Monday Musings – New Hairdo and Hobby
Happy Monday, ladies. This week’s ramblings are, as usual, personal and all over the map. There’s some navel-gazing with a small amount of whining and other sundry things that are on my mind.
I don’t think I shared this outfit that I wore in Lake Tahoe over Thanksgiving. If I did, here’s your second look :)Fair Isles are synonymous with winter style, and I was anxious to get another opportunity to wear this dress. My fair isle sweater dress is from last year, but they have one almost identical dress this year. This dress from Talbots is also similar but without the pattern on the bottom, which would make you look taller. The cashmere scarf- similar here was a surprise and lovely gift from Talbots several years ago. My boots are eons old, but black riding boots don’t change much over the years. The velvet leggings are a toasty alternative to opaque tights I love to wear all winter long.
MORE FAIR ISLE SWEATER DRESSES
I don’t know about you, but my teeth are a train wreck, and the older I get, the bigger the problems become. I needed braces as a kid but didn’t get them. I’m dealing with a crossbite, plus I grind my teeth, so I have lots of chipped teeth and now cracked crowns. I tried braces last year, but I have two implants that were not a good mix with braces, so that didn’t work. I spent five hours in the dentist’s chair last week, and there will be many more visits before calm and relative order is restored in my mouth 🙂 I drive two hours each way to see my old dentist because I trust him with my teeth…call me crazy, but there you have it. Whining over…I’m lucky to have the teeth I do 🙂
I got a new ‘do last week, and it’s taking some time for me to get used to it. My hair has gotten so thin that my stylist and I agreed it was time to grow out my layers and go a bit shorter. The result looks dangerously like a bob. I say dangerously because bobs feel so expected on a woman with fine, thin hair, and I’d prefer a more unique style.
It’s the best haircut for my current hair, but I don’t care for the look, so it’s time to get a little creative with how I style it. She suggested a paste at the roots, which I’m game to try. As a funny aside, my stylist mentioned my color looked different than she remembered. I told her it’s just gotten older and grayer. She thinks I’m overdoing the purple shampoo, so it’s likely a combo of the two. At any rate, it’s not as silver as I want, so I’m a bit frustrated by it. BTW- this photo makes it look blonder than it is in person.
Taking up an old hobby
On our way to Lake Tahoe last week, we stopped for lunch and some window shopping in Truckee. As we strolled the main street, a store window stopped me cold…I mean, dead stop and stare. There were a few balls of yarn, knitting needles, and a handknit wrap in the window. I had to go in.
My mom taught me to knit at 14, and I became an obsessive knitter for 45+ years. I never went anywhere without a project and often knit for 8+ hours daily. I made myself and my family tons of sweaters, hats, afghans, etc. I’m not sure when I stopped, but I think it was when AWSL became more than a full-time job. Rather than occupying my spare time with knitting, I began spending my time creating content for social media, editing photos, or writing blog posts. Arthritis in my hands began getting worse, and I wondered if it was because of all the knitting I’d done.
Whatever the reason, I stopped knitting cold and never looked back…until that shop window drew me in. It pained me to buy knitting needles because I have multiples of every size imaginable at home. We would be at the Lake for three days, and I had to start knitting right then, so I bought the needles to do it.
My rusty skills took several attempts to fire back up, but once they did, I felt the old obsession take over. Knitting is a form of meditation for me. The repetitive motion and stitch counting are both monotonous and soothing. The kit I bought is not my favorite pattern, yarn weight, or color, but that’s not the point. The process is the point for me, and I’m delighted to have taken up this old hobby again.
What hobbies have you let go of that you might want to get back to now?
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
Love the hair!
I have a difficult time with my thinning and graying hair. The bob style is my go to and has been for many years. My stylist has curled my hair on many occasions to give a different look but somehow it never lasts! Oh well. I enjoy seeing your daily posts and love the feature of Fair Isle dresses.
I used to be an obsessive knitter too and can relate… Never went anywhere without my knitting project. Used to attend the Home Sewing and Needlecraft Show every year in Toronto and came home with dozens of ideas for new projects. Can’t say why I stopped either. But like you I was inspired to start up 12 years ago when I walked past a knitting shop while on vacation, went inside, and bought the kit! I don’t have the same passion for knitting as I used to, but always have a project going and am happy with the results. By the way, I think your new do looks modern and sophisticated on you.
Hi Jennifer! Love your hair by the way. I also had to shorten my style due to thinning, but in the process found lots of natural curls! I used Invisalign in my 50’s and LOVE my smile today (in my sixties). I smile every chance I get to show off my pearly whites. My dentist’s name is Dr. Comfort (that’s his real name!) and he is phenomenal. The most skilled dentist ever. Hope you enjoy your new look and the holidays.
