Toy Chest Tuesday! Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!

Dear Tim Burton,

Thank you for all the awesomeness you have shared with dorky folk since the dawn of the '80s. I don't think I have seen any of your work that has left a bad taste in my mouth. And while I am really looking forward to Dark Shadows in May, I think today I will look at some toys from one of your films that is just divine. Beetlejuice, how I love thee! Funky green mold and all!

All my dorky gratitude,
Miss M

Ok dear readers it is time for a whole new Toy Chest Tuesday! I remember seeing Beetlejuice in theaters and just falling in love with that movie. It was creepy, funny, and had Winona Ryder in it who I just love. My mom thought I would be scared by the movie and was worried about me seeing it in theaters, but I survived Large Marge from Pee-wee's Big Adventure. I was all good.

The movie was great as was the toyline. I was so thrilled that Kenner had released a line of toys to accompany the film. So let's take a look at some of the items from Kenner!

Here we have Showtime Beetlejuice. (If you look at his face he almost resembles Jason Sudeikis.) Sandi, president of the Fashion Club would probably have horrific things to say about Beetlejuice's striped suit, though it is his signature look. Kenner did a really good job of making different Beetlejuice figures that were based from the movie. Of course in true Kenner fashion this Beetlejuice came with some showtime special effects!

While lifting the lever up on his back, Beetlejuice's head sticks up with a snake like neck. (I had to have him sitting and leaning against something to keep the head up.) Of course wait, there's more!

With a quick pop off of Beetlejuice's head we see that underneath is a snake Beetleface. Super creepy with that Kenner charm!

Here is Otho the Obnoxious. And wasn't he though? I was always perturbed by his character but just had to have his action figure! I mean he's Otho. Everyone wanted an Otho, in 1989 he practically caused the same kind of frenzy that the Cabbage Patch Kids had caused years earlier. Remember? Ok maybe not, but he did have a really great action feature!

As soon as Otho is exposed to something scary his face instantly elongates and looks frightened. The little creepy critter to the left was the Rotton Rattler, a rattle snake with Beetleface. He came with the Showtime Beetlejuice shown above. Each regular sized Beetlejuice toy came with a smaller creature with a Beetleface on it.

Here is a miniature Beetlejuice figure that I believe came with the Vanishing Vault playset. I am not 100% certain on this but if anyone knows please feel free to tell me! I'm a tough old broad so my brain and memory skills aren't what they used to be.

Here is the Terrible Tarantula and he came with the Head Hunter (not shown because I lost him to the Neitherworld, aka the attic.) The Head Hunter was cool because he had a green arrow through his head. He also had a removeable head showing a shrunken head underneath. So much fun. Plus any chance I have to own a hot pink spider always works for me.

This golden beauty was called the Loathsome Lizard and came with Otho. I've never really seen a gold lizard, but I've also never seen a hot pink tarantula before either. So clearly I love this reptile very dearly.

Here is the group. I really enjoyed the toylines that Kenner made. They were always inventive and were pretty faithful to their film or animated counterpart. Though I do have one gripe about the Kenner Beetlejuice line. I have never forgiven Kenner for not releasing any female Beetlejuice figures! I get that this toyline was made for boys, but girls liked Beetlejuice too. And the female characters from Beetlejuice all had important and iconic roles in the movie. They deserved the royal action figure treatment! My goodness I would have loved a Barbara Maitland, Delia, and a Lydia Deetz. Barbara could have come with an alternative stretch face head. Delia would have needed that funky hair look and a shrimp cocktail. Finally Lydia would've been sporting that red bride dress. I wanted to grow up and get married in a red lacy dress like that.

Anyways the closest thing I have ever seen to a decent female Beetlejuice figure was from Neca. In my book that is just not good enough. I want more female Beetlejuice toys darn it! Is that so much to ask? Look I am all for multiple Beetlejuice variants, he is the main star. I get it. But there is just no excuse for the lack of at least a Lydia figure. This whole mess just gets me so worked up, I am just verklempt! That's it, Toy Chest is over for today. I'm done.

Oh who am I kidding! There's more! Following the movie it only made sense that there would be an animated series. First out in 1989 the Beetlejuice animated series lasted until 1992 and followed Lydia and her friendship wtih Beetlejuice. Word on the street was that a toyline had been toyed around with, though the closest thing we ever got to a real toyline from the animated series was a line of kidsmeal toys from Burger King.   

Here is the full set hanging out on Snake Mt. The fun thing about these toys was that behind each toy was a different version of Beetljuice with a saying at the bottom. Super ghoulish fun!

