Because You Asked I Answer YOUR 4 Questions. Got Anymore?

/ Ally Bean

I’d hoped to have beautiful fall photos to share this week, but we’ve had an unusually warm fall and the trees have barely begun to turn colors. It’s not so pretty yet.   

Instead I’ll toss this out here. I was working on this before I took my break, intending on joining with other bloggers who were doing this. That is, asking for then answering, your questions.

• • •

• • •

1: DID YOU EVER GET YOUR HAIR CUT?

I finally got my hair cut with Janelle. That’s the good news. The bad news is that she’s retiring, so it was a bittersweet appointment. We finally saw each other after all these pandemic months to laugh together one last time, then say good-bye probably forever.

2: WHY HAVE YOU BEGUN TO OCCASIONALLY USE ALL CAPITAL LETTERS IN YOUR WRITING?

Earlier this year a friend with lousy eyesight suggested that I needed to use more capital letters in my writing, spelling entire words with them. She knew they’re considered shouting, but she also likes to be able to read text easily.

I thought about her suggestion and realized she made a good point about visual clarity on little screens. Thus I  determined that quiet little me could, and should, shout more, but not all the time in an exhausting way, just sometimes for emphasis.

And you know what? I’ve learned IT’S FUN TO SHOUT.

3: IS ZEN-DEN A BUDDHIST?

No, Z-D isn’t a Buddhist. Like me he’s a lapsed Presbyterian. His nickname comes from my college roommate who used to call him Den-Den. Once he and I married I began to call him Zen-Den because of his ability to listen to my overwrought angst-ridden woes, then summarize my problem in one short sentence, like a Zen koan.

4: DOES THE DRAGON HAVE A NAME?

Kind of, maybe, probably yes. [Photos of him here and here]

You see, at first I tried to name him using this how to create a dragon name formula, but that name didn’t roll off the tongue. So in a post introducing my video directorial debut I asked you, my gentle readers, to name him. There were many great ideas, however none of them stuck.

In the meantime, whilst I was on my quixotic quest for a profoundly meaningful dragon name, Z-D began to refer to him, quite simply, as Drags. While not the most highbrow name, I’ll admit it suits this goofy dragon.

Thus he’s now known as Drags.

• • •

Do you have more questions for me? Leave them in the comments below and I’ll try to answer them to your satisfaction.

COMMENTS CLOSED: No longer taking questions but many thanks to those gentle readers who played along here. It’s been fun.

 

182 thoughts on “Because You Asked I Answer YOUR 4 Questions. Got Anymore?”

  1. 1. No
    2. NO
    3. No
    4. I like the name.

    For better or worse, I am a simple man. My question for you – why did it take me so long to embrace the joy of plaid flannel pajama bottoms? Thank you for finally getting me to see the light.

    Liked by 5 people

  2. I’m just leaving a comment to say ‘good morning’ 🙂

    I have absolutely nothing pithy to say … although when I read the Jimmy Buffet quote in this post, my first thought was ‘the fruitcake in me, recognizes the fruitcake in you’. Carry on 😉

    Liked by 6 people

  3. You have my sympathy re: your loss of someone whose hair-cutting made you happy. Finding a new stylist may be more anxiety producing than finding a new doctor. Of course, a messed up haircut is easier to repair than a botched surgery, but still…

    Liked by 3 people

    • Linda, yes, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Janelle and I have been together for decades, through thick and thin [literally and figuratively]. I wish her well, of course– BUT NOW WHAT? I’m living in denial and have yet to begin the search for a new stylist.

      Liked by 2 people

  5. I’ve switched to cutting my own hair. Not that I like to but at least it’s sort of the way I like it. I went to someone for a couple years and she did well with my hair which is wavy. Last two haircuts were dreadful. I had to recut. She tried to get me to cut to one layer. That makes me look like a mushroom. Not sure what happened but I’m blaming it on the pandemic.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Kate, I know a couple of women who’ve decided to cut their own hair now, but I’m reluctant to try. My hair is curly/frizzy/wavy so mistakes kind of hide in there though. I know what you mean about looking like a mushroom. If my hair is too short, I instantly look like one– and it is NOT FLATTERING.

      Liked by 2 people

      • My hair is thickest around the back. A blunt one-length cut makes me look like a cross between a shittake and a tree mushroom. The current style seems to be bangs flat against the head which makes me look like a 6 year old. I invested in a 3-way mirror so I can see the back but that’s the biggest challenge.

        Liked by 3 people

        • Good idea about the mirror. I hadn’t thought of that variable in cutting your hair at home. I don’t wear bangs, ever.

