Thinking Out Loud
Polish Perfect

March 2, 2014
By: Diane Szczepanski

I will buy any cream, cosmetic or elixir from a woman with a European accent ~ Erma Bombeck

What is the number of nail polishes owned that crosses the line from "Nail Fashion Enthusiast" to a "Tiny Bottles of Paint Hoarder"?

I've been told if I have to ask the question, I probably already know the answer.

I don't know why I go overboard with this particular item. I only have 10 fingers and 10 toes and one can only paint them so many times in their life. The supply I have on hand could paint the nail beds of all the females over age 4 in the United States, as well as all the ladies from our neighbors to the north, Canada.

It's the pretty colors that suck me in.

For instance, the tantalizing promise and sparkle of a new shade of pink, because there are so many varieties and they are all so pretty. Happening upon one that's not rose, mauve, magenta, cranberry or orchid, like those I already own, is like finding secret treasure.

I like to think it's the artist in me who appreciates the spectrum of colors I can display on the ends of my fingers. In reality I suspect that I own so many, mainly because of a forgetful memory.

A recent organization of my nail polish drawer (yes they have their own drawer) proved I may have had it slip my mind that I already purchased 3 of the exact same shade and brand.

But, I'm not going to be too hard on myself, it's just nail polish after all. Geez, it's not as if I had forgotten I already purchased something large and expensive, like a Cadillac.

However, I do think placing a ban on bringing any new bottles into my home for a while is prudent thinking and probably a necessary goal.

And by the way, 63...and counting.