The Civilians, a troupe of theatrical performers based out of the New York City area (seehttp://www.thecivilians.org/) descended upon Colorado Springs in early 2007 to eventually create a workshop production play written and directed by Steven Cosson called"Save This City" - which was later refined into a compelling work entitled"This Beautiful City". Its focus was to portray the odd intersection of culture and beliefs which mix and often collide in what some have touted as being the virtual Mecca of Conservative Evangelical Christendom in America.
Several running stories form the piers of the dramatic bridge which carries the main theme of this docu-play right into the hearts of those who watch it; the most notable of which is the fallout from the lurid drug and gay sex scandal of Rev. Ted Haggard - the former pastor of the huge, mega-sized New Life Church of Colorado Springs (who incidentally has returned to town and on Thursday, Nov. 12th held his first local religious gathering at his home since his precipitous fall from grace, per this news story in The Gazette:http://www.gazette.com/articles/haggard-67094-set-life.html).
But one of the other personal stories portrayed in"This Beautiful City" is the short version of my life, as it pertains to coming "out" as a Trans-woman in this kind of town... And anyone who knows me will know of a certainty that what I say here is the plain truth. That monologue and associated song (created from my own words) was presented as an excerpt in this year's"The Arts at Dartmouth" College Event.
You will see a 10 minute segment where actress Emily Ackerman portrays a remarkably accurate incarnation of me. In fact, the first time I saw her performing as "Nancy-Jo", I thought I was in The Twilight Zone!
NEWS FLASH! The Civilians are set to return to Colorado Springs to perform the more refined and polished-up edition of "This Beautiful City" on December 4, 5, & 6. A promotional ad regarding that fact follows this message.
* 7PM on October 31, 2009 * Chinese food buffet! * Featuring DJ Paula and her spooky DJ Lineup of songs * Best Costume contest: 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes * Dress in something Chinese for halloween! * TCNE’s famous Halloween Trivia * TCNE’s Halloween “B-Movie” Halloween Movie Marathon on a BIG SCREEN! Featuring, “Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” and more! * $10 TCNE members and $15 non-members; price includes our Halloween Chinese Buffet
see www.tcne.org for details or Email info@tcne.org for directions or call our offices starting at 5PM at 781-891-9325
Well Here we are, late into 2009, its almost Halloween, planning on attending the Halloween party at Randolph Country Club, last year we only had about 35 girls there, down from 65 the previous Halloween. Hope there are more there this year. I've still been getting out to RCC and my usual group at Natick, MA, Crown Plaza Hotel Lounge. We have usually from 15 to 25 Girls there every Tuesday. I recently bough a nice new purple dress for semi formal nights out, low neckline, wore it Tuesday with a black lacey camisole showing below, black heels, it looked nice, bough both a new black camisole and also a white one recently for other outfits. Last couple weeks was out shopping a few times. Another Birthday has passed, was out with a few of the girls to at least enjoy myself, which i did. Hope to see a few of You soon. Love Lauren
From the critically acclaimed blog writer Ana Cristina Garcia and after a very long hiatus, here her new blog entry that will make you fall asleep in boredom.Here are some of the media’s reactions to this literary accident:
“Same old, same old”The Cross-dresser Times
“Not the same story again” Drag Magazine
“If I read one more story like this from her I will commit suicide”The TG Herald
But why take their word for it when you can verify yourself?Take the plunge…
An Unscheduled Visit to the Therapist
The last time I had been out to the therapist was on December of 2008 and since then I had only been out one more time, last week, with my sister-in-law.That outing was cut short and did not get to do all we had planned.Therefore, I was left a bit anxious to be out again and luckily I got to go out, on my own, just a few days later (Monday, October 19).Following are the accounts of this unexpected but satisfying time out and about as Cristy.
On Sundays temperature dropped down dramatically (for tropical standards) and I decided that if it continued on Monday I would dress and try to go out.The reason I would prefer a cold day is that I can wear clothes that cover up my legs and chest without having to shave.I had dreamed about going out in one of the warm mini-dresses that I had worn, with tights and high heels, for a photo session last January.I was undecided between the gray and the brown sweater-mini-dresses seen on the links below (from January):
My wife was out of town so I could not ask for her opinion so I emailed a couple of photos in each outfit to my sister-in-law and she recommended the brown.I was all made up and ready to put on the dress when I got her response and took her advice.I wore it exactly as I did in January except that I wore a brown top underneath to cover the white corset since the dress has a see-through knit in the middle, as you can see in the photo above.I also wore a different watch and styled my hair a bit different, without the bangs.One thing that made a big difference in my appearance was a piece of advice I got from my s-i-l regarding how to put on makeup base by pressing the sponge against the face rather than rubbing it.I totally recommend that, as the coverage is more even and the pores are less evident.I could not help to think that the first time we went out with her it was me giving makeup advice to her and now, after paying more attention to her appearance (which she says was motivated by seeing how her brother-in-law could make himself into a convincing woman).I guess that there is always something to learn, even for a veteran.
This is how I looked after returning from my long-awaited little adventure into the real world:
Notice the different hairstyle and wristwatch.Other than that it is all the same as in January.
Once all was in place I put plenty of Ralph perfume on me and I was ready to head out at around 5 p.m.My plans were to drive to the mall and wonder about for a while but then it occurred to me that I could stop by the therapist’s office and say hello to the secretary with the excuse that I had lost my cell phone and their number with it.Remember that to her, I do not live in town and come every so often to visit family and when that happens I try to schedule and appointment.
As is usually the case when I go out, I always have someone on call in case I run into trouble.That person is usually my wife but since she was out of town, I called my sister-in-law and she was up to it.
I got there and took a final check on my makeup and hair before getting off the car.Once I was ready I got off the car, walked to the doctors office and rang the bell.It was about 5:10 and I knew the doctor would be seeing his last patient of the day.To my surprise, the door was opened not by the secretary but by a female psychologist that works there too.I said hello and noticed that the secretary was on the phone as we smiled at each other.She seemed pleased to see me and after hanging the phone up we greeted with the traditional kiss on the cheek.
I sat down and she said that it had been a long time.I replied that I had lost their telephone number and therefore had not been able to set appointments on previous visits to town.She then gave me a card with the numbers and I put it in my purse as I commented that maybe I would call before I returned home (in Miami) to set an appointment.She said that the last patient of the day had canceled and that the doctor could see me right then.I replied that it would be fantastic but I did not have any cash on me to pay for the session.She said that she would go upstairs and ask the doctor if I could pay later and he said that he would see me in five minutes.As you can imagine, this is not what I had planned but I thought it would give me the chance to interact a bit more as Cristy only this time with someone who knew who I really was.The secretary offered me something to drink and I declined her offer arguing that I had just met for coffee with some girlfriends.She then asked if I had cut my hair and I replied that I had only styled it differently.As a matter of fact, since it is a wig, I guess that I have always had it the exact same length up to a micron.We chatted about this and that and then the doctor called for me so I got up and went up the stairs.He came out to greet me and said that it was a pleasant an unexpected surprise.
Conversation with the doctor was very casual an informal, this time.We talked about what I was wearing and I told him that I was a bit self-conscious given that I was wearing a mini-dress but he said that I looked very good in it and that my legs looked ok in tights and a little thin if anything.He also mentioned that the only thing that looked a bit suspicious were my hands but that for a tall woman that would border on the big side.Keep in mind that for our culture, at 5’ 6” without heels, I am a tall girl.If you add, at least 4” heels then I am much taller than the average female here and even those who are as tall or taller then I, are a lot thinner, most of the time.All in all, I am lucky to still able to pass for a taller than usual woman.
We talked about many topics including his family, specially his grandchildren.I felt right in character all the time and the only odd thing was a call that my male side had to made to the secretary to cancel the appointment “he” had for Wednesday.I could not afford two appointments so close to each other and since the issues of my male side are under control there was not much need for that.For those who are not aware from previous postings, Cristy does not go to therapy to be treated on cross-dressing or anything else.It is just a mere excuse that her male side cooked up along with the doctor so that she could have a safe environment in which to interact and where everybody else thinks of her as a genetic female (or so it seems so far after 13 visits over a 3 year period).
When discussing how would we handle payment for the session he said that my male side could bring it or that Cristy could send payment with someone else but that would be difficult.It occurred to me that if I had a chance to dress the following Thursday (my dressing window would end on Friday) Cristy would drop by to pay herself.I am hoping for this last option, as you can imagine.
Before the session came to an end, I told the doctor that I had plans to go to the mall and that I needed him to check if there was anything suspicious.Again, all of the times I have been to the mall on my own I have worn pants and not dresses and this dress was short.He did not see anything out of order, I greeted him goodbye and came down the stairs.As I came down the secretary was still there but was on the phone again.I just waved her goodbye and as she put the phone aside to say bye I told her that I might stop by on Thursday to pay for the session.There was a guy in the waiting room and I just smiled, greeted him and went out the door.
I walked to my car and started driving to the mall. I arrived at the mall at around 6:30 and it was already dark. The mall was more crowded than I expected, and I had trouble finding a parking place.I finally found one and walked towards the escalators.My first stop was at a drugstore to get me some throat pills.A guy who treated me like any other customer tended me.He always used the female form and did not give any unusual or strange looks.After paying I put the pills and change in my bag and went on my usual shoe store “pilgrimage”.It is amazing how once you have attained self-confidence; the stomach butterflies are a thing of the past.I do miss them but enjoy my outings more now that it is second nature.
I went in almost all the shoe stores in the mall and in all of them interacted with the clerks, who were usually female.Again, there were no signs of anyone noticing I was not a woman.Even though it was cold outside it was warm inside the mall and I got thirsty.I walked to the food court to get me something to drink at a Burger King.This time it was a man who tended me and all went smoothly.While I was at the cashier a lady stood next to me and we smiled at each other.She then said “Wow, you really look elegant”I thanked her and told her that I had dressed like that because it was cold but it was too hot inside and that why I was getting something to drink.Once I got my soda I said goodbye to the lady and looked for a table to sit.I sat for about 5 minutes while I finished my soda and then got up, dropped the cup in the trash and walked towards the lady’s room.
When I got in the lady’s room there were two other women grooming themselves up.I stood next to the long mirror and placed my bag on the vanity top to get my makeup out.You have no idea how I felt when I saw my reflection and I was these two other ladies and I was one of them.I was just another girl touching her makeup up before heading back home.The reflection in the mirror was that of a confident woman and one that was at ease with her appearance.I thought to myself, I look every bit as feminine as any of those other ladies.I touched up my lips, as I did not need powder or eyeliner and headed out feeling more confident and womanly than never before.
Before leaving I went to a couple more shoe stores and then went to a kiosk to pay for parking.Again I was kindly tended by a guy and walked to my car.I then drove back home with my confidence all charged up.I so needed this because it had been too long since I had been out in the wild at my own pace.One more confidence booster was that I was wearing more flashy clothes and even then I did not receive any suspicious looks from anyone that I noticed.
Being out in the real world is the ultimate experience for a cross-dresser and once you taste the sweet nectar you just can’t live without it.Dressing for staying in the confines of four walls is no longer as thrilling as it used to be.I’d rather wait for a long period to dress and go out than dress often and remain caged.
I am really looking forward to this Thursday and the idea of going to the therapist office to pay for my session last Monday.If you were able to get this far, I commend you for your perseverance and promise not to torture you with something like this again :-)
This journal enty is the first since all my computer problems, and the problems URNA had with the old format for their site. It seems that everything is working as it should be.
The neighbors who moved in the apartment below mine have come and gone in the past year. They were almost as bad as the two guys living there before. I had to put up with hearing two dogs barking at everything as well as their owners yelling at them. I actually had more peace and quiet when I was at work than I did at home. I now have another set of new neighbors who moved in downstairs. These seem to be a little better than the last, so I'll wait and see if they become loud and obnoxious like the last.