Here we have animated Beetlejuice. He looks like that teacher that just doesn't give a shit. Like he was out bar hoppin' and then decided to roll into work.

Here is the back of Beetlejuice. The bottom caption of the heads reads "The Ghost Post." The totem poll look featured the Deetz family and Beetlejuice himself.

Well in a way I did end up getting a Lydia figure, though I never thought she'd be coming out of a Burger King bag. Oh well, beggers can't be bitchy can they? Though I must say this Lydia looks a tad tipsy. Still this was one of my all time favorite kidsmeal toys, ever.

Turning Lydia around we see Beetlejuice doing a handstand. The caption says, "Head Over Heels." I love how his feet are part of Lydia's hair. It was a perfect blend! Just fantastic toymanship, way to go China!

Charles Deetz was Lydia's father. He was always getting punk'd by Beetlejuice. I love that he is sitting in his chair looking over his shoulder. Almost like he knows something is about to go down.

This was one of the more creepier looking back sides to the toys. Beetlejuice has a large face that looks odd. The caption says, "The Uneasy Chair." I'd be uneasy too if I had that face sitting under my chair. That's worse than snakes coming up your toilet. Or a baby alligator.

And here we have Delia, Lydia's stepmother. She may not have come with a lively shrimp cocktail, but she did come with a cool dopey look on her face. I loved her. Though I have never liked shrimp cocktail. I just can't get into eating shrimp. They look grody.

The back of the toy was entitled "Peek-A-Boo Do." Here we have another Beetlejuice spider walkin' in a spider web. On a side note has anyone ever had a spider in their hair? I thought I did once and it was awful. Ever since Scary Stories 3 I have been paranoid that a spider will hatch eggs in my cheek or something. Just leave them alone and they'll do the same.

Up next is Jacques LaLean, a french bodybuilder who was also a skeleton. If I recall correctly he was always falling to pieces, kinda like a Patsy Cline song. He was very cute.  

The back side was Beetlejuice busting out of a televison set. "Ghost to Ghost TV" was very similar to a Freddy Krueger scene. Can I just say though, as much as I love Beetlejuice the thing I found really gross about him was his teeth. I'd always try to imagine how foul and rotten his teeth must have smelled, but could never really fathom that much. There are some things that just need to be ignored.

The next and final Burger King toy was the Sandworm, always a menacing annoyance. I can't say much about the Sandworm. I avoid deserts because of the Sandworm and for the longest time felt that walking through the kitchen backdoor would indeed take me to a whole new world.  

This was a very interesting flip side. "The Charmer" showed Beetlejuice sitting on a pillow and apparently charming a Sandworm. I thought his hat was actually his brain swelling out of his head when I was little.

And "The Charmer" actually sums this whole toyline up rather nicely. Beetlejuice charmed his way into my lil heart. I will always have high hopes that a lil toy-company-that-could will release some new Beetlejuice figures featuring the characters that deserve to be immortalized in plastic long after we have all received our own copies of The Handbook for the Recently Deceased.

So that is about it for today's supersized Toy Chest Tuesday. (It was rather lengthy wasn't it?) Check back soon for more fun stuff though!

Jem- The Reunion Chapter 2

Ok it is that time again, time for a new Jem fanfic chapter. I know, I know, "Why do we need to read more Jem fanfic Miss M?" Well here's why, it makes you smarter. And since Hasbro still insists on taking a very slow time with any Jem relaunch for the foreseeable future I am just gonna keep rollin' out my Jem fanfic, a lovely look at where Jem and the gang would be 20 somethin years later.

Here's what you may have missed from Chapter 1. Time has not been good to Jem. After the world found out that Jerrica Benton and Jem were one in the same the curtain came down on the popular '80s band. Now in the present Jem has had a recent resurgence in popularity and interest. While appearing on the Lindsey Pierce show Jem announced that the Holograms and her would be reuniting for a world tour and certain guests would be accompanying the group, like Barbie and the Rockers. While leaving the show Jem made a phone call to someone about a meeting of some kind...

News of the Jem reunion tour enraged Pizzazz, leader of the Misfits who were quite possibly the biggest rival band that Jem and the Holograms ever had to deal with. In other news Eric Raymond former band manager to the Misfits was going to be released from prison. Apparantly Eric tried to stall the Holograms from attending a benefit concert and nearly got them, the Misfits, and the Stingers all killed in a deadly fire. This is the same fire that also led the world to finding out that Jerrica and Jem were the same person after she was rushed to the hospital.

