DEAR CAT: I was happily married for many years. My husband and I divorced three years ago, but we are still very close friends. I am 53, I love life and am trying new things, and I have few regrets. One of them is never being gutsy enough to try a "personal massager." I've never talked about it, but I always thought it could have helped my sex life. I secretly feel like I have missed out on something other women get to experience. Now I can finally admit that I want to try one, but I cannot walk into a "sex toy" store. The products intimidate me, and the thought of anyone I know seeing me walk out of one is mortifying. I admire those "Sex and the City"-type women who embrace their femininity and view this kind of thing as completely acceptable. Maybe I sound old and prudish to you, but can you please help me? -- PLAYING CATCH UP

Do you want to ask a question? Send an e-mail to questions@ catscall.com or write to:

Catherine Specter
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
34 Blvd. of the Allies
Pittsburgh, Pa. 15222

... or visit her Web site at catscall.com

DEAR PLAYING: You don't sound prudish or old. You sound wise and curious and quintessentially "woman." Orgasm can be an elusive thing, and many women cannot be satisfied in that way from sex alone, if at all. The beauty of the Internet is that you can shop for such items, and nobody has to know it. There are many (too many to list) sites to explore, but start with Eve's Garden, Good Vibes and the old standby, Amazon.com (yep, it's more than just books!). Read product reviews and don't hesitate to call stores and ask questions. Try not to be intimidated -- these products are designed for fun and pleasure, so the search should be fun, too. And there's no need to spend a lot of money; great toys can be found in every price range.

Cat's Call: "Cordless" and "extra batteries," that's all I'm going to say.

DEAR CAT: I can't believe I wrote to an advice column with a makeup question, but I'm not sure if my female friends are right about this. I'm a 25-year-old guy with acne. It doesn't cover my face or anything, but I usually have a few pimples. Can I use coverup makeup? My friends said it's fine as long as the color matches my skin tone. But what if I'm kissing someone and it rubs off? Your call? -- LADIES MAN WHO WANTS TO STAY THAT WAY

DEAR LADIES MAN: Your friends are right; you can use coverup. But don't use makeup. Instead go for a tinted acne treatment so you can heal while concealing. They're cheap and effective for spot treatment, they will subtly lessen redness, and they should stay put for a makeout. Use very small amounts and simply dab on -- not press or rub -- with clean fingers. You should also see a dermatologist to explore treatment options to prevent and treat acne. In the meantime ...

Cat's Call: Obviously your pimples haven't driven the ladies away -- and they never will if you're a great kisser.