Sometimes when I catch an unexpected glimpse of my reflection in a mirror or window I am startled. Sure enough. There's my long-deceased grandmother looking back at me. Man, she looks tired.

In the year and a half we have been back in Colorado, after fifteen years in Southern California, I have seen a big change in the condition of my skin. At fifty-two I should accept evidence of age. But, I'm looking a bit weather beaten, and I am just not ready.

I have considered taking an electric sander to my face. How hard could it be to eliminate a layer (or two or three or four) of facial skin and wait for fresh, dewy skin to grow back?

I went to Starbucks today with some pals from my Jazzercise class. We are always careful to replenish the calories we burn up working out. One woman there told me the key to keeping facial skin supple in this Colorado climate is to sleep with Vaseline on one's face. This I had to ponder. Though the concept might be sound, the mechanics are a bit troublesome. How could I keep my hair out of the goop? What does it take to wash it off? Kerosene? Wouldn't I have to sleep on my back all night or risk sliding out of bed? Never mind what my husband would think.

Some women in this area in my age group highly recommend certain skin procedures. MicroPeel, PhotoFacial, BOTOX, Restylane, Customized Medical Facial. What are these things? I have no idea, but I will find out tomorrow.

I made an appointment with Castle Rock's "The Skin Company" upon local recommendations. I stopped by to pick up some paperwork and their menu of services. My appointment tomorrow will include a consultation and a procedure yet to be determined. I am a little nervous.

Go ahead. Call me vain. I know this is a battle I won't win, but I am not ready just yet to lay down my weapons. At what age will I graciously accept the course of nature? When will I go peacefully gray and crinkly like Mrs. Claus? Not this year. Not next year, either.

I'll keep you posted, even if I have to wipe blood from my eyes after my "procedure" tomorrow in order to write.