Funny you should mention Dr. Comfort…he’s my husband’s new dentist. Very nice fellow.
Jennifer, your hair is flattering but I understand quite well that it doesn’t feel like “you”! I go through the same thing. I like my hair to have some flip which I think is more youthful looking but it’s cut in a layered short bob. I’m wondering if you will continue to use your hot rollers? I’m considering the purchase. Regarding knitting, I never learned but I did sew in high school home ec and I made holiday dresses and first day of school dresses for my girls when they were young….back when I had a full head of hair! lol
I used to sew a lot too!! I’m going to try my rollers on my shorter ‘do this am! Will let you know.
I’m all in with the ladies here, I love your new hairstyle! It looks very up to date and is very flattering on you. I too, have the thinning hair problem. Since Covid I have let it grow out, with only a few grey hairs, I’m 75, we tend to grey later in my family. But stopping the coloring/highlights has made it look even thinner and flatter.
It is so helpful to read your comments and the comments of the other ladies, I don’t feel so alone with my thinning hair.
And like someone else said, I am just happy that I still have most of my parts and most of my hair.lol
I used to rely on the extra volume color gave my hair…but no more, so I must be more creative. You are definitely not alone with thinning hair.
Your new hair style is very chic looking…you can style it straight or add volume with styling products.
I love knitting! I posted on my blog that I rarely leave a yarn shop, tea shop, or bookstore empty handed! You are in good company!
I have an amazing dentist so I understand why you drive so far to see yours…I am squeamish about dental procedures but he guides me gently through them. He’s very kind and compassionate as I assume yours is too.
Take care Jennifer
XO
I love your Beehive yarn shop!! I always find treasures there. Knitting is just so relaxing.
First off I’m loving your new hairdo which I have had similar to myself, that I found one can restyle very easily if wanting a sassy or audacious look by sweeping just one side behind the ear. On the subject of teeth is another I can relate to’ having extensive surgery done these past few years (thankfully prior to pandemic lockdowns) that also included some bone grafting. (If you had seen me I looked like I was in a bar brawl due to the latter and though there was really no pain involved, was usually wisked into the examining room rather then left in the waiting area where other patients might see me … lol!) As to hobbies I’ve had my share (sewing being my favourite and recently returned to doing charcoal portraiture) however due to lack of patience have only dabbled in knitting so admire those who do it. -Brenda-
Lol!! You crack me up. I looked like the same when I had my dental implants and bone graft. Except mine were really painful. Oh, the struggle with aging teeth!
I’ve had to make changes in my hair style too. It’s frustrating: I agree! I do like a shorter cut on you. Hey question on the bracelets – which colors are you wearing? It’s a fun look.
I’m wearing a dark gray, black and silver. They look great stacked around your neck too 😁
thank you J!
Your Monday morning musings are my favourite! About your fine hair, what products do you take for your hair when you are flying with carry-on only? With space limited to that tiny bag and with moisturizer and sunscreen competing for space, and containers no bigger than 100ml, I find it a challenge. At home, I use a mouse, styling wax and hair spray. I know you use a significant array of product at home. So how do you manage? And like others, I like your new haircut.
I buy travel sizes and decant my hair gel so it’s tiny enough. I bring Rogaine, hair gel, dry shampoo and hairspray. Always hairspray.
Love these Monday Musings.
Old hobbies: I used to scrapbook obsessively, but now it’s all done digitally, which has taken all the fun out of it.
Your hair: I like the shorter bob. I’m going to go out on a limb here, but I think you could go even shorter! You have fantastic bone structure with nice high cheekbones, and a short hairstyle (not necessarily a pixie) would look great on you. Just a thought.
I did wonder about that. This feels not short and not long. I’ll see if I can work up the nerve 😁 I have broad shoulders so typically like the balance of longer hair on me.
on the hairstyle. Do you know fellow fashion and life style blogger, Susan Blakey? She has fine hair and got a recent cute do.
Yes, Susan and I are friends. She always looks fabulous!
Hi Jennifer
I think the new bob is very flattering. You did not show a side picture, but most well cut bobs make the jawline on “older” women look better!
Re minoxidil: there is a very well written article in the New York Times: and it is free:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/18/health/minoxidil-hair-loss-pills.html
Minoxidil is a very old drug (early 1980’s) and well known for its side effect for growing hair.
It is the active ingredient in Rogaine. As the article mentions, relatively few side effects at the low dose recommended. But one should discuss it with one’s MD or dermatologist, of course.
