goodbye to the hair

This weekend, I opted to get my hair cut all the way off. It was an intentional act of autonomy against the inevitable. Something to give us space for our feelings—sadness, love, and a bit of defiance. 

I had asked Merissa to find an appointment for me, and she engaged her favorite hair stylist, Nikki, who suggested she could come to our home to do the work. And that made all the difference.

Sunday morning, Rick was up at the crack of dawn to smoke some pulled pork. Becca and Nate were here for the weekend, and they headed out into the world with my chore list. I got some bread in the oven. Missy arrived mid-day, and we regrouped to gather outside on the back deck. It was chilly, so we fired up the pellet stove. 

Nikki arrived to meet everyone. She unpacked her gear. Seated and draped me. She started to brush and braid my hair. It began to rain. The kids sat around the stove and talked and watched. Rick snuck in to me for an occasional kiss. 

Nikki explained each of her moves. To clip the braids and a lock to keep. To use the clippers for the rest of the hair. To trim up these swirls (my head is a mass of multi-color cowlicks). She was gentle and kind.

I didn't know what to expect or how it would go, but it was what it needed to be. Emotional without being sad. A letting go that gave us power. Ceremony without pomp. Small acts of kindness with big, meaningful impact. 

Now I am properly trimmed and equipped with a variety of hats and scarves to keep my bared head warm and beautiful. I am shored up by the love and support of family and friends, old and new. And ever grateful for each day of my life. 

Onward!

Sherri