I started getting manicures and pedicures about four years ago because I love having pretty nails, but I tend to be very sloppy doing them myself.

I had started working a little side gig helping my blind author friend with her typing and submission management.

That gave me just enough money for manis and pedis.

Being such a high energy person, just having an hour or two to sit and be pampered did wonders for my hardworking, child raising soul.

And I also realized my toenails were getting thicker. With my bad eyesight, it’s hard for me to trim them. Working retail 8-9 hours a day, that led to a lot of pain when my toenails rubbed against my shoes.

Normally my nails are nice, and long, and hearty. But the stress of life right now has them short and brittle.

So to help them recover, I’m getting acrylics. I have never had fake nails. I’ve always been vehemently opposed to them and a tad disgusted by them.

I’m sharing this new journey with you. This blog never stays the same.

It looks like the first step is to apply fake tips to extend length. The nail is prepped, the extension is trimmed and shaped. In my case, I like almond nails.

Then the acrylic is applied evenly across the nail.

Then the polishing can commence. Once the shape and thickness is perfected.

And my nail tech slimes up my nails with Neosporin because your hands take a beating.

So pretty!

I took another photo on the way to get pizza.

After my appointment, my nail tech and I grabbed a pizza and some wine.

Nala even danced to “Angelina” for her!