...locks of love...

My family, friends, and co-workers know me by my long hair. It's been one of my defining features for quite a while. It's who I am. I haven't had short hair since 7th or 8th grade when it was cut too short (by the time the "stylist" had evened it out, it was nearly up to my ears). I looked awful and hated it. Since then, it's always been at least below my shoulders, but usually much longer. I did cut about 5-6 inches off after our wedding, but it was still pretty lengthy. 

For a few months now, I've been contemplating a change. I was always pulling it back and rarely ever taking the time to style it because it took too long. I would just pull it up because it was easier. It even began to make sleeping uncomfortable unless I piled it on top of my head in a ponytail/bun. The back of my head would start to hurt from pulling my hair up all the time. I finally decided that I would cut it. 





I think. 





Or not.





Or maybe I will cut it.





Or not. It's so pretty when it's down.





Nope, I'll cut it. It's a pain in the butt.





Not long after that excellent example of my ability to make decisions, came my next idea: I was going to donate it. That sealed the deal for me. I would cut my hair and donate it to Locks of Love. I made the appointment with my hairdresser, Robyn, who I love because she knows how much I love my long hair. I knew she would be careful with it and leave enough that I could still pull it all back. That was the only thing that would stop me from cutting it. If there wasn't enough to pull back for work, I would have to keep growing it out for a little while longer. 

I got to Robyn's and told her of my plans. She thought it was great and has helped with donations before, so she knew what to do. We pulled it back in a pony and she asked 3-4 times "Are you sure?" After my many yeses, she cut. It was weird. It was emotional and liberating at the same time. When she finished, I immediately ran my fingers through my hair. They stopped after only a short while, but I was okay with it. Then she handed me the ponytail of hair and I gasped. I don't think it was out of horror, but more out of shock and awe that I actually did it! I cut my hair! A lot of my hair! 

After that, the rest was easy. Add some red highlights, trim the rest to a single length and style it. I love it. My head really feels lighter. Sleeping was more comfortable. Styling it in the morning was almost too easy! It took less than half an hour to blow it dry, use a round brush, and use the straightener to clean up the ends. 


I photographed my journey, and here are the results:

Before

The cut!

After

It definitely meets the 10 inch requirement

Comparison

I feel so wonderful about this donation I have been able to make. It makes me feel so good inside that a child somewhere will love that hair that I was beginning to hate. My excess will help a child who is lacking.

What a great way to join in the Christmas spirit!