Feminine or Fussy ?

The other day my Mother derogatorily mentioned how "fussy" of a little girl I was. Not that I cried , whined or "fussed" a lot but how I was always wanting what I wanted and was stubborn about it. One classic example has come to be known as the "white boots story" I was about four at the time and Mom and Dad had taken my older brother and I for snow boots.Mom, at that time was , probably for good reason, very frugal, so it was no surprise that the "cheapest" pair of girl's boots on the rack were the pair that she thought were the best choice. They were probably made as equals to the others for what counted but drab brown and plain. My eyes were on the shiny white boots with faux fur around the tops. You know the ones that a princess would be happy to wear. Well Mom picked up the brown boots and I refused to try them on. I then picked up the white boots and she said no. I was not going to be happy with boring brown and she was not going to pay the $10 extra that the White ones cost( $10 in the early 1970's was a big deal to our family). The tension was building as My Dad and brother walked our way with boots in hand. Ready ? Dad asked as Mom went in to a loud whisper on how impossible I was and how I thought we were made of money. Dad shook his head in acknowledgment. I didn't care. I was a girl and I wanted feminine clothing. Brown was for boys ! I had previously negotiated and agreed to wear hand me down toughskin jeans if Mom ironed on flower shaped iron on patches to them but I was not budging on this one. Dad, understood and gently started to work on Mom's views. " I think that the white ones look more feminine too" he said. Perhaps we could go ahead and get them since her brother's are on sale. Mom was steaming but reluctantly agreed. This was the start of "my fussiness" being thrown in my face, though it didn't stop me. I also remember refusing an androgynous ski jacket and many other things that seemed too masculine . Though I don't wear make up, am not very fond of dresses,and have not worn a pair of high heels in years, I do still enjoy pretty clothing, bubble baths and would never dream of cutting my hair too short. Obviously my life as Mom and wife does not accommodate tea( OK diet coke )parties and tiaras but I am still that sweet little girl with a need to somehow hold on to a little femininity.If that makes me fussy..... well then I guess I am !