Back when my boys were toddlers, I learned how to do the then-popular bowl haircut, mostly to save money. As they outgrew that style and began verbalizing their distaste of looking like the Home Alone kid, I learned how to use the clippers. Five boys looking like they just returned from boot camp was kinda cute plus they enjoyed looking like their dad.

Elly, on the other hand, required a scissor cut beyond my skills so I would take her to the salon every couple months. But that all ended today. While at the library yesterday, I found the book called “Haircutting for Dummies” .

Our town librarian is somewhat opinionated and outspoken. I have checked out books in the past on things ranging from herbal remedies to planning an organic garden and she has been very supportive, often making small talk about how great it is that I’m learning things to benefit my family. However, when she saw my choice this time, her eyebrow shot up like a bottle rocket on the 4th of July and she very loudly said “SERIOUSLY?”

I quickly tucked the book in between “Make Your Own Toilet Paper” and “Goat Milking 101″ and made my exit.

Last night I read Haircutting for Dummies and it just made sense. I knew I could do it despite the Doubting Librarian Lady. My only concern was that Elly’s hair was so long, I knew it would take a lot of time to do a good job. I explained this to Elly and we positioned her so that she had a good view of the television. My first cut removed almost 10 inches of length. The Librarian’s face flashed before my eyes and I panicked a little on the inside. But I followed the directions in the book and I’m thrilled with the result.

See for yourself!

On Tuesday, when the library opens again, I’m going to check out the book called “Surgical Procedures for Dummies” just to see her reaction!