GOOD STUFF: MAY 13, 2016

It’s Friday the 13th; so far so good on my end (knock on wood). Overall it’s been a productive and colorful week.

I celebrated Mother’s Day by having a delicious brunch with my husband’s family. I’m looking forward to having a belated celebration with my Mom when I go to Milwaukee in a few weeks. It was also an extra special weekend because two of my friends became first-time Moms just in time for Mother’s Day!

One of my favorite actresses, Lupita Nyong’o, is going to play a Mom in Queen of Katwe which will be in theaters this Fall. Disney released the promotional poster for the film earlier this week. I love it, the image speaks volumes.

Queen of Katwe is a biographical drama that tells story of a girl from rural Uganda who pursues her dream of becoming a chess master. Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo have lead roles in the film and I’m sure we’ll be introduced to several other talented actors when the film hits theaters in September. So excited, can’t wait!

Speaking of movies: Justin Timberlake made a festive arrival on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival where he is promoting the Troll Movie. I don’t have any plans to see the movie, but I do love this picture of him and the Troll Ladies. The sister in the yellow looks like she is saying “Yaaaasssss, Justin!”.

Instagram also made a new colorful debut this week. *sigh* They replaced the hallmark vintage iconography with simple graphics laid over color gradients that look like those Lisa Frank folders from the 90’s. Do I seem underwhelmed? I am.

On a brighter note. Instagram also decided to streamline the user interface by changing the primary color from blue to black. This allows more of the focus to be on the photos as opposed to the buttons and background. I can give them credit for that; but, I honestly think the aesthetic changes are just a smoke screen to mask the BIG change that’s going on behind the scenes. The algorithm.

Yeah, they changed the algorithm too. Images will no longer be displayed chronologically, instead they will begin appearing in users’ feeds based on a “proprietary algorithm”. I’m curious to see how everything shakes out, especially for major brands and influencers. In the meantime, I’ll still be posting…and lurking!

Lots of “good stuff” for me this week – what’s good with you?

GOOD STUFF! showcases a few of the “good” things I enjoy during the week. You can find more “GOOD STUFF” here.