By the way the pop up ads with video are beyond annoying, requiring stopping writing the comment and closing the ad. I am on the 6-8th time of closing the ad. The popups
are annoying and distract from the really great content of your blog (just had to close one again!) I don’t mind the “flat” ads but the videos and constant changes on the ads
makes it difficult to enjoy your excellent content.
I too love your hairstyle! For a similar effect with a little edge, have you tried an asymmetrical bob? I had one for years before growing it out for my daughter’s wedding. My hair is similar–straight and thin. When Covid struck I grew it into a lob, not by choice, but I rather like it now. Between twice-weekly shampoos, I style it by pulling into a pony on top of my head and wrapping it around one or two Velcro curlers overnight. Gives me just enough body.
I did a lot to keep my teeth, after a childhood with scant visits to the dentist. Gum surgery, deep cleaning, gingival grafts, multiple fillings, and then all new fillings. Now the root canals and crowns have commenced. But I’m still chewing, so there’s that! 😉
Lol, that’s looking on the bright side..still chewing 🤣 My root canal count is epic!
I was also a lifetime knitter and love the feeling of the needles and yarn in my hands. I live in Florida now and knitting warm garments is not as appealing. I still have unfinished projects that I promise myself I’ll get back to “soon.” Hopefully, I will.
By the way, I love your new hairdo!
I love the faire isle outfit! You look great with your new cut. I have the same problems you have with hair. My hair is fine, and it was almost shoulder length, and I had it cut last week to a chin length bob. I find it looks thicker, and easier to style. I am growing out my silver white hair with blonde dye on the ends. I alternate between clarifying shampoo, purple shampoo, and Redken Blondage Highbright shampoo to fade the new growth with the old. I like Redken for everyday, as it brightens my hair.
Sorry to hear about your teeth. You are in good hands with your dentist. So far my teeth are doing fine, but digestive issues are my problem with aging. I guess things could be worse.
Enjoy the knitting again. I used to do some crocheting, but it bothered my hand too much. I do think it is relaxing.
I have been machine quilting for several years, and joined a quilt ministry . We make lap quilts to give to people who are ill, having surgery, cancer, etc. The women are a joy to be around. I look forward to our getting together once a week .
Hi Jennifer,
Your new cut is so flattering on you. I love the little bit of bang — looks so pretty. I have a bob but a lower forehead than you, so a bang like that won’t work for me.
Today I am coloring my hair for the last time — excited to go natural! I might have gotten this reference from your blog — The Gray Book group on Facebook — so inspiring and supportive, and It is fun to see all the colors and new looks on all of the ladies!
I’m right there with you on the teeth — grinding has done a job over the years. My teeth make me look and feel old. Adding more color to my wardrobe is fun and helpful to make me look better.
I need to dress semi-professionally for work, and it can be a challenge to find pretty jackets that are not black. A good source for me is thredUp, a resale clothing site. I get a cup of tea and go down the rabbit hole — but they do have excellent filters to help me search. I have gotten some really great pieces for work, and at a wonderful price.
This was such a nice post to read. Thanks for sharing your feelings. We are all in this together, aren’t we?
I appreciate your sharing your issues, as telling us only the good stuff rather skews reality for your readers.
Dental issues: me too! Although I have yet to believe that I grind, most of my molars are either implants or crowns, due to cracking, one by one, during my 40’s-50’s. And chipped teeth: blame it on me for chewing on hard things.
I love your new length! The bob looks super elegant on you!
Jennifer you look like a million bucks in that Thanksgiving outfit! I see I am not alone on the teeth and hair issues. As my husband and I say “we are tired of being messed with” but in the same breath so very thankful we can get the healthcare etc we need.
Can you put one side of your bob behind your ear? I am in the hair thin club and my derm gave me micro minoxidil with finesteride. I use only dropper full each night and take Nutrafol. Seems to be helping. I gave up the layers too but kept it long enough I can put it up somewhat. I enjoy your blog! Glad you found knitting again!! I hate taken up painting and it’s a lifesaver!
Oh my gosh I LOVE your new haircut! It’s flattering and modern, yet classic! Very youthful!
I too have thinning hair and saw a dermatologist. He put me on low dose minoxidil and finasteride. Wow, what a difference it’s made!
I’ve been a knitter for many years but gave it up when my husband retired, we moved to a new state (leaving my knitting group behind) and family commitments took up a ton of time. I recently started up again and loving it. So relaxing.
Good luck with your dental issues!
I’m going to ask my dermatologist!! I left my knitting group behind when we moved too. I miss them.
Hi Jennifer…….You look adorable with your new hairdo! Very youthful and pretty. Sorry you’re having dental problems, however working with a dentist you trust should make it easier. Take care of yourself we are all here for you.
You’re so sweet, thank you, Violet.