...Actually, since I'm just beginning my hair journey, I guess the title of my journal should be "Trisha's Tresses or the Lack Thereof"...currently my hair is only 3.5 inches on top but the sides are much shorter, probably only about 1.5 inches. 

I think the first thing I should do is figure out whyI want long hair.  The other night when I announced to my dh (dear hubby) that I was going to regrow my hair, he asked, "Why?"  Not that he cares, mind you.  He's always loved long hair but wants me to be happy with whatever style I choose.  Anyway, when he asked, "Why?"  I couldn't answer him.  I just shrugged my shoulders and mumbled, "I don't know--I just do."  But there has to be a definite reason, right?  I mean, as my hair continues to grow, more and more folks are going to ask me about it and I simply can't keep shrugging and mumbling!!  Maybe there's some deep down need or want that I should uncover?  So I think this weekend I'll sit me down someplace quiet and ponder.  If and when I figure it out I'll share it here.  I also realize, after reading a lot of other's posts, that I should set a length goal as far as how long I want my "tresses" to be. 

Here's my current routine and product line:  I wash and condition every morning using Mane n' Tail products (love 'em) and also use TRESemme Mega Hold gel.  However this is going to change.  What I'd like to do is get my hair used to being cleansed only a few times a week.  I realize that by shampooing every day I'm probably stripping my hair of all that good natural oil that my body produces--even though my hair looks and feels healthy and shiny. 

So this morning I took my usual morning shower but broke habit and did NOT wash/condition--I just got my hair wet so I could comb it into place (and kill the bed head!)  To my surprise, my hair looks really decent!  I kind of imagine my hair sighing contendedly and saying, "Ahhh, a vacation--thank you!"   

And after discovering that a lot of people cleanse their hair with conditioner, I'd like to give that a whirl too.  I'm also going to give up the TRESemme gel and go back to using Aloe Vera gel--at least until my hair gets to a length where I don't need styling products at all. 

*sigh*  This is going to be a long drawn out affair, isn't it?  I turned 43 on January 1 of this year.  Am I too old to start this journey?  I think not.  But maybe I'm fooling myself.  I hope I'm strong enough to stay the course. 

More later...

I also came up with some goals and a projected growth chart.  I have three goals for length.  My initial goal will be BSL, my secondary goal will be waist length and my ultimate goal will be classic.  I think.  I can't really decide on an ultimate length.  I mean classic would be great.  But, unless that's my terminal length, I think I'm just going to let it grow as long as it will.  

If I figured correctly, then around October of next year I should reach my first goal.  My hair has always grown pretty quickly and the cancer/chemo from 2003 doesn't seem to have affected that.    

Later,

By golly, I was wrong.  Wal Mart, I apologize.  You DO have 100% boar bristle brushes in stock--and for a very reasonable price, too. 

So now I have a good brush, and I have good shampoo and conditioner.  Now I just have to be patient.

Trisha;
Just wanted to give you a bit of encouragement.  Hang in there, your hair will grow.  Don't worry about the frequency of washing just yet.  As you hair gets longer, you will be able to extend the time between washings but probably not until your hair hits about your shoulders.  Just be gentle with your hair and you will have beautiful long locks when the time comes.   

Interesting analogy about the garden.  I guess I would think of my hair as more like a lodge pole pine forest.  It requires care, feeding and only occasional harvesting to produce wonderful, tall pines. 

Hey, it seems like we're in a similar stage of growing out hair...I chopped all mine off in August and I'm trying to deal with all the funkiness of layers growing out.

Hang in there! YAY for long-hair rookies!   

Ella

     The (back) length of my hair is now 17 inches.  It's growing about an inch per month.  The front of my hair, I guess you could say my bangs, has just reached the tops of my ears.  Another month or two and I should be able to tuck my bangs behind my ears and they'll stay put. 
     My hair has returned to its stick-straight condition.  After finishing chemo in 2003, my hair grew back wavy curly and, having had straight hair all my life, I was lovin' it.  Good to know that, when I'm at BSL, I'll be able to damp-braid my hair and have curls again!  Oh, I guess if I was desperate I *could* have curls now.  But I refuse to use perms or curling irons on my hair.  I'd much rather have healthy straight hair than fried curls any day. 
     I wash and condition every day with mild products.  At least for now I have given up on going cone free.  Perhaps when I'm a rapunzel and am not cleansing so often I'll have better results.  I also am still doing an ACV rinse weekly and using aloe gel for control.  I need to have another photo taken for my "long hair" scrapbook that I'm starting.       Later,

I don't think you should worry too much about using your hairdryer...At least you were oiled and didn't dry your hair completely. Over the next few days make sure to oil, oil, oil and be on the look out for splits.

I keep my shampoo and conditioner in small squeeze bottles in the shower due to space limitations, plus they're just easier to handle than the big bottles.  Saturday it was time to refill my conditioner bottle (with Suave Juicy Green Apple) but to it I added honey.  I think the ratio is about 2 ounces of conditioner to a good teaspoon of honey.  Shook that baby up really good, put it on (after my shampoo and acv rinse), let it soak in while I took care of the rest of my body and, holy hannah, was my hair soft!!!  I was afraid the softness was a fluke.  But today makes the third day I've used my honey conditioner and my hair is still wonderfully soft.  Yay rah for honey!! 

