I read this quote recently and it perfectly encapsulates my experience since letting my hair grow out natural. It has been such a freeing experience, like I've finally found myself, even though I didn't realize I was lost. But, I was. I was so buried under worrying about my hair color. All the damn time. Some people probably think I post more pictures of myself than I should, but I'm trying to show other women how good it feels. I hope they notice. I think they do.

"Most men don’t notice me nowadays because I’m too old for them (I’m not bemoaning this!). But boy, do women notice me. It’s so lovely!

I receive soooo many compliments from women now as a silver-haired woman who dresses like she’s still confidently attractive. And the difference between being seen and complimented by a woman versus being ogled and complimented by a man is big.

With men, it always felt consumptive and a bit dangerous. Like the compliment was an entitlement they could take back at any moment if I didn’t respond appropriately.

But with women, I notice their eyes light up with delight first when they look at me before they even say anything. It feels genuine and generative.

I feel striking and beautiful in women’s mirror." - Ana Del Castiilo

It was quiet in the spa today, but I had rushed in late this morning with wet hair, so one of the girls offered to blow out my hair between guests. I gladly accepted. She did such a beautiful job that I had to send Ed a picture while I was outside on my lunch break. This is the result, and I'm not mad about it.