10/18/06 - Haircut=excessive trim; oh well.
10/19 - WC (Redkin Densify, Finish Up)
10/20 - CO  no towel dry
10/21 - Satin pillowcase, tied hair up in "biscuit" for bedtime.
10/22 - Aveda jojoba to ends, brushed entire length. Let sit for 2 hours prior to CWC.
Next CWC planned for 10/25 or 26, depending on need.
10/23 - Plan is: One drop jojoba (temples and below) brushed through each night at bedtime, tie loose high ponytail. One CWC shampoo per week. C-Nexxus/Suave, W-Redken Densify, C-Redken Finish Up. Any other "washings" shall be Redken Finish Up (CO).
10/24 - Jojoba at bedtime.
10/25 - No telling what had all built up on my scalp and in my hair after years of ineffective haircare practice, so I decided today would include my first ACV; clean slate, as it were.
First, I entered the shower with last night's jojoba in my hair from temples down. I proceeded to enjoy a full-head shampoo. Next came the ACV (recipe Anais); I left that in while continuing my shower. After rinsing out the ACV, I moved on to a full head conditioner (combed through), got out of the shower for a shave. Reentered the shower for a cool rinse of conditioner. Patted the excess drippings from my hair with a towel. Finished up with jojoba (temples down); finger-combed through. Once hair is dry, I will BBB jojoba thoroughly.
*The most striking difference I've noticed during this first week is that I am not getting anywhere near the previous amount of hair in my comb or brush. No longer brutal to my hair. This alone is a major success.

Yay!  You've started a journal!!
Have you read about combing your hair with a wide toothed comb, starting at the bottom and working your way toward your scalp?  With wavy hair it is extra important 'cause our hairtype tangles easily.  Finger combing is also very good for wavies.
I only use the BBB when I haven't washed my hair for more than two days to distribute the natural oil from my scalp down the hair.  Brushing wavy hair can make it really bushy.

Have you learned to braid yet?

Practice, practice, practice.  That is what it takes to become proficient in braiding your own hair.  You just have to train those fingers to hold the hair while you are doing the cross-overs (or unders if you are doing dutch braiding).

"LongLocks Hair Braiding Basics" describes the first step as: Divide all the hair into three even sections and comb each section smooth.

Here are my first (very basic) questions.
1) How can I tell whether I have successfully created three equal sections? I can't really see the sections on the back of my head.

2) How do I comb out the individual sections while maintaining the three distinct divisions?

Thank you for the compliments, Lisabelle...you're very sweet. I cannot imagine life without my "kids." All three, Tanya (18), Katie (20), and Tyler (22) influence and enrich my life daily.

Yes, I do wear a helmet; the thought of hitting the pavement without protecting my noggin scares the hell out of me. I had worn a doo-rag in the past, but I never considered that it might decrease the drying of my hair. Thanks for the idea. I will give it a try. When riding season rolls around again, I will definitely try applying jojoba before taking off.

As for OCC, I haven't watched them in some time. Up until my St. Louis Cardinals made it into the World Series, I had been without a TV for about nine months. The old one broke, and I never replaced it, until last week. The Teutels are entertaining to be sure, but I had stopped watching them and most television about a year and a half ago when I realized too many hours of my life were slipping away on the Lazy-Boy. These days, the time I used to spend in front of the tube is dedicated doing things I consider more productive. I go out with friends or family, I exercise, meditate, read, and work on "to do" stuff around the house. Yeah, I also spend time on the internet, but mostly on discussion forums furthering my knowledge...the conversation is often good too.

That's more info than you asked for...but you got me on a roll.

hairapparent wrote on Oct 27^th, 2006 at 11:22am:


1.  Getting the sections even takes a bit of practice.  I separate my hair into the sections, then just "feel" the thickness of the sections to see if they feel about the same.

2.  I will comb the sections after I have braided several crossovers, but then I just braid away.  I will hold all three sections in one hand, allowing the other to comb the sections.  I do make sure that I detangle after each set of crossovers so that my hair doesn't rebraid.

 SAINT LOUIS CARDINALS
    2006     
WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS

bikerbraid wrote on Oct 28^th, 2006 at 8:18pm:


Well, sure. That and I'm trying to spruce up my journal with a bit of personality.

silvermayne wrote on Oct 29^th, 2006 at 8:18pm:



silvermayne,

The NY Times reports that the 2006 World Series had the lowest viewer ratings in more than 30 years. It appears most of the country outside of Michigan and Missouri were largely unaware baseball was being played.

My television addiction became obvious when my former girlfriend and I realized that we were spending a mind-numbing amount of time watching a poor representation of life, instead of living life. Too many evenings, we would eat dinner in front of the TV, and then get sucked in for an additional 2-3 hours. We should have been cuddling. We should have been talking. We should have been enjoying each others' company more, and yet, we sat there distracted (and often mesmerized) by "entertainment" that did little to enrich our lives.

