Vanity never was a big problem for me. Oh, now don't get me wrong. I am a girly girl. And you won't see me in public without the desperatly-needed help that makeup gives.

Starting at a young age, though, I decided to keep my premature gray hair. I thought people would take me more seriously in my career if I didn't look like I was 16, a problem for me because of my small frame. Of course, that isn't an issue any more as wrinkles and uneven-colored skin took over that job. 

But I like the no-fuss approach and the more natural look my gray hair gives.

I do my own nails. I guess that shows I am from an older generation as much as it shows my personality.

Over a decade ago, I needed to have my hair cut and my stylist wasn't available right at that moment, when I had time to get it done. So I went into the bathroom and did it myself. Ever since then, I have been my own barber.

The simple beauty routine for me is putting on makeup while I am driving from my house. I know I shouldn't do that on the two-lane roads in my city, but for some reason it is like an addiction.

Styling my hair doesn't even include a blow dryer. I just comb it into shape continually as it dries. One day, I had reason to wash my hair in the evening instead of the morning. I let it dry naturally, in style, for about an hour before going to bed.

The next morning, I found a truly interesting look in the mirror. My coiffure was poofed with what looked like three cowlics going in different directions. I just laughed at myself. I find myself entertaining sometimes. 

But I had an appointment to keep. So I just decided I would tone down the beasty mane with a little water and a comb, the styling tools I know best, and just live through a "bad hair" day.

The clerk who first saw me that day gave me a compliment on my new appearance. I was shocked. She said it had more body.

Well, I will grant you that. I guess there is a fine line between body and the 1980s "big hair", which is what I thought I had.

The lesson to be learned here is that minor accidents from neglect sometime lead to something beautiful.

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