Construction Zone

When I was in the process of buying my convertible PT Cruiser – aka “Stella” - the car salesman made the comment that he bet I was a “bra burner”. He was quick to assure me that he meant it as a compliment - referring to the fact that I was making a major purchase without my dad, husband or brothers there to guide me.

I certainly wasn’t offended by his statement and took it as a badge of honour. For me it’s all about ensuring that woman and men have equal choices. If a person of either sex decided to take a sabbatical from the corporate grind and stay home with the kids for a few years – I’m all for it. Seriously, can you think of a more important job? I’d like to live in a world where either gender could pursue their dreams and determine what they want to be when they grow up – rather than society dictating what is appropriate.

That’s not to say that I don’t love being feminine and appreciate my husband’s desire to take care of his family. Tom can be very protective of the women in his life - which usually consist of Maggie and me – and lately includes Marot, our house guest from Thailand - whom we have come to think of as a daughter.

On the weekends, our house is a BFZ (Bra Free Zone). After the grind of the work week it’s all about comfort. I don’t think having a BFZ is unusual. Anyone who has ever strapped on a wonder bra will appreciate the desire to break free – at least on Saturdays and Sundays.

For the most part Tom handles all of this estrogen quite well, after all he has Tex and Tyler to help add some testosterone to the mix. But this weekend, the poor guy is a little stressed.

This is Day One of our construction project, as we are in the process of remodeling our bathroom and kitchen. Considering that Tom and I have two tools - duct tape and WD40 - we thought it would be a good idea to turn it over to the experts.

Imagine our surprise when the first guy to show up at the door looks like he could be a fashion model. It is easy to imagine him as Mr. August – the buff centerfold of a Handyman calendar - raising money for young, muscular construction workers in need. Young Marot, and even Maggie the Pug noticed his brawny beauty and both started working it.

Tom’s protective instincts kicked in. He suggested that for the next little while, the woman in our house might want to skip our usual BFZ weekend attire, and dress more "appropriately". I reluctantly agreed, but only if I could buy Tom a tool-belt of his own.