I've also started adding a cup of tea to my Saturday morning ACV rinse.  I'm a tea drinker...I prefer it hot (even in the summer) but I also enjoy it iced.  And I figure if it's good for the inside of me then it can't hurt to put it on my hair.

Congratulations!    It is always fun to discover your hair is growing and the new things you can do with it.  Keep up the good work.

Dear diary,
Another first today for me along the road to long hair...today I am wearing my hair UP!  It's just long enough for the claw barrette and I have a ga-jillion of those small snap clips holding my layers at bay but, by golly, it's up! 

It's only been what...6 months since I officially started growing out my hair and already I can pull it up off my neck.  This is exciting stuff!  I can't remember how long it's been since I was able to put my hair up in a "do".  I just can't find the right words to describe how excited and proud I feel at this accomplishment.  And I owe this success to this site and all of the amazingly wonderful people here.  I feel a tear of gratefulness coming on!  *sniffle*   

You are doing fab U lous *YAY*

and *cough cough* re the bunnies and kitties and such - I am 54 years old and wear stuff like that with PRIDE ...g

Sheesh, it's been over a month since my last entry.  In this case, no news is good news.  I did not post a measurement for September because there was no change...so either hubby measured wrong (dd usually does it) or there really was no growth.  I knew that there would be times when I would experience no growth...I just didn't think it would happen so soon.  But after the initial disappointment, I got over myself and reminded moi of the good things--being able to pin up my hair now...being able to tuck my bangs behind my ears (and they stay now).  It's just part of the journey.  I haven't used any styling products the past 3 days, just s&c.  I like the way my hair feels; it's very soft and manageable, but it looks a bit flyaway.  So I think I should go back to my aloe gel or a little jojoba oil.

Sounds like the new routines are working well for you.  Congrats!

My plan to gradually attune my hair to every-other-day cleansing seems to be going well.  I even got a compliment yesterday, which happened to be an "off" day!  I brushed my hair straight back, gathered the back into a ponytail, secured the front with two combs and some large snap clips.  The secretary--oops, administrative assistant of my department told me how cute my hair was and started asking questions, like how did I get it to stay in place--did I use gel?  (nope) did I spray it?  (nope!)  I told her the only thing I had done was NOT wash it.  *lol*  But the grand thing was, it didn't look the least bit greasy.

During the past week or so I've noticed that my hair doesn't squeak anymore when I shampoo...

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'Course I'm shampooing only every other day now, so that may have something to do with it.  I mean, it doesn't SOUND clean but it looks clean.     Actually, my hair looks healthier than it ever has in the past!  I think maybe my body is finally producing the right amount of natural oil that my hair needs. 

Over the weekend I tried a little experiment.  Sunday I should have washed my hair but I didn't...I wanted to see what it would look like if I went TWO days without washing.  To my surprise, it didn't look bad.  Of course, I wore it up in a ponytail like I've been doing on all of my "off" days.  So I'm considering going to the next step, which is going two days without washing.  I could try it and see what happens...if I don't like the results, I can always go back to one day on and one day off.  Eh, what the hey...I'll give it a shot!!   

It's been two months since my last entry.  I can't believe it--what the heck have I been doing that I can't take a few minutes to make an entry in here?!  I'll simply have to try harder.

HAIR
My hair is now 20.5 inches long (the back of it).  I've decided not to do the monthly measure.  For me, it puts too much emphasis on numbers and then I start obsessing.  So I measured in January and I may measure again in July or August, just to get a mid-year mark.  February will make one year that I've been growing my "tresses" and I have to say, it has been and continues to be an interesting experience.     God willing, I will never have short hair again (said with a Scarlet O'hara accent *lol* )

I'm currently using Tre Semme shampoo and conditioner.  For control I'm using two drops of Jojoba oil--I'm no longer mixing the Jojoba with aloe.  Just using it straight and I like the effect much better.  It's amazing what two little drops of liquid can do for my hair! 

OTHER
I must, must, must lose weight.  No more excuses and no more putting this off.  I've started watching my portions, trying to pay close attention to eating true portion sizes.  I still need to add exercise to my life but I've already lost 2 pounds during January simply from cutting back on food intake.

Quel horreur...sorry to hear about your friend, Trisha.  *hugs*

It might seem like kind of a bummer to be the only member of your family with long hair, but I actually think it's pretty cool. Think of it...you're an original, a pioneer!
    Years from now, your great great great great grandchildren could be looking through a family album, marvelling at old photos of you with your incredibly long hair and saying things like, "Wow! I want to have hair just like grandma [your name here]. Maybe even longer!"
    Thus, you set an example for generations to follow. Now that's a heck of an impression. 

But it's also cool if you can see that kind of divine inspiration realized while you're still alive, too.

A few of my cousins had very long hair and have since cut it off.  So now it's pretty much up to me. *shrug* Someone's got to be a leader... 

Hair
Today should have been a LOD (leftover day)...my routine of late has been cleansing day, LOD, LOD.  But I wanted to wear my hair down so I washed it.  I've got it parted sloppily down the middle today, just finger-combed into place--haven't even brushed it.  No clips or barettes, and so far the bangs haven't driven me crazy.     Need to do an ACV over the weekend; I've been lax on doing that lately. 

