I have a hobby that definitely is NOT little old lady activity. I am a belly dancer. Does anyone do an activity that is at odds with the ‘grey haired old lady’ stereotype?
Sharon
Posted by on 10/07 at 02:32 AM
Wild Gray Women
WILD GRAY WOMEN
We’ve done a lot to de-bunk myths about gray being the haircolor for “little old ladies.” We’ve seen it on rock stars and movie stars (if only temporarily) and we’ve seen it in fashion ads and on runways. So we know it’s cool.
But most importantly, we know we’re not little old ladies. We’re out there living our lives, having our fun, being free. And sometimes, doing what we please is as un-traditional as choosing to go gray. Some of us are Wild Gray Women! Women who not only break with the tradition of coloring their hair, but who choose to express their creativity, their soul, their passion, in edgy new ways. Among them – tattoos! Bet you can’t guess who among us sport ‘em.
Sallee’s already ‘fessed up about a dragonfly tattoo on the back of her neck. Thought you’d all like to see it.
We've had our fun guessing. . .some of you got pretty close. Now it's time to tell all!
A. Snow Leopard
Who’s got it? Elizabeth
What inspired it? Elizabeth writes: “The snow leopard was very symbolic for me...It is an animal of mystery and strength and of course protective of its young. I had a pretty tough summer of 2003 while I was building our home, it's not easy working construction in a city that is known for the "good ole boys club". The cat was done when I completed our home in the Fall of 2003, it's my badge of honor and protection...now I have someone always "watching my back", and it covers the whole lower back, just so the eyes peek out over my jeans! It took 4 1/2 hours and hurt like the dickens, but I have NO regrets (other than I wish it was even bigger) I look forward to someday being able to add on to it. The Artist now lives in Costa Rica and Arizona...sounds like a vacation is in my future;-)"
Did you guess these?
B. C. Butterflies, Names and Snake
Who’s got them? Sallee
What inspired it? Getting rid of the past. Sallee got her first butterfly tattoo at the age of 17, along with a “property patch.” Which clearly stated she was the property of her biker husband, who also had tattoos. “That’s how naive I was,” she says. In her early 40’s, after she was divorced, she was “damned if I was going to die with his name tattooed on me.” So she had the patch removed, and later added her grandchildren’s names around the butterfly. The dragonfly came this summer, representing courage, and as Sallee says, “That’s something I need to remind myself to have. To always have the courage to be true to myself and face my fears.” The snake came a few weeks later. Why the snake? 1953 was the Chinese Year of the Snake, the same year Sallee was born. The snake is inked on what Sallee lovingly calls her “cankles,” a Brit term for thick ankles. She’s English, and figures she inherited them rightfully. But now she’s ready to show them off with a sexy little sidewinder!
D. Sun Sign
Who’s got it? Dede
What inspired it? Dede’s a sun worshipper, and there’s no doubt the sun symbol is her mark. Twelve years ago, she got her first sun tattoo, “in a place people don’t usually see.” But she realized, about two years ago, she needed a “second sun” because she has two sons. This one is smack in the middle of her back, and has a compass within it so she never loses her way. It also has the same yin-yang symbol of balance her first sun tattoo has. It’s her way of staying calm, cool, and, well, balanced throughout her life. What’s her next tattoo? Maybe her lips! Stay tuned.
NEW 'TOOS
Rose
Who’s got it? Sharon
What inspired it? Sharon writes: "I had my tattoo done 12 years ago at a time when I was going through a marriage break up. My then husband 'forbade' me to have a tattoo. So I went out and had one. He also forbade me to have my nose pierced. Guess what? Yes, I had that done too. I only kept the nose ring in for a few months but of course the tattoo is still with me. I chose the rose bud because to me it symbolised how I saw myself at that time - a flower that had not yet bloomed. Maybe I should have another one, this time of a rose in full bloom!
Short "sleeves"
Who’s got it? Wendy
What inspired it? Wendy writes: "All my tattoos, in some way or another, reflect my love and attempts to understand (as much as I can) my son's unique world view. He is autistic and has taught me a lot about being true to yourself and not giving a hoot about what other's think. Luckily, I have a wonderful job as a massage therapist at the University of Maryland's Health Center which gives me the freedom not to worry one bit about how all my ink might reflect on my earning power. Turns out, academic environments are perfect! My clients accept me as I am. None of my tattoos are hidden either. For me, I prefer to be able to see them when I need to." See Wendy in Newbies First Semester.
Dragons
Who’s got it? Bambi/"RuffDiamond"
What inspired it? RuffDiamond's passion for life and for teaching. The tattoo on her shoulder is the Dragon of Endless Energy. And to the left of it is the symbol for Krav Maga, a system of self defense against acts of violence, which she teaches to police officers, air marshals, bodyguards and civilians. Guess she needs endless energy for that! The dragon near her waist is the Dragon of Passion. She had both done at the age of 49, including tattoos on both wrists: the Chinese characters for passion and power.
Know any Wild Gray Women? Are you one? Have any tattoos? Or any other way you express your own individuality? Please send us pics, and be one of our WGW’s!
LOOK AT THESE GREAT TATS! hhmmmm...now I’ve got to go look at the members list and try to put these together!!
Sharon-
I love belly-dancing! I took a beginner’s class a couple of years ago, but it’s not offered in my town now! I still love to get my coin-covered hip scarf out and “ching” around the house! How long have you been dancing? Do you dance with a group? It’s a beautiful demostration of art and culture, how great for you!
~dede
Posted by on 10/07 at 03:22 AM
Hello Dede
I’ve been dancing for a couple of years, starting in beginners class and now in intermediates. The group has performed live a few times which I loved - I’m such a show off! As well as belly dance we do Indian and tribal dance which I love just as much if not more. Any excuse to dress up. When I was making the decision to cut off the long dyed dark hair I was worried about how my natural hair would look with the costumes. Belly dancers with cropped grey hair are not the norm after all. We haven’t done a live performance since I’ve transitioned but I’m sure the silver will look glorious under the spotlights… (hoping!)
Sharon
Posted by on 10/07 at 03:36 AM
Hi dede and Sharon,
I would love to get involved with something like that! Belly dancing is a big thing where I live, a lot of people that I have met in the past few years are a part of the classes that go on here. I have seen some of their shows on the community TV channel, they are beautiful! What a great work out too!!!
Sharon, I would love to see you “show off”! Music and movement is such a powerful thing to watch! I love the Tribal Indian stuff too. Do you have any pics of you in your costume?? Gotta send it in 
dede~ are you the proud owner of one of these tatoos?????
Posted by on 10/07 at 04:53 AM
I can’t even begin to guess who owns which tattoo! It certainly isn’t me, I had two natural childbirth experiences, but the thought of a tattoo is scary to me. I am afraid that it would just get started and I would chicken out 
Every female member of my immediate family has a tattoo or two, even a cute nose piercing. How I wish I was brave enough, I would love a little ballerina on my hip!
Posted by on 10/07 at 05:25 AM
Hmmmm—only one guess so far? Yeah, I know, it’s hard to even think about who might have one. I’ve already gotten another pic, and am hoping to get more from other Members. Then, truly, will tell all. But as I said, you don’t have to have a tat to be a WGW. I like the belly dancing, too! 
Posted by on 10/07 at 05:45 AM
I secretly have always wanted a nose piercing...are you ever too old to get one?
Posted by on 10/07 at 06:23 AM
Okay Sharon, how about a pic in your belly dancing outfit. For the 50’s myth busters. I want to see.
Lulubell, it’s really not that painful, although it does depend on where you get them. It’s a whole lot less painful than childbirth, at least if you’ve had natural childbirth, which I did when I had my son 32 years ago. Had him at home.
