In case you were wondering, safety scissors do cut hair.
I’m not one to talk on the phone much, but when an old friend, whom I’ve known since 3rd grade called the other day, I gladly took several minutes to catch up and talk baby. She is expecting, and I being the ever observant, always conscious, keeping my eyes on my precious children 24-7 parent that I am, I had much advice for her.
I was holding Mary Clare taking laps around the house, chatting away, keeping an eye on McCanless and checking on her every few minutes. Apparently, one eye is not enough and I should know that by now. When I heard her, but couldn’t find her, my heart skipped a beat, but I knew she was somewhere because I heard her. She had been playing in my make-up (the make-up that I allow her to use, powder, brushes, etc.) As any mom will tell you, quiet, independent play once in a while is usually a good thing.
As I searched her playroom, I spotted the head of her “fix up” doll. The one all we girls grew up with. The bust with long flowing hair that comes with brushes and make-up. My first inclination that something may have gone awry was the freshly cut mow hawk on the doll.
“Bets, I’ll talk to you later.”
What came next was as close as I’ll ever be to staring in a movie. I wanted to cry, but I was able to muster up somewhat of a smile. My baby girl had chopped off one entire side of her hair. Have you ever seen a mullet? McCanless had half of one. What could I do? Inside I was screaming, but I simply smiled and began the lesson that I probably should have taught months ago when the Easter bunny brought McCanless her first pair of scissors.
6 Comments
Kimberly on January 12th, 2008
Yes, I know the 80’s mullet. Kamdyn still has one. Her hair WILL NOT grow on top! I can only imagine how you felt as you saw her hair. What else could you do besides smile and make this a “teachable” moment? It’s definitely developmental. I think EVERY 4 year old girl that I have every taught at school has cut her hair at least once! At least I know what to expect with Kamdyn! 🙂 Love the new hairdo!!!
Betsy on January 12th, 2008
Hearing you make the discovery was, well, quite comical in itself. You called McCanless and then when you found her you said “oh, you cut your dolls hair.” A few seconds go by and you add “oh you cut your hair too.” Kerri, you were very calm, but it was too funny!
Kate on January 12th, 2008
Oh CanCan!! Well Kerri, it’s a good thing she didn’t try to cut Mary Clare’s hair, like the much cooler bangs that I gave Alston when we were little!! McCanless it too cute with the new hair cut!! Very Katie Holmes, what a stylish child you have!!! 😉
MIMI AND PAPA on January 13th, 2008
McCanless, your new cut looks like Aunt Liz. YOU are precious no matter what length your hair is. This is just the beginning of what girls do with thir hair… cut, grow, cut, grow. We can’t wait to see you!
Terri Woodham on January 14th, 2008
Kerri I couldn’t help myself-I laughed when I saw McCanless’ new hair-do. I remember you cut your bangs and blamed it on someone at a slumber party, and Kate cut Alston’s hair (just before his 2years old photo session with Steve Roos!)Poor Alston, the things he had to endure with you girls. Mary Clare will have to be a tough one to keep up with CANNIE.I’m so happy you took pictures of McCanless before and after. Maybe one day she will look back and laugh as we have.
Cannie Pie, you and Mary Clare put a smile on my face everytime I think of you just like your Mommie, Kacy, Kate, and Alston, and of course Mel! I thank God for my children and now my GRAND childred.
Love you all, NONNIE
Erica May on January 12th, 2008
This story sounds familiar! My sister cut “bangs” for me when I was about 3yrs old! McCanless looks cute with her new hair cut! Thank the Lord for the funny moments we have!
Much Love,
Erica May