So now put on your best war paint and get ready for the reunion of a lifetime...

 Jem- The Reunion

Chapter 2

Jem exits an elevator into a posh waiting room. Heading to the left and walking through the halls of Starlight Music, Jem can't help but look at the pictures of people and various achievements that the music company has received in the recent decades. There is an excitement in the air as she heads to a large office room with a view of downtown Los Angeles. As Jem enters the room a chair turns around behind a desk. Aja stands tall in a sleek business suit, her blue hair pulled tight into a bun. With arms crossed Aja says, "Well there's our new tv star. I caught your interview on the Lindsey Pierce show and I must say I was shocked. I had no idea we would be gearing up for a reunion tour. Had I known I would have bought us some champagne!" Aja takes a seat and slightly grins, "So I am going to sit here and let you tell me how this all happened. And action."

Jem knows there is a lot of explaining to do, "Aja I had no choice. It was either get on the Lindsey Pierce show today or wait at least 6 months or longer for a spot to open up. I no longer have the clout I used to, it had to be now or never."

Shaking her head Aja looks out the window before turning to Jem, "Would it have taken that much time to call us and just see if we were interested in a reunion tour? Jem, you just spoke on our behalf, what if the other members say no? You have been so impulsive lately!"

"I know I have Aja, but I did what I thought was best. I could have stopped and interrupted everyone's busy lives to see about reuniting, but I wanted to say something now. While we are still in slight demand. Look at our songs, they are doing really well on iTunes. I've had calls about releasing a nice greatest hits package with some new songs. There are even Jem Conventions Aja! People dress up like us and do it rather well. There is something in the air, I can feel it. I don't want to miss out on this before it is too late."

Aja stands and walks to a small bar by the office desk. She pours herself a glass of sparkling water, "Too late? Jem you talk as if we will no longer be relevant in a few months. I know it was a blow when the world turned aginst us, but I think it would have been alright for you to talk to us first. And what of Barbie? You announced her band would be joining us. Have you forgotten what it was like to be around her? How did this happen? Does she even know or will she be shocked like me?"

Pouring herself a glass of sparkling water too, Jem tells her story, "Barbie knows somewhat. We were at Elton's charity event about a month ago and we struck up a nice conversation. She asked if the Holograms were going to ever reunite, and one thing led to another. We casually started talking about uniting both bands and doing a tour. To double check I called her manager and he said go for it. We just need to iron out the details." The two women look at each other. Raised as foster sisters Aja and Jem were still close after all these years. No matter what may have happened with everyone else, Aja always remained close. Aja raises an eyebrow, "By details you mean getting the Holograms back together?"

Jem nods, "Yes. And I hope that I can count on you to be the first to say yes. I will need your help convincing everyone else." Aja is silent for a few moments, "I suppose I could say yes, as long as it doesn't disturb my duties as president of the Starlight Foundation." With Jem having a growing larger part in maintaining Starlight Music she had asked Aja to head the Starlight Foundation for Foster Girls a few years back. Aja had proven to be highly successful in her role with the foundation. Jem looks at Aja, "You suppose?"

Grinning from ear to ear Aja laughs, "Oh of course I'm going to say yes Jem! There is no other answer! So what is the next plan?" Jem smiles and hugs Aja, "Oh Aja I am so happy! I know I was impulsive, blame it on age. But we can make this work. The next thing we need to do is take a quick trip to San Franciso tonight. Raya's band is performing and I made a few calls. We have back stage passes." Aja smiles, "And you say you no longer have any clout, ha! Well let's get going!" Jem and Aja talk further and prepare to head to San Francisco...

Raya's concert is nearing an end. Jem and Aja watch from the side of the stage and are so proud to see Raya performing with her new band. After Jem and the Holograms broke up Raya became quite the commodity with other musical acts. In the recent years Raya began lending her talents on drums to the alternative rock band Le Fleur. Aja shouts into Jem's ears, "Aren't you proud of her Jem? Raya has come such a long way!" Jem nods and wonders what everything would have been like if the Holograms had never broken up.

Once the concert is over Raya makes her way to her dear friends. Slightly older and still gorgeous, Raya grabs a towl from an assistant and wipes her face, her pink hair messy and wild. Raya hugs her friends and they are all excited to see each other. "Oh Jem and Aja I am so happy to see you both! What a surprise!"