Elizabeth, you’re never to old to do anything. My daughter who is 37 has 10 tattoos and five piercings. She just got the last three piercings and two or three of the tattoos this past year.
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:10 AM
mmmm...you’re getting me thinkin’ Sallee
If I want to take it out is the piercing site easy to hide? I’m a classical/contemp. soloist for churches,funeral homes, and sporting events, so I need to be able to “hide” the wild side at times. I have heard you can get a tiny gauge needle for the piercing? Is this true?
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:21 AM
Well Sallee, one more thing…
I had our last child at home and I was 37 at the time...I felt too old then! LOL
My grandma had her “surprise” baby at the age of 48!!! No thank you 
The “baby making factory” is now closed!
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:28 AM
Hi Sallee
I don’t have any recent photos of me in costume, the newest was taken last November when I was still dyeing. I’m on the case though and will be getting some new photos soon. I’m not yet eligible for the 50s Myth Busters, I’ve just turned 45.
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:37 AM
Hi Elizabeth.
I had my nose pierced 12 years ago but only wore it for about 6 months as I didn’t feel that comfortable with it. It left a very small hole in my nose that looks like a large pore and doesn’t worry me at all.
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:39 AM
Thanks Sharon~ I think I might just have to make me an appt!
Will you be able to go to the NY reunion? Gosh would we have fun dancing! All of us Glorious Grays dancin’ up a storm! FUN!!!!!
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:44 AM
Sharon’s is right, Elizabeth. You can take the piercing out any time. The nose piercing my daughter had was a very tiny one. There are all different sizes and yes, you can pick the gauge size you want. No one would notice.
I know home births aren’t for everyone, but it worked out great for me. Ahh, yes, I believe I closed that factory when I was 40. Watching my daughter with her two at almost 5 and 3 just makes it so obvious to me that having my two when I did was for the best.
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:49 AM
Oh Sharon, I’m sorry, 
I can’t even remember how old I am sometimes. I think everyone has an age they stop at in their head. Mine is 36, when I finally began to really live the life I should had been living all along, but I also know if I hadn’t lived through what I did, I wouldn’t be who I am today. I still want to see pics though. 
Posted by on 10/07 at 08:59 AM
wow i could not even begin to guess…
many moons ago i worked in a hospital and the “tatooed lady” was a patient..she had open heart surgery..i felt so bad for the surgeons trying to match it all back up!!
louann
Posted by on 10/07 at 09:27 AM
That’s perfectly alright Sallee, half the time I can’t remember how old I am either!! Pics will be along in a few days.
Posted by on 10/07 at 09:27 AM
Hello Elizabeth. I’d love to be part of the NY get together but I am all the way across the Atlantic in England. Perhaps we’ll have a gathering over here too, I don’t know how many of there are.
Posted by on 10/07 at 09:41 AM
Oh my Louann, I am still giggling. 
All day long, each time I think of the Tattooed lady and the struggle of her surgeons, I just break out into the giggles. Who IS the Tattooed lady? Is she a famous person? PLEASE, I really need to know! 
Posted by on 10/07 at 12:51 PM
Louann, I am cracking up over the “putting humpty dumpty back together again” story. I know, not so funny for the patient, but I can’t help giggling.
Sharon, rats. I know they’ve invented airplanes, but I guess it would be a huge expense. Well, let’s go international and have gatherings in the UK, too!!
Posted by on 10/07 at 12:54 PM
I have one guess - is “c” karate mom?
The snow leopard is beautiful!
Cathy
Posted by on 10/07 at 01:57 PM
isn’t there always a “tattooed lady” in the circus???? anyway this was back in mid 70’s when those open heart patients were really cut from “sternum to stem” as we used to say!! and her ENTIRE body was covered except her face and neck...now remember they take the vein grafts on the legs so i am telling you this really was a mismatched deal!!! poor thing...my guess she was probably in her ...hold on ladies...50’s !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 
i promise you this I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT COLOR HER HAIR WAS ...
louann
Posted by on 10/07 at 03:15 PM
Elizabeth, I’ve always wanted my nose pierced too! With the tiniest little diamond sparkling along with our silver tresses!! Let’s do it!!! Maybe I’ll have my lip liner tattooed at the same time!
~dede
Posted by on 10/07 at 03:18 PM
That’s the spirit, CathyD—I like guessing!! Um, but no. . . 
Anybody else care to venture a guess?
Posted by on 10/07 at 04:26 PM
I mostly lurk but I’m going gray so come here for inspiration. It’s been 8 months since I last coloured and am feeling pretty good about my decision. I am a wild thing I must confess, I have 3 tattoos but no pics. I have a butterfly on my upper right arm that I got 20 years ago, a butterfly landing on a pansy on my left upper butt and a ballet dancing fairy with butterfly wings on my left shoulder. I used to have my nose pierced and had a little diamond in it but I took it out when I thought I was too old to have it in (I was 39 at the time I took it out). My mother-in-law wants to get a tattoo and would like some support so I may go and get my upper arm butterfly covered over with a scorpion and a dragon, I am a scorpio and my 5 years younger husband was born in the year of the dragon.
Posted by on 10/07 at 07:42 PM
dede~
I am thinking we should do it! Wanna come over to my house and we’ll get it all done up here The peircing place and the tat place are right next door to one another and are “topshelf” salons! The Fall colors are really pretty too
Posted by on 10/08 at 02:18 AM
Sharon, are you the proud owner of tatoo D?
Posted by on 10/08 at 02:21 AM
Hi Elizabeth,
No, that is not my tattoo
Posted by on 10/08 at 02:48 AM
Are you C???
Posted by on 10/08 at 02:55 AM
LOL, no, I’m not any of them! I do have a tattoo but I’m not featured here
Posted by on 10/08 at 03:53 AM
Take a picture! Send it in! I love seeing the “art”, anyone else out there who has tats? Send them in!
Posted by on 10/08 at 04:51 AM
I would love to, Elizabeth! I’m gone all next week with the wonderful new Grandson, so I’m missing all of the gray gatherings...sniff sniff...but I know the minute I kiss his sweet face I’ll recover!
And yes one of those tattoos does indeed belong to ME ME ME!!!!
~dede
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:09 AM
If I did that you would know it was me!
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:09 AM
dede~ are you D? mmmmmm… the plot thickins
Oh Sharon~ I still would like to even know what it is you have! LOL
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:18 AM
I vote dede as “A” the snow leopard.
Cathy D.
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:36 AM
Hi Elizabeth
I have actually sent in a photo but I’m not sure if it will appear on the site. It would be too easy to guess now! Anyway, it is a rosebud.
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:46 AM
Does ‘D’ belong to Shara?
Posted by on 10/08 at 07:49 AM
Hey All of my Tat’d Sisters!! GREAT!! Love everyone’s INK!! I would have never guessed them all!! I sent Diana a typo when I sent her my tattoo picture...I didn’t get my first one at 12 yrs...but 12 year ago! Sorry for the confusion! Like Elizabeth, I can’t wait to add to mine too! I would like to work into an entire back piece!!
~dede
Posted by on 10/08 at 10:29 AM
No prob, Dede, I can go behind the magic OZ curtain and edit it! I thought you were pretty brave for a 12-year old! Although, God knows, they’re getting pierced-- but I wonder if you have to be a certain age before entering a tattoo parlor?
Posted by on 10/08 at 10:38 AM
Dede, does your hubby have tats? I can see you and Elizabeth walkin’ into the tattoo parlor and asking for piercings, would love to be there. In Hollywood it’s amazing when you walk down Hollywood Blvd. there are soooooooooo many tat parlors and all so different. It’s wild. I admit I have considered being pierced and I’ve seen my daughter have them done, I’m just not sure about it. Of course, I’d have to have one done where it wouldn’t be seen, don’t think my work would see the coolness of a nose piercing. And I’d want to wear all the time. I’m still considering though, my daughter keeps trying to get me to do one.
