Birdbeard, we do have similar soulpatches. At this length mine looks like I am sprouting a gray octopus from under my lower lip.

Gholliday, thanks for the compliment. There are days when I feel I should shave it all off so comments like yours really help with my confidence.

Stevie t, It has taken me some time to embrace the gray in my beard. I feel I am in some good gray company on this board. As far as the chance of taming the curls, the previous pictures were as tamed as I can get it. I have not tried balm yet maybe it is time. The other day my 11 year old son told me it looked like I had a dead raccoon on my face. After I stopped laughing I told him he would not make many friends with comments like that. Actually, I think it looks more like a poodle than a raccoon.

Ol Grizz, Thanks for the support. I will trade some fullness for some straighter hair. Deal?