          I’ve noticed that the under 30 crowd wear center parts, while the over 30 crowd & up wear side parts. There must be something generational with that.

          Liked by 3 people

  6. Oh my goodness. I’ve had the same barber for 39 years! I can’t begin to wrap my head around the idea that he might someday – way off in the future – retire. Will you ever get your hair cut again?

    Liked by 4 people

  8. Mushroom head! I believe you and Kate have finally defined my style. I am grateful and now must decide if I want to be a boxed brownish-red mushroom or simply allow my head to fade into the forest floor mulch with silvery gray.

    Liked by 4 people

    • nance, I am trying to take Janelle’s retirement in stride, but I am sad. She got me and she got my hair. *sigh*

      Good on you for figuring out Z-D’s nickname. It used to be just between the two of us, but when I started blogging it seemed natural to call him that.

      Liked by 1 person

    • Eilene, thank you for asking this question. I have a goal, something I’ve wanted to do for years, and it involves winter weather– probably not in a way you might guess.

      I’d like for us to have a winter breakfast picnic in our screened-in porch while it is snowy and glittery outside. I want to take the coffee maker + the waffle maker out there to make fresh coffee and waffles while we dine at an elegantly set table that uses our fancy stuff.

      I think it’d be charming and stylish. A goof, but one that’d make for good IG photos.

      Liked by 2 people

  11. Lots of diversity here in the post and in the comments. However, I’ll respond to one about using all caps occasionally: “I thought about her suggestion and realized she made a good point about visual clarity on little screens.” Adaptable Ally, that’s you! ((( )))

    Liked by 3 people

    • Marian, I’ve hesitated to use caps because I didn’t want to be rude, but friend has an excellent point. No matter how clear the computer/phone screen is, a few caps couldn’t hurt a thing. Might even HELP her by providing visual breaks of a sort in the text.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. I love reading your answers to these questions. I especially love that ZenDen left a comment here answering the questions as well.
    My step-daughter cut my hair the other day, and I’ve been awake at night bummed out about the most horrible haircut I’ve ever gotten. The WORST! It was a spur of the moment request, and oy what a mess. I actually googled to see how quickly hair grows… 1/2 inch a month. I’ll be happy in about six months.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Robin, some people have the gift to cut hair, others [most of us] do not. I’m sorry about your haircut but fascinated to know that hair grows 1/2″ per month. If nothing else you now have something to look forward to next spring. Perhaps not the most soothing thought, but at least I managed to spin this debacle positive. 😉

      Like

  13. When my stylist retired a year ago, I went crazy and let my hair go gray and grow long. What freedom! I recently went back to the same salon which is in an old house with a big front porch and a porch swing. Got a good cut but I really went back for the swing. Looking forward to some fall pics from up your way. Florida is so boring in the fall…tree wise.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Anna, I get about the freedom that comes with long hair. I’m beginning to realize how much time I spent [wasted?] styling my short hairstyle. I’d go back for the porch swing, too. That sounds like quintessential southern charm.

      I have my fingers crossed about the leaves turning colors. Maybe by next weekend it’ll be pretty here. I do like to go on an autumn outing specifically to snap photos of the trees.

      Liked by 1 person

  14. Ally – What did you/do you do for employment? And did your job/employment make you happy?

    I’m sorry about the loss of a trusted hair care professional. I’ve had my challenges in getting someone new. I’m currently going to the woman who I found to cut Curly’s hair. Curly’s hair is CRAZY curl, where as mine used to be curly and now has body on a good day. Still, this woman knows her stuff.

    I love that dragon.

    I have a cousin named Dennis and we called him Den. I love Den-Den. Coach’s real first name is the same first name as my brother and of his own father. An abundance of Coaches. To keep things clear, I often refer to him by his/our last name. That’s what we called him in high school. Our real last name is cool and high school boys with this last name are rarely called by their first name once they hit junior high. Anyway, when I tell a story that involves my brother and Coach and I refer to Coach as ‘Shenanigan’, friends sometimes stop me and ask me DID YOU JUST REFER TO COACH AS SHENANIGAN? Why, yes I did. To keep you from getting confused because of the many Coach-like names in the tale I’m trying to tell.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Ernie, good questions. Thank you.

      I never had a career per se, I worked at jobs when I could find them, often staying for years. I was a waitress, paralegal, marketer, merchandizer, sales rep, retail store manager, non-profit fundraiser, and primary caregiver for my mother when she died of cancer. After that I went on to be an executrix, our project manager when we had this house built, and now a writer of ye olde bloggy. Some jobs made me happy, many were just a way to pay the bills. 🤷‍♀️

      If you’ve found a stylist who can cut curly hair you’re doing great. They are few and far between in my experience.