Wow, an entire back piece. Do you have a theme going so they will all connect in some way? Do you watch Miami Ink adn the other tat shows? I’ve seen a few episodes at a friends house, just love seeing what people want done. Everyone is so individual in their choices. They have meaning behind them. You’ll have to keep us all updated on what you eventually do, please
And you Miss Elizabeth, what do you think your kids would say if mom came home with her nose pierced? Have you mentioned to them you’ve thought about doing it? Just curious.
Posted by on 10/08 at 10:48 AM
Sallee-Nope...my hubby doesn’t have any tattoos, but he loves mine, and even gave me a kayak on our anniversary that matches my big one! And yes, I have very specific reasons for my tattoos, where they are, and what they are. One of my suns (this big one) is very bright and bold...saying look world...here I am! Demanding all of the attention at any given time. My original sun, on my very lower back is smaller, more intricate and artsy, a loving, nurturing sun. Both of these represent my two sons, fitting each one of their personalities to a T. (That’s not to say they both don’t exhibit all of these characteristics at times!) My very favorite place to be is outdoors...with the sun on my back, which is why they are there. Because I ride a motorcycle, I had a compass suggested in the big one so that I never lose my way. My goal is to connect them with flowering vines that encircle the sun on my lower back, and drip down the right side of my tushie, then climb up the left side of my back and reach for the big sun in the middle of my back. Off of one of the flowers, I plan to have a fairie, which is a tribute to my wonderful husband, because it will be the same fairie from my champagne flute at our wedding reception. Wow! Quite an explanation huh??
I would love to be on one of those tattoo shows because those artist do AMAZING WORK!
~dede
Posted by on 10/08 at 11:34 AM
OK dede~ lets go! I’ll fly down to Arizona when my Artist is in her studio, you can meet me there! Nose piercings and full backs...I’m ready when you are!
Posted by on 10/08 at 11:43 AM
I suddenly feel very ordinary! 
As I mentioned earlier, it would be nice to have a ballerina tattooed on my hip, but, being who I am, it will never happen. There certainly is a part of me that IS fearful (pain ). The reality is that I like my body just the way it is. I love to have my nails done and especially like pretty feet with polished toenails. Perfume makes me feel special as does a silky moisturizer after a long bath. Of course my hair is special to me and I love it when it feels soft and has oodles of shine. I will love it even more once the color is all mine How I admire those of you with such spirit and feisty personalities. You are all so special! I love hearing all the stories, keep them coming!
Posted by on 10/08 at 11:58 AM
Dede, wow, how cool. My daughter has 10 tatts and each one has a specific meaning to her. Yes, is it Cat von something, she actually opened a studio in LA and my daughter and I are thinking of going up just to see her. Think she’s pretty booked and probably pretty pricey. Are all of yours from the same artist? What was the inspiration 12 years ago?
You go Elizabeth Now you have an artist? And what would you get for your first tattoo? Curious minds want to know.
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:07 PM
oops meant to tell Diana, that here in california you have to be 18 and show legit ID. I was in a studio not to long ago and some girls where there and it says right on the wall no ID no tattoo and when the girl had decided Jason asked her for her ID and she had none and he said read the wall and he wouldn’t do it. I’m not sure how other states deal with it, but here, you must show id. I don’t think it was always that way, but it is now.
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:10 PM
I should read the blog, shouldn’t I!! Duh
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:14 PM
I always just go right to the bottom for the last comment and didn’t see that Diana had revealed who had what. Elizabeth, you are too much!! I would have never guessed that snow leopard belonged to you. You really are amazing. Okay, so what are you getting for the second one? And have you thought of getting any other piercing besides the nose?
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:16 PM
And Elizabeth, one more thing we have in common
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:18 PM
Sallee, you have such a sense of self. You are an inspiration so say the least. Life has lead you down such an incredible path! You have many talents and such a determined nature. When life handed you lemons you most certainly made the sweetest lemonade. It is such a treat to get to know so many wonderful women. Once again a huge THANKYOU to Diana for such a top-notch site.
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:27 PM
hehehehe...I’m not the only one who doesn’t read everything carefully B4 I post! 
I want the leopard added onto right up my whole back...continue with the leafing....some flowers and something taking flight out of all of that(while going from black and grey into full color at the top). I just have to be able to completely hide it for performing. I have a pretty high tolerance for pain, I can sit for hours if needed. I really want to get it done! Once again...very symbolic on a personal level.
Yes, I have talked to my kids about getting the piercing~ my daughters LOVE the idea and want one too!
To be continued…
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:31 PM
Lulubell, thank you. I guess you would say I didn’t and haven’t lead a conventional life. It’s funny, I’m writing a piece right now about what makes us who we are. I second the huge THANK YOU to Diana for this site. We are becoming a force to be reckoned with.
Elizabeth, your vision of what you want sounds beautiful. Do you tell your artist and she draws it up? A lot of tattoo artists are artists in other mediums too, which I had never thought about until I saw some artwork done by one. At the one parlor I go to, both guys do other things as well. Very talented. And one of the guys who does my daughter’s piercings is also an artist. The parlors have certainly changed from when I got my butterfly 38 years ago. Rare to see a woman artist and the men where all older. Now so many are only in their 20’s and 30’s and the studios reflect the artists, and it’s very cool.
You are a work in progress in many ways, Elizabeth, really we all are in our own ways. Cant wait to hear what’s next.
Posted by on 10/08 at 12:59 PM
Well I didn’t guess any of them correctly!
All this talk of tattoos has rekindled my desire to have a new one. My old one could do with recolouring and a few months back I was thinking of either adding to it or having something entirely new. I may do it when I’ve been dye free for one year - a rebirthday present to myself. My last dye job was 22nd December 2007 so not too long to wait.
Posted by on 10/08 at 01:22 PM
Hi Sharon, first off, before I insert my foot into my mouth, you are the Sharon in England, yes? Where are you in England? I really don’t know much about my ancestory except I’m half English. And my daughter married an English man so my grandchildren have a lot of English in them. It’s funny to hear them talk as they have picked up some of their father’s “english” words yet they say them without the accent. My daughter had her nose pierced in England about 4 years ago. Everytime her mother-in-law has come to visit she goes home with a new tattoo, actually got her first one her in the US. My daughter has a rose in the same place you do if I remember correctly. It was her first and is probably the one that means the least to her and she’s been talking about getting it covered. They’re so personal, aren’t they?
And Scorpioanne, stop the lurking already and send in some pics. But, lurking is okay too if it works for ya. You do sound like a real wild gray woman. Welcome and we really would like to see you
Posted by on 10/08 at 01:40 PM
Yes Sallee, I’m in the UK, about 60 miles from London. I have no great attachment to my rose tattoo although it was relevant at the time. It has faded a lot now, the rose bud used to be red. A cover up is a possibility I’m also considering. What I’d like now is a design based on an Indian Mendhi pattern (which are actually done with henna so I’d like to recreate it to look like henna).
So how many tattoos do you have Sallee? Seems like most of these photographs are of yours!
Posted by on 10/08 at 03:13 PM
Sharon, you are close then to where my grandchildren’s grandparents live. I’ll have to find out the name of exactly where they are.
My butterfly was really faded and when I had the names put around it he redid it for me and then added the little heart. So I have the butterfly, Issy and Julian’s names, the dragonfly and snake. I really want to design my next one. Your Mendhi pattern sounds very cool. Actually, dede you have more than I do,don’t you? and I’d love to see them all.
