Ok, so there are two new things that are going on with me at the current time: (1) I have gone natural and (2) I have finally decided how I will spend the holidays.

(1) I am new to the natural journey (for all, who are unfamiliar with what I mean by going natural, check out this link[ http://www.curlynikki.com/2008/10/my-hair-story-pt1.html ]). My journey began approximately 3 months ago...at least I believe that was the last perm I had---OK, so I don't remember the actual day/month...been busy with marriage, so what'dya expect? Anyways, I transitioned/am transitioning from relaxed hair not by choice but more so by financial necessity...things got tough for a while there, and I was trying to save where ever I could. But, I'm glad that I was inadvertently pointed in that direction...I am tired of fighting with my hair. Why can't I enjoy what God gave me from birth? I say that it's at least worth the effort...can't be anymore frustrating than trying to maintain relaxed hair...so, here goes!

(2) I finally decided how I will spend the holidays...more specifically, I decided with which parent to spend my Thanksgiving (& Christmas, since I am now married). On a side note, parents, please do not place undue stress on your children to pick between you on holidays, if you one day separate.  And future parents, please be careful in picking your potential parenting mate, so as to decrease the chance of the previously-mentioned stress. Now, in my case, my parents are both great parents and they get along...they have never consciously or purposely (or allow me to feel such way, if they knew that I was experiencing stress over this) placed me in such an uncomfortable position.I have pretty much always spent the holidays with my mom, which has caused my family on my dad side to feel slighted. The last couple of years have taught me a lot, with the loss of two maternal aunts, a paternal uncle, and one of those aunts' daughters (just a few weeks ago). Since I am now married and live long distance, I can't just spend time with my original family, whenever I want...I now have my new family to consider (in-laws, step kids, etc.)...naturally, I have anxiety about the possibility of a last opportunity with my parents (having clients with this issue has not helped). Well, I decided to leave early Thanksgiving morning to spend some time (probably most of the day) with my dad's side, since it's on the way to my mom's. Then, we'll (my husband and stepdaughter) will travel further south to mom's & spend the night before returning...so, that's that...I suppose. I pray all goes well and that my husband and stepdaughter aren't too bored...no matter what, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to see and spend time with my family   once more!