Getting The Balloons And Flags Out For A Haircut

'Inspired' by my brother's barber based activity yesterday I decided to go into town today to get my hair cut. For me getting my hair cut is as bad as going to the dentists - I try to avoid it for as long as possible.
I'm always under the misapprehension that my hair doesn't look that bad until I'm sitting in front of the barber's mirror, usually with its bright and very unflattering lighting, which instantly disabuses me of that notion and I realise yet again that not even a bird would nest in it. 
Rather pathetically I needed a pint to fortify myself before I could enter the barber's den and my brother, who had come with me into town, was kindly there to offer me words of encouragement - "it won't take long and you'll look and feel better afterwords" (not sure what they says about my pre-haircut 'look' and demeanour!).
Suitably refreshed I headed to the barbers I'd been to the last time but they'd closed down. This seems to be a fairly common theme as the last three barbers I have honoured with my presence have all closed down - mind you if they were relying on my custom (I only get my hair cut twice a year if I can help it) I can see why! :-)
I did eventually gird my loins, select a new establishment and decide to be 'brave' and have it cut really short - mainly so I don't have to go back any time soon. My brother approved and yes I really did look and feel better as he had suggested.
We then had a walk around town looking for an image for blip which is when I came across this colourful scene. Not sure that they were actually there to celebrate my new non-hirsuteness but I loved these wonderfully eye-catching balloons and flags outside a local cafe and the gentlemen in the bright orange t-shirt obliged by stepping into the frame at exactly the right moment.