      Your family name, and the confusion it causes, sounds like SNL skit in the making. I know that you and yours are making the best of the situation, and laughing about along the way. What else are you going to do?

      Liked by 1 person

  16. That was a FUN post! I always wondered about Zen-Den’s name (I pictured him as a calm person) but PUFF THE MAGIC DRAGON is really Drags? I’ve lost two excellent hair dressers (one went back to school and one now has three little ones) and my current one is retirement age…not brave enough to cut my own hair but I do attempt my bangs once in awhile.

    Liked by 2 people

  17. May I compliment you on your directorial debut? Very smooth!

    I never went back to my hairdresser after Covid. I had gone to her for 28 years, so yes, I essentially ghosted her. I have a friend who lives nearby and cuts my hair for half the price. I’m considering sending my hairdresser a Christmas card, apologizing that I’m no longer going to her salon. It’s a weird situation.

    Question? I don’t know you well enough to ask anything specific to you. How about this: if we went to Panera together, what would you order?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Bijoux, thank for the compliment. I want to do more with videos, but have put it off until the winter when cabin fever sets in.

      I don’t think it’s odd to want to send a Christmas card to your former hairstylist, explaining yourself. After all those years you have a relationship that needs closure. Plus the stylist might be wondering if you’re well after the pandemic, would put this person’s mind at ease.

      At Panera I’d have a turkey sandwich on wheat, no cheese. A bag of potato chips, ’cause this is a special lunch with you. And a cup of their hazelnut coffee, black. I’m not much for sweets so I’ll pass on the cookie.

      Like

  18. I feel your pain re: losing a long-time hairdresser. I had to say goodbye to my hairdresser (and good friend) of 30+ YEARS, when I moved to the Wet Coast. My hair is still working actively to forgive me.
    However, I HAVE SURVIVED. You are right. It is fun to shout. 😜 CUTE POST!

    Deb

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, I’m sure that your long-time hairstylist understood why you moved, but what a loss for both of you. Still, we all move on.

      As for SHOUTING I actively avoided doing it for years, but now feel like it’s time to do so. Like I said, we all move on in our own ways. YAY!

      Like

  19. In my opinion, a judicious use of caps can enhance a post and give inflection/emotion to our thoughts. I wouldn’t know what to do if my hairdresser retired, but she’s way too young to do so. Fingers crossed! I thought ZD was a nickname you had for him for the blog; I didn’t realize you actually called him that. 🙂 Does he call you Ally Bean?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Margaret, I’ve always avoided caps but my friend’s reasoning made sense to me. Plus I like how you say they “give inflection/emotion to our thoughts.” WORD

      Yes, Z-D calls me Ally Bean, but also my legal name, too. I do the same with him, choosing whichever name, nickname or legal, seems appropriate to the conversation. To make things even more complex he has a family nickname, too. I rarely use that.

      Liked by 1 person

  22. I really, really think Drags is a great name. It just… works. I was nervous when I got my first haircut but was relieved when the stylist told me she was vaxxed. However, each time I go for a cut now I still remain nervous. I never thought haircuts were an intimate experience, but in the time of covid I realize that they actually are. I have three questions, but only the first two are real:

    (1) Are there any occasions in which you will wear a baseball cap?

    (2) You’re in an ethnic restaurant (i.e. Italian, Mexican, Chinese). A hamburger is on the menu. Is it within the realm of possibility that you might ever order it?

    (3) “Do you like scallops or me?” This was an actual question that my college roommates and I asked female friends who visited our senior year apartment. One of the roommates studied hotel-restaurant management. It was ostensibly funny at the time. – Marty

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marty, Drags seems to be the perfect name. So obvious, but I missed it. You’re right about how haircuts are more personal than I’d ever realized. Chalk up another awareness, courtesy of Covid-19.

      (1) I wear baseball hats when I go for walks. I have a few, in pretty colors of course. They keep the sun off my face and out of my eyes.

      (2) I like most ethnic cuisines so I probably wouldn’t order a burger UNLESS everything on the menu was fried. Then I’d go for the burger because [presumably] less fat.

      (3) I love this question and within the context of college it makes perfect sense. Ha!

      Liked by 1 person

    • Laurie, yes, I think about when my ob-gyn and dermatologist retire, too. It’s gotta be soon. My PCP is now a woman in her 30s. Love her, but I do miss the old guy before her. We had history.

