt more intentional and mature, highlighting her bravery rather than shame or fear.

    .

    What I Would’ve Changed

    Of course, no remake is without a few things I wish were handled differently:

    • Mushu & the Phoenix:
      I had mixed feelings here. The phoenix was visually stunning, especially in the moments where it paralleled Mulan’s growth — but I missed Mushu’s playful spark. The film could’ve used just a touch more humor or warmth.
    • The Love Interest:
      While I appreciated seeing Mulan as an independent heroine, there was definitely some subtle chemistry with one of her fellow soldiers. I wasn’t mad about it — just curious where it could have gone.
    • The Controversy:
      It’s impossible to ignore the backlash surrounding Liu Yifei’s political comments. While I understand that actors are entitled to their opinions, I wish her response had been more thoughtful given the context. Still, I don’t believe that should overshadow the artistry of the film itself.

    Final Thoughts

    Mulan is visually stunning, emotionally rich, and refreshingly empowering. While it takes creative liberties from the original, it still captures the heart of the story — courage, honor, and self-discovery. If you missed it in theaters, it’s now streaming on Disney+, and I’d definitely recommend giving it a watch.

    Grab some popcorn, pour a glass of wine, and let yourself get swept up in the story. I’d love to hear your thoughts — did you love it, or do you prefer the animated version? Let’s chat in the comments!

    I often feel that any movie remake, especially when it comes to Disney’s live-action versions of their animated classics, will be scrutinized for flaws or perceived shortcomings. With that said, here are a few observations I have about what could have been done differently.