Today’s Hair:
I took the braids out today. I thought I might leave them in longer, but 2 weeks was all they could handle of the frequent swimming. Also, I want to wear it out for a bit and then put it in twists for the triathlon (the weekend after next!!)
Tip:
Braids are a tricky creature for me. They take longer to put in than twists, they take longer to take out than twists. My hair is also very prone to tangle when taking braids out. Here are my tips for taking them out (this is not for braids with extensions)
For a braid out: Saturate the braid end with an oil to lubricate. This makes it so much easier for me to remove them. It gives it a little slip. The first time I took braids out I nearly cried from frustration.
Braid chosen for take down
Use an oil. I actually like liquid oils for this better because they sink in better, but I used Oyin Burnt Sugar pomade just for the scent
Apply and let it sink in, then undo braid with extreme care
To take them out without a braid out: Wet and soak your hair in conditioner, then take down with care. You may want to use the end of a rat tail comb to help separate the braid.
Detangle each braid as you undo them to get shed hair out. I’ve found that this reduces tangles and knots.
And the celebration!
Two years ago, around the end of September/beginning of October (cant remember which) is when I ended my relationship with the relaxer. Yay! Here are some growth shots. My head is not perfectly straight in both of these, but I am bad at doing this, so forgive me. It may not be perfect, but it shows marked progress. My nape does not grow/retain length as well as the front. It also shrinks up more.
The first pictures are from this past April.
April 09
Today
~~~~~
April 09
Today
And from my baby natural days, about a month after my BC:
So I’m at 2 years of growth. I haven’t measured in awhile and don’t really have a desire to. My plans for future growth? More of the same: protective styles, eating well, lots of moisture, minimal trimming. I would like to be at least BSL stretched but we will see 
Thanks so much to all of my readers for their support since I’ve started this blog. And to the newbies who dream of more hair, it will happen with proper care. I am proof!
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Your braidout looks great. And congratulations!
gorgeous! it looks so thick and lovely! my braidouts look like crap. lol!
I am so lovin’ your hair! The braidout looks beautiful!
Congrats on reaching your 2 yr mark. Mine was in August.
Happy Growing,
ChocolateOrchid
your hair looks fantastic!!!! hey you are making the same face and standing at the same angle in your first pic and in your default pic on the right. ha!
Thanks ladies!
CO, congrats on your 2 year mark as well!
lee, you are right LOL! that must be my good side!!
I wish I read this before I took out my braids, even with big cornrows I get that tangling problem. I was ready to get box braid extensions. I have to try the oil method.
OMG your hair is so beautiful!!! I can’t believe how long it is. I love the new picture on your siggie
love the braidout!!! and your growth has been great. I don’t care for the braids…at least not yet. twists are defnitely easier to manipulate putting in and taking down..but I’ll keep in mind using the oil the next time I do give braiding a try!
Your hair is absolutely beeeeeyooootiful! I’ve only just discovered your blog so haven’t seen past this first page yet. Am hoping you have lots of step by step how-to’s. Give the rest of us a chance to get styles as gorgeous as yours!!