The Salon

My sister offered to take me to her salon so I can have my hair colored and cut by a reliable hairdresser in time for the upcoming wedding. What a generous offer. She picked me up and we headed out to the east side of the city, stopping first to grab a bite of lunch at Wegmans and catch up on Mom's status and the ongoing emptying of Mom's house so that it can be sold to cover the cost of her upkeep.

Then we headed across the street to a strip mall where the salon is housed. The minute I walked in I knew I was out of my league. Everything was chrome and glass and very upscale. The hairdressers wore the latest couture including shoes with tall heels and fashionable designs. I gulped, realizing I had probably not dressed appropriately. After all, coloring one's hair can be messy so I didn't wear anything particularly good.

We are greeted by name and directed to our clinicians. First, I get a cut. There is not much to cut, really. My hair does not grow well after all the chemo and radiation damage. It is still pretty thin and fragile. But my stylist knows immediately how to address my messed up hair. First, she uses a shampoo and conditioner especially designed for "mature and damaged hair." I am surprised at the difference that makes. Then she snips away at my mop, taking very little off, but when she is done, the cut is extraordinary. I look much better already!

On to the color specialist. I show her my wig. I have received so many compliments when I wear it that I think the color is a good one for me. She sizes me up in the wig, then mixes up her magic and applies it to my head. She takes great care to ensure that the application is done well and even. And then I sit for a half hour while it takes effect. It does not smell anywhere as pungent as other colors I have had done, and it does not burn either. But it seems so black!

Another treatment with special shampoos including one that immediately cures any damage the color may have done. Interesting. This is the royal treatment for sure. Then I am whisked away for drying and styling. They use a special thickener spritz and (you didn't hear this from me) a spray powder that covers my bald spots and makes them the same color as my hair instead of the blinding skin white.

I look in the mirror, and I scarcely know who I am. Wow! What a lift to feel like you look good for a change. On the way out, my sister hands me two bags of products that they have used on me today. What a sweetheart! And we have an appointment for another round right before the wedding. Thanks, Jan, for being so considerate. I would not have known where to go even if I could have afforded such a wonderful treat.