In 1999, my husband and I traveled to Alaska with our friends Don and Mary.

When the tides were low, we headed for Clam Gulch to try our luck. You look for the clams' telltale hole, then dig like mad to grab his shell before he outdigs you. The result is fingers and fingernails cut to shreds. I came up with the brilliant idea of covering my fingers with clear fingernail polish.

Don wandered over and asked, What are you doing? I explained my theory. That sounds like it might work. Let me try some. Since Don's fingers were the worst, he slathered it on. Proud of the results, he lifted his hands for me to see. Slowly, a horrified look came over his face. Concerned, I asked, Whats wrong? He wailed, I have to go to the bathroom!