New 'Do

It's been quite a while since I've had my hair cut someplace without a name like "Cheap Cuts". Not that those places have bad stylists, as they get me through times when I just need a basic trim and nothing special. I normally go to the Perez Salon & Day Spa in Rockville. My good friend and artist, Susan Engle has had her hair styled by Michael Jr for years now and he always makes my hair look fabulous. I love the honey blond highlights I get there and his styles are always very flattering. I'm the type of person who believes that hair will (usually) grow, so I'm open to any new and trendy techniques he's learned and wants to do on me.

So what's the problem? Well... it's often difficult to get an appointment with Michael Jr on short notice. And as much as I think he's worth it, this unemployed gal can't afford the new rates ($75 or more) for a haircut, plus another $85 or so for the highlights... plus tips for the shampoo person, the blow-out person, etc. I used to go once a year as a treat to myself, but more and more, it's gotten to be more like every other year.

I really needed a haircut, as I'm supposed to be starting a new job soon and want to at least look like I haven't been sitting around the house doing nothing for the past 4 months. I went to Linda's salon, Noggins, in Wheaton. Although I didn't get my hair cut by her stylist, who was off today, I did end up with a cute new modern look. Sort of a layered bob. The inspiration for this cut actually came from Nicole Richie in the "Best & Worst Dressed" issue of People Magazine. Depending on how it's styled, it probably looks like "the Rachel". I will have to get John to snap a pic of me to post so you can see for yourself.

Afterwards, I went to meet up with Linda at World Market. If there's one in your town, you must go!!! As Nik puts it, it's like Pier 1 on steroids. All kinds of cool stuff there. Linda took me to lunch at Taipei Tokyo Cafe for a belated b-day lunch and I enjoyed my usual - Salmon Teriyaki. Yum! Thanks, Linda!

John wanted to take me to dinner tonight, but I was still full from lunch. We ended going to the library instead, and on the way home, stopped at Rita's Water Ice for a Misto. They're closing October 2nd for the season, so we have to get our fill. I'm so happy they had my favorite flavor, Wild Black Cherry. Sadly, John hasn't encountered the Mint Chocolate Chip Cream Ice since his inaugural Rita's Misto earlier this spring at the one on Route 5 near Waldorf. He ended up with a Root Beer Misto instead. Did I mention I got the LARGE this time? (moooo) Half of it is in the freezer for tomorrow.

On the way home, while stopped at a light, we heard some screaching tires and a thump. Someone in a Honda in the far right lane behind us hit a big 'ole Yukon type SUV. Then we heard more tire screaching, but this time, it was the Honda getting into the middle lane and speeding off. So the Yukon chased after it, but only up to a certain point. I'm not sure if they just took the tag number or what. So MEY253, you'd better watch your back, 'cuz I'm sure Mr. Yukon isn't so happy you hit and ran!

Oddly, Sunday when we were coming back from Khalid's 40th, we saw another chase on this same stretch of road. A motorcycle zoomed past us and then an SUV (like an Armada) cut in and out between the cars to catch up with the motorcycle. I'm not sure if they were racing or not, but it seemed more like the SUV was pissed at the guy on the motorcycle. Maybe it was the full moon or something, but if you can, stay off 198 between 29 and Route 1. Some crazy driving going on there!