Aja nods, "You look fantastic! I love your outfit!" Raya smiles and looks down at her rocker girl costume of tattered leggings and strapless silver top, "Oh I try to throw on what I can! You two look great too!" Raya smiles. Jem and Aja look a bit more subdued so as not to attract too much attention. Jem adjusts her billowy dress, "Raya we are so happy for you. The music was so good, your talents as a drummer are just sublime."

Raya smiles, "I owe that to my time when I was with you Jem. Being a part of the Holograms taught me so much and I have carried that with me to this very day!" The three talk for a little longer catching up on everyone's various activities and projects, which eventually leads to Jem asking, "I know you have been busy with Le Fleur Raya, but what would you think of reuniting with the Holograms for a tour?"

Smiling at her two former bandmates Raya looks sad, "I had heard about your interview with Lindsey Pierce earlier today. I think it is a wonderful idea Jem, but I am so sorry. I just can't commit to that at this time. I wish I could, I really do. I'm so sorry." Jem hugs Raya, "Don't apologize for that Raya! I completely understand, we just wanted to ask you personally." Aja chimes in, "Which we should have done sooner, but this all came together so quickly."

Aja quickly darts her eyes to Jem, this was going to be more difficult than they thought. Raya nods, "Yes, but I understand how things can get thought out pretty quickly. I wish you all the best with everything..." Raya pauses as her assistant whispers something in her ear. Raya nods and looks at Jem and Aja, "I'm so sorry, but I have to step away for a second. I have a brief interview with a journalist from Rollingstone. Please enjoy everything back stage and I will try to talk some more later on ok?" Jem and Aja understand realizing that things really have changed in all their lives. Hugs are given and soon Jem and Aja are standing alone as people walk around not even aware of who they are.

How is this all going to work out Jem asks herself. Maybe a reunion tour was a bad idea. Aja nudges Jem's arm, "Alright fearless leader, what do we do next?" Jem looks at Aja and realizes that this is going to work. This is her last chance... Jem smiles, "First I think we need to leave and find something to eat. I'm starving. As for the next step, what do you think about going to Paris next week?" Raya may have said no to the reunion tour, but hopefully Shana would have a different response. Aja perks up, "Paris? You don't have to ask me twice!" The two walk off already discussing what would be on the list of things to do in the city of lights.

As a few days pass and turn into a new week Eric Raymond finds himself on the verge of becoming a free man. A little after twenty years of being locked up and serving his time well, Eric has just a few more things to do before walking out of prison and into a new life. He can't believe freedom is so close. Back in 1989 he had worked with Pizzazz to stall the Holograms from performing at a huge benefit concert. He had never planned for the fire to grow out of control and nearly kill everyone that was there. A trial soon followed and though the bigger story had been that Jem was actually Jerrica Benton, nothing could completely take away from the sobering realization that he was eventually found guilty. A long life in prison soon commenced.

This was all set to be the past however as Eric put on his clothing from his personal effects. Throwing on a Members Only jacket over his dated slacks and button up, Eric knew he must've looked ridiculous. However he made his way to the clerk to finish signing out and collecting the rest of his belongings. While going over his items the clerk looks at Eric, "You been gone awhile, might need to get some new clothes."

Eric dryly states, "I'll add that to the top of my to-do list." The clerk hands him his weathered vintage brief case. Eric opens it up and looks at the various files and paperwork resting comfortably inside. He stumbles upon a black cassette with neon colored lettering. Instantly feeling revulsion Eric takes the cassette out and slides it to the clerk, "Burn this. I have no use for it."

The clerk looks at Eric, "Sir, this is a Federal building, I can't burn this!" Eric groans, "Fine, just take it. I want nothing to do with it." The clerk looks at the cassette and gasps, "Oh I remember the Misfits! They were that band... They sang that song... Oh how did it go? 'I've got my eye on you' or something like that." Eric shakes his head, "Wrong song. The Misfits didn't sing that." The clerk is insistant, "No, I'm pretty sure they did. Oh I think I will keep this cassette, I loved them! Though I'm not sure how I will listen to it..." The clerk turns over the cassette and then says, "Maybe I can get something for it on ebay instead." Eric grimaces, "I highly doubt it." Finishing up his paperwork Eric takes one last look around, freedom is but a few steps away...

Walking outside Eric squints into the sunlight. Unsure of what he should do next he starts walking towards the road until a shiny black limo pulls up in front of him. The door swings open and a pair of long legs glide out in heels with blood red soles. Standing in front of Eric is Pizzazz, green hair teased within an inch of its life. Wearing large oversized sunglasses and a short tight dress Pizzazz waves, "Eric! You're out! How 'bout a ride?"