Other
Walked on my treadmill last night for about 20 minutes, around 3/4 of a mile.  I want to eventually increase the time to an hour but I'm not going to push myself.  The weather here in SE Missouri is so unseasonably warm that I could actually walk outside!  But walking on our county roads is a little dangerous...especially in the dusk, which is when I walk.  So for now I think I'll stick to my treadmill. 
Take care!

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Howdy neighbor!     At least we finally got some colder temps over the weekend, eh? 

Hair
Wash day.  Used Tre Semme shampoo, did a vinegar rinse, then finished up with Tre Semme conditioner.  Smoothed on my two drops of jojoba oil and ready for the day. 

Last Friday I had two coworkers remark on how long my hair is getting.  It's like, I get nothing for months on end and then in the selfsame day I get two comments!  Both people (both women) said basically the same thing--"Boy, your hair sure is getting long!"  To which I replied, "Yep, I'm letting it grow."  Interestingly, neither of them went the next step to ask how long is "long"?  Oh well...they'll find out!   

Other
I haven't weighed in several days...I'm kind of afraid that I haven't lost any more weight or, worse, that I've gained back what I had lost.  I need to know, though.  I can't avoid the truth.  Tonight I'll bite the bullet and weigh.   

Holy C-O-W, it's snowing!!    Last Friday it was so warm here that people were running around outside in their shirt sleeves. Today it's been snowing like crazy since around 7:30 this morning.  Wacky SE Missouri weather!!    

Hair
Today was a wash day, which I did in the shower this morning.  After reading some of the other's posts about their use of jojoba oil, it got me to thinking...what I'm currently doing is smoothing a couple of drops into the top part of my hair--basically my bangs or front part of the hair, while it's still pretty damp.  I noticed that a lot of people don't do that, though.  They only put it on the ends of their hair, from the ears down, sort of the same rule as conditioner.  So I'm wondering...if I change my routine to theirs, and only jojoba the ends of my hair, will that extend the length of days that I can go w/out washing??  I think I'm going to try that on my next cycle.  Let's see, if I washed today then the next day I'll wash is...Saturday.  I'll have to write myself a note and stick it in my bathroom cabinet close to my jojoba oil or I'll forget!  *lol*  

Other
Yesterday I brought a book with me to help fend off the boredom.  It helped tremendously, so I'll try to always have something on hand to read.  I notice that Diane Mott Davidson's newest book should be out anytime (Double Shot) and I'll have to add that to my collection asap.  

I haven't increased my time on the treadmill yet...well, in a way I guess I have.  Last week I only walked 3 days out of 5.  But this week I've managed to walk every day for at least 25 minutes.  And it's almost lunchtime here so I'm off to eat my salad!  

Beesan, we've still got some snow on the ground here but, yeah, a lot has melted.  And it's colder than a Sno Cone at the North Pole...My favourite seasons are spring and fall.  I like "goldilock" seasons -- not too hot, not too cold--Juuuust right!   

Hair
It's a no wash day; hair is pulled back in a ponytail.  It's so nice not feeling as if I HAVE to wash my hair every day!

Other
I should know better than to brag on myself!
Quote:
  Yep, guess who didn't walk last night?!  The bad thing is I can't even come up with a good excuse.  I'm not going to beat myself up over it, though.  I'll just make sure I walk a little longer tonight.   

and a pretty ticker it is! 

Hair
Today was wash day; also did a vinegar rinse.  I may try to go cone-free again.  I was not happy with the results the first time I tried.  Gosh, when was that?  (searches thru journal)  March 29, 2005.  At that point I don't believe I had started doing vinegar rinses, plus I was still using the aloe gel.  Yeah...maybe another go.  Otherwise, hair is healthy and I have no complaints.

Other
Seems weird to call myself this but...I guess I'm now a vegetarian! 

Quote:

I have not eaten any beef, pork or chicken since Tuesday February 14.  I did eat some fish on Friday night.  And for now, I'm still eating eggs but sparingly.  I have to say, I feel absolutely great!  I feel satisfied but not stuffed.  I haven't felt starved or deprived.  Of course my husband and daughter think I'm nuts but, then, they've always thought that, so what's the diff?!    

Hair
Washed yesterday (wed.), comb only, no wash today.  Hair looks very decent for a LOD*.  Wearing it down, parted on the side, with a clip on the long side of the part.  There's definitely something to this no-brushing theory.  Although I have to buy a different comb.  I bought a new one just Tuesday night at Wally World.  But hubby was with me (I should have known better) and I ended up buying the comb he suggested (which is a WW brand).  Granted it IS a wide tooth comb on one end.  But the tines are sharp and I'm pretty afraid of doing damage to my scalp.  I normally buy Goody brand combs and I wish I had done so this time.  Ah well, live and learn.  So for my own personal future reference:  do  not buy Simply Basic brand combs at Wally World. 








*LOD = leftover day

Maggie, honey, were you so bored that you had to read my journal?!     Or maybe you couldn't sleep--I'll bet my ramblings put you right out, didn't they!!!  *snort*  No, seriously, thank you very much for the nice words and the encouragement.  I always enjoy reading your journal, too! 