Posted by on 10/08 at 04:34 PM
Sallee, I just have the two...but don’t hold your breath!! If Elizabeth and I end up at her artists studio in AZ...we’ll meet you there!!! I love yours, and the wonderful stories behind them.
~dede 
Posted by on 10/08 at 05:23 PM
Sounds like a plan to me Sallee and dede! I’m game for the adventure
Posted by on 10/08 at 06:56 PM
I’m not that far from Arizona so I’m game. Someone pick a date, I’m pretty open at the moment. WooHoo road trip.
Posted by on 10/09 at 07:50 AM
OMG—don’t tell me this is turning into another “Silver Sisters Event!” 
Posted by on 10/09 at 08:20 AM
If I wasn’t so far away I would come along just for the sheer fun of it! I could live vicariously through the three of you. Tattoos may not be my “Thing”, but I could seek out a spa and get a facial and a pedicure and a manicure and so on and so on and so on........
Posted by on 10/09 at 08:53 AM
I think Arizona has some great spas, lulubell and it would be so GREAT to meet you.
Dede are you going to ride your bike? What kind is it? If you’ve said I don’t remember and how long have you been riding? I almost took the class a few years back to get my license because the guy I was dating rode a bike and we did a lot of riding, but I never did take the class. Don’t really know anyone at the moment with a bike cause I still have my helmet, boots and leather jacket. Would be nice to ride again.
Posted by on 10/09 at 09:37 AM
This is soooo great! All of you are beautiful women who continue to inspire me. I must tell you that I always wanted a tattoo. In fact, three weeks ago when I told my husband of my decision to go “silver” I concluded by saying “And, I’m still getting my tattoo!” By the way, I too considered a very tiny (diamond) nose piercing. Hey, Dede, Elizabeth and Sallee,—count me in! Diana, again thank you for everything and bringing us all together. It’s wonderful to be a part of such a positive, understanding, and supportive group!
Posted by on 10/09 at 10:30 AM
Sallee-TAKE THE CLASS!! Put that riding gear to work! YOU CAN DO IT! I’ve been riding a long time, got started the same way...was dating a guy who rode and learned how after too many trips as the passenger! I ride a Honda VT1100, which is just a big, old school, cruiser that rolls down the highway like a champ! I’ve only had this bike 3 years, but I’ve always ridden Hondas, I’ve been a passenger on Harleys...but have yet to make that kind of investment myself! All of my life I have longed for the wind on my face, whether that be in a boat, convertible car, or on a bike…it’s like home to me. As if the thrill of riding and the wonder of nature that you get to experience on a motorcycle weren’t enough…the amazing gas mileage certainly doesn’t hurt!
As far as tattoos go, I’m having to hold off on completing my back piece until next year due to the possibility of some surgery I could have in the spring…nothing serious, strictly elective…but it could throw off the palette..heehee
But I do want my nose pierced and the lips done!
~dede
Posted by on 10/09 at 11:33 AM
Which gets us back to Louann’s tattooed lady! Kinda like putting together a jigsaw puzzle, huh? So does that mean you’re not on this road trip, dede??
Posted by on 10/09 at 11:39 AM
Hey, my calendar is a zoo, (I plan weekends with my hubby a year in advance...he sleeps with his Franklin Covey under his pillow 
)...but for a weekend with the Silver Sistas...I will work something out!! The closest gathering for me would have been the Denver weekend, but we’re heading to Utah to fill our next wonderful Grandson slot for 7 days. I’m still going to try to coax you gals to West Texas…New Year Celebration??? Shake a little of the dust off of this quite little berg!
~dede
Posted by on 10/09 at 12:56 PM
OK, Dede, I nominate you as coordinator for a total Texas event! Lotsa gals from Texas, and also it’s #1 (or 2) in book sales, vying with California! So even “lurkers” who haven’t posted yet may want to meet and greet their other Silver Sisters. Perhaps more centrally located in that great state, who knows?
All you Texas gals, chime in please! I’m sure you could all work some date out that is good for everybody.
Posted by on 10/09 at 01:44 PM
Hey Bobbi—That’s great! Here’s what to do to get in the loop. Log in under “members” on the homepage, and when the page refreshes you’ll see Members Album up under Members. Click on that, and then click on the link for either Elizabeth or Sallee. You’ll get to their profile page, and you can send them a PM. Then you can all begin to work out the plans for the AZ Tattoo Trip!
Posted by on 10/09 at 01:54 PM
just remember surgeons are NOT necesarilly artists!! plastics of course but not the general guy...then thereis that whole thing of anethesia...don’t want to be “knodked” out tooooo long while they peice the puzzle back together…
ha ha
but i am with you lulu i’ll watch or do the spa thing with you!!
got hte hair cut last night..i don’t look like a wild gray but it looks and feels nice and healthy..got the tri color thing going salt and black and orange pepper!!
louann
Posted by on 10/09 at 03:57 PM
Okay, I’m always missing something. What surgeons are ya talkn’ bout, louann? But it would be great to have you along. Maybe we could go out together. We can see what develops and talk next Saturday.
Posted by on 10/09 at 04:34 PM
Okay all you Silver Sisters, let’s get something together down here in the Lone Star State!! Lunch in Dallas anyone?? How about November 8/9??
~dede
Posted by on 10/10 at 07:26 AM
sallee
you crack me up!! i commented before about the “tattooed” lady that had open heart surgery and what a task it must have been forthe docs to sew her (or staple) her back together trying to match it up!!
we can discuss this at great length on the 18th...as well as recognizing the new pics of karate mom
Posted by on 10/10 at 09:50 AM
Hmmmm, just thought about another WGW activity. Sharon mentioned belly dancing, and I expect pics as soon as she gets them taken. Seems to me, awhile ago, Lisa Green mentioned she was taking up pole dancing as a way to get both exercise and have fun doing it. Hey, Lisa—got any pics of that? Why am I imagining spike platform heels and a string bikini???? Go WGW!!
Posted by on 10/10 at 10:23 AM
louann, i’m a bit slow sometimes maybe it would be a good idea if we drove together to Arizona or on the way I might forget where I’m going and why 
happens all the time at work, at least I haven’t forgotten who I am yet oh, what’s the 18th? just kiddn’
Posted by on 10/10 at 10:52 AM
ha ha ...man the only thing i don’t want to loose is a sense of humor !! you know really az is not to far for us so cal ladies...almost like a drive to san fran.
anyway thanks all for putting up with my sarcasm today!! TGIF !! have a wild weekend!
louann
Posted by on 10/10 at 12:53 PM
louann, Did I miss something? Is there a road trip to AZ coming up? I’d love to hitch a ride along if there is. Say, maybe we could get some of the Texans to meet us halfway—a three state get together? Just a thought.
C
Posted by on 10/11 at 08:54 AM
Hi Cheri, Elizabeth, Dede and I were going to meet up and get tattoos from Elizabeth’s tattoo artist and Louann and Lulu were coming along and doing a spa thing. Not sure exactly where it’s at right now, but I’m up for it. Waiting to hear details. We can talk on Saturday.
Posted by on 10/13 at 07:42 AM
i am able to comment from work but not at home...i must have signed off at home...i am looking forward to our lunch and yak fest sat ....
i am sticking to the final plan...unless i hear otherwise...although i can not get into my account to retrieve any private messages
louann
Posted by on 10/13 at 08:25 AM
Sallee, Spa, yes. Tattoo, uh, that would be no. Unreasonably and permanently terrified of needles so that just isn’t going to happen unless they have perfected permanent tattooing sans needles. But, the spa part sounds great. And, I could help celebrate your new tat. Spa and celebrating. That sounds perfect to me.
See you Saturday!!!!!!
Cheri
Posted by on 10/13 at 08:25 AM
Sallee, how I wish I could meet up with all of you! Being SO far away it just isn’t a reality (although in is in my mind.) Like I said, I shall live vicariously through all of you, can’t wait to hear about it all (in detail).