Until I'd abandoned the boob tube, I never realized how many social conversations revolved around discussing what had happened on some TV show. That, to me, is disturbing. Friday night, I attended a pre-Halloween party at a friend's home. A young woman and I spent the better part of an hour and a half outside talking. We talked about haircare. We talked about relationships. We talked about a range of topics, but not once did the conversation turn to TV programming. We enjoyed each others' company and created a bond where before we had only been casual acquaintances. When we finally returned to the party, we found the remaining 8 guests slouched down in their seats watching a horror movie involving, ironically, zombies.  

I do not sit in judgement of those who periodically choose TV as a way of winding-down. Occasionally, television is compelling. Other times numbing-out just feels good. I applaud you for keeping yourself occupied while viewing.

I've not read the Mander book, however, I will check it out of the library soon.

Thanks for the conversation,
hairapparent

Hi there hairapparent and welcome - this from a member who has not posted anywhere nearly as much as you though!

Its  interesting to hear how another fella is getting on with his hair growth.

Is this the first time your team has won the world series?  But personally I am pleased that the baseball has now ended. As there is only a finite amount of time for US sport, it now means that the TV in the UK starts showing the ice hockey.  Mind you it is on so late I have to video it and watch it the next day.

Redgate

Go Vikings. I've liked them since Fran Tarkenton...might have something to do with my favorite color being purple.

I'm watching my son's West Wing dvds.

Fran Tarkenton was my favourite!!!    

I read with distress yesterday about St. Louis being named the most dangerous city in the nation, and I was like, "What?!"     I mean, I know a city of that size is bound to have problems.  But to be voted THE most dangerous in the whole United States?  How sad!

I live a few miles north of Camden, NJ and we're all celebrating.  We moved from first place to fourth - woo hoo!!

Week Two
10/26 - Lazy, rainy day...did nothing to my hair.
10/27 - CO
10/28 - CO, followed w/ jojoba
10/29 - CO
10/30 - nothing
10/31 - CWC, Barbecued, needed to shampoo out the hickory smoke.
11/01 - CO, followed w/ jojoba
I am seeing more curls with this new regimen...which is fine with me. Previously, my hair would curl when wet and then lose them whenever I brushed. The result was an unkempt, frizzy appearance. Now, I am finding that by applying jojoba as my hair air-dries, and finger-combing allows the curls to stay all day. I still lean toward a non-styled look, but limiting brushings and adding the jojoba seems to keep the frizzies at bay. I'm noticing an increased shine and overall softness too. One shampooing this week - noticed less itchiness, maybe my scalp is beginning to adapt. Cool.

I should note that last week I started taking 1T of Silica Gel/daily. Can't comment on the effectiveness––should have perhaps waited a bit, instead of trying multiple new things at once. Also there is Biotin in my B-multivitamin.

redgate wrote on Oct 30^th, 2006 at 7:13pm:



Son-of-a.... men DO exist on Longlocks! Thanks for the welcome, Redgate.

As for the Cardinals, this is their 10th World Series win; second only to the NY Yankees. I had no idea that the NHL or MLB were seen in the UK . Our St. Louis Blues are trying to improve upon their (I think) worst season ever. I'll have to give them a look now...been pretty preoccupied with baseball...obviously.

hairapparent

Week Three
11/02 - CO, followed w/ jojoba
11/03 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied dry)
11/04 - VO5 Hot Oil, CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp). Might have been overkill doing all three, but then didn't notice any negative consequences.
11/05 - nothing
11/06 - nothing - have not shampooed in 6 days...not itchy, or feeling dirty...plan now is to avoid shampoo until necessary. Finished Silica gel bottle. Shall hold off for a while to watch for any changes while not taking it.
11/07 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
11/08 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
Don't yet know if my hair prefers jojoba applied on dry or damp head; but I like the way my hair air-dries after applying damp.

Your Welcome and keep up the great work!

Taking better care of your hair should give you a better chance at finding your true terminal length - good luck on your search for it!

Unfortunately, most hair stylists and barbers are more accustomed to trying to maintain a hair length.  This prevents you from gaining any length when they do their "trims".

Glad to hear your hair is doing so well.  Keep up the good work.

Week Six
11/23 - Nothing
11/24 - ACV, WC, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
11/25 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
11/26 - nothing
11/27 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
11/28 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
11/29 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
As I mentioned in a different thread, this paying closer attention to my hair does have one downside–witnessing the growing process is like watching paint dry. It is comforting, however, to realize that when my hair does get longer again, it will be healthier, and perhaps, surpass any personal record length.