My computer seems to be running as it did before. I have upgraded it's RAM memory to 2.4Gigs. I was never able to recover the pictures I lost, but luckily I have most of them posted on my websites and in my Flickr account. I have been dressing more lately and even bought some new clothes from Victoria's Secret. I also have an even bigger "E" cup version of my Cleavage Croptop. Check out my Newest Pics gallery to view pics of them. My profile pic shows my "E" cup "girls". The Yellow dress pics are of my "D" cup "girls".
I did attend my first convention in nearly 9 years back in June this year. It was wonderful seeing my friends from years past, as well as meeting new girls who have only seen me via the Net. I also was reinstated as a member of Vanity Club, and I thank all those ladies who helped me back into the group. I love you girls!
I hope the next several months ahead will be enjoyable with the holidays soon upon us. Take care and I hope to be around more often. *Hugs*
But after the feel-good emotional wave had dissipated itself upon the shores of Practical Reality, I felt sort of miffed. I asked myself "Does anybody really know what actually helped make a thing like this happen - especially after going through what I and a few other concerned Coloradans had to go through on the grassroots level?"
The obvious answer to that one is a resounding "NO!" - especially if you’re not part of the "In Crowd" of wealthy or otherwise privileged people who (for whatever reason) have a great big media presence and therefore have become virtual household words in the greater LGBT Community. The fact that this hierarchy exists in any community often causes the valuable efforts of many "average" folks to go overlooked - which, in turn, leaves them thinking that they do not have what it takes to be real Agents of Change in society.
My goal in sharing this story is to dispel that myth, give concerned LGBT constituents hope, and let everyone know that the only way to affect truly progressive change in the political landscape of America is for them to care enough to at least hold their Representatives accountable on issues that really matter.
It All Started at a Town Hall Meeting
Colorado Springs happens to have the distinction of being the veritable Mecca of Conservative Evangelical "Christendom". At last report, there were about 100 such organizations of all sizes headquartered here, the largest of which is Focus on the Family. Because of this fact, those of us in the local LGBT Community who dare to openly defy their discriminatory, anti-LGBT Dominionist agenda tend to be few in number - and wear many hats whilst "fighting the good fight". So although I am the current Co-Chair Incumbent of the El Paso County Stonewall Democrats, I was already obligated to be away at some other LGBT-related function when LisaJo Laptad (member of the EPCSD and Precinct Chair, Colorado Springs Pct264) reminded me about a special Town Hall Meeting to be held on Saturday, July 11 at the East Library - which featured our state’s freshman senator, Michael Bennet.
This rising political star who had been appointed by Governor Ritter to fill the vacancy left when Senator Ken Salazar was elevated to a Cabinet position in the fledgling Obama Administration, was utilizing this event to build rapport with local Democrats so that he could both do his job better and to also help bolster his campaign efforts towards solidifying his seat in the US Senate, come the next state Elections. An article about him in the Colorado Springs Independent which was entitled "Who is this guy?"- Jan 15, 2009 (see
http://www.csindy.com/colorado/who-is-this-guy/Content?oid=1146307 ) shows his photo bearing the caption "Michael Bennet says he’ll learn quickly". Gauging by the interesting sequence of events I’m about to elucidate here, that indeed turned out to be an almost prophetic understatement.
Although we knew the general populace there would be more preoccupied with going after the sizzling Healthcare Reform debate ignited by President Obama’s promises of positive change across the board; and that other initial contacts had told me this Senator was already favorable towards LGBT issues; LisaJo wanted to hear it directly from the source, when it came down to if Mr. Bennet actually was in our corner. So she went to publicly get his take on whether he’d vote to repeal both the bigoted Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and the heinous "Don’t Ask Don’t Tell" policy towards LGBT folks in the Military; whilst going on record to support the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Legislation and the Trans-Inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2009. Since I serve in varying official capacities the Gender Equality Coalition, the World Gender Coalition and also network with UnitedENDA, I asked her to report her findings to me immediately after she left that Town Hall Meeting, so that I could forward that info to those who needed to be kept apprised of such matters.
According to LisaJo, it wasn’t until the very end of the gathering that she was able to get the floor long enough to pose our LGBT-related questions to Senator Bennet. She said he answered them all exactly the way we’d hoped he would - He’d vote to repeal DOMA and DADT; plus he’d cast a "Yes" vote on Hate Crimes and ENDA. I was understandably pleased with that news. So I gladly sent that data upline as soon as I returned home - and then spent the rest of that evening in Manitou Springs at the 30th Anniversary Celebration Banquet of the LGBT-affirming Pikes Peak Metropolitan Community Church of Colorado Springs.
An Unfortunate Revelation
Despite the current state of this badly wounded economy, Sunday, July 19 in Colorado Springs brought along with it one of the most successful Pridefests the local LGBT Community had ever seen. Even on the political and social fronts, hugely positive gains were made which are so numerous, they would have to be the subject of some other story. But then August came - and when the 7th of that month rolled around, I got another call from LisaJo about an online political report that instantly sent troubling feelings of possible political betrayal through both of us. The subject at hand was the Federal ENDA; and the spreadsheet which she directed me to via an online link revealed that when it came down to where the Senators in Washington DC really stood on this all-important piece of LGBT-Inclusive legislation, our very own Senator Bennet of Colorado was listed as "Undecided". From what I could tell, the tally was compiled by the Inclusive ENDA Facebook Campaign, and was based upon findings gathered from data in Washington DC and verified by reliable activist sources. At LisaJo’s suggestion, I printed out two hardcopies of what I saw there, just in case we needed to prove a point with this information later on.
Why It Mattered
Let me say at this point that some people participate in politics just because they like it; some may do it for a power trip; whilst others may actually do it for more philosophically "righteous" reasons. But when you find Transgender people involved in it, it’s mostly because it’s a matter of sheer survival for us. Because if the laws go bad (even ones that seem innocuous to the typical person), the day-to-day running of our very lives could get exceedingly far worse than any other people group could ever imagine. For example - what other law-abiding segment of society do you know of, that actually gets harassed or dictated to by policies and ordinances, regarding things as personal and essential as where they might relieve themselves whilst out in the Public Square? (In some odious cases, no tenable "Bathroom Option" have even "allowed" for Transgender people!)
It was LisaJo who had the courage around 13 years ago to establish SCIRTS (Southern Colorado Inter-Regional Transgender Society) here in Ultra-Conservative Colorado Springs; which eventually evolved into the group I now lead, called PAGE (Peak Area Gender Expressions). This is the largest and longest continuously-existing Transgender support group in all of Southern Colorado. We do what we do for our Constituents because history shows that no one else will ever look after the safety and well-being of the Transgender Community better than other Transgender people. Nothing is more fundamentally important than being assured of getting the fairest opportunity when it comes to securing suitable Employment Therefore, we felt it was our duty to assist in seeing to it that this Trans-Inclusive version of the Federal ENDA that is now before Congress gets a good shot at passing - and becoming the Law of the Land in every state across this Nation.
Having that in mind, it should be pretty obvious why both LisaJo ant I swung into action, when it appeared that Senator Bennet had told the public one thing in Colorado Springs - but did something entirely different regarding ENDA, whilst in Washington DC.
From Showing Concern to Real Shoe Leather Action
By August 13, I had received an e-mail from the Colorado Stonewall Democrats in Denver that reiterated the fact that Senator Bennet was still listed on ENDA support spreadsheets as being "Undecided"; and I was also getting calls from Transgender Activists and other out-of-state Allies asking me why I reported that both our Senators were already in our corner on this issue when that apparently was not the case. Since this discrepancy was now cutting into my personal reputation for being known as a trustworthy informational source in the Trans Community, it was definitely time to get to the bottom of this. So when LisaJo called and asked if I wanted to accompany her down to Senator Bennet’s local office here in Colorado Springs, I was more than ready to go there.
The link to the Official Invitation data LisaJo referred me to, initially gave the public erroneous address information because if you took it literally, it would have had you looking for the Senator somewhere in Acacia Park (209 N. Tejon Street) as opposed to it’s actual location two blocks to the north at 409 N. Tejon. We discovered that error on the way over, and ended up calling the staffers at the Office to redirect our course correctly. When we got there, we discovered a short line of people ahead of us, though the message we’d gotten had led us to believe this was a special appointment time just for us and the Senator’s Staff alone. Whatever the case, we waited out the situation until we got our turn to address the staff personnel on duty at the time.
The next few moments were so disappointing full of ineptitude that at one point, LisaJo actually left the room to keep from losing her composure, her temper - or both. The people we interfaced with were properly pleasant and politically correct - but they didn’t even know what ENDA was at first mentioning. After we produced papers with all the pertinent information upon them in an effort to make our point clear about the contradiction we saw in how Senator Bennet said he would deal with it; they somehow still couldn’t find the official text of the Bill, its sponsors, nor its current status on their office computer. (I thought it odd that a Senator’s staffers weren’t able to do something I routinely do online via State and Federal Congressional websites). When we asked if Senator Bennet would ever return to Colorado Springs during this Congressional Recess period, we were told "No" - because he was on an all-county tour of the State. The Senior Staff Representative then apologized for all the frustrating confusion, saw to it that our contact information was obtained - and promised to get back to us as soon as the Senator had rightly dealt with the matter. LisaJo at that point openly predicted that it would never happen, just as we were leaving; and true to her words, neither of us ever got that promised follow-up phone call.
All that experience did was strengthen our determination to find a viable fix for this unresolved issue.
Close Encounters at The Junction
On Saturday of that weekend (August 15th), President Obama was scheduled to hold a Town Hall Meeting on the subject of Healthcare Reform, out in Grand Junction, Colorado. Just plain logic and a couple of contacts I had told me that Governor Ritter and every major State politico who possibly could get there would be there, too - including Senator Bennet. Since I was already in communication with representatives of the local Change That Works Colorado group that was rounding up a bunch of pro-Obama supporters to drive up to Denver and help fill a chartered bus to Grand Junction; I now had an extra incentive to join in with them. I figured that sometime during our effort to offset the rancor of the opposition expected to show up out there, I just might also get to run into Senator Bennet - and possibly have time to voice in his presence the concerns I and LisaJo brought up about his lack of lending true support for a Federal all-inclusive ENDA at his office in Colorado Springs the other day.
Unfortunately, however, my designs on this day were at best a near miss. Our bus arrived at the Town Hall Meeting site so late that those who had official passes into the Central High School Gymnasium where it all was happening did not have time to clear Security in order to be allowed inside. The place already was totally maxed out anyway. So we all added ourselves to the huge throng of people outside which was lining both sides of the road (appropriately named "Warrior Way") that led into the Campus - for one side of the street was full of "Tea Party" Conservatives who were vehemently against President Obama; whilst our side was totally for his proposed plans for Healthcare Reform. There were a few times where the pandemonium on the Front Lines in that street almost hit a flash point that could have went violent - but then the local Sheriff’s crew moved in to separate the loud opposing factions. Not that this mattered - but from what I could tell, I was the only Transgender person out there in that near-melee of a scene.
When it appeared that things had calmed to an almost boring lull, I left the Front to see what was going on in the dusty field of a parking area farther back behind me. I then discovered that Senator Bennet was inside the very bus I had rode in on - exhorting the people who were already seated in there. He was just wrapping his speech up, when I came to the door of that vehicle (where a young girl whom I believe was his daughter was standing); and the best that I got out of him after that was just a handshake - because he and some other officials had to rush off to more rarified environs while the folks on our side of Warrior Way packed things up and called it a day. By this time, the President was already gone from the scene - and the opposition forces had all but dispersed. Therefore, I and the progressive amalgamation of people I was with also left - and ended up returning to Colorado Springs sometime way in the middle of the night.
What did I take away from all this? Although this close encounter Function at Grand Junction was historic and full of Activist "adventure"; it netted me nothing when it came to my goal of possibly getting Senator Bennet to dispel the confusion over where he was regarding ENDA by promising to go on record as being definitely in support of it in Washington DC.
