free as my hair

"I just want to be free... I just want to be me...." -Lady Gaga

It was fall 2004, and classes had started a week earlier at BYU-Idaho. I'd showered, shaved, gotten dressed, eaten breakfast, and was in the middle of brushing my teeth when I realized I had not done my hair yet. I took out some product, styled, rinsed my hands and gazed into the mirror for one last glimpse before rushing out the door. I was stopped in my tracks by my reflection! I looked amazing! Cool clothes, clear skin [like always], great hair, bright smile. At that very moment I was thrilled with my appearance. In those few seconds in front of the mirror I also realized it would not last forever. I said to myself, "Self, someday you're not going to be able to rely on your good looks alone." I smiled at myself revealing my brilliant, white teeth and proudly walked out my apartment.


Now fast forward eight years.


I was chilling with Monica, as I so often do. One thing lead to another and once the laughing stopped... I had a shaved head with that same gorgeous smile, just now with crows feet from years of smiling and laughing so much, and sunspots from summers at the cabin.


I'm very pleased with my new look. It fits me and who I am today. I honestly don't know why I waited so long to shave my head.

* Photographs complements of Daniel Holsinger. Hair by Kristin Beise Handwerk. Art Direction and Editing by Drew Pelehos.