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Hey Guys,
At long last, I've made it through a year of growing my hair out. I think the worst of the awkward stage is behind me since my hair no longer looks like a puff-ball and I can put a good portion of it into a tail. I'm very pleased with how it's growing out too. Just the other day one of my co-workers was shocked to find out that I've been growing my hair from a buzz cut without any trims. He assumed I'd been seeing a stylist. :-) Another friend of mine has been watching my mother grow out her hair and commented that mine looks more natural and less "processed." Score one for not trying to mess with Mother Nature too much [my mom straightens and colors her hair.]
Thanks for all of your support and knowledge. Now here's to hoping I was able to link the photos!
Front the front:
Back view: This one seems to be ever-changing. Sometimes it looks a bit like a "U" and other times it's more straight across or even crooked-looking. I suppose it's just the way it curls on any given day.
The bangs. I look rather silly at the moment, but I waited for SO LONG to be able to put them in my mouth that I just had to take a picture of it.
Ponytail:
Halftail:
And lastly, what would be an update without a picture of the cat with the "mouse." Sage isn't real happy about it through...
Hey, that's great growth progress for one year! The tail looks good. I'd say another 6 months and you should be able to tie it lower and and with all your hair in it (that's about how long it took me). Why not go for a total change and grow a goatee and sideburns!
Thanks Peter! A goatee and sideburns will be happening though. I never shave, but nothing seems to grow. You'd think I didn't have the hormones for it or something, LOL. :-)
Mouse
...
Ah... that's too bad... I think that would look good on you. I've heard of some guys whose facial hair slowly comes in until they're almost 40. When they were in their early 20s there was very little - possibly no facial hair - but by the time they were near 40, it was really thick. Hope that doesn't discourage you... you look like you're still a good number of years away from 40.
But, just having the longer hair makes for a big difference. Do you have any pics of you with a buzz cut? You may have posted them but I don't come to this forum on a regular basis.
Here's a picture of me in a buzz cut (actually from May 2006). I should clarify too. I'm female, so aside from some kind of hormone imbalance growing facial hair isn't going to happen...unless you count the moustache some women get in their 40s and 50s. :-)
Mouse
Oh, sorry about that. I wasn't sure... to be honest you looked more female than male but didn't want to ask. I guess now, albeit a bit awkward of a way, I know. The only pictures I saw of you were your avatar, which is quite small, and those new pictures, which were also small. I should have gone with my gut instinct... hope you're not too offended! If it's any consolation, I've been mistaken for a female a few times (when my hair was down, and people saw me from behind), so I know it feels like to mistaken for the wrong gender.
Anyways, back to the hair, wow what a difference. Your hair grew VERY fast! And it came in quite thick too. Did you have a goal length in mind? I think you look better with the longer hair!
No worries! The pictues did come through smaller than I expected, but the I linked from the small pics in photobucket instead of the large ones, so I should've expected as much. I'll fix that next time.
It's not the first time I've been mistaken for a guy (and given that this is a mens board perhaps I should've included some sort of hint). Obviously with the buzz cut it happened regularly, and since I've had short hair since childhood I've become rather used to it. I'm not offended in the least.
I don't really have an end-goal yet. Originally I just wanted it to be long enough to all fit into a ponytail. Then seeing cool braids has made me want longer hair, and now I'm thinking at least shoulder-blade length. I'll have to see where I end up!
Mouse
When I first started growing my hair out, I saw some nice pictures in the photo albums at the hair salon of shoulder-length hair styles. That's what I "thought" I wanted. Then I got discouraged when I thought my hair grew too slowly so decided I would go for just "longish" hair but the awkward stage was more hassle that it was worth. Finally got shoulder length hair and now I'm aiming for waist length. That's probably where it will stop - if anything for practical reasons. I may even trim it to mid-back, but just want to see what it's like to have waist length hair!
- Peter
Mouse, Nice progress on your hair. Nice color too!
Happy 1st anniversary!
peace, jonalbear
Thanks Jonalbear! I hope this is the first of many anniversaries.
Mouse
Truly excellent progress sequences, Mouse! My dad, his brother, and their mom (my paternal grandmother, of course) were all very fair complected redheads like you, too. And now, what with your tresses really coming in, all I can say is, "Welcome to the Family!" You get an A+
Nice kitty cat, Sage, too!
