The Hanging Loc Chronicles [Jan / Feb 2022]
The Hanging Loc Chronicles are monthly recaps of my loc journey. See the last entry here.
My locs are officially 179 days old as I type this out. It’s been 86 days since I posted my last loc update, however; here we are! Thank you for keeping up with my loc journey. The past 86+ days have been filled with so many milestones and accomplishments. One of the many highlights of it included celebrating my birthday in December. I was fortunate to have been surrounded by beloved friends and family for all of it, much of it after getting through a season of so much happening in the world. The holidays are always a bit hectic, but I made a specific intention for the new year to prioritize ease and patience.
I rang in the new year at home. While I did not watch the new year’s ball drop, I vicariously lived through my neighbours who had a hot tub party. They excitedly counted down to the new year as their wine-filled cheers and bluetooth speaker could be heard by most of the block. Nonetheless, I shared their joy for a clean slate.
I decided to make a bold change to my appearance on January 15th. I knew that my locs would be super versatile, contrary to the belief that they can’t be. My hair is braided into a grid pattern, which allows for my hair to be cornrowed down in neat sections. These cornrows can be used to lay down my hair to put under wigs, hats, weaves and braids. Crochet braids have always been a fun option for me to play around with different colored hair without permanently altering my natural hair. My hair is quite sensitive and breakable, which is why I fear putting harsh dyes or chemicals in it. This time, I opted to install crochet braids.
Crochet braids are achieved by braiding down one’s natural hair and crocheting in a form of synthetic hair. When crocheting the hair, one uses a crochet hook to feed the hair between the braid and securing it with a knot or loop. Seun Okimi from YouTube has a very simple tutorial on the process.
I used eight packs of senegaliese twists in the color 1B/30. I was surprised at how it only took me 1 hour 45 minutes to complete the process. Once I was done, I fell in LOVE! My hair swung, hung and spun with every move I made. The ponytail that swooshed across my back every time I walked gave me a boost of confidence. I accessorized my twists to match each outfit I wore, whether I wanted a high ponytail or to let my hair hang down. All of my family and peers were surprised by my “new hair.” I was met with, “Opal, your hair changes like the seasons!” multiple times. Hey, I’ve gotta keep things fresh, amirite?!
My latest retwist was on February 11th. I had a number of upcoming events, so I wanted something cute, yet practical. I opted for two ponytails braided and accented with gold jewelry. They were still mature, but funky and cute. I styled them with gold string and hoops. This lasted for about two weeks before I had to finally wash my hair. My scalp felt very relieved after a weekend of sitting around the campfire, hiking and being in nature. I’m rocking a headwrap in the meantime, which is the most practical protective style for me.
My six month loc-a-versary is on Saturday, March 6th. I plan on publishing a more in-depth article documenting my journey. For now, I thank you for your patience in publishing content. Stay tuned for a few exciting updates around the future of StoryNoir. :-)