Finally - The Day of Reckoning
I shared what I experienced out in Grand Junction with friends and constituents in several Internet groups and websites; then also dealt with a situation where I thought possible anti-Trans bias was at work (relative to certain other reports of the whole thing), before taking action on issues that were more close to home. But a little over one month later, I got yet another call from LisaJo where she asked me had I gotten an invitation to an up-coming event in Denver sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) called the "No Excuses Community Meeting with Senator Michael Bennet", which was to be held on Saturday, September 19th at 3:30 pm. The short answer to her question was "No".
I had stopped getting direct e-mails from HRC back in 2007 when I halted my support for them, after they acquiesced to the heinous, "incrementalistic" sacrificial selling out of the Transgender Community through celebrating the forward progress of that version of the Federal ENDA which had been shorn of its original Trans-inclusive language. Although LisaJo’s sentiments about that divisive fiasco were the same as mine, somehow she was privy to this special HRC arranged Town Hall Meeting set for the LGBT Community to voice their concerns to Senator Bennet - and wanted to know if I’d go up to Denver with her to attend it. "Absolutely!" was my reply. Something inside told me that it was very likely that the Trans Community of Denver just might NOT show up for this all-important thing, though it was in their very own city. So we from Colorado Springs endeavored to at least try to make sure Colorado’s greater Transgender Community was rightly represented. Because this would finally prove to be the real Day of Reckoning where the Senator’s inconsistencies on the Trans-Inclusive ENDA would indeed be brought to light - and hopefully corrected.
I made sure to get LisaJo and I RSVPed in for the gathering up in Denver; and kept abreast of the situation, when the venue for it suddenly was changed from the Gill Action Building to the Park Avenue Lofts a day before it was to happen. I also printed a couple more copies of that online spreadsheet that showed where all the Senators stood in Washington DC, regarding the all-inclusive Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act. So when that Saturday did arrive, we were ready - and all set - to go!!
We found the location of the Community Meeting after some minor detours amongst Denver’s sometimes difficult one-way Downtown streets; and got parked there 10 minutes prior to its appointed beginning. And because a certain elevator wasn’t working, a lovely onsite staffer had to lead us along a winding route that eventually had us on the top floor of that complex of expensive Lofts at 19th and Clarkson. The actual site of the event up there was the Club Room, a place that appeared to be normally devoted to the recreational interests of those who lived in that complex.
LisaJo and I met and chatted with one other Trans-woman just before the meeting commenced. Her name was Nicole - and she was from a local LGBT-affirming ELCA Lutheran church. When asked where all the other Transgender people were, she said she had just come from a function at the Gender Identity Center where a lot of girls were - but they did not seem interested, when she told them about this opportunity to meet with the Senator. I didn’t see anyone representing The Center there, either. But I could be wrong about that, because other people were still filtering in by the time Senator Bennet arrived - and things really got underway
Speaking of the Senator, he began just prior to the official part of things by shaking hands and graciously greeting those of us who were at the front of the room. Most everyone was smiling whilst this was going on - but when Mr. Bennet got to LisaJo, her serious-looking expression caused him to say out loud "You’re not smiling...", to which she simply retorted "You waffled!" - and quickly let him know what she was referring to. The Senator then just as swiftly spoke forth a promise to explain and clarify the matter during the course of the meeting. After the preliminaries and pleasantries were out of the way, other people in the assemblage brought up all the key concerns of the LGBT Community at large. Like getting rid of the "Don’t Ask Don’t Tell" policy towards LGBT folks in the Military; supporting the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Legislation, Not letting the Ryan White Act that helps people living with AIDS via special funding expire; supporting the Trans-Inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2009; and repealing the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
Before the gathering ended, Senator Bennet quickly affirmed that he would properly address and handle every LGBT issue to our liking when he returned to Washington DC and his staff were way interested in getting a copy of that ENDA tally spreadsheet I brought forth, which proved the Senator’s words in Colorado weren’t matching what he was actually doing at the Capitol. A short lady who was with the team Mr. Bennet brought promised that they’d get this discrepancy fixed - and that it will soon be seen that the Senator is indeed in support of the all-inclusive ENDA. We were finally satisfied with this response. But why Senator Bennet tried to make excuse for initially admitting that he would not vote to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is another issue worthy of a totally separate blog...
In Conclusion
Although this was a very long and detailed account of just exactly what I witnessed and went through, when it came to resolving the inconsistencies and discrepancies which created static in the communication lines between Senator Michael Bennet and his LGBT Constituents in Colorado, I do not apologized for its huge size. Again - I posted this story to let others know how they might go about bringing change where apparent misunderstandings and communication glitches might be the only sticking points. I also want to make it clear that I in no way am alleging that the Senator had knowingly done anything nefarious. I am just bringing to light a process whereby common grassroots-level people can know that they hold the key, are empowered - and must hold their representatives accountable when what is said back home doesn’t match what’s actually done in Washington DC.
This one is about a particular tax. I have current issues with a much more serious tax problem. I am going to leave the IRS out of this commentary.
Today’s thoughts are on the new added tax the state of Connecticut has applied to the purchase of a pack of cigarettes. The total they take is $3.00 per pack. The Federal Government adds $1.01 per pack The total cost is probably at an average of just under eight bucks a pack. Four dollars per pack tax on a product that probably costs less than a dollar to produce and get to market.
The elected politicians around here use cigarettes as the very first service/product to tax. I can understand that they feel that smokers are total idiots for using the things in the first place and probably stupid enough to work extra hours to afford their addiction. Junkies steal more for a more costly fix. I bet the theft of cigarettes statistic increases by 33% in conjunction with the increase of the tax percentage. Junkies can get more for them now. The black market has to be great. Illegal online purchasing of cigarettes will probably increase too. Not sure what sort of fine or prison term one can acquire with such a guilty plea, but I bet it isn’t very reasonable.
I am currently a smoker. A disgruntled smoker. Quitting is probably a really good idea for me as far as my health is concerned. If getting more people to quit was a goal for the state government, they will be able to say they succeeded with me. I bought two cartons the day before the tax increased and that is the end of it. If their intention was more to get more money out of me (what I believe was the foremost objective), they loose.
I figure I can take the tree hundred dollars a month I won’t be spending on smokes and save it for paying off taxes I will need to pay on April 15, next year. I am assuming that my federal taxes are going to increase considerably due to the fact that I am self-employed and good enough to have, perhaps, made a bit too much money for the first time in a bunch of years. Federal spending is at record highs using trillion dollar debt and budget numbers has to come from somewhere.
Withdrawl symptoms are going to be interesting. I have attempted the big quit several times. I usually develop an attitude problem. I need to find a bumper sticker that says “Pardon the middle finger, I just quit smoking”. Road rage will be on the increase. My apologies to those I attack until the need it out of my system.
I do have a box of nicotine gum available in case of emergency.
Saturday, October 3, 7pm-11pm at TCNE in Waltham, MA
http://tcne.org/?page_id=9
Las Vegas ACTION right in WALTHAM! Be a part of the SHOWGIRL cast!
Las Vegas Showgirl night – pull out your sequines, platform shoes, extra-long lashes and wild outfits!
Don't forget your plumage...let those feathers FLY!
Not sure HOW to make your look work for SHOWGIRL Night? email Andrea at My Changing Space andreaziff@aol.com or John at Glamour Boutique in Auburn MA for some help jwarrener@aol.com or toll free 888-721-3177
- Hundreds of Dollars in prizes for best and sexiest clothes
- Top three prize winners earn the right to be models in First Event 2010 fashion show
- Hot show tunes courtesy of Boston’s own D Paula
TCNE Members are always free! / $10 donations for guests
Directions? Questions? visit http://tcne.org/?page_id=9 or email info@tcne.org
Saturday September 26th 7PM - 11PM * FOOD * Muzac * TCNE 50:50 Raffle * Juvenile Diabetes Fund Raiser * Makeup Demonstration for the gals!
Holy Cow Saturday the 26th will BE LOADED with FUN...don't miss OUT
So what are the details?
Girls and Boys, Men and Women, Trans-Folk, Friends, Gender-Queers, Admirers and Allies have we got a night lined up!
First Course?.....TCNE will be having their House Party at their offices in Waltham from 7PM to 11PM. Lots of music, food (as in dinner), plenty of space to change and get all pretty or groom and get all handsome. There will be a 50:50 Raffle too so you'll have a great chance to earn some fast funds for the fun night .... TCNE members no charge / Guests TCNE asks for a $10 Donation
Main Meal?.....The Friends of Randolph Country Club TG Dance and Martini PARTY 9PM till 2AM at CC Randolph MA...The temps will be in the 60's outside by HOT inside as the dance floor HEATS up and the schmoozing starts under the Cabana's at the pool at Randolph Country Club, 44 Mazeo Drive, Randolph MA. NOTE: CC now charges $10 for cover on Saturday nights. Finally, Nadia of Makeup By Nadia will be running a makeup class as well so why not get some tips and hone your beauty skills too? email her at makeupnadia@yahoo.com for the details.
Desert?.....Britannya Heavens will be workin' the crowd to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes! She'll be at TCNE’s Saturday House Party or at CC later on!! AS you all know Juvenile diabetes month is upon us & for the people that don't know Britt is a single mom & her baby Girl has type ONE Diabetes & has had many complications from her diabetes. Every year Britannya does the JDRF Walk & she gather funds for the research to find a cure for these kids.
This year she is doing something different, she purchased 3 ED HARDY dresses & each run for $380. But rather than to ask for your donation, she will be raffling these beautiful dresses , Each ticket is $5..00 each or 4 for $15.00...They fit ladies from a size 1 to a size 12, they are adjustable, email britt_heavens@yahoo.com for all the details
~*~*~* don't miss this night it's sure to be a transtastic *~*~*
Need details, directions to TCNE or CC, help, encouragement, makeup artists email addresses or Vonnie's pvt, boudoir location? Email the very helpful (and oh so fab) team at info@tcne.org
After 6 long years of being single, I have finally found a GG woman who has not only taken my heart.. But is my other half!
This woman means the world to me!! And after such a long haul of dealing with my own issues of my loss.. I have come to the point where I can love again!!
And this feeling is one of the best feelings in the world!!! I can not stress this enough. And just feel I must share this with everyone I know.. And those who don't know me!!
Love is such an important part of this life!! Love is something that can make a bad day just go away!! Love is something that is rare in this life.. And its something you must cherish with every fiber of your being when you do find it!!
This is what I wrote for her.. And want to share it here with everyone here..
Every time I look into your eyes. I see a reflection of my life days past. When I look into the mirror. I see your heart shinning through.
When I think of the days that have already past. I know in my heart that those days where some of the days that where the best of my life! When I think of the days that are to come, I am overjoyed with the knowledge that the universe has sent you into my path.
When we walk upon the beach the moon smiles upon us.. When we walk within the park.. The trees sway with compassion.
Nature knows that we have no bounds. The wind the earth, is part of our playground.
There is no place we can not go. There is no person that would not know.. The love we share is true!
The truths to this world is ever so hard to find. While one person locked with the matrix will try to tell lies.. the truth to you and I are clear to see!
There is no mystry.. The clues are there to see.. The love the passion the energy is running free! Like a waterfall that flows forever more..
There is the door, and we are the key.. We pass through time, and we pass through space. Nothing shall stand in our way..
We are like mountains.. We are like trees.. We are the wind, water, air and fire!
My love meets you half way.. There is nothing else I could say.. But you are free to do what you wish.. But you will always desire my kiss!
For where ever the universe takes us.. Where ever life leads us..
I will always be close to your heart..
My love I love you with all my being.. And that holds no bounds..
And what loves is always true.. As love is the only truth in this world!
With that said.. Im going to work on turning that into a song.. I just need a cool chorus to go with it!
IM inspired to do anything now!! And soon both Isis and I will be doing what we want to do!!
Not only did I find love... Im back in school!! I got my GED.. and things are looking up!
I have to give a specail shout out to my friend Tia TV!! It is wasnt for her I would not have been able to get the power to go back to school and focus on a career in this life!