Eric walks by her and mutters, "I'd rather take my chances on foot." Eric continues to walk by the limo heading as far away from trouble as he possibly can. Pizzazz calls back, "Oh Eric don't be ridiculous! Get inside the car!" Eric ignores her and continues walking. Letting out an exasperated groan Pizzazz gets back into the limo and tells the driver to follow Eric. The limo slowly drives next to Eric.

"Eric, stop this. Just get in the limo. Walking back to civilization will take forever! Besides I need your help. I have a job for you Eric and it will pay very well." Eric stops and rolls his eyes, "You'll pay me well? Last I heard Pizzazz you have no money." Pizzazz grins looking out through the limo window, "This is true Eric, I lost all my money years ago. However daddy died and I got all of his. Now I am filthy rich and I want to get filthier. So stop being annoying and get in the damn limo."

Taking a brief moment to look at his options, Eric decides to get inside. The car is a full stretch limo, the nicest thing Eric has sat in within the last twenty years. He removes his jacket, Pizzazz notices that Eric has bulked up since the last time she saw him, "Wow Eric, prison does a body good." Pizzazz reaches out and touches Eric's muscular arm. Eric moves his arm away, "Stop panting Pizzazz."

Cackling a bit Pizzazz reaches over and pours two drinks and hands one over to Eric. Shaking his head Eric says, "No thanks. I haven't had a drink in twenty years, I'm good." Pizazz grins, "In that case you must be very thirsty. Come on Eric, it's your favorite scotch." Eric grabs the glass and throws it back. Pizzazz's eyes dazzle with mischief, "See that wasn't so bad. It is so good to see you Eric."

Looking at Pizzazz with a blank face Eric chuckles, "Good to see me? When is the last time you saw me Pizzazz? You don't call. You don't write. I don't think you ever once made an attempt to see me while I was locked up." Pizzazz looks down and fixes her dress, "I'm here now Eric. Besides I make it a point to avoid going to prison." Eric looks out the window and laughs, "Tell me about it, you just send people there after they've done your bidding."

"Oh Eric please. So you went to jail for a couple decades, you're out now. And you did a great thing, who would've guessed that the almighty Jerrica Benton was that wenchy Jem?" Pizzazz grins while taking a sip of scotch. Eric looks over and rolls his eyes, "I don't care to think about her. Tell me about this job, how will I be making money?"

While placing her glass on the mini bar Pizzazz turns to look at Eric, "Well I'm not sure if you know this but it has become very trendy for has-been bands to reunite for cheesy reunion tours. And I thought it would be nice to show them that the Misfits don't need a reunion tour, that we've always been here making the best music and throwing the best tours." Eric nods, "Very interesting Pizzazz. Reunion tours are tacky for the likes of the Misfits. Tell me, when was the last time you spoke to the other Misfits?" Pizzazz snaps, "Oh shut up Eric. We'll get the band back together in due time. I need you to be our manager, like the good old days."

"The good old days Pizzazz? If I'm to do this I will not be doing any illegal activities, I'm not going back to prison." Eric says reaching over and pouring himself another glass of scotch. Pizzazz smiles, "Of course not Eric, I wouldn't dream of you going back to prison. You're more important to me right here, helping to bring the Misfits back to the number 1 spot." Eric takes a slower sip from his scotch this time, "This quest for being number 1, it wouldn't have anything to do with Jem and the Holograms going on tour again would it? Don't look so surprised Pizzazz, I have been in prison, not living under a rock."

Pizzazz plays innocent, "Oh please as if I care about that piece of phony trash." Eric and Pizzazz look at each other, the history they have shared has never changed no matter what amount of time has passed. Pizzazz devilishly grins, "Well maybe it has something to do with Jem. That annoying mess thinks she can go on a reunion tour and ask Barbie and the Rockers to join, not even thinking about me? The Misfits helped make Jem and the Holograms who they are, and now I'm ready to show her what I'm really capable of. She and I have unfinished business. So come on Eric, what do you say?" Eric finishes his scotch and pauses, "Sure Pizzazz. I'll help, but it'll cost you." Pizzazz tilts her head back, "That doesn't matter. This is just the beginning! Oh Eric, we're gonna get her. But first, you need some new clothes." Pizzazz laughs out loud as Eric sits back in his seat, what was he getting involved with this time?