Week Eight
12/07 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
12/08 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
12/09 - Nothing
12/10 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)
12/11 - (am) Jojoba (applied dry) to flyaway temples
       - (pm) CO, no add'l jojoba...seemed to still be there from morning,
12/12 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)            
12/13 - CO, followed w/ jojoba (applied damp)      

Hi, hairapparent!
Brand new here, but I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading your journal. 
My mom's cousin used to ride a Harley when he was younger.  He had beautiful, long red hair, and he's the only man I know that would french-braid his hair for riding.  (He has it all shaved off now though, the poop!)

Keep up the good work!

Yep, I cut my hair. It is short...REAL short.

My new girlfriend and I have witnessed the looks (from women) that I get with shorter hair. The funny thing is, she asked if I'd consider going shorter...so, in effect, she helped create this monster! Hair length is cyclical for me, however. It is not inconceivable that the long hair will return one day.

Until then, hairapparent is signing off. I'm grateful for the advice I've received here. Because of the LongLocks membership, I now know how to better care for my hair. When I do grow it long again, it will definitely have a healthier, um...head start.

Thanks & Best Wishes,
Steve (hairapparent)

Glad to have had the chance to get to know you.  And I'm glad you realize that things you learned when dealing with your long hair can be applied to your short hair.  You will have the greatest looking short hair 'cuz it will be healthy. 

Keep us up to date on your choices.  We'll support you in any of your decisions.

It has been six months since lopping off my locks. The short look has been fine, but I really miss longer hair. I'm on my way back; hair length is currently approximately 4.5 inches. About another 6 or 8 months, and my previous length should be in sight. For now, I'm dealing with the awkward length phase. On the plus side, thanks to lessons learned from the generous suggestions offered here...it'll be healthier than ever! Thought I'd drop by to say, hello. I haven't forgotten you.

12/06 6/07

Take care,
Steve

Thanks on all counts, Sakina. Weight loss or more flattering camera angle?  

Oh, and I forgot to mention, my youngest (Tanya) begins training as a hairstylist, in August. Finally, someone who will only trim what I've requested.

Thanks, Curlgirl. I feel sorta out of place, at the moment...no real length to report. But it'll be back, and as always, it’s good to hear from you ladies.

Welcome back Steve!  You are always welcome here - regardless of your current hair length.  Keep us updated.

Wow, it's been exactly six months since I last stopped in. My daughter, Tanya (now in cosmetology school), gave me a 1/2" trim a couple months ago. Nevertheless, the length has returned to my shoulders. Tanya remarked that my hair looked healthy and with no significant evidence of split ends. Now, that (and her, of course) I am proud of!

Happy 2008,
Steve

Lisabelle, thank you for the compliment. However, the picture is misleading. You've been duped; that shot was taken in 2003. Sorry for the confusion. At the moment, my hair is considerably shorter, as is the beard. I'll get a current pic up shortly.

Good to hear from you, though.

Oh I would love to see a update too!

Oh you good looking man you! Your so suited for long hair, I cannot wait for it to get as long as in the last picture, of which is my favorite!  

Good to hear from you,Steve!!!  The pics are great!  Your hair has grown fast!  Happy New Year!!!

Welcome back!  I'm so glad you popped back in and have shared pictures!  Your hair is looking good.  Here's wishing you a fantastic New Year with even faster hair growth.

OMG Steve!  It so good to hear from you!!  Oh yeah!  I am Lisabelle btw changed my screen name 

It has been nearly 22 months since my drastic hair-lopping. My hair care regimen has remained consistent since joining Longlocks. Essentially, I shampoo once every 10-12 days, and apply the diluted apple cider vinegar mix to clarify about once a month. Otherwise, I use only conditioner for my daily "washing."

Several months ago, however, I added a practice somewhat contrary to LL recommendations. Prior to each CO, I first rinse my scalp with very warm (not hot) water, while employing a stimulating fingertip massage. My belief is that this practice has been an effective cleansing method between shampoos. I still end with a cool rinse. My hair appears very healthy, with almost no evidence of split ends. So far, I'd say the experiment has been a success. Yet, I welcome any suggestions or warnings you may feel compelled to offer.

Thanks, Steve

Thank you, Isabeau. Conditioner: Kiwi Coloreflector, by ARTec Naturals. Honestly, I don't even know who bought this stuff, but I'd finished my previous conditioner and found the bottle in the seldom used hall bathroom shower. It contains cyclomethcone, whatever that is.

One thing I never thought to resume was the practice of tying my hair up at night, although I do continue to use a sateen pillowcase.

You're welcome, darlin'  

Trisha wrote on Nov 13^th, 2008 at 11:33am:


Thanks Trisha. And yes, Tanya is my stylist for life.