Mike

Bearded since: 2000. I am a dedicated, permanent beard grower.

Comments:
I started with a goatee in 2000 and it's developed from there. Many of my current neighbors are Amish and I allowed my goatee to evolve to a "goatee grande", then to a full beard. I've always like the way beards looked, especially in Civil War photos. I'm a re-enactor, too. So it helps complete the look.

How do I feel about my beard? I love it. I recently trimmed it a little and for the month you'd have thought my best friend died. I hated how the trim turned out. However, it does generate a good deal of fear and hate, in certain company, especially in bankers and corporate types. My latest girlfriend really likes it, though. She told me to NEVER completely shave it off as it tickles her...fancy. Ahem.