Hair
Today is day 2 of the no-wash cycle.  Used a brush this morning and put my hair up in a high ponytail.  I tried using a comb again but it just wasn't going to happen.  Now I can probably get away with another no-wash day tomorrow, and that will make three days of the cycle. I think I'll try to make a trip to our health food store tomorrow and maaaaybe just check out the shampoo section.  Never hurts to look! 

Other
I'm having lunch with a friend on Monday.  I had already notified her that I've gone vegetarian so she emailed me: 
"Want to just try for Monday?  I think you should pick where we go since you're eating weird these days." 
--eating weird?!!   *lol* 
To which I replied: 
"Monday at 11:30 is great . I guarantee you that I can eat anywhere--even your favourite Burger King!  And just to prove my point, I think YOU should choose the place!  In fact I insist!  So you pick the place and I'll meet you there." 
She came back with:  "FINE!  Then I'm just going to say Burger King!  We'll see how you handle it!" 

Burger King--is that the best she can do?  Bring it on, sista!! 

Hair
Day 3 of the cycle--no wash.  Hair is fairly greasy but I wonder if I can go one more day without washing?? I'll just have to wait until tomorrow morning and find out what it looks like.  Otherwise, the length is still soft.  Tried to do a bun this morning but it just didn't look good with the amount of grease present.  You'd think greasier hair would be easier to work with but, in my case, that's not always true.  So I settled for a low ponytail.  When all else fails there's always the good ol' reliable ponytail.  I really hope the COW works for me--I'd love to get away from using shampoo.  It's another part of simplifying my life. 

Other
My husband, the diehard carnivore, willingly ate a veggie burger this weekend.  Not only did he consume it, it was HE who picked out the product in the grocery store.  --and he LIKED it!!!!!     You could have knocked me over with a sigh!  Understand, I'm not trying to convert him to vegetarianism.  I would never do that.  But if I can get him to at least consume less meat and more veggies then his health should improve. 

It's such a nice day...the temperature should hit 70 today.  I seriously thought about calling in sick.  I mean, that was the first thing that popped into my mind when I woke up today.  *sigh*  I really need a vacation.  But I figure if I can just hold on until, oh, say August, I should be able to take a 2-week vacation.  Two whole weeks to do anything or nothing!  I haven't had a vacation in a ridiculously long time.     Okay, August...I'll set my sights on August.

I can't believe it's already March...

Hair
Day 2 of the cycle (no wash).  Left hair down today which is unusual for me on a no wash day.  Under the old routine my hair would already be looking so oily that I wouldn't even consider leaving it down.  But it actually looks pretty good!  It's got to be the new COW routine, that's all there is to it.    I'm not going to COW until Monday.

Other
I almost ate meat last night--accidentally.  Hubby and I ate at a Chinese buffet and one of the dishes I chose was labeled as broccoli and cheese.  Okay, safe for a vegetarian, I thought.  I start to take a bite and notice little pinkish cubes of something, ham I guess.  I was like, "Oh crap!"  Hubby says, just go ahead and eat it--it's not THAT much meat.  And for a milisecond I considered doing it.  But then I thought, no...if I start giving in to something as simple as this then I'm already lost.  So I carefully picked out the teeny tiny cubes of "ham" (who knows what it really was!!) and ate just the broccoli.  By the way, hubby did a very thoughtful thing the other day (he's always thinking of me!).  He found and bought a couple of pints of organic vegan ice cream for me!  He's so sweet!   

Hair
I think I overcleaned my hair this morning.  Since it was very greasy from a 4-day-no-wash stint, I washed twice, with shampoo, then put conditioner on the ends.  But even while I was still in the shower it felt waay too clean.  Now it feels dry, not soft and lovable.    That's all right though.  I'll wait a day and then on Thursday I'll try the COW again.  My daughter suggested that I wet my hair on the off days to make it look better.  I think that's what she does.  And since tomorrow will be an off day I may try that while in the shower.  Can't hurt anything--it's only water.  

Other

Quote:

Yep, I ate a little meat last night.  I was weak, I admit it.  But I'm allowed to make mistakes because this is a huge change I've made in my life.  Yeah...I'm okay!   

It's raining like a big dog here in Cape Girardeau.  I mean, like, flooding-raining.  Creeks are overflowing their banks and arks are being built as I type.  We needed the moisture but, gee, this is ridiculous!

HAIR
Hair is happy today.  Did a VR* first, then COW, rinsed, C'd the ends, etc.  Loverly!  Nice and soft, no dryness, no greasies. 

Had hubby measure and take a photo of my one-year's-worth-of-growth hair.  I also had him measure what BSL is on me--around 27 inches he says.  I'm at 21.5 inches now.  So assuming that I have at least a half inch of growth every month, I should reach BSL around August or September.     Man, I can't WAIT! 

Other
As I mentioned it's a nice dark rainy day.  Perfect weather for soul searching and the stirring of memories.  Perfect also for losing oneself in a novel, covered with a binkie while sipping hot tea.  Unfortuantely, I am at work.  *sigh* 



*VR = vinegar rinse

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Totally agree, this is crazy weather! we've had rain for 3 days!

Now, where is the pic ??? 

