We made a hair appointment for the girl with our family's super stylist Annie. She had been talking about wanting a big cut for the past few months...but I didn't really take her too seriously until this week. You see, she's been to the salon a handful of times over the years, with lofty dreams of 'the big cut' only to leave happily with a 2" trim. Something about this week just felt different. I don't know if it was her turning 8...or all of our recent discussions about feeling thankful, but this time she firmly decided to cut most of it off and donate it to Locks of Love, a great organization that makes wigs from real hair for children who have medical hair loss. I am constantly amazed and inspired by her determination and sense of self. She knew she had a gift that she could share with another child, and that was all she needed to make her decision firm and final. I'd be lying if I said I didn't shed a few tears while brushing it out for the last time...and while her braids were being cut...and while recounting the unfolding appointment to my friend Kim when she called midcut (thank God)...and while thanking Annie...but when all was said and done, I was and and will continue to be filled with pride for my girlie, who teaches me selflessness, love and compassion each and every day.