And I call myself a man......

Christmas shopping, I find myself looking at teapots & crock pots. I have crockpot envy. It's potluck season - and everyone has a better crockpot than me. I like hot tea - and I'm tired of heating water in the microwave. At the grocery store I pause at the scented candles. I actually went looking for liquid potpourri. I can actually spell potpourri. WHAT'S WRONG WITH ME? Have I turned into a "girlie man?" Guys like me are in demand - or so I've been led to believe. I cook, clean, do laundry & watch decorating shows with my wife. I only realized how far it'd gone, when while shopping with my son - he felt uncomfortable joining me looking at potpourri. He said, "Hey Dad, there are no men in this aisle - do you believe you belong here?" I didn't know how to answer. I laughed it off at the time, but it's been on my mind. It's not like I want to "join the other team" - I just need more tools, more sports, more oil changes, more yard mowing, lumber sawing, bricklaying, beer - drinking, poker & all you can eat buffets. I need to go to a football game with my face painted. I need to listen to loud Rock & Roll at home on the stereo - not in the car alone. I need to sit in a chair and ask "what's for dinner?" I need to get up from the table afterwards and not help with cleanup. I need to stay out of grocery stores. And I will, just let me get a crockpot for Christmas.