      Like

  25. Woof, sorry about Janelle’s retirement.

    Questions! I have them! First, what do you love the most about the place where you live? Second, what is your favourite genre of music/ favourite song? Third, do you have an all-time favourite book? If so, what is it and why do you love it?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nicole, great questions.

      First, I like how still the vibe is here. Not like inside a tomb still, just generally quiet even when kids are playing and mowers are running. Can’t really explain it, it’s just a chill place to live and I like it.

      Second, I like jazz and rock and some country. I’m not fussy about music.

      Third, this is a difficult question to answer. I’ll answer it by saying that I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith is a book that inspired me to think of myself as a writer. None before gave me the confidence to just write my stuff, so for that reason I’ll say it’s my favorite.

      Like

  26. I still haven’t gotten a haircut. One place in town has a website with many many photos of their cuts. Which are all identical. Nope. Not going there.

    I think most devices allow you to increase your font size. Though, honestly, I don’t care one way or the other.

    Hmm. I wondered that too. Did you know that Zazzy came from when I was practicing Zazen meditation? Zazamataz was a nickname a friend gave me based on that nick. A nickname for a nickname. Yup,

    I think you should hug him and squeeze him and call him George. But Drags is cool, too.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Zazzy, I saw an advertisement for a hair salon around here that showed what you’re talking about. All five stylists looked like carbon copies of each other. Weird

      After a certain point you can no longer increase your font size. I believe that’s what this friend was on about, the source of her frustration.

      I didn’t know Zazzy was a nickname. How cool is that? And you have a nickname for your nickname. That’s taking it to the next level.

      I remember that cartoon! Thanks for the laugh.

      Liked by 1 person

  28. I too finally went to see my hairdresser almost 6 weeks ago and my next appointment which I am keeping is Friday. To my surprise she moved to a new location. During the pandemic the salon’s owner opened a second salon. How crazy good is that!!

    I like Drags. I think it fits too.

    I love, love, love that quote by Jimmy Buffet! 😀

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deborah, it’s encouraging to read that a small business is expanding, especially with so many closing during the last year and a half.

      I agree that Drags is a great name for the dragon. I just didn’t see it straightaway. The JB lyric makes me smile every time I read it or hear him sing it. So true, can’t deny it.

      Liked by 1 person

  29. It’s lovely to see you back 🙂 Not that I’ve posted that often myself, really since you went. I haven’t been to the hairdresser in years and saved a load of money over it :p I like your thoughts over internet shouting. It seemed like in the early days of the internet it was a big thing over internet norm but since everyone seemed to get online, I don’t really see it mentioned much anymore and I agree with you over access to reading text. Caps often are easier for people to access.

    I LOVE (caps lol) asking and answering questions. So let’s do this. Feel free to reply to all or some/any, etc.

    1. Have you ever randomly met any of your blog friends in person by accident, like a hey is this the Spectangled Bean way?

    2. What did you do that you wouldn’t usually as a result of the blog break?

    3. How did you get into WP/blogging to begin with?

    4. What is one subject you always feel spark and joy in discussing?

    5. Over being relatively newer friends on here, what is one important thing you’d love to share and me know about you/understand about you?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Katy, I’m beginning to realize how much money I’m saving by letting my hair grow long. Never realized it before the pandemic, happy to know it now.

      You make a good point about how capitalization used to be considered inconsiderate but it isn’t anymore. I don’t sense that I’ll be using it all the time but I’m giving myself permission to use when I want.

      ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS:

      1. Yes, I randomly met a blog friend and it wasn’t a good experience. I knew who she was because she posted photos of herself, she had no idea who I was. I went into a large store not realizing she worked there. She approached me; treated me, the customer, like a bother; talked on her phone while supposedly waiting on me; then lied to another customer in front of me. I didn’t bother to introduce myself, and left the store quickly.

      2. I slept more.

      3. In a nutshell, I knew about academic blogging from research I did in the late 90s. I n 2004 I decided to see if I could create and write a personal blog after I read an encouraging article about them in an Australian newspaper. I started on Blogger, moved to Typepad, flirted with Tumbler, then ended up on WP.

      4. I love to talk about interior design, which I rarely do here anymore. But that’s what I call my passion.

      5. I write this blog for fun, not profit. I like to write and this space allows me to do so– and generate some conversations as a result of it. I talk about some of the things that happen in my life, but not all of them. The Spectacled Bean isn’t a diary, it’s a lifestyle column that you might find in a newspaper.

      YOU ASK GREAT QUESTIONS. Thanks for playing along here.