Bestest wishes,
Quenya
I'm surprised that you see it as red. I'm very fair of course, but the red highlights don't seem to come through very well in the photos (they ended up smaller than I thought, messed up the linking a bit).
Thanks for the warm welcome and the compliments!
Mouse
I also thought your hair looked red... but maybe that's just the way it looks due to contrast on my computer screen. What color would you describe it as?
I usually call it auburn or brown w/ red highlights. It's not really "red" compared to a true redhead, but it's also not strictly "brown." It varies depending on the lighting. I like the red though, so complements regarding that aspect of my haircolor are welcome. :-)
Mouse
Now that you mention it, your hair does look auburn. I see brown and red, but still, even after you pointed it out, it still looks more red (to me anyways) unless my computer monitor needs the contrast adjusted ;)
From the sporadic visits I make to this forum, when I saw your avatar pics, red was the color that came to mind. Auburn is a nice color though - haven't seen a lot of people with that color of hair.
Your monitor is probably fine. I think what happens is that everyone pics up different aspects of a photo, and since I see myself all the time that undoubtedly "colors" my impression.
Mouse
Hi Mouse,
It is wonderful to get an update from you, and congratulations on reaching the one year milestone. Your hair looks wonderful, it is thick and healthy with the most beautiful natural waves, and I love the colour as well.
Also, I would like to add that it has been a genuine pleasure having you as a member of the hyperboard. You have contributed so much to our community, and I cannot thank you enough.
My best to you,
David
Thanks, David. It's really great to be a part of the community. And on a personal note, you're always so supportive of everyone here.
Mouse
As well you should be, Mouse!
Your hair is gorgeous! Great shine and colour and natural wave...Everything a stylist tries to achieve for thier clients.
Exactly. Too much fussing and it loses some of its natural beauty. Having been in and out here, I didn't realize that both you and your mother were growing out your hair together. Nice.
You linked just fine (and the rest of us benefitted from your having shared with us.
I love this one! It really shows off the length and all the colour and shine. Wow!
This is a great look.
Thanks for sharing, Mouse, and for your support over the past year.
Shawn (Mr. Crow)
Thanks for the compliments, Shawn. I'm looking forward to the halftail being more functional [it doesn't keep the hair out of my face at the moment]. I think the bangs will fit by fall, and then I'll probably start wearing it as a regular style. For now I usually go with loose, alice band, or alice band w/ ponytail.
Mouse
Congratulations on your one year milestone, its special for sure. Your hair seems to grow quickly, thats good length for a year and all the different style seem to suit you really well. Here's to the next year!!
Regards, 'the nutti one'
Thank you, Nutti One. :-) I'm looking forward to trying more styles as the length increases.
Mouse
Great update Mouse! Your hair looks great and very healthy. I like the halftail!
Your brother in waviness,
Allen
Waves are fun, aren't they? :-)
Thanks for the support, Allen!
Mouse
Hey,Mouse, what a fantastic update! Your hair looks incredibly healthy (so shiny and soft yeah I can see the softness from the photos) Your natural colour is superb, who would want to dye their hair with a colour like yours! The curls suit you very well and I'd say that's a very impressive growth for 1 year from a buzz cut. Keep it spurting! :D
I think it feels like a growth spurt because gravity is starting to win out. Thanks for the compliments. I certainly try to treat it well, and I've picked up many a tip from this board.
Mouse
Amazing!!!! What an extraordinary update Mouse. Your brownish reddish hair looks fabulous.The waves and fullness to it is just amazing. It is evident that you take great care of your hair. You have came a long way and I'd like to congratulate you for doing so. 1 year is definitely a milestone. I truly agree with, David N. You have contributed so much to this community. I'd like to thank you for doing so and I'd also like to thank you for the support you have given me since day one. You have been with me every step of the way. In fact, I don't think you have EVER missed any of my updates! Thank you so much, Mouse.
You know, I believe my first post ever on the board was a response to you. It's easy to be a part of the community because everyone is so accepting.
Thanks for the compliments and support, Chris. I look forward to staying a few months behind you for another year!
Mouse
Wow Mouse. That is terrific progress from a buzz cut in only a year. Thanks for sharing your triumph with all of us. Looks great!
Thanks for being there to support my efforts. Now that the hair is [generally] obeying the call of gravity I'm sure the next year will be even more fun.
