A couple of three weeks ago, I took my braids out. I'd had them in for almost a year, I think.
Taking out a head full of braids is a looong process, so my mom offered to come over and help me. I'm glad she did as it took HOURS!
It was a very cool night because Mom hasn't worked on my hair since I was a wee lass. At one point, she was sitting on the couch and I was sitting on the floor between her legs, like I was 8 years old again. It took me way back to feel her working on my hair, combing it through, and putting the combed out hair into big, fat 'plaits' (as she calls them) so that it wouldn't tangle when I went to bed. I think she really enjoyed it too - as a last chance to see me as just her daughter before I become a mother myself.
While we worked, we talked about a whole bunch of things. My favorite part of the night was talking about "There Is No Me Without You." I gave Mom and some of my family a copy of it for Christmas and she was talking about it. She was up to Chapter 11 at the time and has since finished it. We talked about the circumstances that brought the children to Haregewoin and how there is a purpose behind everything that happens to us - the good and the bad.
I'm so glad we had that night because I am looking forward to sharing the same sorts of moments with Myfanwy. It was a reminder of how wonderfully bonding those times were years ago. Having Mom work on my hair left me feeling deeply loved and secure - even as a 42-year old woman. You certainly can't underestimate the importance of moments like that.
I went to the salon the next day and Max, my friend and hairdresser, cut off most of the hair with relaxer still in it (about 2 inches), leaving my mainly natural mane. Then she coloured it (to hide ALL THE GREY HAIR THAT I HAVE). My plan was to stay au naturel (no more relaxers or perms), but I lasted ONE DAY before I had to blow dry it straight. I now have a perm in it and am rocking the curls. To someone who doesn't know my natural hair, I think the curls look like mine. The perm makes my hair easier to manage without looking like a full-on fro, which doesn't suit me). Plus, it's wash and wear, which is going to be my modus operandi when M is home.
I really don't want M to feel that she has to do anything to her hair to look good - especially straightening it. So, I have to set a good example with my own hair. That means no more relaxers. I can deal with the perm - it's just enhancing my own curls.
Oh, alright. Here's a picture. Be kind, I didn't do anything with it (or me) today.