      Liked by 1 person

      • It was fun to read your answers. Interior design is an interesting topic to be passionate about. Oh wow at the random strange meet that wasn’t so great and that is interesting over how you run your blog. I like how it’s a lifestyle column and enjoy learning more about you in the process 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

        • Thanks Katy. You’re kind. I do what I can here to balance my privacy with my desire to have a public blog. The lifestyle column concept seems like the best way for me to do so.

          Like

    • Jan, I like your questions. I thought I saw a ghost once, but cannot really confirm that. I was half asleep at the time. Drags is a quiet dragon who spends most of his time near the kitchen hoping for snacks, so he doesn’t seem to crave bedtime stories.

      I love, love, love Hocus Pocus BUT as for a real scary movie I’d go with The Birds. That’s one creepy movie, even today I still shudder when I see it.

      Liked by 1 person

  31. Ally, I believe we have commiserated over the loss of our hair stylists before (my fav moved to Florida, THE NERVE! And his replacement quit during lockdown). My hair hasn’t been professionally cut since December 2019! (Yikes!). I finally broke down and bought hair scissors and carefully snipped a few of the more scraggly ends – I think the curls hide any mistakes (keep the illusion alive please). We’ll see if I ever feel safe enough to go get a hair cut again (or an eye exam for that matter) in the future.

    I’ve read about the using capital letters to aid those with sight impairments – particularly when using hashtags. It makes sense…so have at it.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Gigi, I get your concern. I felt comfortable with Janelle because I’ve known her for so long, but after her hip replacement surgery her gig is up. I am now adrift. Sorry your stylist moved to FL, as if that’s a good idea.

      I have an eye doctor appointment in December. I really need to check my eyeglasses prescription so I’m willing to risk the experience. As for caps, my friend presented a good case for using them. Thus I shall do so on occasion.

      Like

  32. I was almost as excited to see my stylist again after lockdown as I was to see my parents and friends (and the ‘almost’ is a lie). I’m so sorry for your imminent loss!
    My son had stuffed animals named “Charlie, Teddy, Duckie and Other Teddy” so I support your choices in naming a thing basically what it is.

    Liked by 2 people

    • bibliomama2, your son’s stuffy is Other Teddy? I LOVE it. Why make anything more complicated than it need be? As for your stylist vs family… I get it. Gotta go with what makes you feel whole.

      Like

  33. How did I miss the all-caps in two posts Ally? Well, the first time I was surprised you had returned; the second time, I read of the misfortune in the ‘hood so I guess I read between the (all-capped) lines.

    I did ponder on Zen-Den’s name and thought it was an alias that was unique in some way, but not as generic as “Mister” or “the Beloved Husband” the names used by Shelley and Kate for their mates.

    I was allergic to stuffed animals as a child and couldn’t have them. There is one picture of me next to a big bear and I was on a pillow and shortly thereafter they were verboten and all were removed. However … years of allergy shots later, my mom and I were at a department store and happened upon a cute teddy bear. She bought it and said “because, poor thing, you were denied as a kid, here’s a bear for you now.” Mom probably regretted that impulsive buy because we named it and it got center stage on the dresser. She began to buy me one for Christmas and birthday every year. I bought some on my own; friends/neighbors all contributed to the collection. I stopped at 52 bears and have a few pictures of the entire crew and one day will probably write a post about them.

    As to the haircut, I contacted Jill, the stylist I’ve gone to for years, about two weeks ago. I left a voicemail and phone # that “I was ready to come back and I’d not had a professional haircut nor highlights since October 2019 and could I come in next Wednesday?” I never heard back and I have her e-mail (she follows my blog) so I shot her an e-mail later that day No response. She/husband own the shop and it’s just them. They asked their customers to follow them on Facebook, so I sent a message to Jim, who runs the FB page. No response. I told myself “it wasn’t meant to be; I’ll keep cutting my own hair and find someone else in the Spring as it’s hat weather!”

    Liked by 2 people

    • Linda, I started using more caps in my writing last spring after I thought about my friend’s suggestion. Come to find out it’s no big deal. [pun intended]

      I’m sorry you were deprived of teddy bears and other stuffies as a child but you’ve made up for it, haven’t you? I’m laughing here at the thought of 52 bears. So many eyes looking at you!

      I agree with you that if Jill and her husband haven’t returned your calls/emails/messages then your haircut is not meant to be. Maybe they’re out of business– or have retired. Just stick a hat on your head and wait. That’s a good solution.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I probably did appreciate all caps at the end of a day parked in front of the keyboard. I often adjust the type so it’s a little larger and easier on the eyes as the evening goes on as I am using a laptop.

