GM: Only peacocks need plumage

Not much of a story here, but last night I got to spend a good amount of time with some girls on their way to a large pageant. Ages from around 2 to 12. There were dozens of them! It was excellent! {I completely melted for this particular 7 YO's smile...}

Fortunately, I got to see them before getting all faked up. No make~up, no bouffant hair, none of that crap. :) If they're into all that and it's something they have fun doing, then cool. But...

It was incredible seeing all those girls playing around, just being themselves. That is the real beauty hidden behind these pageants.

All that make~up, big hair, sequins, it's ridiculous, lol. Some of the pageant moms will tell you it's good for their self esteem. How about appreciating the natural beauty{outer AND inner} that they already have?

Speaking of make~up...I've yet to see a cosmetics company use a "look like a pageant girl" ad campaign. Recapturing a youthful look, however, is cosmetic marketting 101. ;)