Didn’t really like playing with Barbie as a little girl. In fact, I was told that my doll of choice was Betsy Wetsy, a “drink, pee and cry” doll that came out in 1934. I’m guessing I was in early practice for becoming a nurturing mother with this great pretend play time. This was the first major doll to be produced in black versions. It also made the list of most memorable and creative toys of the 20th century. Betsy Wetsy is now considered a collector’s item and is worth anywhere from $60 to $750 in mint condition of course.

As for Barbie, she was created by Ruth Handler as a special toy for her daughter Barbara in 1959. With all of the hype concerning both the movie AND the cafe, well she had me at PINK! Why would I miss the opportunity to immerse myself in my favorite color? Every store I entered had a Barbie themed fashion collection from clothing to jewelry, to shoes, nails, make up and even lashes with pink glitter. Every restaurant I entered had a special Barbie themed menu item or drink. There were Barbie parties everywhere, Barbie themed girl’s night out. You get it, she was everywhere in PINK!

The Barbie Cafe was super cute, I know Barbie’s favorite color has to be pink also. There were more adults than children. Drinks were nice and pretty. Ok, everything was pretty. My food was good, but I couldn’t really eat. I was too excited listening to others enjoying the experience, people watching and taking pictures. Most guests came dressed up wearing pink. I had a good time just being me.

I was also able to attend an early screening of the movie with a Barbie Blowout Party before the show. There were games, giveaways, a best dressed Barbie contest (guess who won), photo opportunities and Barbie Bingo. It was a sold out theater and again, more adults than children. I had a good time being me. The movie was cute and delightfully entertaining as it tackled gender roles in creative ways.