Mouse
Congrats! That's some great hair you have there so keep growing it. It's only getting better and better over time :)
Thanks! I'm looking forward to the next year of growth.
Mouse
Hi Mouse,
Firstly, I want to say what a genuine pleasure it has been to have you here at MLHH. You're so positive and a lovely addition to our community.
Your hair is looking spectacular in this update. May I add that you are a very attractive woman. Your longer hair and eventually very long hair is so gorgeous and adds much to your attractiveness.
Jason
Thanks, Jason.
You should know that while I haven't settled on a goal length yet, you've inspired me to grow it long enough to do cool braids.
Mouse
Wonderful and congratulations, Mouse! You've been so patient during this past year, and you certainly have gorgeous results to show for it. Another year and your hair will be spectacular. =)
-James
Thanks, James. It has taken some patience, but not really as much as I thought (and certainly not as much as guys growing their hair out need). I've settled into a routine, I've accepted that my hair won't always be "pefect," and that seems to make the process a little smoother.
Mouse
Wow Mouse! You've passed a year and everything looks perfect, long hair suits you a thousand times better:)
Keep up the good work!
Simon
Thanks, Simon! For years I swore that I'd never grow my hair out, that it wouldn't be worth the trouble, that it wouldn't suit me. And now that it's longer, I like it and can't imagine going back to the buzz cut.
Mouse
Wow, Mouse! What an update. The tails really make the update, IMO - both the ponytail and the half-tail look great, but the half-tail really steals the show. It's just beautiful on you. It somehow makes your hair look longer than in any of the other pics, and seems to confirm that you've actually reached a fair distance on your journey to longhair-dom. I just love that half-tail, haha. The ponytail is nice, too - it's got that look of "controlled messiness" we get in the awkward stage.
Great update. Thanks for sharing it. But the question must be asked: is Sage really sage?
(That didn't come out as funny as it sounded in my mind, lol....)
Peace
I hadn't thought much of the half-tail, but based on the comments I've been getting perhaps I should start wearting it as a regular style.
"Controlled messiness" definitely describes the ponytail too, lol!
Sage is tortoise shell colored. Actually, I named her that thinking of the meaning "wise one"...and then I end up with a cat who chases her own tail. Alas...she's smart in her own way I guess. ;-)
Thanks!
Hehe, that's the meaning I was thinking of. She must be wise, if she doesn't actually catch her tail in her teeth.
OK sorry about the blank post above as I hit the wrong key!LOL.Anyway your hair looks outstanding for the first full year and it shows that the best way to grow long hair is to LET it grow and not be trimming it constantly.I had no idea that you started with a buzz cut as that makes this update even more impressive.Well do keep it up and I will look forward to your next update.Whats the goal by the way?Mark
Yep, 3/4 inch buzz (a bit shorter on the sides and sandpapery feeling in the back). I don't have a real goal lenth at this point, but whatever length I have in mind as a minimum keeps getting longer. Originally I wanted it to be long enough for a full tail. Now I'm thinking at least long enough to do some cool braids.
Thanks for the compliments, Mark!
Mouse
Hi Mouse,
Your hair looks great. I had no idea you had started with a buzz cut! This is tremendous for only one year. I can't wait to see what another brings.
The great color and shine are all there, and you look pleased in the photos too. Cute cat as well.
3/4 inch buzz, but I've since put the clippers away for good.
Thanks Matt! Whne can we expect an update from you?
Mouse
Congratulations. I envy you because women can put all kinds of practical plastic clip things in their hair at this point, to keep it from blowing all over the place in the wind and getting tangled. They also have hair nets. Here the wind blows almost all the time. Eventually hair gets long enough to stay in a tie but mine isn't there yet. I just have to stick it out until then. No, I'm not going to wear a hair net or some orange plastic clip : )
Thanks!
I actually haven't gotten the hang of clips and such yet. I can manage an alice band (though I don't wear that every day) and ponytail binders, but that's about it. I've played around with pins and clips but nothing ever seems to look or feel right. I didn't grow up with long hair so I'm learning all of this along the way. I am excited for the Ren Fest this year so I can buy a neat hairpiece or two, but I'll have to have a friend or my sister show me how to use it! Oh, and no hair nets for me either. :-)
Mouse
Have you always had auburn hair? Or was it redder when you were younger?
