Ever caught someone in a lie about their personal hygiene? That's exactly where this story begins—discovering my 77-year-old husband hasn't used deodorant for six months despite claiming it had only been a week! This revelation sparked my deep dive into the surprisingly complex world of body odor, personal preferences, and the unavoidable realities of aging bodies.

Growing up, I developed a sensitive awareness of body odor after cruel teenage girls made comments about how I smelled. These formative experiences shaped my lifelong appreciation for fragrance—from Joy Patou and Chanel No. 5 to Shalimar and Opium. But now at 77 "fucking years old" (as I candidly put it), our bodies are breaking down in new ways, creating stronger scents that require more attention. While I've committed to Secret industrial strength deodorant, my husband's post-COVID loss of smell means he's completely unaware of his own odor, creating an interesting household dynamic.

The question of deodorant use isn't simply personal—it touches on cultural traditions (like certain Orthodox Jewish practices), health perspectives, and social considerations. My philosophy is straightforward: with perhaps 25 good years left, why not make them pleasant-smelling ones? Throughout my life, cologne-wearing has been non-negotiable in romantic relationships, with unscented partners never making it past a single coffee date. Whether you agree with my stance or prefer to embrace natural body processes, I'd love to hear your thoughts on this surprisingly divisive topic. And remember, if nobody told you they love you today, I love you because you're you—just perhaps from a fragrant distance!

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