Tia! Your one good friend!! And there is a specail place in my heart for you my friend!
And I want you to meet my new girlfriend! You will find her to be as specail as I am!
And anyone else out there.. Please tell Tia what a wonderful person she is!!
Not only is she kind, but highly intelligent, and has done more for me than most people have ever cared to do!
There is only one other person out in this life who helped me like that.. and his name Is Joe.. But I have not gotten to hang out with him in ages..
He was my boyfriend at one time.. But now that I have a GG woman.. She is all I have ever wanted or needed in my life!
Isis is my Goddess.. She is my heart.. She is my reflection!! We are one!
Thanks for listening to me today!!
xoxoxox
Jenna
Here is my Goddess Isis! I whorship the very ground she walks! I am hers, and will forever be in her heart.. For the energy we share is deep!! And its like nothing I have ever exp in my life!!!
Saturday, August 22nd there is a bbq fund raiser for the TG Emergency Fund at TCNE Waltham and a follow on after party till 2AM at RCC
It's happening tonight August 22nd!
@ 6PM at Tiffany Club 30 Guinan Street, Waltham MA we are having a BBQ and fund raiser for the TG Emergency Fund. All the visitors' fees ($10 donation please) will go to the TG Emergency Fund! www.tgemergencyfund.org/
@ 9PM-10PMish the RCC party kicks off. Come visit Vonnie, Michelle, Katie, Melissa, Junie and the gang as the Friends of Randolph Country Club hostess you till 2AM at Randolph Country Club! RCC is at 44 Mazzeo Dr, Randolph, MA 02368-3402(781) 961-2414
For info and directions please email info@tcne.org
You can call TCNE about 4:30PM for info too: 781-891-9325
Tiffany Club of New England (TCNE) and the Friends of Randolph Country Club (FoRCC) invite you to our Hot August Nights LGBT dance party at Randolph Country Club (RCC). This will be on Satuday, August 22nd
There will be a bbq at Tiffany Club of New England, Waltham MA 6PM-9PM as a Pre-Party! The BBC Pre-Party will feature DJ Paula and an all you can eat BBQ. BBQ Pre-Party is free for TCNE Members/non-membes $10
At 9PM head down to CC, Randolph MA to continue the dancing and fun till 2AM ($5.00 cover at the CC Door)
Send mail to info@tcne.org for information and directions.
The prez wants it bad. Lots of folk say we need it. I did. Connecticut has a nifty new “affordable” healthcare thing that I have recently been allowed to participate in.
Kewl.
Maybe.
If the National thing is anything like the CT program, get ready for some changes.
My monthly premium (silly term) is $75 a month. Cheap by any standards, but I am considered to be lower middle class according to my IRS 1040 filings. Child support and care of a disabled sister generally make no friggin difference but by my third application and about 15 hours worth of phone calls, letters written and serious whining, I was accepted. Case worker Jessica is a real sweetie.
The red tape was expectedly extensive.
The first info mailing I received claimed to offer low cost medical, prescription, dental and eye care. $20 a month deductibles for doctor visits and $10 co-pays for meds. 18 months later, my 75 bucks a month gets me a limit of 100 grand in cash a year limit, $35 for visits. Preventative is no-cost. Free rectal exams. Yippee! Scripts vary according to name brand, generic and a couple other drug options. Some are just not going to be paid for, some are $10 per fill and others are $35 per fill.
I do not get to see my choice of doctor unless it is a doctor THEY choose. None of my favorites/regulars are on the “list”, so I get to pick new ones out of some very thick booklet of choices. How can there be so many choices and not have any of the ones I had chosen before???
Ya know it is because doctors with a full list of patients (the good ones) are not going to take on new patients that they are not going to get their full fee out of. Those on the state’s list are sacrificing some income as the state mandates what doctors can charge program patients. I am not lying, this is what a doctor’s accountant told me.
So I had to pay the first 75 bux before I would be issued a card, 30 days later according to the info sheet. I sent the money and check daily for my card. I got a mailing, one week after sending the payment, from the program and was all excited until I opened it and it was the demand for the second installment. No card yet, but they want more money. I am glad to see that the billing department is in good working order and well ahead of the game. My coverage is supposed to begin in a week, but I still don’t have the card. Card issue department is a tad slow.
They request that I make an appointment with my “new” PCP immediately. This is not covered in the program as there is a total of $500 in deductibles that must be met before they pay any benefits. $250 for one thing and $250 for another, so on top of my $75 a month, I must pay another $500 before they start giving doctors I don’t want any money.
Within a 12 month span, I had accumulated $110,000 in medical expenses without any medical insurance. Bankruptcy took care of the first 90 grand, but the second one happened after I filed bankruptcy, so I am stuck wheeling ad dealing with hospitals, doctors and miscellaneous service providers.
So the way my calculator sees it, even with the current “affordable” plan I am in, last year would have cost me a minimum of$11, 400.00 out of pocket, and this is at pauper level! You guys making 50-60 grand a year have much higher premiums, deductibles and co-pays. I normally don’t get very sick, but had a bad year. I probably won’t have another like that in a very long time, so I try not to bug out about the cost possibilities, but when I boil it down I struggle with seeing the big bargain with what I have. I see law coming (like Massachusetts has) that if you don’t have insurance, independent or state/federal you get arrested and fines. Some choice. As it stands, I am in debt for close to $20,000.00 for my viral infection thing (they never did figure out why I was so sick for a month) that I am trying to get reduced (more countless hours of phone calls and form filling sessions to 8 different debtors), but now I have to pay the state $500 before their “benefits” kick in.
I dissed them with the bankruptcy and they think they have me in a strong testicular grip. My credit score is for fecal material for the next seven years, so I am figuring that not paying any of these bone and body heads a cent for all the crap they have made me go through for the past six months just to get the break that the “law” says they have to offer me as a self-paying patient (READ: Insured people pay more because the insurance companies need to make sure stock-holders make plenty of dough and physicians are usually big investors) is not going to effect me too much. The calls from collection agency people will be a bitch. They are so mean.
I couldn’t afford the premiums that the insurance companies were asking. I really can’t afford what the government is asking either. The stuff our president wants to push through into law is large, constantly changing, secretive and a bit frightening. If it is anything like Connecticut ’s program (a very costly program...ask the tax payers) we will all loose certain freedoms and will all pay plenty for it. It all worked so well when mom took us in to see the doctor she picked and paid for the visit out of her purse. Done. Those days are gone. Thank you doctors, insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers and especially you greedy attorneys that have screwed seeing a doctor up so much.
Hosting a CDTVTS swingers party in Reidsville, NC on August 22nd. My Yahoo is also Candiconfised. Drop me a line over there and I will provide party details, provided you are willing to share a facial pic with me. No exceptions.
My friend Jackie and I went on summer holiday to northern New York State, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. We got out of New England just before the floods in Connecticut (7 inches of rain fell in just 4 hours!). I got water in the basement of my house for the first time since I have owned it. Thank God I had friends in the area to check up on the home (they had to wet vac the basement however). It was not much rainwater inside but even an inch can cause a huge problem when it sits around for a few weeks. My neighbors down the hill were not so lucky and had huge problems. There was massive flooding in the town where I live!
We went to Fort Stanwix in Rome, NY and then on to Seneca Falls. There was a lovely canal which Jackie and I spent some time sitting along and having a drink (2nd photo #1). It is ironic that we had picture perfect weather the whole time we were gone. There were sunny, cool days and cool nights.
We made it to Buffalo and Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural Nat. Historic Site (2nd photo #2). This is where Teddy became President after President McKinley was assassinated. President Karen Reeves (what a scary thought!!!) had her picture taken behind the President's desk (2nd photo #3). Notice how I take charge!
The two of us then headed into Ohio to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A National Park in Northern Ohio? It's not exactly Yellowstone or Yosemite for sure! Jackie took a pic of me (2nd photo #4) on the boardwalk by Brandywine Falls. It was very nice there.
We then headed west to the town of Put-In-Bay, which sits on an island in the middle of Lake Erie reachable only by ferry boat. It was a spectacular day. The boat trip out was nice and the views from the tower in Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial were breath taking (2nd photo #5). There were too many tourists and I almost took some out with my car. I'm not sure if it was accidental or not!
Nest stop was the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Jackie and I waded into the waters of Lake Michigan (2nd photo #6). The Great Lakes are like the Atlantic Ocean but without the salty smell or feel of saltwater on your bod. We wish we had more time to spend here but we had to make some miles on this day.
We then made it to our hotel in Glenview, Illinois. My friend Jackie T. got ready to have her FFS performed on her by Dr. Mark Zukowski. She was, of course, quite nervous, but she faced the situation with great calm and determination. That's Jackie! You go girl J !!!
On Sunday, June 28th , a couple of days before her surgery, Jackie and I participated in the Chicago GLBT Pride Parade (See the Main Photo). We were on a float sponsored by Dr. Z along with a live rock band. I thought the crowds would be a few thousand. They estimated that the crowds along the route might have reached a million people! As we waved and danced we saw people lined up 20, 30, even 40 deep along the route. There were even people hanging out of apartment windows and on balconies. It was a little overwhelming for a girl from the coast of Maine but it was great fun. What an adrenaline rush! Thanks Dr. Z for the invite and for dinner!
In the next photo (2nd photo #7) I am admiring some interesting sculpture.
The nicest part of this parade was that these huge throngs of diverse people, from every background that you can imagine, were all smiles, respectful, and having a fantastic time. Smiles were the order of the day.
Jackie came through the surgery with flying colors. The next few days did not allow for much sleep for her and for me.I was her care giver and I set a new record of staying awake in hours playing nurse & maid. (I hope she does not sue me for malpractice!!! YIKES!!!). I figure I was awake for two days straight.
Jackie was doing well enough after just four days that we went out to see the fireworks on July 4th in Glenview at the golf course. It was kind of weird to be allowed to sit on the greens with chairs and blankets when normally you would be chased away. The show was great.
The next day I went back to the golf course to take some day time photos of the gold course. Two guys offered to be "male models" for my pics. I didn't know that golfing made guys soooooo HORNY!!!!
We also were lucky enough to be able to visit Brenda Sue in her new condo on the north shore. Jackie was not up for doing much but a few hours out was good for her. Brenda's pad was beautiful. She lives in a nice area along Lake Michigan It is very rural. Hey Annette! This area that you are from is NICE!!!
My only complaint is that Brenda cooked us hamburgers that must have been two pounds each. They were delicious but after all this time I AM STILL FULL! Thanks Brenda, Anne, and Colin!
It was finally time to head back east. We spent an extra day in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania coming back since this return trip was hard on Jackie who was still recuperating from her surgery. By the way she is looking even more beautiful with every passing day! Drop her a line!
The last new pic of me on my page (2nd photo #8) was taken by Jackie at Pocono Downs NASCAR Raceway. This place is massive! We love NASCAR!
We arrived home safe and sound. It was time to crash!
TCNE "HOT SHOT" Fund Raiser and Pre-RCC Makeup and Dance PARTY
Saturday July 25th, 7PM-11PM, TCNE Waltham (30 minutes from RCC)
Tiffany Club of New England cordially invites the entire Transgender Community, Allies and Friends to the "HOT SHOT" TCNE Fund Raiser and Pre-RCC Makeup and Dance Party...Come start the night out at TCNE from 7PM-11PM then join the transgender community to party at RCC, the Boston Areas premiere lgbt welcoming dance club, till 2AM!
TCNE and Boston Radio Personality DJ Paula will be DJing and lighting up TCNE Waltham with hot dance hits from the 70's, 80's and 90's
All you can eat Pizza and Salad Bar & Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
What else is hot? How about over $3000 in prized raffled off! - Raffle prizes - door prize - Gift certificate - Gift Certificates to Esthetique, The Fantasy Girl and My Changing Room - Three American Laser Center Gift Certificates for hair removal - 50/50 raffle (1/2 the full pot goes to the winning ticket holder, the bigger the pot the bigger the win!) - Even more prizes!