Posted by on 10/13 at 08:35 AM
Hi lulubell, I sure hope you’d be able to make it to New York next year though. Hope your holiday went well. We’re having winds today and yesterday. My yard was looking pretty good until Saturday morning. Yes, here in Southern California wind is big news, since we really don’t have weather here.
Hi Cheri, well, a needles phobia would be a bad thing if you wanted a tattoo. They do have some really cool temporary ones. So I’m just waiting to hear from Elizabeth and see what her artist’s schedule may be. Would be fun no matter when it might happen, if you aren’t in the middle of term and papers and all that stuff
Louann, yes, I don’t think anything has changed so Saturday it is.
Posted by on 10/13 at 08:46 AM
winds and fire...thats all we got going here today..
louann
Posted by on 10/13 at 10:12 AM
Hi WGW’s,
I was sick with a sinus infection these past few days...NO FUN! 
OK, here’s the scoop...I need to get a hold of Keely Tackett who is the artist of my tatoo. She travels all over the country so I need to look at her schedule B4 I can even begin to look at airfare and lodging. (I begin coaching on Dec.1 through the 1st weekend in March)
I will try to contact her today and I’ll let you all know as soon as I hear from her and what dates she has available. I might be able to get away for a long weekend during the diving season...I’ll just have to see. You WGW’s should still get together even if I can’t! You ALL would have a blast! I’m gonna give it my best shot!
Posted by on 10/13 at 10:21 AM
You wouldn’t want to be here, then. Nasty winds and everyone with allergies always hates them. Hope you’re feeling better.
Hey, I’m good to go most anytime Elizabeth. You make it good for you, k? I wouldn’t care when it was. Give me more time to maybe do my own design. And Bobbi, are you still thinking about coming?
Well, Louann, Cheri and I will see each other this weekend along with Suzanne and Laura. We’ll talk about it. Hey dede, what’s your schedule like?
Posted by on 10/13 at 10:29 AM
Hey, Sallee- I’m hosting family Thanksgiving at my house the last weekend of November (hope the kitchen remodel is finished ) And have dropped an idea for a Gray Gathering Lunch in Dallas maybe Nov. 8 or 9? I will make the trip to Dallas for it! I would love to have a Silver Sister Gray Get-Together here where I live, in Plainview, TX...this town would roll out the red carpet for us for sure! We’d probably make the front page!
I would love to meet up with you gals in AZ whenever Elizabeth’s artist is back that way...(or hey...isn’t the other option Costa Rica!! THAT’S MORE LIKE IT!)
Hope you get to feeling better, Elizabeth...sinus infections are the worst...can’t breathe or sleep...or bend over without the top of your head trying to explode!
~dede
Posted by on 10/13 at 01:27 PM
It did explode...I’m still trying to find ALL the pieces
Posted by on 10/13 at 01:36 PM
dede~
I just looked up airfares for me to fly into Dallas on the 8th, it would be $177.00! I can afford that! Do you want to plan something in the Big State of Texas? Gotta a patch of floor I can sleep on?
Posted by on 10/13 at 01:40 PM
Sounds GREAT!! Let’s spread the news...Dallas the weekend of Nov.8/9!!
Elizabeth...I don’t live in Dallas, I’m about 6 hours away...but we can certainly bunk somewhere together!! Hubby and I were there 2 weekends ago and stayed at a great hotel that’s centrally located...meaning...really close the the Galleria!! Unless there are Great Grays out there who’d open up there patches of carpet to us!!
Okay...I’m going to go post in every section about it!!
YIIPPEE!! We will have a BLAST!
~dede
Posted by on 10/14 at 07:05 AM
dede~ would you spend thurs.night,friday night, and sat. night? I’d be willing to split a room as many ways as we had people in the room (4?). I am also wondering if I could get the name of the hotel you’d like to stay at, I need to see if a shuttle would pick me up from the airport. Is there a better place for me to look flying into? I’m open to flying anywhere as long as I camn keep it around the $180.00 range for airfare. As soon as I get a “plan” from all of you I’ll book the flight...I prob. need to do it ASAP in ordder to get the cheaper price.
Posted by on 10/14 at 07:29 AM
Hi...I just went on line to check the prices and times into Dallas and they have already jumped in price to 206.00...I need to act fast if we want to do this 
I will check my email often waiting to hear as to when and where I should go (be nice,hehehehe)
Posted by on 10/14 at 07:43 AM
Hi dede, just talked to Elizabeth and we’re both up for the November weekend. We just need some direction. We’re thinking of flying in Thurs.Nov 6 cause the tics are a bit cheaper. And it would be great if we did share a room, even if you didn’t want to fly in until Friday. Let us know where you are with setting this up. WE NEED DIRECTION!
Posted by on 10/14 at 08:07 AM
Ok, guys—I did my bit. I posted the announcement of this event on the homepage. I hope it happens for all the Great Gray Texans out there!
Posted by on 10/14 at 08:55 AM
sallee,
you can be the official gglg ambassador and hit all these gatherings...take a camera…
i was going to try and get my husband to crash our party at the end to thake all the pics for us at our so cal “meeting” (can we “write this off”??) but he got a better offer ..4 tickets to the ucla game...i am no good with the camera ..not really..
anyway on to saturday!!
louann
Posted by on 10/14 at 10:14 AM
Hello my Silver Sisters! I have just talked to my favorite “great rate” hotel in the Dallas area, it’s the La Quinta Addison, and the rooms are great and the property is pristine…my hubby and I stayed there two weeks ago. They offer a free shuttle within a 5 mile radius of the hotel, which includes the Galleria, 13 restaurants, and a comedy club…the downside is that they don’t have an airport shuttle service!! There are two airports in Dallas, DFW-which is 20 miles from the La Quinta, and Love Field, that is 12 miles from this hotel. The desk clerk said that shuttle prices to their property will cost $45. on the high end…gulp…maybe we could all pitch in and rent a mini-van!
Now…there are only about a jillion places to stay in Dallas, so if you have any other thoughts send them my way! I called about this hotel because it is perfectly located and the rates are great…Nov. 6th- $79. Nov. 7th-$59. and Nov. 8th-$69…so it averages about $69.00. She recommended that we get a block of rooms somewhere quickly…so let’s brainstorm about it and see what we come up with. Any thoughts ladies!!??!!
~dede
Posted by on 10/14 at 11:16 AM
OK...I just went on the airfare site to punch in the final dates and the price is now $279.00!!!! I’m dumbfounded! Is there a big NFL or Baseball playoff game that weekend! Geez!
It’s getting to be too steep for me, I’m going to contact a travel agent and see if they can do any better. I’m bummed
Posted by on 10/14 at 12:15 PM
Say it isn’t so, Elizabeth!! Well...we will call you and let you TeleParty with us!!
I have just been advised against advertising our meeting locations (duh dede...get a clue)...so...ignore everything I said about where we will be...we will change the destination and arrange it all via PM...okay?
~dede
Posted by on 10/14 at 12:39 PM
I am also having a hard time finding anything under $300 which is just a bit too much for me as well. I would love to travel to all the gatherings, however, my employer does pay me well, but, not that well. I was going to drive to Arizona if that happened and still will when it does, Texas is just a bit far for me to drive. Dede, I’m going to have to wait for New York to meet all of you. I’ll have plenty of time to save for that one. And, this Saturday is our “gathering” in SoCal. I’m bummed as well.
Posted by on 10/14 at 01:00 PM
Don’t be bummed, cherubs—flying from out of state to a Silver Sisters event would have been fun in the “old days,” when airfare was reasonable. But ‘tain’t. These events should be more for Home State gals, or those close by, if it’s not too far to drive.