My hair is now about the length yours is, but not as thick and full as yours. I had some problems that were causing me excessive thinning, so my scalp is now visible on the crown of my head. But I have a bunch of new short hairs growing in, following treatment for those problems, so rather than cutting it to chin length, like I have been, I'm ignoring it and waiting it out to see what it does. I have always had really babyfine and thin hair.
Sage the Tortie doesn't look too happy being held. My Calico named Calleigh doesn't like being held either. She's a great lap kitty and bed buddy, but hates being picked up and held in anyones arms.
Carol
It was actually blond when I was younger and then it transitioned to auburn during elementary school.
Good luck with the hair treatments, and I'd agree that just letting it grow it the best choice. My hair used to be babyfine as well, but when it went from blond to aburn it also got really thick.
She's actually pretty cool with being held, but I messed up a few camera shots prior to that one and she was getting impatient. I should've just put her on my shoulder where I KNOW she'd be happy.
Thanks Carol, and good luck growing your hair out!
Mouse
Hi Mouse, nice update.Your hair is looking great, and the condition of it is top notch.Well done for making the 1 year mark, it is a landmark to be proud of. Hope you are well, take care ,Jonny H uk
Thanks, Jonny! I'm happy to have made it this far. Say, aren't you due for an update soon?
Mouse
Hi
Mouse
Your hair grown is incredible for one years growth your buzzcut days have well and truly gone lol never knew a female that had a buzzcuts before I always though just guys that had buzzcuts so I was kind of shocked to read you use to have buzzcuts sounds YUCK to me anyway Great update of your ever growing mane Thanks for Sharing to !
Axel
Thanks, Axel!
Yeah, most women don't do buzzcuts, but there are a few of us out there. Those days are behind me though.
Mouse
Hi Mouse
I love the update especially the pic of the mouse with the cat. LOL
Kevin
Thanks, Kevin! I enjoy having fun with the "cat and mouse" theme once in a while. I have two of them. Pictured is the shorthair tortoise shell, and I have a medium hair orange tabby too.
Mouse
you look so pretty!!! :) i bet you would look super cute with pigtails. and your hair is long enough now that you could do double french braids. it's time to start some real experimenting!!
peace,
nic - your long-haired sister
Oh, I play around with stuff, but I'm still getting the hang of putting in a nice ponytail. The best I've done with braiding so far was to braid my bangs, LOL! I'm actually REALLY looking forward to the Ren Faire this year so I can pick up some nifty hair pieces.
Thanks for the support, Nic, and I'm sure that I'll be having more fun with it as it gets even longer.
Mouse
Looking good, Mouse! You've got some beautiful color there. Congrats on how far you've come and more power to you for the future! :-)
--
Splat
Thanks! I see length in my future...more length...
Mouse
Wow, terrific pictures Mouse, I had no idea your hair was red, the avatar doesn't do it justice. The back pic gives the best idea of how shiny and colorful and healthy it really is.
You have beautiful hair Mouse! [Hey I can say you have beautiful hair, some words I just don't feel comfortable saying to a man, call me old fashioned :) Does anybody else have reluctance about using certain words for one gender that are ok with the other, like "beautiful"? ]
Thanks, Chris! I think I need to adjust my monitor settings because I just don't see much red in the pictures, but everyone else seem to, LOL.
Yeah, beautiful is typically used with females. As for other words, I certainly wouldn't call a woman handsome (unless I thought she'd appreciate it), and I think most guys would smack you if you called them "petite" no matter how fine their frame. There's probably a whole host of culturally accepted linguistic rules....most of which lay in wait to trip the unsuspecting foreigner. :-)
Mouse
Hey Mouse ...
Excellent job. Your hair is growing in nicely. The pictures are proof positive that it is all worth it in the end..
Be Blessed..
Tristan
Thanks, Tristan! It really does seem to be worth it.
Aren't you due for an update soon?
Mouse
Hey Mouse, your hair is looking super! I've always loved red/ auburn hair. I guess its' basically my color too, except for the gray! Your hair is going to be superb when you reach your goal, it has fullness and a rich quality. Congratulations at one year. Here's to many more!
Bruce
Thanks, Bruce. Just think of the gray as well-earned natural highlights. ;-)
Mouse