Chucky

Just over a year ago, Sandler asked me to help him Google, “Chucky.”  Of course I only know one Chucky, but thought he could not possibly be referring to the creepy doll from the late 80’s; I knew he had never seen the movies nor had any exposure to such. Yet, that is who he was talking about and he insisted we find every image we could—and that we did. He was sold. Hook, line, and sinker. New obsession: Chucky The Doll.

It seemed like a strange phase to go through being that none of his peers had even heard of the horror character. However, like everything else with Sandler, I rolled with it and embraced it. He got the birthday of his dreams complete with a “Chucky” themed party—which I was careful not to invite small children to and prepared adults for—along with a life-size doll.

The childhood nightmare went everywhere Sandler did. Though the reaction to seeing the hair-raising doll was complete shock for those old enough to remember him, and utter confusion for the younger generations; Sandler saw nothing wrong with his little buddy. He made sure his frightening companion was always buckled up in the car and tucked in his bed every night. I quickly accepted the fact that this may not be a phase at all, but another colorful appendage of Sandler.

Soon there after, everything we searched for had to have Chucky or Chucky’s Bride, “Tiffany,” attached to it. Not a small task when they are not quite the most popular commodity on the market. Surprisingly, we found several items embellished with one, or both; almost every accessory that Sandler owns has something to do with “Child’s Play.” Except for his most prized possession in the world: his skateboard.

The other day as I circled around the house trying to find anything else to do but fold mountains of laundry, I saw his new skateboard deck his coach had recently gifted him. I thought painting the name, “Chucky,” on it would not only be a perfect distraction from my chores, but it would be an epic after school surprise. I had finished painting the bottom of the deck black—upon his arrival home—and eagerly told him about the custom art work I was in the plotting. Much to my dismay, he was not thrilled. He was adamant that I paint Chucky’s portrait on the board as well. I tried to tell him that was far beyond my capabilities, but as with everything, Sandler is very persistent. He was not taking no for an answer.

Six hours later Sandler had the board of his dreams. I had pleasantly surprised myself by painting a close likeness of the creepy doll and his name. He could not have been happier. Until the next day, when he was able to show his new board off in public.

Not only is he extremely proud and appreciative of his custom deck, but he is also quite certain it is giving him a leg up on his skateboarding skills. We all need something to inspire us. Oddly enough, “Chucky,” is what does it for Sandler.

- Nikki