So --let’s not forget how many Silver Sisters have Texas for a Home State! Even those of you who have not posted yet, but HAVE bought the book—why not join the party? If you can DRIVE to Dallas—go have a silver celebration!
Posted by on 10/14 at 01:15 PM
If anyone wants to fly to Minneapolis I have FREE lodging and transportation;-)I just hada throw that one out there
Posted by on 10/14 at 01:18 PM
Keep that invite open, Elizabeth...I’m determined to see the Mall of America!!
~dede
Posted by on 10/15 at 03:51 AM
My home is open anytime to the Silver Sisterhood!
You’ll always be welcome!
Posted by on 10/15 at 05:06 AM
Hi Elizabeth, I will remember your invite. I would love to come and see you. And that house you built. You really are something, E.
Posted by on 10/16 at 08:40 AM
OK WGW’S...I heard from Keely!
I am going to work out a time for me to go AZ and have her finish my back. It will be while she is here in the states (until January 2009). When I schedule the time with her I will let you know, maybe we can “hook up” in AZ and get “inked” together
Otherwise I will have it documented and send in the pics! Get ready...it’ll be HUGE and knowing her talent...AMAZING!!!!
Blessings to ALL!
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:15 AM
WooHoo, I’ll be waiting to hear. I can drive to Arizona.
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:20 AM
I’ll be in Tucson..fill up your tank!
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:33 AM
Oh Elizabeth, you wild, silver, BRAVE Woman!!! If you do meet up with Sallee and Dede and get inked together you HAVE to send photos 
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:33 AM
Hi lulubell,
I’ll be sitting still in a chair for many hours, Sallee will be able to snap a few I’m sure I’m wondering how I’m gonna get a shirt on and sit on a plane to go home!???! That’ll be the interesting part!
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:55 AM
I’ve done Tucson. Please keep me updated so I can take whatever days off I need. I’ll have to think about my next one Have a few ideas. Hope you’re feeling better E.
Posted by on 10/16 at 10:56 AM
Got a halter top, Elizabeth? Maybe you shouldn’t fly home right after—or just don’t lean back in your seat! It may be more fun to stay a day, especially if other WGW’s join in.
Posted by on 10/16 at 11:11 AM
I’d do my best, Elizabeth. When I got my snake, it dawned on me I’d never seen any of my tattoo’s actually being done. I love it how the guys, all mine have been done by men, always ask a few times if I’m okay. I always want to say, hey, I gave birth at home, I can handle a tattoo.
Of course, I don’t have one even near the size of your’s E, but none that I’ve gotten have bothered me. Mine have to be able to be hidden as well, although I’ve had the snake now for awhile and only one person at work has noticed it. And it would be fun to stay for a day or so.
Posted by on 10/16 at 12:12 PM
Sounds like a great plan!
Ummmm forget the shirt/halter top, I’m thinking about the bra 
OUCH!!! Looks like I’ll need a day or 2 to recover (unless I wanna tuck my front into my pants)Just kidding...I couldn’t resist the joke
Posted by on 10/16 at 12:17 PM
OK no more PAIN jokes! If there is even an “ink"ling (couldn’t resist) of adventure in me it will soon vanish if you keep talking like this. You could always buy those full stick on breast covers Elizabeth. They work well under a strapless dress so I am sure they would help you out.
Posted by on 10/16 at 02:36 PM
Hey lulubell! I just found this response! You have me laughing already this morning!
Ummmmmmm.....after having 7 babies, I need more than a sticker or two!
Have a great weekend!
Posted by on 10/18 at 04:05 AM
OK California girls....I can’t wait to hear of your WGW time together! But...it’ll have to wait till I get back into town on Wednesday morning. I’m heading down to Minneapolis to run the “grinder” for a huge stone job that my brother is doing! I’ll really look gray at the end of the day! Full of stone dust! 
Bye for now!
Posted by on 10/19 at 06:49 AM
now we will know you are gone and not being “silent”
louann
Posted by on 10/19 at 06:55 AM
Your tattoos are awesome. My daughter (the oldest daughter) is addicted to them. She has a full sleeve on one arm, a couple on the other arm, quite a few on her back. Talking about the superhero’s, her sleeve is of Jean(?) Gray, from the Xmen I think. It is an awesome tattoo, shows every ripple in her stomach, going up to the phoenix on her shoulder.
I’ve been playing around with the idea of getting a tattoo. Would kind of like to have a spider crawling up over the edge of my arm/shoulder. Maybe a black widow. Hmmm. Kinda scary, I hate real spiders but I love pictures and fake spiders. Is that weird?
Posted by on 10/20 at 10:48 AM
Maybe just a little. Sometimes what scares us also fascinates us. You may have to stop me from smacking your arm to kill it, though. . . Nah, I wouldn’t be brave enough!
Posted by on 10/20 at 11:33 AM
Rosa, my daughter has a black widow below her belly button to the right and over to the side a bit. The artist did a really great job.
Elizabeth and I are still planning to do Arizona. She will fly to California and we’ll meet up and then take my mini cooper and off to Arizona. Or that’s the plan we talked about anyway. So hopefully we’ll have a few new tatts to post. She’s off running a grinder for her brother. Amazing. And she’s just a wee bit of a thing. But having 7 children and living to tell the tale, I’m not surprised she is a woman of many talents.
Posted by on 10/20 at 11:44 AM
I would like for it to look like it’s crawling up over my shoulder. It would really be freaky but cool.
Posted by on 10/20 at 01:50 PM
Hmm, that would be interesting. I wonder how big it would have to be to give the look? Have you been to a tattoo studio? They usually have hundreds of pictures to look at, or if you know what you want and can describe it, the artist should be able to draw something up for you. Working on my next one. I want to design it.
Posted by on 10/22 at 08:15 AM
Hey Lucy! I’m HOOOOOOOME!!!!
I’m very tired, but it was great to “hang” with my “baby bro”!
I’m giving Keely a call tonight Hope to have an idea of a tatoo ETA soon!
Posted by on 10/22 at 10:33 AM
Hey, Lucy
Was thinkin’ bout ya when I wrote the post above wondering how it was going. Glad you’re back safe and sound. Keep me posted.
Posted by on 10/22 at 10:41 AM
hey lucy…
ethel is leaving for las vegas!!
glad you are back...now i am off to hang with my old high school pals...who are still “on the bottle”
louann
Posted by on 10/22 at 12:00 PM
Louann, you are so funny! I love reading your posts. How fun for you. Maybe you’ll make some converts. Wearing your hat?
Posted by on 10/22 at 12:11 PM
Sallee, haven’t been to the studio yet. My daughter has her own guy, and he obviously does great work. She said I would definately have to go to him. Just have to work up the courage.
Posted by on 10/22 at 01:41 PM
man oh man is my hair THIRSTY!!!!
After working with all that stone and concrete dust, my hair is NOT happy! I even wore it up the whole time, as soon as I added water/shampoo to wash the dust away...it sucked the moisture right outa my hair! I’m putting together a mixture of fresh avacado and coconut oil and making a paste for my hair. I am not able to get to the store to purchase a deep conditioner...so I gotta “cook” up my own Any other tricks out there?????
Posted by on 10/23 at 06:55 AM
Ohhhhh Noooooo! My avacado got eaten when I was gone! Now I do need some “au natural” ideas!!!
Posted by on 10/23 at 07:00 AM
Elizabeth,
I totally understand....my face is NOT happy...it’s in great need of moisture. Do you have any natural ideas for adding that special glow? By the way, got my hair cut - SHORT - I’m sooooo not loving it
Best
Posted by on 10/23 at 07:39 AM
Bobbi...awe, I’m sad that you’re sad It’ll be O.K., your hair will grow back, and it will grow out so healthy, strong, silver, and shiney!!!!
