Company Review: Fringe Salon

Since I have a blog, I figured that I may as well use it for something other than my random ramblings from time to time. So I decided to start doing reviews of places and things that I love or hate. 

In this case, it's a love. A really, REALLY big love. 

Today's review is for Fringe Salon in Lennon, Michigan. Check them out HERE on Facebook. 

Ok, so here's the deal... I'm female. Which means I have been through more hair salons and stylists than I can even count. I don't consider myself a difficult customer, and I don't have particularly problematic hair issues. Yet, I've found that often, dealing with hair stylists can be a real pain in the ass. I spent years trying different people, and though I occasionally ended up with a decent result, I wouldn't consider the overall experience successful. I dealt with overpriced services, rude employees, messy salons, and generally unsatisfactory conditions. I knew people who raved about their stylists, and talked about salon visits as though they were mini vacations. I yearned for this experience. But... I had begun to think it was like finding a unicorn. At the end of a rainbow. Being ridden by a leprechaun. 

Until one day, a friend showed up with a fantastic new hair style. She looked amazing. Like most women do, I inquired as to where she had it done. And then I heard the words that changed my life... she said "I go to Fringe."
It was like the clouds parted and baby angels began singing. I had heard this name before. Several times in fact. Many of my friends and acquaintances were regulars to this mystery place. So after talking to another friend (who also was a regular) I decided to make an appointment and try yet another new salon. 

That was over 4 years ago, and I've never looked back. Fringe Salon is my happy place. From the moment I walk in the door, I am overwhelmed with kindness and love. Big smiles, warm hugs, and genuinely happy faces greet you immediately. The entire staff makes you feel like a VIP customer. 

The salon itself has recently undergone a makeover of its own as well. It's welcoming and gorgeous inside, and is always spotless and sparkling. Not only that, but they are continually adding new products and services to keep you looking and feeling your best. Whether you need hair and nail services, or a relaxing massage, they've got you covered. (And gift cards are available as well. *hint, hint* Valentine's Day is right around the corner, people.)

I personally have had my hair done by 3 of the lovely and wonderful stylists there (Stacy, Jody & Trisha) but would feel comfortable letting any one of them touch my head. They are all well trained and very talented. And not only that, they listen. Like REALLY listen. When you tell them what you want, they do their absolute best to give it to you. But they're honest too. So if what you want isn't possible, instead of letting you leave disappointed, they'll take the time to talk to you and work out something that will make you look fabulous. They never hesitate to answer as many questions as I have, and I've never once felt rushed. They'll gladly explain the best products and tools to help you stay looking just as lovely as when you walk out, and even show you the proper techniques necessary to get your do just right every time. 

From the incredibly relaxing hair washing, to the finished style, I've always enjoyed every step of the process, at every visit to Fringe. 

Recently, Trisha (owner and stylist) was looking for volunteers to be models for a hair contest she was entering. Since I needed a new look, and trust her completely, I jumped at the chance. 

It was a blast, and I absolutely LOVE my new look. 

I mean... how FUN is this?? I get compliments everywhere I go, and I can't wait to tell people all about my favorite salon. 

And I have to mention that my makeup in these photos was also done there, by the very talented Jody. So if you've got a big event in your future, I strongly suggest letting her make you look like a super model. 

Left to right: Jody (who did my makeup, but also does hair and nails) Me, Jason (photographer) and Trisha (owner and stylist responsible for my latest AMAZEBALLS look)

Me and the stunning and talented, Miss Trisha. Owner and stylist of Fringe.

Believe me when I say this, you will NEVER be disappointed after a visit to Fringe Salon. Every member of the staff is phenomenal, and they take such pride in what they do. Each client leaves smiling, and if they are anything like me, can't wait to go back. 

So if you live anywhere within a reasonable distance... and you are still looking for your unicorn salon/stylist.... please go give them a try. Men, women, and children are all welcome, and I guarantee one of these talented folks will be a perfect fit for you. Take a minute and click on the link above and check out their Facebook page to see photos and posts of their latest masterpieces. And if you're on Twitter, follow @THack4855Fringe as well. 

And if you have a product or place that you'd like my honest opinion on, please contact me at BerryFavoriteThings@gmail.com and let's do this! ;)

My Double Life

I read an article yesterday about concealed depression, and it really hit home for me. While I don't consider myself depressed, I have found that many symptoms of Grief are indeed similar. And much like depression, I think Grief is something that needs to be talked about openly and honestly. I think people need to know and understand that those suffering a great loss may appear fine on the outside, but what's going on inside is an entirely different scenario. The thing is, people have expectations of those grieving. They expect and accept that you will be sad for awhile. A few weeks, maybe a couple months. But after that, they start to feel like you're just dragging it out. That it's time to move on. Of course, they'll never say that to you, but you can see it in their faces. You can tell by the way they react to you when you get upset. They stop asking how you're doing, and they avoid subjects that they fear might trigger you. 

I get that. No one wants to be around a Sad Sally or a Debbie Downer all the time. So we learn to conceal our feelings. We put on a happy face, and we pretend we are doing great. And you know what? People accept it, because that's what they want to see. They want you to go back to being your old self. They want you to be happy. But here's the real truth... That person we were before... they died with our loved one. And while we can still have moments of happiness, they will always be bittersweet for us, because we can't share them with the person we most want to. 