Members $12, Non-members $15 - admission includes one raffle ticket for a door prize (RCC party requires separate $5 cover)
Makeovers offered at a special event reduced rate of $50 that afternoon and evening - BOOK your slot now - girls, get your fabulous self ready for RCC.
Best of all? Our Air Conditioning is FIXED!
This is gonna be one long, hot night...do NOT miss it :)
For more info and directions email info@tcne.org
============= Sponsors for July 25th Party @ TCNE and RCC * Tiffany Club of New England * Randolph Country Club * My Changing Room * Esthetique * American Laser Centers * The Fantasy Girl * Friends of RCC
I-S, Singapore's lifestyle magazine, wanted to find out if Singapore was a boring place to live in. They sent their reporter to checkout the local SM scene. We did promise I-S that their reporter will be tied up with his job. I think the I-S editor had no idea that we meant it literally. Master Alex (our Moderator from Sg) and Master Max (our Moderator from Jakarta) did most of the major bondage work. Nic did her impression of a local series called Red Thread using red ropes to tie three models together. In the end we're not quite certain what the I-S write and his photographer friend thought about the SM scene but I am sure we made their evening interesting.
To find more about the BDSM scene in Asia, please go to the following links.
I'm lived full time over 27 years . Post Op Dec 3 2002 This is a bit of me and my pass. There still is happy days here. As I hold on .
I live in Ct and was taking care of my sick Grandmother living with her on the land for over 20 years I ended up here running away from home my dad used to beat me all the time he was a drinker and he hit and beat me a lot untill
i was 16 . I got hit the most out of five kids i was the middle kid two boys then me and two girls see from the age of five i started to dress as a
girl all the time i never dated girls or never had sex with a girl I told my sister at the
age of 7 I was a girl. Dad hated that i dress mom said one time that i was going to the head doctors but never did it never got me help. All i got was hit .so i ran away from home and left
with out any one helping me or asking me if i need
any thing. I'm just a freak to them . I ened up at my dads mothers home and lived in a tent for some time in her back yard lost and scare lost. Grandmother was a brinker also and my
mom and her son my dad walked away from her years
ago because of it. she was mean. My Dad or anyone
never did any thing for My Grandmother or me in the
last 27 years not a thing, not even a bed sheet for
Grans needs. I did it all! Grams was a pain in the ass to deal with but i never
walked away from her. I was doing every thing from
cooked her food,furnishings..cuting the grass. Gram did love me but she was lost with in her own
pain. she never could understand me, I was a
Tansgender person xxy. Not a day that went by that
gram would drive ne nuts. she would hit me, yell a
lot, she just was controling in ways things I had to
deal with I had no were to go I was just a Kid still
not knowing what to do. She would kick the bath room door open on me as I was trying to wash up taking a. It was bad from
one bad thing to the next. It was bad for years
with her drunk all the time with her sister living
next door in the family house n she drank to but was
nice to me most of the time she still would just not
deal with any thing good one way but sad in the
orther way. Even my dad was born in the Faimly house
next door I got the shit from gram and orthers in my pass
because i was TG/TS and living full time as my self
woman and very passable, cute. I then I started to building out in grams back yard but it was about 180Ft back from her house
Ten Ft off the ege of a open marsh lands looking out
to the marsh there is also a water way 60 ft wide
winding out to LI sound. The building/ Fort it was
only ten by ten by 8 ft high but the front of the
building I went up 4 ft higher and I builed a loft
and but my Bed up there the front wall was all
glass, I took sliding glass door the i got a the
Dump took it apart and builed it in to the wall. so
as I went to Bed I was looking out to the stars,
rain storms, Sun raise. The changing colors of the
Marsh lands Was great. I was cold a lot of the time
I think I had a heater at but had to turn it off at
night and get up cold. But it was my place no one
could hurt me there Like it was my safe place in my
little world. I lived in this fort from the age 17 . 27 some years and bulding it biger as i could. But I
had no running water or a bath I had to walk 180 ft
to Grams house to was up and take her shit. Grams would never let a freak live in her home she
would say. she say that also doing many orther things to me.
no freak like you will never become any thing. she was mean today I'm hurting a lot, as I learn
to lived life now. I know really deep in side she loved me but know how
to show it.
I had to place Grams in a home for the old at the age of 92 she died ten months later. her sister that lived next door she also got sick and I
ended up having to help her also. So now I still live here still in ways living with
in it all. I get lost in it all and this home like
Grams is still running things . . I'm living here so sad, every one has died. in the pass
five years. my dog three years ago.
When grams died her son my dad was in Fl and He never came up from Fla or my mom to help me, not
even a letter from him OR Mom. That just kill me! I had to get a home lone to fix up grams house it
was way run down and very thing needed to be fixed
and clean. she would pee on the floor and thing very
dirty. I live in the her home and hate it. I'm left to my self again and I do not know what to do just holding on. Many Years have pass me by. I cry many times as the
years has pass. See no one in my framily has done any thing for me
or for my sick Grandmother or Me Because I was A
Transexual kid, I'm a girl. Dad also was a big drinker and he beat me all the time for i was dressing. Mom hated it to and she had her hands full with dads drinking. I know other people have bad times also.
but I just wish that some one would just ask is
every thing ok or call me some time in the pass years asking me do you need any thing how are you. I am still alive but lost hurt. Just
because I'm TS every one walks away from me?
Boy what shit I taking and that i have seen.
Because I was Transexual No one has care for me. been by my self most of my life.
I'm 5'4 tall blonde with bule eyes and I always pass
as a girl for who I am thats all! I never was aboy
I can't even thing like one. I fixed this home up.
I have done a lot here by my self you would not
belive what I have done here. {Lost In Time But Still in Step}
I've been immortalized! (Well, sort of...)
Nancy-josephine Leah Morris November 14th, 2009 7:55 am MSTHey Girlfriends!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSdz0Z8c12Y
NEWS FLASH!
The Civilians are set to return to Colorado Springs to perform the more refined and polished-up edition of "This Beautiful City" on December 4, 5, & 6. A promotional ad regarding that fact follows this message.
Love y'all!
Nancy-Jo Morris
[Comment on this post]
Halloween Party Waltham, MA
Rebecca Aine October 31st, 2009 7:51 am MDTTiffany Club of New England Presents their Annual Halloween Bash at TCNE in Waltham MA!
* 7PM on October 31, 2009
* Chinese food buffet!
* Featuring DJ Paula and her spooky DJ Lineup of songs
* Best Costume contest: 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes
* Dress in something Chinese for halloween!
* TCNE’s famous Halloween Trivia
* TCNE’s Halloween “B-Movie” Halloween Movie Marathon on a BIG SCREEN! Featuring, “Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” and more!
* $10 TCNE members and $15 non-members; price includes our Halloween Chinese Buffet
see www.tcne.org for details or Email info@tcne.org for directions or call our offices starting at 5PM at 781-891-9325
Afterwards continue the party till 2AM at Randolph Country Club in Randolph MA with the Friends of Randolph Country Club's Annual Halloween Bash there! See more info at groups.yahoo.com/group/FoRCC
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Untitled Post
Nadja Mary Korol October 26th, 2009 1:10 am MDT[Comment on this post]
Halloween is coming, out and about still.
Lauren Jayne McCarthy October 21st, 2009 12:01 pm MDTWell Here we are, late into 2009, its almost Halloween, planning on attending the Halloween party at Randolph Country Club, last year we only had about 35 girls there, down from 65 the previous Halloween. Hope there are more there this year. I've still been getting out to RCC and my usual group at Natick, MA, Crown Plaza Hotel Lounge. We have usually from 15 to 25 Girls there every Tuesday. I recently bough a nice new purple dress for semi formal nights out, low neckline, wore it Tuesday with a black lacey camisole showing below, black heels, it looked nice, bough both a new black camisole and also a white one recently for other outfits. Last couple weeks was out shopping a few times. Another Birthday has passed, was out with a few of the girls to at least enjoy myself, which i did. Hope to see a few of You soon. Love Lauren
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An Unscheduled Visit to the Therapist
Ana Cristina García October 20th, 2009 8:42 pm MDTFrom the critically acclaimed blog writer Ana Cristina Garcia and after a very long hiatus, here her new blog entry that will make you fall asleep in boredom. Here are some of the media’s reactions to this literary accident:
“Same old, same old” The Cross-dresser Times
“Not the same story again” Drag Magazine
“If I read one more story like this from her I will commit suicide” The TG Herald
But why take their word for it when you can verify yourself? Take the plunge…
An Unscheduled Visit to the Therapist
The last time I had been out to the therapist was on December of 2008 and since then I had only been out one more time, last week, with my sister-in-law. That outing was cut short and did not get to do all we had planned. Therefore, I was left a bit anxious to be out again and luckily I got to go out, on my own, just a few days later (Monday, October 19). Following are the accounts of this unexpected but satisfying time out and about as Cristy.
On Sundays temperature dropped down dramatically (for tropical standards) and I decided that if it continued on Monday I would dress and try to go out. The reason I would prefer a cold day is that I can wear clothes that cover up my legs and chest without having to shave. I had dreamed about going out in one of the warm mini-dresses that I had worn, with tights and high heels, for a photo session last January. I was undecided between the gray and the brown sweater-mini-dresses seen on the links below (from January):
Brown:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/3292401559/
Gray:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/3270000780/
My wife was out of town so I could not ask for her opinion so I emailed a couple of photos in each outfit to my sister-in-law and she recommended the brown. I was all made up and ready to put on the dress when I got her response and took her advice. I wore it exactly as I did in January except that I wore a brown top underneath to cover the white corset since the dress has a see-through knit in the middle, as you can see in the photo above. I also wore a different watch and styled my hair a bit different, without the bangs. One thing that made a big difference in my appearance was a piece of advice I got from my s-i-l regarding how to put on makeup base by pressing the sponge against the face rather than rubbing it. I totally recommend that, as the coverage is more even and the pores are less evident. I could not help to think that the first time we went out with her it was me giving makeup advice to her and now, after paying more attention to her appearance (which she says was motivated by seeing how her brother-in-law could make himself into a convincing woman). I guess that there is always something to learn, even for a veteran.
This is how I looked after returning from my long-awaited little adventure into the real world:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/4030933986/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/4030177723/
Notice the different hairstyle and wristwatch. Other than that it is all the same as in January.
Once all was in place I put plenty of Ralph perfume on me and I was ready to head out at around 5 p.m. My plans were to drive to the mall and wonder about for a while but then it occurred to me that I could stop by the therapist’s office and say hello to the secretary with the excuse that I had lost my cell phone and their number with it. Remember that to her, I do not live in town and come every so often to visit family and when that happens I try to schedule and appointment.
As is usually the case when I go out, I always have someone on call in case I run into trouble. That person is usually my wife but since she was out of town, I called my sister-in-law and she was up to it.
I got there and took a final check on my makeup and hair before getting off the car. Once I was ready I got off the car, walked to the doctors office and rang the bell. It was about 5:10 and I knew the doctor would be seeing his last patient of the day. To my surprise, the door was opened not by the secretary but by a female psychologist that works there too. I said hello and noticed that the secretary was on the phone as we smiled at each other. She seemed pleased to see me and after hanging the phone up we greeted with the traditional kiss on the cheek.
I sat down and she said that it had been a long time. I replied that I had lost their telephone number and therefore had not been able to set appointments on previous visits to town. She then gave me a card with the numbers and I put it in my purse as I commented that maybe I would call before I returned home (in Miami) to set an appointment. She said that the last patient of the day had canceled and that the doctor could see me right then. I replied that it would be fantastic but I did not have any cash on me to pay for the session. She said that she would go upstairs and ask the doctor if I could pay later and he said that he would see me in five minutes. As you can imagine, this is not what I had planned but I thought it would give me the chance to interact a bit more as Cristy only this time with someone who knew who I really was. The secretary offered me something to drink and I declined her offer arguing that I had just met for coffee with some girlfriends. She then asked if I had cut my hair and I replied that I had only styled it differently. As a matter of fact, since it is a wig, I guess that I have always had it the exact same length up to a micron. We chatted about this and that and then the doctor called for me so I got up and went up the stairs. He came out to greet me and said that it was a pleasant an unexpected surprise.
