First Resolution of the New Year...Check!!!

As you may know, I suffered pretty severe heat damage to my hair from constant direct heat (blow-dryers, flat irons, etc) which left my natural hair in a relaxed state.   So, as of November 2009, I have been on a heat hiatus, re-claiming my natural kinks, curls, and coils.  I contemplated cutting my hair for the New Year, but I got scared.  I remembered when I shaved my head in 2002, as it grew out, the TWA (teeny-weeny afro) was not my friend.  I resorted to all sorts of scarfs to hide my hair.  This feeling haunted me for the last few months and told myself over and over again to WAIT!

Well, after a comforting conversation with one of my friends/big sister/fellow natural, I decided to just do it.  So, this morning at 12am I did the BC (big chop) for the third time.

To follow my hair journey from 2004 to now, click here!

don't be grossed out, it's just my hair in the sink!

Video: Going Natural

In July of 2002, after years of chemical damage I decided to shave my head and "go natural". There was no political statement or trend I was trying to imply. I wanted a change. I'd worn short hair for years before I shaved it in 2002, so loosing my hair wasn't a big deal at all. I applaud all of the women who are making the decision to "go natural"; just remember to be patient, take care of it and do research. If your goal is to grow long hair, please do not end up like me; 8 years in and only 2 years worth of length. That's ok, because on my 10 year anniversary in July 2012, my hair will finally be where I want it.

HAIR: To cut or not to cut?

I've been natural for 8 years now.  For some reason it took 8 years for me not to have the urge to wear it straight all the time.  Unfortunately, because I wore it straight for so long, I experienced severe heat damage.  So, my hair was basically relaxed from all of the heat.   

This will be the second time I've had this dilemma.  The first time (pic below) I grew it out and cut about 6 inches.  This time I have about 8 inches of straight hair...sigh.  My goal is to transition for 18 months before I chop.  I've been transitioning since November 2009 (almost 12 months).  After the 18 month period I should have about 9 inches of hair, which is a great starting point.