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The handy-woman

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I've always had an interest in electronics, fixing things, doing odd jobs around the house. Normally the stuff you leave for your husband, boyfriend or whatever guy happens to be in your life.

Isn't it fascinating how different women are? There are women who wouldn't dream of changing a tyre. There are also those who can change a tyre but choose not to because that's a man's job. And then there are those who have learned to change the tyre themselves because they believe that anything a man can do, they can do as well. I am one of those women!

Hell, I'm as feminine as the next woman. I love my high heals and mascara. But I also love getting my hands dirty. I have dreams of owning my own tool shed filled with the latest power tools! And also, I'd know how to use each and every one of the properly.

My sister, Michelle wouldn't dream of using a drill. And on the other hand, I wouldn't dream of ironing a basket full of clothing as she does.

My female friends can't understand why I would want to change a light bulb myself, or navigate my way to the top of a pile of boxes in the garage to try and fix the garage door motor. The keep on asking me why I don't just ask a man to do it for me. My answer is: Because I can do it.

Unfortunately, some men think that I'm trespassing on their territory, like my brother-in-law, Jason. That scaredy-pants won't even show me how to switch his drill on because he says it's a man's job. I think he's just scared that I'm going to do a better job!

I was a tomboy when I was younger, so maybe my tomboy days are just catching up with me. But sometimes people make me feel that I'm wrong to think that I can fix anything and everything. Are we not supporting gender stereotypes like this?

Should I sit back and not fix the tap because it's not what a woman does. Do I leave the fused light bulb in the socket? I think it's okay if I want to fix it. It's also okay if you don't want to do it. But I have the choice. And also, it means I don't have to invite my Dad, and his drill, to lunch when I need a picture hung. Tell me what you think by sending an email to chatback@w24.co.za

Tania is eyeing the latest cordless drill, and that nice spot of open wall right above her bed. She wonders if her brother-in-law will notice...

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