Conversation with the doctor was very casual an informal, this time. We talked about what I was wearing and I told him that I was a bit self-conscious given that I was wearing a mini-dress but he said that I looked very good in it and that my legs looked ok in tights and a little thin if anything. He also mentioned that the only thing that looked a bit suspicious were my hands but that for a tall woman that would border on the big side. Keep in mind that for our culture, at 5’ 6” without heels, I am a tall girl. If you add, at least 4” heels then I am much taller than the average female here and even those who are as tall or taller then I, are a lot thinner, most of the time. All in all, I am lucky to still able to pass for a taller than usual woman.
We talked about many topics including his family, specially his grandchildren. I felt right in character all the time and the only odd thing was a call that my male side had to made to the secretary to cancel the appointment “he” had for Wednesday. I could not afford two appointments so close to each other and since the issues of my male side are under control there was not much need for that. For those who are not aware from previous postings, Cristy does not go to therapy to be treated on cross-dressing or anything else. It is just a mere excuse that her male side cooked up along with the doctor so that she could have a safe environment in which to interact and where everybody else thinks of her as a genetic female (or so it seems so far after 13 visits over a 3 year period).
When discussing how would we handle payment for the session he said that my male side could bring it or that Cristy could send payment with someone else but that would be difficult. It occurred to me that if I had a chance to dress the following Thursday (my dressing window would end on Friday) Cristy would drop by to pay herself. I am hoping for this last option, as you can imagine.
Before the session came to an end, I told the doctor that I had plans to go to the mall and that I needed him to check if there was anything suspicious. Again, all of the times I have been to the mall on my own I have worn pants and not dresses and this dress was short. He did not see anything out of order, I greeted him goodbye and came down the stairs. As I came down the secretary was still there but was on the phone again. I just waved her goodbye and as she put the phone aside to say bye I told her that I might stop by on Thursday to pay for the session. There was a guy in the waiting room and I just smiled, greeted him and went out the door.
I walked to my car and started driving to the mall. I arrived at the mall at around 6:30 and it was already dark. The mall was more crowded than I expected, and I had trouble finding a parking place. I finally found one and walked towards the escalators. My first stop was at a drugstore to get me some throat pills. A guy who treated me like any other customer tended me. He always used the female form and did not give any unusual or strange looks. After paying I put the pills and change in my bag and went on my usual shoe store “pilgrimage”. It is amazing how once you have attained self-confidence; the stomach butterflies are a thing of the past. I do miss them but enjoy my outings more now that it is second nature.
I went in almost all the shoe stores in the mall and in all of them interacted with the clerks, who were usually female. Again, there were no signs of anyone noticing I was not a woman. Even though it was cold outside it was warm inside the mall and I got thirsty. I walked to the food court to get me something to drink at a Burger King. This time it was a man who tended me and all went smoothly. While I was at the cashier a lady stood next to me and we smiled at each other. She then said “Wow, you really look elegant” I thanked her and told her that I had dressed like that because it was cold but it was too hot inside and that why I was getting something to drink. Once I got my soda I said goodbye to the lady and looked for a table to sit. I sat for about 5 minutes while I finished my soda and then got up, dropped the cup in the trash and walked towards the lady’s room.
When I got in the lady’s room there were two other women grooming themselves up. I stood next to the long mirror and placed my bag on the vanity top to get my makeup out. You have no idea how I felt when I saw my reflection and I was these two other ladies and I was one of them. I was just another girl touching her makeup up before heading back home. The reflection in the mirror was that of a confident woman and one that was at ease with her appearance. I thought to myself, I look every bit as feminine as any of those other ladies. I touched up my lips, as I did not need powder or eyeliner and headed out feeling more confident and womanly than never before.
Before leaving I went to a couple more shoe stores and then went to a kiosk to pay for parking. Again I was kindly tended by a guy and walked to my car. I then drove back home with my confidence all charged up. I so needed this because it had been too long since I had been out in the wild at my own pace. One more confidence booster was that I was wearing more flashy clothes and even then I did not receive any suspicious looks from anyone that I noticed.
Being out in the real world is the ultimate experience for a cross-dresser and once you taste the sweet nectar you just can’t live without it. Dressing for staying in the confines of four walls is no longer as thrilling as it used to be. I’d rather wait for a long period to dress and go out than dress often and remain caged.
I am really looking forward to this Thursday and the idea of going to the therapist office to pay for my session last Monday. If you were able to get this far, I commend you for your perseverance and promise not to torture you with something like this again :-)
With my deepest respect and gratitude,
Cristy
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Since my last entry....
Linda Lewis October 19th, 2009 4:23 pm MDTThis journal enty is the first since all my computer problems, and the problems URNA had with the old format for their site. It seems that everything is working as it should be.
The neighbors who moved in the apartment below mine have come and gone in the past year. They were almost as bad as the two guys living there before. I had to put up with hearing two dogs barking at everything as well as their owners yelling at them. I actually had more peace and quiet when I was at work than I did at home. I now have another set of new neighbors who moved in downstairs. These seem to be a little better than the last, so I'll wait and see if they become loud and obnoxious like the last.
My computer seems to be running as it did before. I have upgraded it's RAM memory to 2.4Gigs. I was never able to recover the pictures I lost, but luckily I have most of them posted on my websites and in my Flickr account. I have been dressing more lately and even bought some new clothes from Victoria's Secret. I also have an even bigger "E" cup version of my Cleavage Croptop. Check out my Newest Pics gallery to view pics of them. My profile pic shows my "E" cup "girls". The Yellow dress pics are of my "D" cup "girls".
I did attend my first convention in nearly 9 years back in June this year. It was wonderful seeing my friends from years past, as well as meeting new girls who have only seen me via the Net. I also was reinstated as a member of Vanity Club, and I thank all those ladies who helped me back into the group. I love you girls!
I hope the next several months ahead will be enjoyable with the holidays soon upon us. Take care and I hope to be around more often. *Hugs*
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Senator Bennet of Colorado Confirms Support on Inclusive ENDA 2009 - The Inside Story
Nancy-josephine Leah Morris October 6th, 2009 5:09 am MDTSenator Bennet of Colorado Confirms Support on Inclusive ENDA 2009 - The Inside Story
One account you’ll never hear of in the Big Blogs which tells what really happened in the field...
By Nancy-Jo Morris
Colorado Springs, USA
Like many of you LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender) Activists out there striving for True Equality in America, I was extremely grateful to be treated to a headline back on September 25 in "The Bilerico Project" which read: Thank You, Senator Michael Bennet: Senate Movement on ENDA (by: Dr. Jillian T. Weiss).
But after the feel-good emotional wave had dissipated itself upon the shores of Practical Reality, I felt sort of miffed. I asked myself "Does anybody really know what actually helped make a thing like this happen - especially after going through what I and a few other concerned Coloradans had to go through on the grassroots level?"
The obvious answer to that one is a resounding "NO!" - especially if you’re not part of the "In Crowd" of wealthy or otherwise privileged people who (for whatever reason) have a great big media presence and therefore have become virtual household words in the greater LGBT Community. The fact that this hierarchy exists in any community often causes the valuable efforts of many "average" folks to go overlooked - which, in turn, leaves them thinking that they do not have what it takes to be real Agents of Change in society.
My goal in sharing this story is to dispel that myth, give concerned LGBT constituents hope, and let everyone know that the only way to affect truly progressive change in the political landscape of America is for them to care enough to at least hold their Representatives accountable on issues that really matter.
It All Started at a Town Hall Meeting
Colorado Springs happens to have the distinction of being the veritable Mecca of Conservative Evangelical "Christendom". At last report, there were about 100 such organizations of all sizes headquartered here, the largest of which is Focus on the Family. Because of this fact, those of us in the local LGBT Community who dare to openly defy their discriminatory, anti-LGBT Dominionist agenda tend to be few in number - and wear many hats whilst "fighting the good fight". So although I am the current Co-Chair Incumbent of the El Paso County Stonewall Democrats, I was already obligated to be away at some other LGBT-related function when LisaJo Laptad (member of the EPCSD and Precinct Chair, Colorado Springs Pct264) reminded me about a special Town Hall Meeting to be held on Saturday, July 11 at the East Library - which featured our state’s freshman senator, Michael Bennet.
This rising political star who had been appointed by Governor Ritter to fill the vacancy left when Senator Ken Salazar was elevated to a Cabinet position in the fledgling Obama Administration, was utilizing this event to build rapport with local Democrats so that he could both do his job better and to also help bolster his campaign efforts towards solidifying his seat in the US Senate, come the next state Elections. An article about him in the Colorado Springs Independent which was entitled "Who is this guy?"- Jan 15, 2009 (see
http://www.csindy.com/colorado/who-is-this-guy/Content?oid=1146307 ) shows his photo bearing the caption "Michael Bennet says he’ll learn quickly". Gauging by the interesting sequence of events I’m about to elucidate here, that indeed turned out to be an almost prophetic understatement.
Although we knew the general populace there would be more preoccupied with going after the sizzling Healthcare Reform debate ignited by President Obama’s promises of positive change across the board; and that other initial contacts had told me this Senator was already favorable towards LGBT issues; LisaJo wanted to hear it directly from the source, when it came down to if Mr. Bennet actually was in our corner. So she went to publicly get his take on whether he’d vote to repeal both the bigoted Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) and the heinous "Don’t Ask Don’t Tell" policy towards LGBT folks in the Military; whilst going on record to support the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Legislation and the Trans-Inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2009. Since I serve in varying official capacities the Gender Equality Coalition, the World Gender Coalition and also network with UnitedENDA, I asked her to report her findings to me immediately after she left that Town Hall Meeting, so that I could forward that info to those who needed to be kept apprised of such matters.
According to LisaJo, it wasn’t until the very end of the gathering that she was able to get the floor long enough to pose our LGBT-related questions to Senator Bennet. She said he answered them all exactly the way we’d hoped he would - He’d vote to repeal DOMA and DADT; plus he’d cast a "Yes" vote on Hate Crimes and ENDA. I was understandably pleased with that news. So I gladly sent that data upline as soon as I returned home - and then spent the rest of that evening in Manitou Springs at the 30th Anniversary Celebration Banquet of the LGBT-affirming Pikes Peak Metropolitan Community Church of Colorado Springs.
An Unfortunate Revelation
Despite the current state of this badly wounded economy, Sunday, July 19 in Colorado Springs brought along with it one of the most successful Pridefests the local LGBT Community had ever seen. Even on the political and social fronts, hugely positive gains were made which are so numerous, they would have to be the subject of some other story. But then August came - and when the 7th of that month rolled around, I got another call from LisaJo about an online political report that instantly sent troubling feelings of possible political betrayal through both of us. The subject at hand was the Federal ENDA; and the spreadsheet which she directed me to via an online link revealed that when it came down to where the Senators in Washington DC really stood on this all-important piece of LGBT-Inclusive legislation, our very own Senator Bennet of Colorado was listed as "Undecided". From what I could tell, the tally was compiled by the Inclusive ENDA Facebook Campaign, and was based upon findings gathered from data in Washington DC and verified by reliable activist sources. At LisaJo’s suggestion, I printed out two hardcopies of what I saw there, just in case we needed to prove a point with this information later on.
Why It Mattered
Let me say at this point that some people participate in politics just because they like it; some may do it for a power trip; whilst others may actually do it for more philosophically "righteous" reasons. But when you find Transgender people involved in it, it’s mostly because it’s a matter of sheer survival for us. Because if the laws go bad (even ones that seem innocuous to the typical person), the day-to-day running of our very lives could get exceedingly far worse than any other people group could ever imagine. For example - what other law-abiding segment of society do you know of, that actually gets harassed or dictated to by policies and ordinances, regarding things as personal and essential as where they might relieve themselves whilst out in the Public Square? (In some odious cases, no tenable "Bathroom Option" have even "allowed" for Transgender people!)