Dorky Snaps

Remember ToyFare magazine? If you are a dork the answer is probably yes. ToyFare was the perfect magazine because it was all about action figures. (I even loved it more than Vogue, though TF was ranked a lil below Soap Opera Digest.) Anyways the magazine ended its run last year and if you were really quiet you could've heard the collective cry of the dork community throughout the universe. How were we going to get our toy news fix? Sure there are sites all over the web dedicated to toy news, but nothing was better than a real magazine in your hands filling you with knowledge, news, wish lists, and funny pictures. I'll never forget the first issue I bought, it was issue #7 and the very first Tomb Raider figure was on the cover. Thank goodness Lara has come a long way.

Anyway one of the great things about ToyFare was the little still shots of various toys with comic bubbles depicting a humorously witty conversation or sentence. So I thought what better way to pay tribute to that great magazine than by taking some funny snapshots of toys and all the stuff we love. So welcome to a new feature on Diary that I like to call Dorky Snaps! The pictures may not have the comic bubbles, but they hopefully have a lot of awesomeness. And to make it a fun interactive experience I thought I would leave the last picture blank, so that my fantastic readers could share with me their own funny line to go with the snapshot. Also, as a reminder, no toy's feelings were hurt in the making of these jokes! So enjoy!

While on the way to save the Great Rebellion from the Horde, Buttercup just had to tell She-Ra, "You're gonna need a bigger horse."

"All right, Mr. D. Vanille, I'm ready for my close-up." 

History of Fighting 101:

How rich women fought in the '80s

(So come on readers, what do you think?)

Toy Chest Tuesday! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Happy Valentine's Day dear readers! What a perfect day for a brand new Toy Chest! I have always liked Valentine's Day. Regardless if I was single or with someone the holiday has always been a favorite and here is why: I love hearts. I also love wearing red and pink. Of course one of the greatest things about V-Day has always been the Valentine's Day cards. I mean honestly is there really any other reason to stay in school?

That was one of my favorite parts about school. The possibilities for styling card mailboxes and all the kinds of cards available at the store was so exciting. I remember receiving an ALF and Rhonda valentine from this boy in my elementary class and I just loved it! I felt so special because I don't think he gave that particular valentine to any other girl in class. It was such an awesome feeling, one that would not really be repeated since I grew up into a real socially awkward mess.

Anyways let's talk about what's on tap for today's Toy Chest Tuesday. I have a nice group of toys today and it is in honor of the great folks at Planetoa.net. For those who are wondering PlanetOa.net is the place where the greatest toy minds in the world converge to discuss all manner of geeky news. If you are interested and would like to join, head over now! Everyone is nice and wonderful.

So, where were we? Ah yes, the toys! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were one of the best toy lines ever made. Rolled out by Playmates in 1988 these toys went beyond the original fab four turtles. Much like most of the large toylines from the '80s practically every character from the TMNT cartoon and films were made into an action figure. My first TMNT figure was April O'Neil (duh.)

The second TMNT figure I got was Michelangelo, the party turtle. There was such a strange feeling upon owning my first turtle. I mean let's be real up until TMNT I was all about barbie and other girly items. Sure there'd be an occasional He-Man or Lion-O added to the mix, but they were mainly wanted because Teela and Cheetara needed boyfriends. No, owning a mutated turtle was completely new. I had never quite owned anything like it. What was I supposed to do with it?

Needless to say I quickly fell in love with the turtles as did most people at the time. Each turtle had their own unique personality along with a wide range of ninja weapons. Oh, and a love for pizza. I was able to own a few TMNT figures, though not every single one. Playmates really made a vast long running series of figures. It is mind boggling at the amount of items that were available to fans.

So let's check out some of the Turtle toys I did own!

Here is the fab four. Err, make that three and a variant. (I couldn't find my Leonardo at posting time.) Anyways from left we have Michelangelo sans belt, Raphael, Donatello, and another Raphael, sans belt as well. Can I just say I hate missing pieces and accessories? Nothing drives me crazier than losing weapons and a missing Leo.

Here is a solo picture of the turtle everyone wants at their house party, Michelangelo. He looks a bit naked but that is ok. Somewhere Pizza Hut and Dominos are anticipating numerous orders for pizza. This was the first edition Michelangelo and there were many editions to follow (maybe if you are all good his variants will pop up on Toy Chest again...)

Raphael's surly attitude would be proud to know that two of his variants are featured on Toy Chest. The one to the left is first edition Raph and the one to the right was a cool variant released in '91 from the "Head Droppin" series. Let's look at his cool feature...

As you can see Raph's head can be pushed into his shell. Perfect for dodging kicks to the head from those pesky Foot Soldiers.  

Once you squeeze his legs together his head pops back up! 

