By Slanted Light

I assumed the headboard and valances etc had a practical reason, probably to do with keeping out insects and the like (though I could just be harking back to four-posters!) And to be fair, I also presumed that the fabric itself was chosen by the woman who furnished the house rather than being the fabric that would have gone on campaign with the bed (though maybe it would!) - and I forgot to note that, when I wrote about the bed.

I've got to say, I really don't like the word "girly" when it's used to describe something - what's the male equivalent? That decoration is "mannish" or "manly"? The implication is that "girly" is delicate and weak and pretty, and the male equivalent is tough and practical, and I don't associate those qualities with either gender - I've met delicate boys and practical girls, and pretty men and tough women, so... so I must admit, the word just rubs me the wrong way!

But it is all too easy to hold onto those ideas we grew up with - I know I catch myself doing it far more often than I'd like... *g*