        Yes, 52 of them – some are small (just 6 inches) and others are in various sizes and encroach into other rooms. Oops! Most important is that I named them, which I meant to say since you wrote about your Dragon’s name.

        I don’t understand what is going on with Jill and Jim. They’re younger than me, so I doubt they retired and they’ve been in biz for years in a really cute, small vintage-style shop. I won’t sweat it though – I have done the important appointments, so will just grin and bear it. 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

        • On my desktop computer I’ve permanently set my font to the largest one. I decided that I could do that even though I may not *technically* need to do it. It makes everything so much easier all day long.

          You’ve named 52 teddy bears? Oh you crack me up. Would that I had a mind sharp enough to remember 52 of anything!

          Your hairstylists sound like they have a wonderful location for their business– if they’re still in business. Who knows? Love your pun, btw. 🧸

          Liked by 1 person

          • Yes, it’s surprising what a difference it makes. If I ever start using the Windows 10 laptop it is two inches bigger and less “edge” so that will be great for my eyes. I find Outlook at work very small with a pale font.

            Yes, I named each one, some with funny names from songs or Victorian names. The Boyd’s Bears always cme with fun names, so I kept their “given name” and yes, my mind is not as sharp as those days. 🙂

            They are on a main street and I look when I drive by, but they have low lights inside, so I can’t see much. Years ago a former co-worker, who knew my penchant for teddy bears, bought me a box of chocolates called “Grin and Bear It” – each chocolate was a bear grinning and you flipped it over and it was a bare bear bum. Very clever and I hated to eat them.

            Liked by 1 person

  34. No more flannel pajamas now that we live in Arizona, although they are out at our local Costco. I’ll just be happy when it gets cool enough to put on a bit heavier blanket. 🙂

    Finding new stylist is the worst. When we moved (April 2020, I hadn’t been to my stylist for about 6 months and because we moved our move date up due to Covid, I didn’t get my last cut in. I wasn’t going to find one during the worst of Covid and I finally looked at a couple of cut-you-own-hair videos online and gave it a try. Amazingly it went rather well and I didn’t go to a stylist until I visited our daughter in southern California for the first time since we moved. I was quite chuffed to have the stylist give me an A- for cutting my own hair. 🙂 I went to her again during my visit a month or so ago and although that cut came out shorter and a bit different than the first, it looks pretty good and will be able to grow out for a good long time.

    janet

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, I bet life in AZ is very different from the midwest. I understand why you didn’t get your last haircut in before you left.

      I’m thrilled to know that you’ve found a good stylist and one who complimented you, too. It’s funny how life works out sometimes. I admire you for cutting your own hair. I’ve watched some of those videos but decided that hair cutting was above my pay grade.

      Like

      • Ally, saying life is very different in AZ from the Midwest is so true. Doesn’t mean one’s better than the other but they are rather different.

        I was driven to trying to cut my hair but only did a little the first time. When it turned out well, I did a bit more. It depends a lot on what type of hair and cut you have. I’d never try layering!

        Liked by 2 people

        • I’ve known a few people from around here who went to college in AZ. Some stayed, some moved back to the midwest. I hear stories about the state. I’ve been to Phoenix once. It was too hot and dry and sunny for me, a hothouse orchid.

          Good advice. I have about a million layers on my curly/frizzy hair. I’m going to wait until I can find a new stylist.

          Like

  36. Hey – great point about using UPPER CASE for the folks with Visual impairments, even if you are shouting. There are plenty of adaptive aids out there (my former work area) but for those who are unable to afford or use such devices/apps/software, it will help.
    Drags is a fun name for Dragon. Simple yet memorable. No doubt he will pick it up quickly. Lol.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Amanda, I’d never thought about how caps could aid someone who had trouble reading text online. It made sense so I’m DOING IT occasionally. Plus the whole idea of quiet me shouting makes me smile.

      Drags is a name that fits the dragon. It took us a while to get to it but it works.

      Liked by 1 person

    • Bosssybabe, I decided to take a break from blogging because I couldn’t think straight. I felt overwhelmed, the words wouldn’t flow. So instead of stumbling forward I decided to sit down, rest, and regroup.

      Before my break I was posting once a week, more or less. My break helped me focus on what I want to do going forward, which is to be more creative in all aspects of my life. I’ve been in pandemic survival mode for so long now that I’ve forgotten about being spontaneous and doing things just ‘cuz.

      Great questions. Thanks for asking.