Here we have Donatello. He was the brainy turtle and one of the better options in the original TMNT Nintendo game. Has anyone actually beaten that game? I've never gotten past that dreadful underwater bomb level. Screw that level!

But wait! Don't go! There is more TMNT goodness though! The Turtles brought along some friends for Toy Chest Tuesday! Best Valentine's Day surprise ever! Right?

Here is one of the many versions of April O'Neil. This April looks very much like the first edition April except for the new hair sculpt and orange accents. My original April lost her legs in a freak accident with Janine Melnitz's yellow bug so thankfully I have this one! I also always wanted a yellow jump suit when I was younger. I just thought they were so cool.

Now here is another outfit that I loved and actually used to wear a lot of in my younger twenties. I'm just kidding. Or am I? Anyways this April has already been featured before on Toy Chest (though I thought she deserved another mention) so for all her details check out April the Ravishing Reporter.

  

The final friend stopping by this time around is Ace Duck, one of my favorite TMNT characters. He reminded me of Howard the Duck so much. I had a crush on Howard the Duck when I was younger so this guy definitely had to be in my collection! His wings were also removeable and he came with a cool hat, not shown because I have no idea where it is.

So that is about it for this week's Toy Chest Tuesday. I hope that you have all enjoyed checking out some cool Turtle toys from Playmates. Speaking of Playmates, there will be a relaunch later on in 2012! This is why I love TMNT. Playmates has always been pretty consistent with releasing these great characters in toy form. They may go away for a couple of years, but they always manage to find their way back onto our shelves. And hearts. For more details and conversations about the new relaunch head on over to PlanetOa!

The toys of TMNT and I wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day!

Dorkette Book Club: Fear Street- Broken Hearts

Nothing says Valentine's Day than a nice thrilling tale of terror courtesy of Fear Street. Every now and then the Fear Street series would release a holiday themed story. Usually these holiday themed stories were a little longer and were given the distinction of being called Super Chillers. Broken Hearts was a Fear Street story that spared no expense with Valentine's Day chills. (Because after all, this can be a scary holiday right?)

The basic premise of Broken Hearts was that various girls at Shadyside High are receiving horrible valentines from someone. (I received a horrible valentine once too, it involved a skeezy guy inviting me and my girl friend over to his place to see his new hot tub.) Back to the story! So murders start occuring (of course) and the two main characters, Josie and Melissa aren't sure what to do when they start getting the terrifying valentines too. I was a pre-teen when I first read this book and all I could think was, "My goodness is this what love is like in highschool?!" I had soo much to learn.

Anyways here is the cover of Broken Hearts:

As you can see Josie is on the cover opening her locker to a surprise. Someone defiled her locker by drawing a heart and message that says, "You're dead." I am guessing the message was written in blood. Can I just say, I love her pink denim jacket. And though I would no longer be caught out in public with a scrunchie (thank you Carrie Bradshaw) I just love that Josie is sporting one. Ah scrunchies. There was actually a time in this world where it was acceptable to wear scrunchies. Oh goodness what were we all thinking? It doesn't matter, we'll eventually have fashion amnesia and go back to wearing them as if they were the greatest gift to hair.

There is also a caption that reads- Valentine's Day can be a killer. Yes. That captures my thoughts exactly. V-day is a killer: as in a large amount of dangerous caloric intake being used during the consumption of chocolate and other types of candy. I've almost gone through one bag of gummi Sweet Tart hearts. This is just the beginning folks. I'm ready for all the 50% off after V-Day candy sales to start so that I can get the stuff that won't be around for the rest of the year and hopefully everything will go back to normal.

Anyways here is the back of the book:

Doesn't the story description just sound good? This was a really great story. I believe this had been the second or third Fear Street book I had read and it was so good. The story had a major shock as one of the main characters was killed. This had been the first book I had read where one of the main characters was murdered. Half way through the book this character was murdered with an ice skate to the back. (Who would have guessed that Tonya Harding had moved to Fear Street?) I could go on and on about this great mystery, I have so many fun memories of reading it. As usual though, if you find yourself yearning for an old young adult thriller to read, check out Broken Hearts! Here are some free words of wisdom, if you think your V-Day sucks due to your partner completely forgetting about the day and getting you a used box of candy, just remember, you could have an ice skate to the back. 

Anyways dear readers that is about it for today. Tomorrow will be a brand new Toy Chest Tuesday and it will be lovely, the perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day!

