Why do they call it a “Manicure” if most of the clientele are women?
I do like to pamper myself quite regularly for a manicure (no polish of course) because playing in the dirt and then being on TV requires groomed hands and fingernails to get a passing grade on set.
Although I was outdoors a lot as a youngster, I was never really “outdoorsy” – I did not play with guns, go fishing or do traditional outdoor sports. Camping for me was one bathroom shared by two brothers. Needless to say, I kept my hands clean back then and with the help of my Mother, I discovered a creative sport – pair skating. That allowed me to dress in fun costumes and pick-up girls, all while performing to TV themes and show tunes . Back then the more sequined, bejeweled costumes you wore the better – better chance you would be noticed, at least. You wanted to look like Liberace himself threw up on you.
That said, being more a creative person, I rearranged my bedroom every season, picked fresh flowers from the gardens, went antiquing and became my mother’s and grandmother’s domestic helper and protégé. What was called by others my “weaknesses” (lack of being a tuff guy) became my strengths, and ultimately the basis of my fulfilling career.
I reminisce and cherish the experiences of my youth that allowed me to discover my self-confidence and embrace my inner gifts. Today, when I get a “MAN”icure I’m emphasizing my empowerment of being me: a creative, artistic gentleman who adores beauty around him. “Manning up” for me has become more about how to best express my talents and gifts.
So yes, I go for a manicure and enjoy the transformation of watching all the gardening dirt from under my nails get cleaned and buffed. Although I’m often the only man in the salon I feel confident and, yes, “manly” while doing it. So much so that I bring Violet to sit on my lap and entertain me. And when I do I make sure I get a “PET”icure too!
