Dreadlock Journey Update

Why is hair so important?

http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=9,1452,0,0,1,0

My dreadlocks are changing.  I was struggling with a few narrow ones along my hairline that really pulled.

I still love dreadlocks but I have favourites and some I really did not like!  All their own characters and lumps and bumps.  Great during a summer on the road. Then the weather started getting colder it took much longer to dry.

I was really worried when the ends started to break off some of them!  In fact, it felt shorter than when it began in July 2010.

So, I unpicked the uncomfortable ones that had begun to hurt. The relief.

A few weeks passed, I decided the ones I didn't like had to go. Different style.

So a few more came loose. The process is a bit painful and takes a long time.  Each took between 20 minutes and an hour to unlock. I covered them with conditioner, then untied and combed, losing handfuls of hair.

Next the scissors came out and I added a layered fringe to frame my face and stop the slick-over.

I now have 9 dreadlocks dotted around my head.  I don't know if they'll stay or go yet.  I might add more thicker dreadlocks, I might shave my head on one side, or crop it completely! I just like having the freedom to do what I want with it. Perhaps raise more funds for Downs Syndrome or another charity in the New Year.

What are your hair stories? Why is it important? Worst and best styles and cuts?  Tips and Tricks?

Dreadlocks for Down's Syndrome

I finally did it! Two more of my list of 40 things before I turn 40 next May.

1 Get dreadlocks.

2 Raise money for Down's Syndrome.

This charity is very close to my heart as my 3 year old niece has Down's Syndrome. In fact, it was a little girl with Down's Syndrome who I met on junior school work experience, made me realise I would love to teach.

The Down's Syndrome Association help provides information for people with Down's Syndrome, their parents and carers, and those professionals who work with them.

What made this so special is that my sister, Clare (Mimi's mum) is also a hairdresser and with some persuasion, agreed to do my dreads.  She is so strong and balances being a mum to two gorgeous girls, aged 2 and 3 with work and riding. I have been so inspired and proud of her strength, as she recognised Mimi had Down's Syndrome and brought it to the attention of maternity staff.  She battled to get all the support she can for Mimi and herself.

Perhaps I can persuade her to join me in a 5k run next?!!! And get our other sister Zoe involved in that too.

Taster for next time:-  I have lots more creative ideas to blog about.  I am sure these dreads are like little creative antennae.