To Big Chop or Not to Big Chop? That's the question...

I've always been used to having long hair, so when I began the transition, I'd convinced myself that I would successfully transition for at least a year (until I had new growth that was shoulder length) before I'd chop all the relaxed ends off. I was tooooo scared to big chop. However, as my transition process continued, I began to get really annoyed with the 2 different hair textures. My roots were really pretty and curly. But they were weighed down by my fried and dyed relaxed ends. Also, as my new growth came in, I grew excited at the potential of having a head full of hair that was completely free of any chemicals.

One morning (about 3 1/2 months into my transition), I woke up and was sick of the 2 hair textures. I went in the bathroom and just started cutting! I had researched online about the "line of demarcation" (the line where your new growth meets your permed hair). So, I knew to wash my hair, take sections, hold them up loosely and you can clearly see where your natural hair ends. That's where you cut. I began cutting and never looked back. :)

Be prepared for some resistance from family and friends (especially if you've always had long hair). My brothers and husband hated my big chop. They constantly teased me about my head or told me how ridiculous it looked. I don't know why, but most of the black men I know prefer long hair, but whatever! Something happened when I cut my hair off. I had NEVER had hair that short. I felt new. I felt sexy. I felt exotic. It was like I'd created an alter ego. My alter ego didn't care what anyone thought. She had so much confidence that she readily embraced her natural hair and vowed never to relax again.

I immediately began shopping for girly accessories to "glam up" my boyish short cut. I bought big earrings, eyeliner, lipgloss and mascara. So even though my husband hated it and my son wanted to know why I had "boy hair", I loved it. So begins my natural journey... February 2011