It was LisaJo who had the courage around 13 years ago to establish SCIRTS (Southern Colorado Inter-Regional Transgender Society) here in Ultra-Conservative Colorado Springs; which eventually evolved into the group I now lead, called PAGE (Peak Area Gender Expressions). This is the largest and longest continuously-existing Transgender support group in all of Southern Colorado. We do what we do for our Constituents because history shows that no one else will ever look after the safety and well-being of the Transgender Community better than other Transgender people. Nothing is more fundamentally important than being assured of getting the fairest opportunity when it comes to securing suitable Employment Therefore, we felt it was our duty to assist in seeing to it that this Trans-Inclusive version of the Federal ENDA that is now before Congress gets a good shot at passing - and becoming the Law of the Land in every state across this Nation.
Having that in mind, it should be pretty obvious why both LisaJo ant I swung into action, when it appeared that Senator Bennet had told the public one thing in Colorado Springs - but did something entirely different regarding ENDA, whilst in Washington DC.
From Showing Concern to Real Shoe Leather Action
By August 13, I had received an e-mail from the Colorado Stonewall Democrats in Denver that reiterated the fact that Senator Bennet was still listed on ENDA support spreadsheets as being "Undecided"; and I was also getting calls from Transgender Activists and other out-of-state Allies asking me why I reported that both our Senators were already in our corner on this issue when that apparently was not the case. Since this discrepancy was now cutting into my personal reputation for being known as a trustworthy informational source in the Trans Community, it was definitely time to get to the bottom of this. So when LisaJo called and asked if I wanted to accompany her down to Senator Bennet’s local office here in Colorado Springs, I was more than ready to go there.
The link to the Official Invitation data LisaJo referred me to, initially gave the public erroneous address information because if you took it literally, it would have had you looking for the Senator somewhere in Acacia Park (209 N. Tejon Street) as opposed to it’s actual location two blocks to the north at 409 N. Tejon. We discovered that error on the way over, and ended up calling the staffers at the Office to redirect our course correctly. When we got there, we discovered a short line of people ahead of us, though the message we’d gotten had led us to believe this was a special appointment time just for us and the Senator’s Staff alone. Whatever the case, we waited out the situation until we got our turn to address the staff personnel on duty at the time.
The next few moments were so disappointing full of ineptitude that at one point, LisaJo actually left the room to keep from losing her composure, her temper - or both. The people we interfaced with were properly pleasant and politically correct - but they didn’t even know what ENDA was at first mentioning. After we produced papers with all the pertinent information upon them in an effort to make our point clear about the contradiction we saw in how Senator Bennet said he would deal with it; they somehow still couldn’t find the official text of the Bill, its sponsors, nor its current status on their office computer. (I thought it odd that a Senator’s staffers weren’t able to do something I routinely do online via State and Federal Congressional websites). When we asked if Senator Bennet would ever return to Colorado Springs during this Congressional Recess period, we were told "No" - because he was on an all-county tour of the State. The Senior Staff Representative then apologized for all the frustrating confusion, saw to it that our contact information was obtained - and promised to get back to us as soon as the Senator had rightly dealt with the matter. LisaJo at that point openly predicted that it would never happen, just as we were leaving; and true to her words, neither of us ever got that promised follow-up phone call.
All that experience did was strengthen our determination to find a viable fix for this unresolved issue.
Close Encounters at The Junction
On Saturday of that weekend (August 15th), President Obama was scheduled to hold a Town Hall Meeting on the subject of Healthcare Reform, out in Grand Junction, Colorado. Just plain logic and a couple of contacts I had told me that Governor Ritter and every major State politico who possibly could get there would be there, too - including Senator Bennet. Since I was already in communication with representatives of the local Change That Works Colorado group that was rounding up a bunch of pro-Obama supporters to drive up to Denver and help fill a chartered bus to Grand Junction; I now had an extra incentive to join in with them. I figured that sometime during our effort to offset the rancor of the opposition expected to show up out there, I just might also get to run into Senator Bennet - and possibly have time to voice in his presence the concerns I and LisaJo brought up about his lack of lending true support for a Federal all-inclusive ENDA at his office in Colorado Springs the other day.
Unfortunately, however, my designs on this day were at best a near miss. Our bus arrived at the Town Hall Meeting site so late that those who had official passes into the Central High School Gymnasium where it all was happening did not have time to clear Security in order to be allowed inside. The place already was totally maxed out anyway. So we all added ourselves to the huge throng of people outside which was lining both sides of the road (appropriately named "Warrior Way") that led into the Campus - for one side of the street was full of "Tea Party" Conservatives who were vehemently against President Obama; whilst our side was totally for his proposed plans for Healthcare Reform. There were a few times where the pandemonium on the Front Lines in that street almost hit a flash point that could have went violent - but then the local Sheriff’s crew moved in to separate the loud opposing factions. Not that this mattered - but from what I could tell, I was the only Transgender person out there in that near-melee of a scene.
When it appeared that things had calmed to an almost boring lull, I left the Front to see what was going on in the dusty field of a parking area farther back behind me. I then discovered that Senator Bennet was inside the very bus I had rode in on - exhorting the people who were already seated in there. He was just wrapping his speech up, when I came to the door of that vehicle (where a young girl whom I believe was his daughter was standing); and the best that I got out of him after that was just a handshake - because he and some other officials had to rush off to more rarified environs while the folks on our side of Warrior Way packed things up and called it a day. By this time, the President was already gone from the scene - and the opposition forces had all but dispersed. Therefore, I and the progressive amalgamation of people I was with also left - and ended up returning to Colorado Springs sometime way in the middle of the night.
What did I take away from all this? Although this close encounter Function at Grand Junction was historic and full of Activist "adventure"; it netted me nothing when it came to my goal of possibly getting Senator Bennet to dispel the confusion over where he was regarding ENDA by promising to go on record as being definitely in support of it in Washington DC.
Finally - The Day of Reckoning
I shared what I experienced out in Grand Junction with friends and constituents in several Internet groups and websites; then also dealt with a situation where I thought possible anti-Trans bias was at work (relative to certain other reports of the whole thing), before taking action on issues that were more close to home. But a little over one month later, I got yet another call from LisaJo where she asked me had I gotten an invitation to an up-coming event in Denver sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) called the "No Excuses Community Meeting with Senator Michael Bennet", which was to be held on Saturday, September 19th at 3:30 pm. The short answer to her question was "No".
I had stopped getting direct e-mails from HRC back in 2007 when I halted my support for them, after they acquiesced to the heinous, "incrementalistic" sacrificial selling out of the Transgender Community through celebrating the forward progress of that version of the Federal ENDA which had been shorn of its original Trans-inclusive language. Although LisaJo’s sentiments about that divisive fiasco were the same as mine, somehow she was privy to this special HRC arranged Town Hall Meeting set for the LGBT Community to voice their concerns to Senator Bennet - and wanted to know if I’d go up to Denver with her to attend it. "Absolutely!" was my reply. Something inside told me that it was very likely that the Trans Community of Denver just might NOT show up for this all-important thing, though it was in their very own city. So we from Colorado Springs endeavored to at least try to make sure Colorado’s greater Transgender Community was rightly represented. Because this would finally prove to be the real Day of Reckoning where the Senator’s inconsistencies on the Trans-Inclusive ENDA would indeed be brought to light - and hopefully corrected.
I made sure to get LisaJo and I RSVPed in for the gathering up in Denver; and kept abreast of the situation, when the venue for it suddenly was changed from the Gill Action Building to the Park Avenue Lofts a day before it was to happen. I also printed a couple more copies of that online spreadsheet that showed where all the Senators stood in Washington DC, regarding the all-inclusive Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act. So when that Saturday did arrive, we were ready - and all set - to go!!
We found the location of the Community Meeting after some minor detours amongst Denver’s sometimes difficult one-way Downtown streets; and got parked there 10 minutes prior to its appointed beginning. And because a certain elevator wasn’t working, a lovely onsite staffer had to lead us along a winding route that eventually had us on the top floor of that complex of expensive Lofts at 19th and Clarkson. The actual site of the event up there was the Club Room, a place that appeared to be normally devoted to the recreational interests of those who lived in that complex.
LisaJo and I met and chatted with one other Trans-woman just before the meeting commenced. Her name was Nicole - and she was from a local LGBT-affirming ELCA Lutheran church. When asked where all the other Transgender people were, she said she had just come from a function at the Gender Identity Center where a lot of girls were - but they did not seem interested, when she told them about this opportunity to meet with the Senator. I didn’t see anyone representing The Center there, either. But I could be wrong about that, because other people were still filtering in by the time Senator Bennet arrived - and things really got underway
Speaking of the Senator, he began just prior to the official part of things by shaking hands and graciously greeting those of us who were at the front of the room. Most everyone was smiling whilst this was going on - but when Mr. Bennet got to LisaJo, her serious-looking expression caused him to say out loud "You’re not smiling...", to which she simply retorted "You waffled!" - and quickly let him know what she was referring to. The Senator then just as swiftly spoke forth a promise to explain and clarify the matter during the course of the meeting. After the preliminaries and pleasantries were out of the way, other people in the assemblage brought up all the key concerns of the LGBT Community at large. Like getting rid of the "Don’t Ask Don’t Tell" policy towards LGBT folks in the Military; supporting the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Legislation, Not letting the Ryan White Act that helps people living with AIDS via special funding expire; supporting the Trans-Inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) of 2009; and repealing the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).
Before the gathering ended, Senator Bennet quickly affirmed that he would properly address and handle every LGBT issue to our liking when he returned to Washington DC and his staff were way interested in getting a copy of that ENDA tally spreadsheet I brought forth, which proved the Senator’s words in Colorado weren’t matching what he was actually doing at the Capitol. A short lady who was with the team Mr. Bennet brought promised that they’d get this discrepancy fixed - and that it will soon be seen that the Senator is indeed in support of the all-inclusive ENDA. We were finally satisfied with this response. But why Senator Bennet tried to make excuse for initially admitting that he would not vote to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is another issue worthy of a totally separate blog...
In Conclusion
Although this was a very long and detailed account of just exactly what I witnessed and went through, when it came to resolving the inconsistencies and discrepancies which created static in the communication lines between Senator Michael Bennet and his LGBT Constituents in Colorado, I do not apologized for its huge size. Again - I posted this story to let others know how they might go about bringing change where apparent misunderstandings and communication glitches might be the only sticking points. I also want to make it clear that I in no way am alleging that the Senator had knowingly done anything nefarious. I am just bringing to light a process whereby common grassroots-level people can know that they hold the key, are empowered - and must hold their representatives accountable when what is said back home doesn’t match what’s actually done in Washington DC.
Sincerely,
Nancy-Jo Morris
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Tax stress
Rachelle Dubois October 4th, 2009 4:32 pm MDTThis one is about a particular tax. I have current issues with a much more serious tax problem. I am going to leave the IRS out of this commentary.
Today’s thoughts are on the new added tax the state of Connecticut has applied to the purchase of a pack of cigarettes. The total they take is $3.00 per pack. The Federal Government adds $1.01 per pack The total cost is probably at an average of just under eight bucks a pack. Four dollars per pack tax on a product that probably costs less than a dollar to produce and get to market.
The elected politicians around here use cigarettes as the very first service/product to tax. I can understand that they feel that smokers are total idiots for using the things in the first place and probably stupid enough to work extra hours to afford their addiction. Junkies steal more for a more costly fix. I bet the theft of cigarettes statistic increases by 33% in conjunction with the increase of the tax percentage. Junkies can get more for them now. The black market has to be great. Illegal online purchasing of cigarettes will probably increase too. Not sure what sort of fine or prison term one can acquire with such a guilty plea, but I bet it isn’t very reasonable.