A Song For You

I have been getting a few posts ready for you all, but I decided to hold off and just say that I am so saddened by the loss of Whitney Houston right now. Her music has always been amazing whether I was wanting to dance alone in my room or do my best to sing half as good as she could. (My range... well I have no range let's just leave it at that.) If I was in a club or at a wedding and Whitney came on, I would mow some heifers over just to dance like a crazed rabid fool. Those minutes were always blissful. "How Will I Know" "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" "My Love Is Your Love" Just the best.

I know I never knew her personally but something has got to be said for listening to someone's art, their music, their voice, and being moved by it. My goodness that talent. To realize that the person who shared that talent with the world is no longer here, it is just so heartbreaking. I feel for her family. I feel for everyone who is missing her right now.

When I was about 17 or 18 my friend J. and I were obsessed with the remix of "It's Not Right, But It's Ok." We just couldn't get over how much we loved that song. That song filled me with so much positive attitude. I was ready to stand up for myself and not deal with anyone's bull crap. So one day we were driving to my house after getting out from school early. We were going to watch our soaps and gossip.

To our delight that song came on and we somehow managed to dance like some fools in our cars. I rolled my window down and was hanging out the window screaming the words out trying to make sure that J. had the song on the radio too. She did. We were both just laughing and dancing without a care in the world. Of course I probably would have gotten in trouble with the po-po had they seen me, some silly white girl hanging out of her moving car, but what are ya gonna do? I knew how to multi-task back then.

Anyways I must go. There are some Whitney songs that need listening.   

Red Hot Review- Jem Complete Series

Every now and then a show comes back around that just transports you to a simpler time. When having a dual identity meant being a pop rock star (with hair that looked like Big League Chew.) A time when your rival's songs were (kinda) better. That magical time when the world of soap and MTV joined forces to become a cartoon called Jem and the Holograms! Now with the entire series released all over again in a cool box set it is time for me to let you all know why this series should be in everyone's collection. Like yesterday.

I tend to enjoy purchasing most any animated show on dvd, but the folks from Shout! Factory have truly outdone themselves with this Jem dvd set. Typically animated dvd sets will have a modest amount of extras and features that make it seem worth the purchase. Up until now the She-Ra dvd series released by BCI were the ultimate. They came with special art cards and all kinds of delightful extras. However this Jem set gives She-Ra some competition. Not only is there a shiny dazzling box cover, but the episodes have been restored and appear brighter on the screen. There are tons of interviews and features, a neat video jukebox that makes it an easy 1-click process to see all the videos from the Holograms and the Misfits. The best thing of all are the toy commercials. Yes that is right, all of the Jem toy commercials have been included and look like they did when they first aired.

Now I know some of you may be thinking, "But why do I need that? I can just go to youtube to see this stuff." Ah yes. Youtube. What happens though when youtube is no longer around? (It could happen!) Wouldn't it be better to just have everything on a few discs that you can watch whenever you'd like? Along with better picture quality? It just makes sense.

So here are some pictures of the box set, the items all look so great! I wonder if Synergy had anything to do with it? (Ba-dum)

Cover of the box sleeve, it looks so cool!

Front of Season 1

Back of the Season 1 case

Cover of Season 2

The back of Season 2

Cover to Season 3 (that introduced us to the Stingers!)

Back of Season 3

Still undecided about wanting this truly outrageous dvd set? Here are a few more reasons why this set is a must have for everyone. These are a but a few reasons that should totally leave you begging more for...

First we have the heavy social issues. Everything from illiteracy to teen drug use occured during the three seasons of Jem. These are serious issues and they should never be made fun of, but I just have to say, watching those episodes again as an adult is truly interesting. In "Alone Again" a foster girl takes a pill and in seconds starts hallucinating that her guitar is some creepy monster. After the commercial break she looks strung out big time. Messy. There isn't stuff like this on TV anymore folks.

There was also the music videos, some with truly great animation. "Gimme a Gimmick" was by far one of the best Misfits videos. The animation was stunning and created a nice feel for what was fresh and new at the time. I would even say it seems very fresh now in 2012, and we have CGI!

Of course I can't forget to mention Kimber and her drama. Throughout the entire series Kimber was either involved in multiple deadly events or busy leading multiple men on. This dvd set is worth it all if only for the episode where Kimber is hanging out in a jacuzzi in an evening gown flirting the night away.

So if you were ever curious about Jem or simply want to relive all the outrageous '80s awesomeness get this set now! I suggest watching it with friends. Throw a Jem party! Grab your favorite snacks and a drink. It will be the best night, I'm telling you. Cap it all off with a cutthroat game of Disney Princess Uno and people will be talking about it for weeks.