Week 11 is here with only two more to go. August 1st is our written final and then August 2nd will be our practical. I’m starting to get nervous. Have I been a good enough student? Will I be a credit or an embarrassment to everyone who has stood with me through this crazy ride? In a few short weeks I will be a licensed nail technician and the butterflies are already spreading their wings and getting ready to fly out of my belly button.

Thursday night I did the last service I need to fill my service requirements. I had this huge elaborate set of nails with very intricate nail art planned for a close friend of mine who has extended her hands to me each week to try out each and every skill I have learned so far. Sadly, she had a home issue and couldn't make it and though she most definitely was needed elsewhere I feel sad that this wasn't a moment I was able to share with her. I ended up just doing a tip and overlay on my own nails and anything and everything that could go wrong did go wrong.

I have always prided myself for having a gentle touch and never hurting anyone in any way. Yet, I still managed to cut myself with my file twice. I also used to be very good at doing my own nails but this time I caught my product up in my cuticle on almost every finger of my right hand. How can I have gotten so much better with clients and lose all this ground with my own nails? It was pretty discouraging but I am chalking it up to just a really bad day. I am including a photo of my nails of doom.

I am going to miss this wonderful group of ladies. I never expected to actually make friends since this class is so short, but each of the five classmates and my teacher I have been blessed with has had an impact on me. I can't believe the good fortune of having each one there. Had even one not registered I don't think this class would have been the same.

My goal this week is to get a full class picture taken. Mrs. Brown says this will be her first class photo. I also plan to do the graduation walk in December. It may seem silly to some to even bother when the course is three months long, but I am finally graduating college! I have had a bit of nursing, criminal justice, and had only my clinicals left for medical assisting, but one thing after another has barred my path. Today, I am so thankful for that. I couldn't see myself being as happy with any other vocation than with nails. This is not a job, but a calling where I get to make people happy and to feel good. Something where I can bring real quality products with dedicated craftsmanship in a safe and healthy environment to bring a smile to people’s faces. Pretty soon I can say, "I have the best career I could ever want!".

So good night for now and I will see you nail lovers next week. Thank you so much for reading along with my journey through school.

— Mary