During quarantine, sometimes I look in the mirror and worry that I’m not real—like I’m becoming a parody of person. I long gave up actually dressing and now just switch between two pairs of gray Nike shorts and whatever T-shirt is now sorta, kinda cleanish. Bangs? Chopped to the best of my ability. I even have a catchphrase: “I’m tired,” which I say throughout the day no matter how much rest I’ve had. It’s almost like I’ve become a doll, complete with accessories (is that coffee in her coffee cup? Or whiskey? They’re both brown, who knows).
Well, one grandma decided to make actual Barbie Dolls—quarantine style. These dolls are very relatable. If I were to buy one for my son, he would probably shake it and say, “It’s Mama!” But these dolls are not for sale—just for your Instagram amusement.
Tonya Ruiz, a Barbie enthusiast and minis-collector, wanted to create something fun to represent this brave new world we now live in. Ruiz, who is better known as @GrandmaGetsReal on Instagram, made a few hilarious and spot-on dolls such as “Essential Worker” Barbie, “My Plans vs 2020,” Barbie, “What Time Is It” Barbie,” and many more. Ken even gets involved (of course, he’s on a Zoom meeting while Barbie’s career is on presumably on hold, because childcare is falling disproportionately on women).
Which Barbie from Ruiz’s collection can you relate to the most?