      Liked by 1 person

  38. One of these days I’m going to be on WP and comment early. I’ve now spent 20 mins reading all these creative questions and your answers and doing some chuckling out loud!
    Question 1 – so did your hair dresser have a total hip replacement or a partial resurfacing one? We had chatted about that last time when you mentioned she wasn’t going to be off long. So now, old OR nurse, wants to know. Kudos to her for retiring but sucks for you. On the other hand if you aren’t too grey and your hair is curly just grow it out and rock the look. My hair used to be curly but the white sucked the curl right out. I want it back…

    Liked by 2 people

    • BernieLynne, Janelle had a total hip replacement. She seemed fine, but was moving more slowly… of course. aren’t we all? I’m letting my hair grow out and rocking a ponytail henceforth. Interesting about your former curly hair as it has turned white.

      Like

    • Also, thanks for reading the comments. They are fun, which is why I like to blog. People say the darnedest things.

      I don’t use my phone for anything relating to blogging, so I don’t know the answer to your question. Sorry

      Like

        • The connections have happened organically. I’ve written a blog for a VERY LONG TIME and have followed & commented on THOUSANDS OF DIFFERENT BLOGS over the years. As a result of this longevity, and the fact that I take a SINCERE INTEREST in other people’s lives, many people stop by here to see what I’m up to and then THEY COMMENT HERE. And we chat. Hence the many comments. 🤷‍♀️

          [Look at me using caps for emphasis. I feel empowered.]

          Like

          • I used CAPS LOCK last night in my rock bottom post – I felt it needed the emphasis that you talked about and I thought about you, my blogging friend, when I did so!
            My original blog began in January 2007 and I think I have 4 followers on it (most people would probably find our house blog boring). I started my social one in 2012 (I think) and found it hard to engage with people the first few years. Just had to find the right tribe. I really love the comments but find that often my IRL rarely comment but my blogging ones do – have you found that?

            Liked by 2 people

            • Yes. When I first started blogging in 2004 my IRL friends and family commented often. But the novelty wore off and they started, and continue to, send me emails or texts when they want to say something about what I wrote here. They want our relationships to be private.

              In the meantime I found many friendly bloggers who want to chat with each other, via comments, so they’re the ones I expect to see here now– and who I check-in with. It’s been a shift.

              Like

            • My experience has been similar. I have one sister that comments frequently, and occasionally another friend or family member will pop up, but most comments are from other bloggers. My IRL will sometimes mention something from my blog in conversation, so evidently some of them are reading, just not commenting.

              Liked by 2 people

              • I have a couple of friends but not my sisters (hahah she laughs manically definitely not my sisters) who will leave a comment so I do know they read it. Glad to know that this shift, as Ally points out, seems normal. I know several IRL friends who subscribe by email but never mention it and then I wonder — do they want off the list but don’t know how to say that to me so it’s good to learn what you and Ally have seen so thanks. Bernie

                Liked by 2 people

  40. My hair stylist does a good job, although I suspect I’d be satisfied with the other stylists too. I’m not particular these days. But I’d really hate to lose Lindsey because we get along so well. Besides, one of her sons is the same age as my grandson, and we have fun talking about them.

    I like the dragon name. Can’t think of any questions.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nicki, I can understand why you like Lindsey. It’s fun to talk with someone outside your immediate family who is interested in someone in your family. Now that we’ve settled on Drags, it seems so obvious. The name stays.

      Liked by 2 people

  42. Hello Ally. Thanks for sharing those little tidbits about yourself. I feel like I know you a little better now. I have been going to the same hairdresser for just over 30 years now…as he recently pointed out, more than half my life. I’ve threatened to show up at his home every eight weeks should he ever retire. As far as a new question for you…what’s one thing you are glad you tried but will never do again?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Christie, you and your stylist have history. It’s wonderful that you found someone that good. I think your plan for when he retires is sound, very pragmatic. 🙄

      In answer to your question & thanks for asking, once upon a time in a house long ago I tried sponge painting the walls of a room. I succeeded in covering them with paint, but they looked awful. A total visual mess. From this one-time experience I learned/confirmed that shelter magazines exaggerate how easy it is to be creative.

      Like

  45. Hey there! Nice answers to the questions. My hair is getting so thin and I am losing more and more all the time I think soon I’ll be looking for wigs (secretly I already have one but haven’t worn it yet). I don’t and never have done hairstylists or nail salons on a regular. I’d rather spend my money on scrapbook supplies. My question is, are there any pictures of the cute couple Ally Bean and Zen-Den on the blog or Instagram?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, thank you. I don’t spend money on my nails either, but I always got my hair cut on a regular basis. My mother drilled that idea into me.

