He Said/She Said with Robin and Shawn

Dear SSHS,

My mom and I are having a debate about tattoos. I want one, but she thinks it could get in the way of my getting a good job one day. I just don’t think that’s a relevant argument in today’s world. What do you think?                                                                                                ~ Chantal B., Berkeley

She Said: Certainly tattoos are mainstream these days, but your mom does have a point. There are some employers who might pass judgment, and if hiring came down to you and someone without a tattoo, I suppose, all things equal, you could lose out. How about you negotiate getting your tattoo on a place where it would be covered by work attire? Maybe not as much fun, but better safe than sorry!

He Said: You might think that tattoos are no big deal nowadays but not everyone is so open-minded. You have to understand that when an employer is looking to hire, they want someone who is going to benefit their company and not become a distraction. And it’s their right to think that way. If your tattoo is a potential distraction, then they will most definitely favor someone else for the job. I agree with Robin, get the tattoo but only somewhere where you can cover it.

Dear HSSS,

Do you think it’s normal for someone’s husband to use his wife’s toothbrush when on vacation because he left his at home?                                                                               ~ Grossed out, San Ramon

He Said: It’s definitely not normal and a little unsanitary, but you kiss his mouth don’t you? I’m sure a dentist would argue a kiss and sharing a toothbrush are not the same thing but what bad could really come of it? Just run the toothbrush under hot water for a few seconds or splash some mouthwash on it to kill any germs. Besides, sharing your brush is better than having to smell his breath while on vacation.

She Said: Where are you vacationing where he can’t just run down to the drugstore and buy another toothbrush? I’ve heard the argument, that you share worse things, why not a toothbrush?  My informal poll tells me guys don’t think there’s anything abnormal about it, but by and large, women object, so tell hubby you’ll share many things, but not that. Then carry a fresh spare while on vacation, just in case.

Robin Fahr is a communications specialist and host of Conversations seen daily on Tri-Valley TV, Channel 30 and online at www.trivalleytv.org. Shawn is that guy that everyone goes to for advice. Send your questions to www.AskHeSaidSheSaid.com.