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Another winter fur grower?  I usually stop shaving after I take my last bike ride of the season in the fall, and wait until I'm ready for my first ride to remove the fur.  I has been a bit embarassing going to the doctor and having the surgery on my ankle with this significant growth.     On the other hand, the only reason we shave our legs is because MEN wanted to make money selling razors.  So this is my rebellion against commercialism!

Hair
I believe I've found the routine that my hair likes best (at least for now):  one part shampoo, two parts condish; lather into hair, rinse, apply more condish on ends, rinse out later.  My hair is soft and clean (but not too clean) and manageable.  Yay for happy hair!   

Other
Something miraculous happened on Saturday...

I shaved my legs!

       I wonder if anyone has done a scientific study on whether leg hair weighs more than other types--I swear, I always feel about 5 pounds lighter once I shave my legs!! 

I'm having trouble being a total absolute 100% vegetarian.  I just can't seem to do it.  But I think hubby and I have come up with a good compromise.  No beef or pork; only chicken and fish along with lots of veggies.  So I guess instead of being a true vegetarian I only have vegetarian tendencies.     But who knows?  Later on down the road I may errupt into a full-blown vegetarian again!

Oh, definitely don't get upset about not being able to give up all forms of meat at once, that's really a huge adjustment.  As I mentioned somewhere before, both hub & I started by giving up the red meat first, got used to that for maybe about a year, and then gave up the chicken and seafood (only he had to give up seafood, I never had it to start with!).  It was a much gentler transition that way.  Only do what you feel comfortable with, then you'll feel like cheating less & less.

As for the whole shaving deal, I'm a slave to it.  I have to shave my legs and underarms every single day...I freak if I don't.  I just can't get myself past the feeling of one-day-stubble *shiver*.  My legs get soooooooo itchy from it!!! 

On a less itchy note...good job on the hair growth, you've really come a long way.  I think I may try out your idea of mixing the s + c together for washing, and then do a separate condition.  Question- when you are COWing, what's your method?  Maybe you have it posted here somewhere I didn't see, sorry if that's the case.  Just curious, still haven't tried this.

You go girl!  Whatever you do to try to go vegetarian!

on that note,also read,read and read labels.......These manufacturers are such liars when it comes to telling you about "it's vegetarian....suppose you are pesco vegetarian,like me and you go down the list of ingredients only to see there is cheese in it or chicken both....These are mortal deadly no no's for vegans and pescos,just read.............
Ok ok I'm off my soap box!

I'm back finally.  Was out sick all last week with acute bronchitis.  blech!  But even as sick as I was, it was still kind of nice not having to go to work--I'll take time off anyway I can get it! 

Hair
Still doing the CO wash every other day.  I have to say I'm amazed that my hair looks this good with as little the amount of shampoo I'm using in the mix.  And actually, Maggie, my hair used to be very greasy like yours.  (i'll be visiting your journal in a little while to blabber  ) It looked horrible if I didn't wash it every day.  I think the key is to gradually decrease the amount of shampoo you use AND do a vinegar rinse at least once a week.  Gradually is the operative word there.  Hair does not respond well to shock or drastic change...at least mine doesn't. 

Other
The other day I finished the latest bible study I've been doing at the blue letter bible site.  It was the last part of the Old Testament.  I received a 99% on my final exam and an overall grade of 97.7% for the course.  I think that's the best I've ever done!  Now I'm on to the New Testament! 

In about three weeks my sister and her hubby will be coming from Arkansas for a short visit.  I don't get to see her very often, since they live pretty far away, so it'll be nice to visit.  But I'm glad they're the type of folks who only stay about 3 days and then go home.  I know that sounds bad, sorry.  It's not that I don't love my sister.  It's just that...a little of her goes a long way!  There are only the two of us, no other siblings, and there's 7 years between us, she being the older (but not necessarily the wiser or more mature!).  Okay, see, I need to stop talking about it, because even though it's 3 weeks away, I can already feel my teeth gritting together!  *sigh*  It'll be all right, Trisha.

Nice to see you again, and I hope the bronchitis didn't hit you too hard.

No one can drive you crazier than relatives.  You don't have to feel the least bit guilty about that; but you do have to put up with them.     For a short while, at least.  Good luck!   

Egads, it's already April!!!

Hair
No wash day, hair is up in a high ponytail with side combs.  I debated not wearing any pins or combs on the sides, just to see if everything would stay in the ponytail (i think it will).  But it's a very windy day and I simply did not want to take a chance.  I forgot to do my vinegar rinse on Saturday, so I'll do one tomorrow morning. 

Other
Well, the stepson has indeed moved in with us.  But we really didn't see a lot of him over the weekend.  He was either working or hanging out with his buddies and wife.  Hubby asked him about how long he thought this trial separation will take...stepson said about a year.   

My daughter, who also lives with us (we keep shoving 'em out of the nest and they keep flying back!!), has been applying for jobs in the Memphis area.  She's currenly working for my oncologist as a sort of general office clerk, but she's very unhappy working there and feels underpaid for the amount of work she's doing.  There just aren't a lot of decent paying jobs in this area that she's qualified to do.  So, who knows?  She may be moving to Memphis! 

