Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: The Tale of a First Haircut

Masaya, looking like Troy Polamalu before his first haircut 

Hello friends!!! We're on a roll here, trying to enjoy all that the end of summer has to offer. And with adventures in back to school, comes the very first haircut. At least that's what it meant for my son Masaya.

Let's go back a little though. Now for those of you who are not familiar with Masaya, his hair is his thing. Folks all over Buffalo know my son by his long, curly hair. And honestly, he loves the attention.

He loves getting it wet, loves the texture of it and don't get me started on him shaking it around if a song he loves comes on. His hair has always been a source of pride for him, because it has always been something he has had sole control over. That if and when he cut his hair, the decision would be his. Well, that day came a few weeks ago, when I just randomly asked him if he wanted to cut his hair. He turned to me and said so calmly "Yes mommy, I do." I was shocked frankly, since my son has NEVER cut his hair. He loves his hair, we love his hair, the world loves his hair. When I asked him why, he thought about it for a moment and said "I just want a change for a little bit." And here's the kicker. He looked at me and said "I want to help the sick girl in TV", referring to a childhood cancer commercial, "I want her to have my hair." Ladies and gentlemen can I tell you it took all my will power not to start balling in front of him. A four and a half year old making such mature choices...it was a sight to behold and I couldn't have been prouder.

I made an appointment for him at the fabulous Lexington Salon in Elmwood Village. Not only is this boutique salon stylish and urban, but it's so close in our neighborhood, that we could walk there. And any parent knows that convenience is key with kids. We popped over for our 3:30pm appointment and I just have to say how impressed I was with not only the salon, but the staff as well. The sleek salon is home to two amazing professionals. John, along with his partner Liz, have created such a warm and welcoming environment, you would never dream of going anywhere else. As soon as we stepped in, we felt confident and relaxed. John was outstanding, making Masaya feel comfortable and at ease. Not only is he a great stylist, but he was a total professional from beginning to end. Once everything was said and done John bagged the hair for me (side note: if you're interested in donating hair, Lexington Salon can take of it for you or you can send it off yourself. BONUS!) and we were on our way, with a new look and big spring in our step.

John from Lexington Salon working his magic on Masaya

 I'm glad my son kept his hair long for all these years. I always felt that in his own way he was breaking down gender stereotypes. Saying to the world, boys can have long hair too. But more importantly, I'm glad that he understands that no matter how he wears his hair he is still my strong, beautiful Masaya...through and through. 

Love Malinda xo

The final result

*For more information or to contact John or Liz for an appointment please visit http://www.lexingtonsalonbuffalo.com/default.html or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lexington-Salon/360950830646515?ref=hl

And to donate to Pantene Beautiful Lengths, visit them at http://pantene.com/en-us/brandexperience/make-the-cut