Well, this is the type of post I know everybody on The Beard Board dreads reading.... But, after nearly 15 weeks of growth (with a few small trims throughout), I decided to shave last night.  After successfully reaching my three month goal, I kept having the urge to shave.  I used the 24 hour rule, then I used the 48 hour rule, etc but alas, the urge to shave would not go away. 

Honestly, over the last 24 hours I have been second guessing that decision.  My face looks so small now!  Especially my chin.  I did not realize how much my beard had become a part of me.  Not to be overly sentimental, but I feel like I lost a part of me.  In fact, I did loose a part of me!  Today I have been going back and looking at my progress pictures, trying to figure out what it was I was unhappy about with my beard.  In hindsight, I think I was unhappy with two things: 1. The density of my cheeks and 2. The length and symmetry of the "underbeard" (I think it had gotten longer than suited my face).  Looking back, I think I should have just trimmed up the underbeard and wore it for a few days. 

This was my first experiment with growing a beard and I am very happy I did it.  It was a lot of fun, it was a challenge to stick with it, and I learned a lot!  Especially patience while going through the transformation.  Perhaps the greatest thing I learned will be in the days to come as I figure out whether or not I am meant to be bearded long term.  As of right now, I already want to regrow!  I am going to give it a week or two and see if the urge is still there.  I know it is a long road, and I have the pictures to remind me of those dreadful first six weeks!  I will have to be fully committed to the goal.  I am especially glad I found this board and I am glad to share this experience with you guys.  It has been fun sharing my first beard growth with you all.  Thank you all for the support.  If I decide to regrow, I will keep the board informed! 

Stay tuned...

"He that hath a beard is more than a youth, and he that hath no beard is less than a man"  -Wm. Shakespeare