What would Cameron do…

This is my mantra when nagging doubts about which direction to take creep in. I started a blog three years ago after taking my son on college tours. On our plane ride to Milwaukee, I came upon an article about Cameron Diaz in a magazine that was truly eye opening. In the article, Cameron said she never refuses the chance to do something fun, whether it be surfing, traveling or adventure seeking. Growing up in a big Irish family with six brothers and sisters, there were many crazy situations that most people would never believe could happen. We were encouraged to be quiet and stay in the background, as my father did not want us to attract negative attention to our tight knit family. I have always had a great sense of adventure, and love to see the funny side of most situations. The blog started when I decided to throw aside those conventions and inhibitions and live my life to the fullest. This was done in the midst of raising a family, being a labor and delivery nurse, and trying to make sense of a challenging marriage, all the while getting fit, navigating menopause and keeping my act together…

Here is my first blog entry…

So that’s what the manicurist is thinking?

Me: My daughter and I would love to have our first manicure together. How much does it cost?
Manicurist: How lovely for you both. It’s just $15.00 each.
Manicurist (what she really thinks): You look like you just came out of a coal mine. This could take all day. When was the last time you washed your hands?

Me: Oh, that sounds wonderful. Let me go pick a color.
Manicurist to me: Go right ahead. I will get my instruments ready.
Manicurist (what she really thinks): Oh, no, here we go. Don’t forget how old you are lady. I doubt you’re going to pick something age appropriate; you’re probably one of those crazy wannabe Cougars who wants bright purple acrylics.

Me: Do you use new instruments for each client? How do you clean them?
Manicurist to me: Oh, yes. We clean them very carefully and then put them in the autoclave machine.
Manicurist (what she really thinks): Do you go to the Italian restaurant and ask them if they wash the dishes that you’re eating off of. I wish I had ten bucks for every time I get asked that.

Me: Thank you so much for the beautiful manicure. It looks so pretty.
Manicurist to me: Yes, it does. Come back in two weeks for a touch up.
Manicurist (what she really thinks): I give it about ten minutes, and your fingers will look like they went through the wood chipper. When will some women realize they are not manicure material? Why don’t you just go sign up for tractor trailer driving lessons?