I was pretty bummed out when I chopped mine at first too...I had no time to really prepare myself, so it was a shock to me and everyone else around me. Hang in there Bobbi, it’ll get easier.
I coulda taken a picture of myself to put a smile on your face! I just got done taking banana off my face! My poor 2 year old didn’t know what to think! Not too mention I have a bag on my head...cuz I put together a mixture of honey,olive oil, and egg yolk for my hair! I look rediculous and I smell funny too! 
But the banana really worked for a quick facial/moisturizer. I exfoliated 1st with egg yolk and sugar, washed that off and then mashed the banana into a paste and put it on...halloween came early at my house
What kind of a cut do you have now? Any wispy pieces to play with? Gel was my BFF when my hair was super short, it gave my “look” attitude. Keep talking through it....we’re here for you!
Blessings, E
Posted by on 10/23 at 08:10 AM
Good enough to eat! You forgot the mayo and the olive oil.
Glad you just used the egg yolk in your hair mixture. The yolk is good for protein. But the whites, as you know, are drying. That’s why they draw things out of your face pretty nicely. You had the right formula. Even if your face and hair do smell like a fruit salad!
Posted by on 10/23 at 08:20 AM
Are ya hungry yet???
Posted by on 10/23 at 08:26 AM
YIPEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!
I just booked my ticket to Arizona! I will be in Tucson on November 21st - 23rd! It’s a weekend...I’ll be having all the work done in 1 day (saturday) and will go home on Sunday! I am so excited! I hope that this gives my WGW’s that are close by time to plan! If not...I do plan on sending in pics! The count down has started
Sweet Dreams!
Posted by on 10/23 at 05:27 PM
Hi WGW’s
I will be booking the room in Tucson for 2 nights( fri. and sat.) I have heard from Sallee that she is for sure coming...anyone else? If so… let me know so I can plan accordingly. Hope everyone has a great start to their weekend!
Blessings, E
Posted by on 10/24 at 08:48 AM
I’ll be there!!!!
Beth
Posted by on 10/26 at 08:13 AM
Yahoooooo! That’s one from California, one from Arizona, and one from Minnesota!!!! Any others????
Posted by on 10/26 at 08:18 AM
If only!!
Posted by on 10/26 at 08:47 AM
Awe...come on lulubell!!!!
Posted by on 10/26 at 10:12 AM
Hi Elizabeth, how I wish I could, I am working on New York right now!! My Husband and I are seriously tossing around the idea of NOT going to Florida this winter. We need to finish our basement and with what we would like to do, it could be costly. What with the dollar the way it is right now and the markets so helter- skelter we have to set priorities We have a forty foot motor-home which runs on diesel and we tow our car so, of course, there is the cost of fuel to consider! While we are away we still maintain our home here in Niagara which needs to be heated even though no one is living in it. I could go on and on, but we all get the picture. I live about 500 miles from New York City and can most likely get a reasonable flight for June. If not, it is a not too far to drive Boy where did all this come from, I guess I’m a yakker today!
Posted by on 10/26 at 10:38 AM
Hi Elizabeth, Beth, lulubell. There’s alot going on on this site and I don’t have a computer at home so over the weekend I can’t respond to any of the posts and I feel so left out The site is hoppin’ and there’s so much to catch up on. Beth, I’m so excited that you’ll be meeting E and me. Are you thinking of getting a tatt? I cant’ wait. I think I’ll drive but I might check prices to fly. Meeting each other is amazing because it’s like we know each other, just haven’t met in person. The SoCal gathering was just a blast and everyone was comfortable right from the first second. It was just cool. New York better watch out in June. With all us women who have decided to be who we really are and I think a lot of us, it’s not just our hair, it’s inside too. Diana, I wonder if this site is everything you hoped it would be? I just imagine you smiling every time someone new logs on and begins their journey and shares it on this site.
Posted by on 10/26 at 11:52 AM
Oh well Lulubell--I guess I will have to wait until NY! ) :
Sallee-I’m excited too!! I don’t know about a tattoo though 
Are you going to get one in Tucson too?
Can’t wait to meet you and Elizabeth in person!
Posted by on 10/26 at 12:32 PM
Sallee—yes, I love it when new people join us. It IS what I had hoped for. Everyone sharing and encouraging each other. But it’s actually gone beyond that to the friendships that are formed offline. That’s something I didn’t envision when this first started, but I’m so happy it’s happening. This is a great group of women, and it’s wonderful that some of you are meeting and becoming good friends. Hey, what are friends for but to share what is going on in your life?
Posted by on 10/26 at 02:09 PM
I don’t think I fit into the ‘little old lady’ gray mold for grandmas, and at the age of 56, I’ve accomplished many things that some younger adults haven’t.
My husband introduced me to the world of Bike Marathons back in 2000, and since then I have ridden in 11. There were a few years when we rode in both the Los Angeles and Long Beach Marathon. We just the Long Beach one now; it’s closer to home and the terrain is just more familiar, but I really enjoy doing them.
Many people don’t know that some marathon events hold a bike ride - a 26.2 mile trek that begins before the run. All the bike marathons that I have been in started at 6AM, which means you need to be there at 5:30AM which means you need to leave the house by 5:00AM which means you need to get up by 4:15.
I’ve always been an active person and also feel quite proud of myself for participating in the Avon Walk for Breat Cancer. Not only did I nearly $3,000 - I walked the entire event. The first day was a marathon walk - literally - 26.2 miles...the 2nd day was a half marathon - 13.1 miles. I gave myself permission to not finish, as I never quite got up to the mileage I wanted to in training, but I did complete the whole walk on my own. I did that 2 years ago.
Age doesn’t limit us - attitude does!
Posted by on 10/27 at 01:04 PM
SB Karen, send some photos of you doin’ your thing so there will someone else in the 50’s myth buster section!!
Posted by on 10/27 at 01:11 PM
OK - Sallee - are you the one that lives close to me? Or is it grayincali? I can’t find her real name!!!
Posted by on 10/27 at 01:14 PM
I think Suzanne is closer, if the SB stands for Santa Barbara, although I’m not that much further.
Posted by on 10/27 at 02:00 PM
No - it doesn’t stand for Santa Barbara, although that’s what most California folks think...it stands for Seal Beach - and if you live close enough in the area, then you’ve probably heard of it, but get too far away, and people go ‘huh?’ Where’s that! We’re small, quaint, and forgotten (fine by me!) But surely enough know about us to keep the town hoppin’
Posted by on 10/27 at 02:09 PM
You’re right, I always forget about Seal Beach. I’m really not that far from you and it is a great town, but I’ll keep the secret for ya.
Posted by on 10/27 at 02:56 PM
hey y’all.
somehow I missed this whole thread.
I actually have two tattoos. One on my shoulder a Kokopelli (native american fertility symbol) I got it when I was 19 or so, after my dr. told me I’d have trouble conceiving children.
the other a small flower on my ankle - meant to remind me of the beauty around me at all times. I think I was 25 at the time.
funny - I have since had 3 natural childbirths (I guess the tatt worked?) and I would rather go through that again than the pain of the tattoos. I may be weird though
SBKaren - I’ve done the Avon walk in San Francisco for the last two years. It has been a fantastic experience, dont you think?
mika
Posted by on 10/29 at 06:23 PM
Guess Kokopelli helped! Not too late to send in pics of your tats, Mika. We’ll put them up!
Posted by on 10/29 at 06:36 PM
Wow--I just stumbled upon this blog. Not sure why I never noticed it before.
