It is interesting how times have changed. I remember one time in my teens I had a taste for brownies, so I found a recipe and set about making them myself. My mom was concerned that I might become some kind of "twinkie." She much preferred me out on the tractor working in the field or working on my vehicle (though not the grime I would pick up along the way). It never stopped me from learning to make things I like. Years later she taught me how to sew.
My two cents about a marriage relationship: In my mind, masculinity is more about being assertive but attentive, and being responsible and caring. There is nothing wrong about doing traditional male things, unless it sacrifices those other qualities that all individuals should have. I take the traditional male role of being the head of the house, but that doesn't mean I am the dictator or tyrant. I love my spouse and could not treat someone I love like that. Plus, if I expect to be the head of the house, I have the responsibility to be worthy of the role. The warping of that setting is a cause of misery, and I have seen it in several generations.
I smile at Charlotte's point. Several times in the last few years I have been tempted to offer suggestions to my spouse on clothes or make-up, but hold back so as not to betray my 'peculiar interest.' On the few occasions I have spoke up (about clothes), she has appreciated it and went with it. I might think she is doing it just to please me, but she definitely has her own mind about such things.