I've cut waaaay back on my caffeine intake and, boy, am I ever sleeping better!  I'm a tea drinker and I really didn't think I was getting *that* much caffeine.  I would stop drinking the regular stuff around noon and switch to unleaded.  I figured my poor sleep cycles were another side effect of menopause.  Well, when I had bronchitis a couple of weeks ago, I started drinking mostly decaf tea.  I felt bad anyway and figured I wouldn't notice the withdrawal symptoms, if I had any.  I am sleeping so great now--it's fantastic!  I feel much better! 

The temperatures have been great lately--we've turned off the heat and have enjoyed open windows for the last 3 or 4 days.  It gets pretty cool at night, but nothing that a blanket and a good snuggle can't fix!

Hair
No wash day, hair is up in a high ponytail with side combs.  Vinegar rinse scheduled for tomorrow.  Hair is in good condition; healthy, shiny and happy.    

Other
Springtime in Missouri means severe weather, and we've certainly been having our share of late.  A thunderstorm passed through early Wednesday morning, another one passed through early Thursday morning and yet another is predicted for early Saturday morning!  No damage to our house or land yet, thank you Lord.  But the small town of Caruthersville, MO was pretty much wiped out by a tornado earlier this week.  Most of the town is just gone--GONE!  Can you imagine?  I can't.  I hope I never have to go through a tornado.  That must be one of the scariest things on the face of the earth. 

Pinto beans and cornbread, with pineapple chunks for lunch today.  I always bring my lunch from home, usually leftovers, because it's so expensive to eat out every day.  Plus, to me, all restaurant food starts to taste the same after a while.  Scott sure did a fine job of cooking those beans!  I count myself lucky to have a husband who's a great cook.    

I ordered a skirt from Chadwick's last weekend, so it should be here any day now:
http://www.chadwicks.com/product.aspx?PfId=7731&DeptId=8207&producttypeid=1&Purc...

It was a decent price to begin with, I thought, plus they sent me one of those "we miss you" 30% off coupons, then they knocked off the s+h.  When all was said and done, the skirt only cost me $16 and some change.  Couldn't pass it up!! 


 

Hair
Wash day, so hair is down.  I may break routine and wash again tomorrow, since I'm having lunch with a friend.  This is my new friend who recently began chemo treatments for stage 1a breast cancer.  Last week her hair began falling out.  I remember how that feels...boy, do I remember.  So I kind of want my hair to look its best tomorrow, as a little inspiration for her.  Kind of like, "Look, see?  It DOES grow back." 

Other
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Isn't it great looking?!     It's so perfect in so many ways...long enough...looks like denim...elastic waist...inexpensive!  We can't pass up perfection such as this--buy one, BB!     Oooo, which reminds me...my new skirt should arrive either today or tomorrow, YAY!

Looks like a gorgeous day, from what I can see.  I wish I...nah, not going to wish.  Mom used to say, "Don't wish your life away!"  If only she had added, "Get out there and DO it!"   

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Good for you, BB!  I'm glad you were able to buy the skirt.  Mine arrived yesterday and I can't wait to wear it!  When I tried on "the uniform", it felt as comfy as it looks in the catalog.     Yay-rah for us!!! 

Hair
Nothing new to report.  No-wash day, hair is up in a ponytail with clips.  Hair continues to look, feel, and be healthy. 

Other
Sister telephoned last night to confirm that she+hubby are, indeed, coming for a visit this weekend.  They live in Arkansas and usually split their drive in two; the first half will be a drive to Branson, Missouri and the second half will be to complete the drive to Cape Girardeau.  They should arrive here sometime on Saturday, which means they'll be able to enjoy Easter dinner with us.   

Had a great time at lunch yesterday with my new buddy PR (her initials).  She's so funny--she cracks me up!  And I make her laugh, too, so I think we'll be good for each other.  Her great sense of humour and strong spirit will carry her far during this terrible cancer ordeal.  But I know she'll be fine.  It's a grand feeling to be able to help someone who's experiencing trouble.  It's also a grand feeling to make a new friend!   Thank you, God, for allowing me to do this.

Hair
Wash day.  Hair is down and simply tucked behind the ears (no clips).  Hair looked really greasy yesterday...we've had unusually hot temperatures here for springtime--today it's supposed to reach 85.  85 in April!!!  That's just not right.  And I know the humidity of summer is only a heartbeat away.  So I've been considering buying/using a lighter conditioner than Jason's.  Then when I was getting ready to wash this morning I thought, "You big dummy--why don't you just cut the ratio down to 1:1?!"  One squirt of condish and one squirt of shampoo.  Hey, that's a much better result--not as limp looking!  The key will be what my hair looks like tomorrow on the no-wash day.  I may still buy a lighter condish for summer.  But at least this way I can use up the rest of my Jason. 

Other
University is closed tomorrow for a "designated holiday".  *snort*  Good Friday, to the rest of us.  So today is my Friday, yay!  Tomorrow was our regularly scheduled payday.  But since we're off tomorrow, we also got paid today!  Double yay!  I hope this is a good weekend.  I don't want there to be any stress or drama.  There are going to be quite a few different personalities around and most of the time we all get along.  But if anybody starts trouble I *WILL* put them out of my house!  And I'd hate to have to be mean to family on Easter Sunday!!  *lol*

Thanks for the tip on the skirt - I'm still waiting for mine, but I will be prepared  when wash time comes around!

