It's not every day that I wish I were a man. I enjoy being a female, albeit a nice, balanced blend of tough chick and feminine lady. But today, man, it would have been nice to be a dude.

There are certain times where it would be really handy to be a guy. Recently, I had an appointment to get the tires changed on my car. It's been years since I've had to do something like this (outside of my normal car maintenance schedule, which I have completed at the dealer), yet it was necessary. So be it. But from the moment I stepped foot into the place, I knew it was going to be a challenge for which I wasn't in the mood.

I'm not well-versed on things that relate to maintenance on my car. I know the basics, but things like changing the oil myself or changing a flat tire ... color me screwed. I've always been fortunate to have an amazing little brother and dad there to help me out when needed.

I'm convinced the guy behind the counter knew right from the get go that I was going to be like a wounded duck. He spoke a language I did not understand, and used vernacular that was clearly everyday speak in the shop, but not to everyday women like me.

After telling him several times that I did not understand the terms he was using, he stopped, started over and not only used the same terms, but spoke to me like I was a small child, and spoke very slowly like I didn't speak English.

Now yes, I'm aware that I could educate and immerse myself in auto-shop speak to be prepared for conversation, but the truth of the matter is, that's just not feasible. I'm not a stupid woman. But there are some things I'm just not knowledgeable of.

So here's what I don't get and maybe you can help me understand. Instead of treating women who may not be versed in things like the ins and outs of my TPMS Central, or the carbon blah blah stuff in my fuel line (which by the way, was inaccurate according to the dealer I normally take my car to), why not explain things to us women in a way that we may get it. Stop using your shop talk and help educate women like me who may need the extra help here and there.

We're not stupid; we're women and we deserve to be treated with respect. Use conversations as an opportunity to help inform a woman. That woman, like myself, just might return the favor and send more business in your direction.