It's been almost two and a half years since we lost our son. And the pain of that loss is just as fresh as it was that day. The difference is, I've learned to hide it. Of course, there will always be times when I just can't keep it hidden. Things that will trigger a breakdown no matter how much I fight it. But the rest of the time I wear my mask. I suffer in silence. I lead a double life. 

The part I think that people need to understand the most, is that this double life is so hard to maintain. It's a fragile balance at best. And it's not just a double life in the sense that we smile when we really want to scream. It's also a war inside of our own mind. For example, when people share photos of their happy families, I really do enjoy seeing them. But at the same time, I am almost unbearably envious and angry. It's like I have multiple personalities fighting inside your head. When I hear people complain about their kids, I want to grab them and shake them. I want to yell at them to shut up and be grateful for that damn mess. But I also remember being that parent. I know that it's annoying as hell to have to pick up dirty, stinky socks off the kitchen floor day after day. When I see and hear people talk about the joys of being a grandparent, I'm genuinely happy for them. But I'm also heartbroken that I will never know that joy. When something good happens to me, or my husband, it's wonderful. But it's almost equally as painful, knowing that our son isn't here to share in the moment. And don't forget the guilt you feel when you are actually enjoying yourself. Why do I deserve to laugh and be happy, but my son doesn't? It's not logical, we get that. But good luck trying to explain that to your emotions.
And then there's the nightmares, flashbacks, and more. You're utterly drained from holding back your emotions all the time, but sleep comes at such a cost, IF it even comes at all. So most of the time, you're functioning on fumes. All these things effect our day to day lives. Our memory, our ability to perform simple tasks, our energy level, the way we react to things, the way we deal with relationships, our patience, and so on. Grief literally leaves no stone unturned. It worms its way into every facet and aspect of your life, and wreaks havoc on them all. 

This is my double life. And it's one that so many people live. It's true what they say... you never know what another person is dealing with. 

Back in the Day...

Oh the 80s. A simpler time. A time when walkie talkies were the closest thing to cell phones, and social media meant riding your bike to a friend's house to tell them about your day. 
I feel lucky to have grown up in a time before technology took over. When your imagination was your greatest toy. When you only had 6 channels of television to choose from, and every station shut down at midnight. 
In many ways, I think the 80s were the last great decade. Certainly the last real original one. Everything after that is just a copy or a reinvention of something that came before it. 
So in honor of that iconic era, here is a list of 8 of my favorite 80s memories, and things that I miss. Enjoy...

1. Colorful fashions.

The 80s were chocked full of color. From clothing, to accessories, to hair and make-up. We weren't afraid to stand out in a crowd. It was a happier time, and it showed. 

2. Fun toys. 

This was a time before helicopter parenting and mass childhood obesity. Before every toy was banned for being too dangerous. When your toys got you off the couch and moving, instead of encouraging inactivity. 

3. Terribly awesome movies.

Most of my all time favorite films are from the 1980s. They were bizarre, original, and full of wild adventures and colorful characters. 

4. Cartoons.

When I was a kid, Saturday mornings meant cartoons. And not just an hour, but several hours worth. And they were quality. They taught us valuable lessons, took us to worlds beyond our imaginations, and the theme songs were clever and catchy. 

5. Scented everything.

Toys, markers, stickers, and more! Everything smelled wonderful. Seriously, was scent technology invented in the 80s or something? Kids nowadays will just never know the joy of sniffing the purple marker, or the pain of being forced to smell the black or brown ones. 

6. Lip gloss.

Call me crazy, but lip gloss just hasn't been nearly as good since the 80s. Sure, it has glitter now, which is great, but I haven't felt compelled to eat an entire tub of balm since at least 1991. I'd give my left arm for a classic bottle of strawberry Kissing Potion. To feel the roller ball glide across my lips. Mmm... those really were the days. 

7. Snacks.

I'm having a hard time even looking at this photo. I literally want to sit down and eat an entire bag of Pizzarias chips and wash them down with 6 Hi-C Ecto Coolers. Can we please bring these delicious treats back? Who do I have to email about this?

8. Cereal.

I don't even know where to begin on this one. There were just SO many good ones. Sure, they were 98% sugar, but dammit, they were awesome. Not to mention the boxes were always a pleasure to read, and there were toys and prizes in literally every box. Nothing could top the excitement of pouring yourself a bowl, and seeing that plastic bag fall into it. And seeing the looks of pure envy on your siblings' faces was a close second. If we can't have the tasty cereals back, can we at least put some cool shit back in the boxes? I mean damn... give me something here, people. 

Real Love Is...

Do you remember the old Love Is... comics? With the little black & white images of a naked little boy and girl telling us what love is about? 
To this day, there's always someone with their favorite ones stuck on the fridge. Personally, they always creeped me out. I mean, why are they always naked? And who decided that it would be better if the images looked like toddlers? It's just weird. Not to mention the complete and utter lack of reality in them. They were the comic equivalent of a cheesy romance novel. 
So today, I've decided to share my own version of what I think love is. I shall call it Real Love Is... 