Congrats on making diamond.  You snuck in here this morning and made those last  couple posts to put you over the top - I've been checking and checking, waiting for this special moment just for you!

Poor Trisha. *sigh* Welcome to my world.

Aside from being exposed at a very young age to smoky bars (one of the many joys of being a musician's kid), and having grandparents who smoked, my current boyfriend also smokes. 
    My tolerance for it now is pretty much gone...especially after my grandmother recently died from cancer. So I totally sympathize.

Unfortunately, I can tell you from first hand experience that, for a non-smoker, there are NO good points to living with someone who does smoke.
    People who don't smoke choose not to for a reason(or many), and when they live with someone who does, they are confronted face to face with those reasons. Have you talked to your sister about this?
    My guesses are a.) it doesn't bother her  b.) she believes that he will eventually quit or c.) she's deluding herself and knows it.

Anyway, I suppose the good news for you is that you don't smoke, your husband doesn't smoke....and you will only have to tolerate your BIL's chain smoking while he & your sister are in town.
   
It's a putrid stench, I know, and it can be very difficult to remove. Just be wary of how much time you actually do spend with them. If they notice that your visits with them aren't very long, it might clue them into how much his smoking really bothers you. I don't spend very much time around any of my boyfriend's family for that very reason.

Ultimately, you have to remember: you can influence people, but you can't change them. The only person you have control over, really, is yourself.    Stay strong.

Hair
Okay...so I'm thinking of going back to washing every morning.  *sigh*  I'm remembering that, back in the early 90's when I had waist length hair, I used to wash every morning.  My hair wasn't damaged by it; no split ends, no evident damage, etc.  Why should now be different?  I think I miss the squeak (we've talked about the squeak before) of cleanness.  I also like the way my hair looks and feels freshly "laundered".  So, yeah, every day washing again.  Or...just whenever,  ya know?  *shrug* 

I'm also feel myself being lured to try Herbal Essence products, thanks to the temptations of someone whom I will not mention.  CURSE YOU, ANGELSPUN!!!     But new products will have to wait for payday, which is this Friday.  I think I'll go check out their website and dream a little dream....

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Honey, I've known you're crazy for quite a while now--that's why I like you so much!!    

Hair
I made the decision to return to every day washing.  (gee, i made it sound like an official proclamation or something!  *snort*)  Still happy with the Tre Semme shampoo.  But I'm not so sure about the Jason conditioner and I'll probably switch back to the Tre Semme conditioner with tomorrow morning's wash.  My hair likes cones and I have a feeling it's the Jason condish that's making my ends a leeeetle tangly.  Can't have that!  Haven't decided about trying the Herbal Essence line.  I may stick with TS, I don't know.  Argh, too many decisions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

Other
(warning:  contains talk about veins and needles)
Didn't have a very good morning.  Had an 8:20 appointment at my (new) doctor's office to have blood drawn for my ca125.  This was my first visit for this specific item, as I had been using a different lab for the past 3 years.  I have small, shy veins that don't like to have needles stuck in them, no, no, no.  So I point out to the phlebotomist (sp?) that others usually have good luck using my left arm, right in the middle of the bend. Well, of course, the gal can't find it.  She has to call for the other phleb. to help.  Phleb #2 can't find the "good" vein either...Oh, she tried and must have either nicked the vein or just missed it...because I bled a bit when she pulled out the needle.  Sooo, they give up and phleb #2 ends up taking blood from the underside of my wrist.  Yeesh.  I've had blood drawn from that spot a couple of times before and, while it doesn't really hurt any more than the other spots, it just sort of internally freaks me out.  When I finally got back to work and took off the cotton balls with band aids, that poor little vein on the underside of my wrist was all swollen, and bruised.  The swelling has finally gone down but I'm going to have a doozy of a bruise for a while.  And why does peeling off those stupid band aids hurt more than the needles?!?!  It's not enough that they hurt you with the needles, oh no!  They have to add insult to injury and slap on a band aid that peels off hair and the first two layers of skin when you try to remove it!!!  

Then!  Oh yes, there's more, kiddies, you may as well get a bowl of popcorn and something to drink because we're going to be here a while...  

One of the chores done by my department is laser printing billing statements for students.  I work for a university--I've mentioned that before, haven't I?  Yeah.  So there's a day shift, me; a night shift, middle aged guy; and a weekend shift, idiot boy.  I call him "boy" because, even though he's in his mid-30's, he's definitely NOT a man.  Anyway...middle aged guy had a wisdom tooth pulled and idiot boy has to cover for him, last night and tonight (God help us all).  We had a billing run last night, and there's another one tonight.  Two different billing cycles, two very different pre-printed forms to be used, two different boxes, two different sticky notes written by Yours Truly directing idiot boy to use *these* forms for Monday night and *these* forms for Tuesday night.  Even with all that, did he still use the wrong forms?  You'd better believe it.  So after the bad time at the doctor's office I get to the office and have to reprint 3,500 pieces of paper because idiot boy is too busy playing online poker than to do his job.  *sigh*  I could have killed him...still haven't quite talked myself out of doing just that.  