      Nope, there are no photos of us anywhere online [that I know of]. When I started blogging I decided I’d not share personal photos, but have occasionally broken that rule when it comes to old ones of younger me.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. During the pandemic I handed the husband the scissors and said, “Start cutting.” He resisted mightily at first, but eventually he googled how to cut curly hair and did a pretty good job. Ditto for the 2nd cut many months later. By the third cut, though, things weren’t going so well. Not sure if it was simply a bad cut or instead the cumulative results of three mediocre cuts, but in any case, I ended up paying a huge wad of cash to go to a place that specializes in curly hair. As I feared, they did a marvelous job. Now I want to go back there, but I don’t want to pay their exorbitant prices. Maybe I’ll start over with the (free) husband and see how that goes.

    Liked by 3 people

    • The Travel Architect, I’m impressed that your husband was able to do such a good job… at first. I have curly hair and it’s a trial to control & to maintain– except when it’s pulled back in a ponytail like mine is now. This city is large and filled with, like me, many descendants of Irish immigrants. [I was born a redhead.] My point being I’m not the only one with wild curly hair here, so I’d expect to find a salon that makes its claim to fame by cutting curly hair. But so far, no go. 🤨

      Liked by 3 people

  47. Ally, you’re back with a BANG 🙂 Three posts for me to catch up on – yay!

    Himself has been cutting my hair since that dreaded time started. I’ve long had hairdressers at the top of my Most Important Services list. But since he’s been wielding the clippers, I feel both richer and freer. I KNOW the haircut is severe and not as flattering as it could be, but I find I’m embracing “I don’t care” with a degree of joy. It helps that my hair is now straight for I’d never have risked it when it was still curly. But a big dose of anaesthetic during cancer surgery, and those curly days are gone. Now I just have the brittle and the white/grey. I know my mother shudders every time she sees me but she’s in awe of Himself so keeps her thoughts to herself – a win-win in my view:D

    I have no question for you as so many excellent ones have been asked before me, but I’d vote for more interior design blog posts from you as one of my indulgences is a bit of house porn browsing.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Deb, I do seem to be off and running again, don’t I? Thanks for stopping by to read and comment.

      I get your “I don’t care” attitude toward your hair. I’m leaning that way myself. I’ve heard other women mention how after surgery &/or chemo, their hair went straight. That seems odd to me, but obviously it’s a thing. Funny about your mother keeping her opinion to herself.

      The thing about writing interior design blog posts is… I started out thinking I’d do that often BUT I discovered I hated writing in detail about our remodeling and decorating projects. That kind of writing is more like technical or academic writing– and I became VERY irritable when I did it.

      So, like you, I indulge in my love of interior design [house porn browsing is a great term btw] on my own, never talking much about our ongoing projects. 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 3 people

      • Oh I understand, it absolutely would NOT DO to have something we loved feel like too much hard work. House porn away 🙂 A good friend dubbed my addiction to interior magazines thus, and it stuck. Feel free to make it your own, she’d be tickled pink to think of her term crossing the Atlantic.

        Liked by 2 people

  49. Well, Ally Bean, I see that you’re BACK BLOGGING and that you are ANSWERING QUESTIONS. I would like to ask a question but NONE come to mind right now. I DID get my hair cut today, too, so we’ve got one haircut in common. WELCOME BACK TO THE BLOGGING WORLD!

    Liked by 3 people

    • Mark, a couple of other people mentioned they’d been unsubscribed, too. I don’t know what’s up with that but thanks for taking the time to stop by & comment. Fun to be back.

      Like

  51. That is great that you had one more chance to connect with your hair dresser but not so great that she is retiring -!
    And drags is a cool
    Name –
    And you do
    Not have to officially answer this – but the question I have e for you is if you think you will
    Ever share your real name online? Or just fly off with zen den and the drags when your blog lifetime is up (and we know from your post about how to end a blog that the time is not quite yet \ and glad for that)

    Liked by 2 people

  53. Oh, to lose a good hairdresser is a sorrow indeed. I’m getting to the age where my doctors are retiring. I don’t like it. I’m sorry for your loss, it is a singular relationship. Is this your first haircut in the last 18 months or so? You are a STRONG WOMAN.

    Liked by 2 people

    • J, I had my hair cut twice in the last 18 months. I’ve gone to longer hair now and sport a ponytail most days. I am sad to see Janelle go, but I understand why. I’ve begun to have docs retire, too. So far the younger ones have been great. 🤞🏻

      Like

Comments are closed.