Real Love Is.... Not smothering them in their sleep after 8 hours of listening to them snore. 

Real Love Is... Putting up with their terrible dishwasher loading skills. 

Real Love Is... Bringing them a towel after sex. 

Real Love Is... Not having to cover up the sound of a fart. 

Real Love Is... Peeing with the door open. 

Real Love Is... Buying her tampons. 

Real Love Is... Morning breath kisses.

Real Love Is... Sex with your socks on.

Real Love Is... Letting her be the big spoon.

Real Love Is... Talking about your poop.

Real Love Is... Popping each other's pimples. 

Real Love Is... Surprise NERF attacks.

Real Love Is... Giving them your last pink Starburst. 

Real Love Is... A high five after good sex.

Real Love Is... Random ass smacks & boob grabs.

Real Love Is... Messy, imperfect, and a constant work in progress.
But Real Love Is... Worth it. 

Why I'm not a Feminist

Courtesy of the internet and social media, we live in an age where things begin "trending" and become hot button topics. AKA: We beat them like a dead horse. Recently, one of those topics has been feminism. 
Personally, when I hear the word feminist, I picture unshaven ladies in the 70s, burning bras and hating on men. Now I realize that is not always the case, and that more often than not, a feminist is just a catchy word to describe someone who thinks that men and women should be equal. But there's still a perception among most people that puts feminists in a negative light. Maybe because historically, feminists tended to be more zealot types. Passionate fanatics who were so outspoken they made the average person feel uncomfortable. While those feminists still exist, nowadays the modern feminist is more subtle in their beliefs, and is more apt to blog about their feelings than paint signs and stand in front of government buildings. 
So why is this post titled 'Why I'm not a Feminist' you ask? Plain and simply, because I'm not. I just don't identify with the word. Maybe because I grew up in an age where, for the most part, I felt equal to men. Sure, I know that I likely don't make the same pay, and that I will still often get passed by for a position for a lesser qualified man. But I can vote, my husband doesn't beat me and treat me like property, I can wear pants in public without getting side eyed, and I have just as much freedom as any male I know. Yes, I'm aware that when you get down to brass tacks, there are still issues related to female rights that need addressed. The notion that old men in the government still think that what I do with my body has or should have a damn thing to do with them is almost comical in its ridiculousness. But I don't see those issues as being about holding women back as much as they are about holding tight to some bizarre Christian ideals that people think will somehow keep our country on moral high ground. The arguments for things like anti abortion and anti birth control are more often than not centered around God and religious beliefs. This is mostly because the Bible was written during a time when women had no rights. We were merely property of our fathers or husbands. This antiquated system of thinking has been holding women back for centuries. But not just women. Humanity as a whole has been thwarted by misinterpreted quotes and ancient beliefs for as far back as we can remember. Anytime we wish to keep down a group of people, we can't wait to use the Bible as our sole basis of reasoning. It makes us feel justified in our actions because we somehow think we are doing what God would want. But enough about that... I could go on forever on my feelings on that issue.
Back to why I'm not a feminist. 
So aside from basically feeling pretty equal, I also feel like it's selfish to think that women are the only group of people being held back. We live in a world that is still rife with racism, religious intolerance, ignorance and prejudice. While I agree that there is no excuse for why in 2015, women still make less than men to do the same job, I think that more importantly, it's inexcusable to treat ANYONE differently because of something as trivial as skin color, sexual orientation or genitals. I think that instead of being so proud to be a feminist, people should be proud to just be a human, with a soul, who believes that everyone should be treated equally. A female who fights for equal rights is no different from the LGBT, black, Muslim, or any other person or group who only wants the same thing.
So no, I'm not a feminist. Instead I'm going to start my own group. I'm going to be an equalist. I believe in equal rights for everyone. Now let's see if we can get that to start trending... 

A Winter's Tale

It's a cold, cold world....

No, seriously, it is. Our current temp is about 10 degrees, with a wind chill of about -8. That's the kind of cold that creates snot-sicles, and freezes your nose hairs so that if you mistakenly rub your honker before it thaws out, you're effectively stabbing yourself inside your nasal cavity. This makes your eyes water, which then causes your eyes to freeze shut. This leaves you blind, and then you slip on that patch of ice, fall down and break your ass. 

If you break your ass, you'll have to have a cast put on, and no one wants to sign an ass cast, so you'll be shunned by friends and co-workers. Then you'll be all alone, so you'll stuff yourself full of cupcakes and Taco Bell to ease the pain, until you can no longer fit through the doors of your home. So you have to call a forklift to come get you out through the roof, but the roads will be icy, so the forklift will slide past your house, and crash into the hot, single lady's house down the street. The forklift driver will then fall madly in love with her and forget that he was supposed to be lifting your fat ass out of your house. So then you'll have to start working out constantly so you can lose enough weight to get out the doors again. This will require a LOT of burpees, and everyone knows that burpees were designed by Satan and the CIA to torture information out of people. 

So I guess what I'm saying is... 

I fucking hate winter.