But I got the bills reprinted by 11:15 and I'm at least calmer now and in a better mood.  I just wonder what he'll screw up tonight............?  grrrrr

(((((hugs))))))

I just hate it when the "specialists" can't find the vein for a blood draw.  Sheeesh - it's their job!  I am fortunate that I don't have to have regular blood draws, but I do donate blood on a regular basis.  I don't have the easiest veins to find, and I am pretty patient when they need to try 2 or 3 times, but I draw the line at 3.  If they can't do it in 3 attempts I figure it just is not meant to be.  (A trick I have learned is to wrap yourself in a warm blanket, or try squeezing a bottle of warm water.  The veins are easier to find and your blood pumps faster when you are warm).

and as for "idiot boy"..... I deal with these kinds all day long doing software support.  The stories I can tell....  ...

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YES!!  In fact, I am wearing it today.    I will probably make some adjustments to the waist to shorten it a bit (ah, the frustrations of being short), but it will most certainly become a regular part of my wardrobe.

Here's a plug for my sister's handbag sites: 

eBags - they have handbags, backpacks and luggage
6pm  - they have handbags and shoes

My sister is a buyer for these sites.  I have ordered from them many times - they are quick to ship and customer service is excellent.  Returns are not a hassle.

Quote:

I'm not.    I'm going to spend it working, both at home and at my 2nd job. Be glad you're not me! 

Have Suave and VO5 actually worked for you in the past?    I used both up until I was a teenager, and you couldn't pay me to go back! In my experience, the only things worth washing with the cheap stuff are horses, cars, sinks and tubs. But definitely not human hair. 
    You probably think that my opinion is biased because I use HE every day, but I really think it would be the wisest investment. I say that out of experience, believe me. The fragrances are addictive, the leave-in's are awesome now that they've been reformulated, and HE really doesn't cost that much. I was blowing all kinds of $$ on Pantene before, so I was also looking for something less expensive.

Anyway, I'm not trying to sway your opinion too much...just letting you know what I've experienced personally. If the cheap stuff works better for you, though, I'd stick with it, by all means. But beware the ammonia content!

Quote:


This quoted from the just received Inner Circle newsletter (www.wicca.com). ;

These words especially --

--strike a very deep chord within me because I *do* keep trying to define who I am in terms of faith.  Maybe I simply need to give recognition to the fact that what I am does not have a name and that's acceptible! 

I believe in God and a lot of the christian tenets (but I am not christian).
I find a lot of the pagan beliefs appealing (but I am not pagan). 

I believe in angels and ghosts.  I believe that some people can "see" the future.  I believe in reincarnation.  I believe that on some level, all living things have a sort of soul (that includes humans, animals, trees, flowers, dirt, ALL things). 

And who said I have to pick just ONE thing to be, huh?  Who said I can only be christian, or jewish, or buddhist, or pagan??  Why can't I believe in them all, huh?  Why can't I read my bible AND the Torah AND the Quaran AND Living Wicca, and garner something useful from ALL of them, huh? 

I just don't see how we humans will ever achieve any sort of world peace until we stop boarding ourselves up behind our barred windows and start learning as much as we can about one another. 

Just my opinion.

You can ramble all you want as long as you don't attack anyone here! 

And I agree, sometimes it is very beneficial to just get the words and thoughts out.  It helps solidify your opinions and beliefs.

Hair
Day 5 of using the Suave Radiant Brunette s+c.  Still loving it.  Hair is shiny, soft and almost tangle-free.  No bad effects yet.  *fingers crossed*  

Other
Another dark and rainy day here in SE Missouri.  It would be a perfect day to be at home, eating popcorn and reading a book.  

Still reading about Buddhism from things I've printed off the internet.  I can't afford real books right now, so the web stuff will have to suffice.  

I did a 10 minute meditation this morning, after breakfast and before getting ready for work.  I thoroughly enjoyed it!  Even if I gain nothing else from Buddhism I'd like to continue on with the meditation.  It's a very calming and soothing activitiy.    
A couple of good websites I've discovered:

www.sacred-texts.com

www.accesstoinsight.org

lol Trisha

There's nothing wrong with being a Christian while simultaneously appreciating and understanding the principles behind other faiths. Just like there's nothing wrong with being Jewish, Buddhist, Wiccan, Muslim, etc. etc. etc. etc!!! while simultaneously appreciating and understanding the principles of other faiths.
    In many ways, they're all different, and in a way, they're all the same.

I am what I call a "free" Christian...I don't attend church or identify with any particular denomination, but am a Christian nonetheless. I do try to live in accordance with the teachings of Jesus & the Bible, etc.
    But I also keep an open mind and can appreciate the values behind other religions while remaining content in my own faith.
    I'm not a fan of organized religion, but I understand that a lot of people feel the need to congregate in some way or another in order to reaffirm their faith to each other and to themselves. That or they just show up for the free food & socializing. *shrug* 
    But personally, I'm all for finding whatever makes sense to you as an individual and pursuing faith with a free, unbiased mind. At least for the most part.

Er, I mean... *cough* disregard everything I just said. I am pure evil and a true heathen. Fear me. *cough* 

LOL! Shhhhhhhh....