Well...I had my nose pierced for maybe 8 months, a year--I forget. I got it done at 38 when my sister hit 40 and she wanted to get a tattoo and knew I’d always wanted my nose pierced so...off we went. Bad timing for me though. They wouldn’t put in a tiny stud--said it wouldn’t heal properly. So they put in this big honkin’ thing, and I had a job interview just a week or two later so I took it out for that, then I got the job and didn’t feel brave enough to wear the big stud, so I switched to a smaller one and all the taking out and putting back in made it have trouble healing and eventually I just took it out for good. I loved it, but I don’t know that I’d go through all that again.
Great pics of all of you! Some spectacular art here.
Posted by on 10/30 at 06:28 PM
Big honkin’ thing?? Trouble healing?? Euwwww. Are you listening, Elizabeth????
Well, Newbie2, I sat next to a girl today (with pink hair, natch) who had 3, count ‘em 3, hoops in her lower lip and a stud in her tongue. So I thought of all our WGW’s.
Posted by on 10/30 at 07:42 PM
Ummmmm Diana, I have a confession to make...my nose has a very tiny stud in it and it is healing just fine. I went to the peircing salon by myself, not telling anyone that I was going. Yes, it did hurt, but I LOVE it. Sorry for not letting the cat outa the bag sooner
I also got my hair extensions yeasterday in the mail, they came super fast! I’ll try to figure them out today
Happy Halloween to ALL!!!! E
P.S. Milka, I loved your tattoo stories! I too would love to see them!
Posted by on 10/31 at 03:00 AM
OMG!!! I put in all the hair peices! They are a blast! Super easy to apply and beacuse the fact that they are human hair, you can straight iron them or curl them! I LOVE them!
Posted by on 10/31 at 03:53 AM
Elizabeth, what is the shortest your hair can be to be able to wear the hair extensions and also how much are they? My daughter has the teeniest, tiniest little diamond in her nose. She has the sweetest little turned up nose and it looks so feminine and adds to her looks in the best way! 
Posted by on 10/31 at 04:53 AM
Mornin’ lulubell~
They come in 16inch lengths and you can cut them to be as short as you want. They also come in all different colors too! I might have to get a few more as stocking stuffers for my girls.
The link is bout 10-12 chats up on this page...go take a look
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:05 AM
Opps, the link is on the Elizabeth page about 10-12 chats from the bottom of the page…
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:06 AM
Thanks Elizabeth! B O O TO Y O U ! ! !
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:10 AM
Back atcha!
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:12 AM
Here’s the link...www.hairextensions.com
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:25 AM
I don’t know why they would not give me a tiny stud when I got mine done! I joked at the time that I got in the way at a construction site, it was so big!! The guy insisted I had to wear a large, surgical steel thing for at least 6-8 weeks… If I’d gotten a tiny one I’d probably still have it because I’d have never had to take it out… Oh well. I do NOT have a cute little turned up nose a la Lulubell’s daughter so maybe it’s best I don’t have one now.
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:33 AM
Awe Lisa! I feel bad about your experience! I think you have a beautiful nose and profile! I would make sure that next time(yeah...I said “next time") you find somewhere that does the “fine gage’ needle. I think peircing has changed a lot in the past few years...a lot more options are available now. Come to Duluth..I’ll set ya up right!
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:39 AM
’kay, Elizabeth, I’m on my way...! Ya know, I haven’t ruled it out completely, just might do it!
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:44 AM
happy halloween all you wild gray women you!!
louann
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:46 AM
I’ll leave the front door open for ya! And of course treat you like a Silver Queen while you’re here!
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:47 AM
Louann! You crack me up!
Best of luck to you today with all 300 kids on a sugar high! Wish you could ride with Sallee for the AZ gig! We are staying at a place that has a Spa! Just what the Dr. ordered B4 a busy Holiday with lotsa family!!!
Think about it
Posted by on 10/31 at 05:50 AM
i am so jealous!! you guys will have a blast...pic please madam…
louann
Posted by on 10/31 at 12:03 PM
Hello Wendy
Thank you for showing us your tattoos. By the way,I too have an autistic son.
Sharon
Posted by on 11/02 at 03:43 PM
we are all connected somehow aren’t we?? good luck to you moms with your children...the great part about the crazy internet is the connection we can all make and the support on sites like these are fantastic!!
good luck to you all!!
louann
Posted by on 11/02 at 04:19 PM
Wendy~
Your sleeves are beautiful! I love the color! It was also fun to see your updated hair shot too! You look great and your story behind the tatts inspirational.
Blessings to you and your family!
Posted by on 11/03 at 05:00 AM
Wendy,
GREAT INK! Love your inspiration behind them too. What great color! Your hair looks great, I love the way you’re wearing it in the latest picture, great attitude! Thanks so much for sharing!
~dede
Posted by on 11/03 at 06:25 AM
Wendy, it’s a great way to express yourself and I love it when tattoos are personal and really have meaning behind them and how cool that you have a job with no worries about having them shown. Just beautiful.
Posted by on 11/03 at 08:03 AM
Hi Elizabeth, packing yet? Does Keely do piercings? I keep having to remind myself that I’m going to be driving to Arizona and actually meeting you and Beth. My first “big” road trip in this Cooper, which, thankfully, was just serviced for a defective thermastat, which would not have been a good thing to happen while on the road.
Posted by on 11/05 at 09:19 AM
have a fun safe road trip !!!!
louann
Posted by on 11/05 at 11:36 AM
Thanks, Louann. Did you get my pm about the Getty? I think it’s a great idea.
Posted by on 11/05 at 11:54 AM
i think the getty is a great choice...they have a nice restraunt and yo ucan have wine too
and think back on how january can be so lovely here and the view would be fantastic!!!
and we could get some culture while we are at it!!
ps
we could always do a picnic in those lovely gardens!!!
louann
i want to see loads of pics from your arizona adventure!!!
Posted by on 11/05 at 12:15 PM
Hi Sallee,
Sorry that I have not responded lately...I’ve been MIA.
I have not even begun to pack yet! Well...not in my bag, just in my mind
I’m actually getting a little nervous!
Posted by on 11/16 at 12:19 AM
Elizabeth, we have missed your posts! Nervous you say, I guess a few butterflies will just make it all a little more exciting!! Can’t wait for the photos, of course patience is not my strongest asset!!
Posted by on 11/16 at 04:09 PM
Hi lulubell,
I’ll have Keely take pics as she completes different stages of the tattoo. Awe...patience is not an atribute of mine either
Sorry that I was outa the loop for a couple of weeks, sometimes life gets pretty overwhelming and exhausting chasing around all these kiddos...they didn’t come with “pause buttons” Gosh...can you imagine if they would have??? hehehehehe
Posted by on 11/16 at 04:42 PM
Elizabeth, coming from a family of six, I get it! My sister had two sets of twins and two single births (4 pregnancies=6kids) so I spent much of my youth living with and helping her out. Pause buttons sure would have eased a few nerves! Being the youngest of 6 kids myself , I remember seeing my Mom very exhausted at times also. Just think, a few more days and a weekend away, you deserve it!!
Posted by on 11/19 at 03:08 PM
Hi lulubell~
Hey! I’d even be super happy with kids coming with a “snooze button"..."just 10 more minutes”
I’m home! I got home Sunday evening very tired and sore but excited with the results of Keely’s AMAZING work! Now I’m just trying to figure out a way to sit down in a chair comfortably! It’s getting better, she said it would take 2-3 weeks for it to heal. I just need to feel better by Monday, gotta start conditioning my Divers!
Hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday weekend!
Blessings, E
Posted by on 11/26 at 07:09 AM
WOW! You silvered haired women are the wildest bunch around…
A lot of amazing things going on in everyone’s lives.
Jade
Posted by on 12/05 at 10:52 AM
Hi Jade~ nice to see you posting...how the heck are ya????
Posted by on 12/16 at 11:48 AM