How Much is the 1st Lock of Hair Worth? Priceless! (or maybe not)

I can now laugh about this story, but there was a moment when I couldn’t hold back the tears. Most people reading this will think it’s a bit strange – I can tell you I received my fair share of stares at the Rental Car Office. But to all of the mothers out there, I know you will be able to relate…

Here’s the story.
I was on my last business trip before I was “grounded” - no more flights before Baby #2 arrives. Upon returning my rental car and hopping on the shuttle bus to the Atlanta airport – I realized I left my purse in the rental car. I ran back – and within that 5 minute window of time, someone had stolen my purse.

To add to the drama and allow you to visualize this sight:
• I’m 5’2”, 8 months pregnant
• I wear a backpack for work that is loaded (people joke it is a nice balance with the baby bump)
• Pulling my suitcase
• Wearing Heals
• Standing out IN THE POURING RAIN!!
As the rental car managers begin the search – over 3 hours go by.
And somewhere between the gal checking me in and the guy cleaning the car – my purse is gone!

I begin running through the necessary steps:
Cancel the cards, call the bank, etc.
When I realize my social security card & license were in my purse – a small “controlled” panic rushes over me as I realize I will most likely be a victim of “personal identity theft.” I remain in control – “that’s ok, we’ll manage” I say to myself. I just need to be more cautious in the future.

At this point – I don’t have money to pay for anything, even the airline wanted to charge me $100 for changing my flight. No identification to board the plane – the airline requires a police report in this situation to allow my on board the plane. I’m managing!!

UNTIL…I REALIZE, BEAR’s FIRST LOCK OF HAIR WAS IN AN ENVELOPE IN MY PURSE!!! AAAAHHHH!! I begin to cry!
All kinds of people were stopping asking how they could help, once I started crying. The funny part is I couldn’t bring myself to tell them “why” I was crying. Our daughter has been practically bald, this first haircut comes after 2 years of growth. You can imagine the emotional attachment.

So I ask “what is the first lock of hair worth”? To me, it’s priceless. To the rental car company that stole my purse?… they gave me 2 free rentals.

This entry was posted on Monday, July 21st, 2008 at 4:05 pm and is filed under Babies, Parenting . You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.