I am currently a smoker. A disgruntled smoker. Quitting is probably a really good idea for me as far as my health is concerned. If getting more people to quit was a goal for the state government, they will be able to say they succeeded with me. I bought two cartons the day before the tax increased and that is the end of it. If their intention was more to get more money out of me (what I believe was the foremost objective), they loose.
I figure I can take the tree hundred dollars a month I won’t be spending on smokes and save it for paying off taxes I will need to pay on April 15, next year. I am assuming that my federal taxes are going to increase considerably due to the fact that I am self-employed and good enough to have, perhaps, made a bit too much money for the first time in a bunch of years. Federal spending is at record highs using trillion dollar debt and budget numbers has to come from somewhere.
Withdrawl symptoms are going to be interesting. I have attempted the big quit several times. I usually develop an attitude problem. I need to find a bumper sticker that says “Pardon the middle finger, I just quit smoking”. Road rage will be on the increase. My apologies to those I attack until the need it out of my system.
I do have a box of nicotine gum available in case of emergency.
Just thinking about it stresses me out.
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SHOWGIRLS NIGHT at TCNE
Rebecca Aine October 1st, 2009 5:39 am MDTSaturday, October 3, 7pm-11pm at TCNE in Waltham, MA
http://tcne.org/?page_id=9
Las Vegas ACTION right in WALTHAM! Be a part of the SHOWGIRL cast!
Las Vegas Showgirl night – pull out your sequines, platform shoes, extra-long lashes and wild outfits!
Don't forget your plumage...let those feathers FLY!
Not sure HOW to make your look work for SHOWGIRL Night? email Andrea at My Changing Space andreaziff@aol.com or John at Glamour Boutique in Auburn MA for some help jwarrener@aol.com or toll free 888-721-3177
- Hundreds of Dollars in prizes for best and sexiest clothes
- Top three prize winners earn the right to be models in First Event 2010 fashion show
- Hot show tunes courtesy of Boston’s own D Paula
TCNE Members are always free! / $10 donations for guests
Directions? Questions? visit http://tcne.org/?page_id=9 or email info@tcne.org
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9/26 TG Party RCC and TCNE
Rebecca Aine September 24th, 2009 10:53 pm MDTTCNE House PARTY and FoRCC TG Dance and Martini Party!
Saturday September 26th 7PM - 11PM
* FOOD
* Muzac
* TCNE 50:50 Raffle
* Juvenile Diabetes Fund Raiser
* Makeup Demonstration for the gals!
Holy Cow Saturday the 26th will BE LOADED with FUN...don't miss OUT
So what are the details?
Girls and Boys, Men and Women, Trans-Folk, Friends, Gender-Queers, Admirers and Allies have we got a night lined up!
First Course?.....TCNE will be having their House Party at their offices in Waltham from 7PM to 11PM. Lots of music, food (as in dinner), plenty of space to change and get all pretty or groom and get all handsome. There will be a 50:50 Raffle too so you'll have a great chance to earn some fast funds for the fun night .... TCNE members no charge / Guests TCNE asks for a $10 Donation
Main Meal?.....The Friends of Randolph Country Club TG Dance and Martini PARTY 9PM till 2AM at CC Randolph MA...The temps will be in the 60's outside by HOT inside as the dance floor HEATS up and the schmoozing starts under the Cabana's at the pool at Randolph Country Club, 44 Mazeo Drive, Randolph MA. NOTE: CC now charges $10 for cover on Saturday nights. Finally, Nadia of Makeup By Nadia will be running a makeup class as well so why not get some tips and hone your beauty skills too? email her at makeupnadia@yahoo.com for the details.
Desert?.....Britannya Heavens will be workin' the crowd to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes! She'll be at TCNE’s Saturday House Party or at CC later on!! AS you all know Juvenile diabetes month is upon us & for the people that don't know Britt is a single mom & her baby Girl has type ONE Diabetes & has had many complications from her diabetes. Every year Britannya does the JDRF Walk & she gather funds for the research to find a cure for these kids.
This year she is doing something different, she purchased 3 ED HARDY dresses & each run for $380. But rather than to ask for your donation, she will be raffling these beautiful dresses , Each ticket is $5..00 each or 4 for $15.00...They fit ladies from a size 1 to a size 12, they are adjustable, email britt_heavens@yahoo.com for all the details
~*~*~* don't miss this night it's sure to be a transtastic *~*~*
Need details, directions to TCNE or CC, help, encouragement, makeup artists email addresses or Vonnie's pvt, boudoir location? Email the very helpful (and oh so fab) team at info@tcne.org
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Im in LOVE!!!!
Jenna Rae September 4th, 2009 11:57 am MDTHello friends and Fans!!!
After 6 long years of being single, I have finally found a GG woman who has not only taken my heart.. But is my other half!
This woman means the world to me!! And after such a long haul of dealing with my own issues of my loss.. I have come to the point where I can love again!!
And this feeling is one of the best feelings in the world!!! I can not stress this enough. And just feel I must share this with everyone I know.. And those who don't know me!!
Love is such an important part of this life!! Love is something that can make a bad day just go away!! Love is something that is rare in this life.. And its something you must cherish with every fiber of your being when you do find it!!
This is what I wrote for her.. And want to share it here with everyone here..
Every time I look into your eyes.
I see a reflection of my life days past.
When I look into the mirror.
I see your heart shinning through.
When I think of the days that have already past.
I know in my heart that those days where some of the days that where the best of my life!
When I think of the days that are to come,
I am overjoyed with the knowledge that the universe has sent you into my path.
When we walk upon the beach the moon smiles upon us..
When we walk within the park.. The trees sway with compassion.
Nature knows that we have no bounds.
The wind the earth, is part of our playground.
There is no place we can not go.
There is no person that would not know.. The love we share is true!
The truths to this world is ever so hard to find. While one person locked with the matrix will try to tell lies..
the truth to you and I are clear to see!
There is no mystry.. The clues are there to see.. The love the passion the energy is running free!
Like a waterfall that flows forever more..
There is the door, and we are the key..
We pass through time, and we pass through space.
Nothing shall stand in our way..
We are like mountains.. We are like trees..
We are the wind, water, air and fire!
My love meets you half way.. There is nothing else I could say..
But you are free to do what you wish..
But you will always desire my kiss!
For where ever the universe takes us..
Where ever life leads us..
I will always be close to your heart..
My love I love you with all my being..
And that holds no bounds..
And what loves is always true..
As love is the only truth in this world!
With that said.. Im going to work on turning that into a song.. I just need a cool chorus to go with it!
IM inspired to do anything now!! And soon both Isis and I will be doing what we want to do!!
Not only did I find love... Im back in school!! I got my GED.. and things are looking up!
I have to give a specail shout out to my friend Tia TV!! It is wasnt for her I would not have been able to get the power to go back to school and focus on a career in this life!
Tia! Your one good friend!! And there is a specail place in my heart for you my friend!
And I want you to meet my new girlfriend! You will find her to be as specail as I am!
And anyone else out there.. Please tell Tia what a wonderful person she is!!
Not only is she kind, but highly intelligent, and has done more for me than most people have ever cared to do!
There is only one other person out in this life who helped me like that.. and his name Is Joe.. But I have not gotten to hang out with him in ages..
He was my boyfriend at one time.. But now that I have a GG woman.. She is all I have ever wanted or needed in my life!
Isis is my Goddess.. She is my heart.. She is my reflection!! We are one!
Thanks for listening to me today!!
xoxoxox
Jenna
Here is my Goddess Isis! I whorship the very ground she walks! I am hers, and will forever be in her heart.. For the energy we share is deep!! And its like nothing I have ever exp in my life!!!
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8/22 Waltham & Randolph MA Party & Fund Raiser
Rebecca Aine August 22nd, 2009 6:32 am MDTSaturday, August 22nd there is a bbq fund raiser for the TG Emergency Fund at TCNE Waltham and a follow on after party till 2AM at RCC
It's happening tonight August 22nd!
@ 6PM at Tiffany Club 30 Guinan Street, Waltham MA we are having a BBQ and fund raiser for the TG Emergency Fund. All the visitors' fees ($10 donation please) will go to the TG Emergency Fund! www.tgemergencyfund.org/
@ 9PM-10PMish the RCC party kicks off. Come visit Vonnie, Michelle, Katie, Melissa, Junie and the gang as the Friends of Randolph Country Club hostess you till 2AM at Randolph Country Club! RCC is at 44 Mazzeo Dr, Randolph, MA 02368-3402(781) 961-2414
For info and directions please email info@tcne.org
You can call TCNE about 4:30PM for info too: 781-891-9325
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TG Party at RCC
Rebecca Aine August 16th, 2009 12:49 pm MDTTiffany Club of New England (TCNE) and the Friends of Randolph Country Club (FoRCC) invite you to our Hot August Nights LGBT dance party at Randolph Country Club (RCC). This will be on Satuday, August 22nd
There will be a bbq at Tiffany Club of New England, Waltham MA 6PM-9PM as a Pre-Party! The BBC Pre-Party will feature DJ Paula and an all you can eat BBQ. BBQ Pre-Party is free for TCNE Members/non-membes $10
At 9PM head down to CC, Randolph MA to continue the dancing and fun till 2AM ($5.00 cover at the CC Door)
Send mail to info@tcne.org for information and directions.
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Discount medical insurance!
Rachelle Dubois August 2nd, 2009 6:33 pm MDTThe prez wants it bad. Lots of folk say we need it. I did. Connecticut has a nifty new “affordable” healthcare thing that I have recently been allowed to participate in.
Kewl.
Maybe.
If the National thing is anything like the CT program, get ready for some changes.
My monthly premium (silly term) is $75 a month. Cheap by any standards, but I am considered to be lower middle class according to my IRS 1040 filings. Child support and care of a disabled sister generally make no friggin difference but by my third application and about 15 hours worth of phone calls, letters written and serious whining, I was accepted. Case worker Jessica is a real sweetie.
The red tape was expectedly extensive.
The first info mailing I received claimed to offer low cost medical, prescription, dental and eye care. $20 a month deductibles for doctor visits and $10 co-pays for meds. 18 months later, my 75 bucks a month gets me a limit of 100 grand in cash a year limit, $35 for visits. Preventative is no-cost. Free rectal exams. Yippee! Scripts vary according to name brand, generic and a couple other drug options. Some are just not going to be paid for, some are $10 per fill and others are $35 per fill.
I do not get to see my choice of doctor unless it is a doctor THEY choose. None of my favorites/regulars are on the “list”, so I get to pick new ones out of some very thick booklet of choices. How can there be so many choices and not have any of the ones I had chosen before???
Ya know it is because doctors with a full list of patients (the good ones) are not going to take on new patients that they are not going to get their full fee out of. Those on the state’s list are sacrificing some income as the state mandates what doctors can charge program patients. I am not lying, this is what a doctor’s accountant told me.
So I had to pay the first 75 bux before I would be issued a card, 30 days later according to the info sheet. I sent the money and check daily for my card. I got a mailing, one week after sending the payment, from the program and was all excited until I opened it and it was the demand for the second installment. No card yet, but they want more money. I am glad to see that the billing department is in good working order and well ahead of the game. My coverage is supposed to begin in a week, but I still don’t have the card. Card issue department is a tad slow.
They request that I make an appointment with my “new” PCP immediately. This is not covered in the program as there is a total of $500 in deductibles that must be met before they pay any benefits. $250 for one thing and $250 for another, so on top of my $75 a month, I must pay another $500 before they start giving doctors I don’t want any money.
Within a 12 month span, I had accumulated $110,000 in medical expenses without any medical insurance. Bankruptcy took care of the first 90 grand, but the second one happened after I filed bankruptcy, so I am stuck wheeling ad dealing with hospitals, doctors and miscellaneous service providers.
So the way my calculator sees it, even with the current “affordable” plan I am in, last year would have cost me a minimum of $11, 400.00 out of pocket, and this is at pauper level! You guys making 50-60 grand a year have much higher premiums, deductibles and co-pays. I normally don’t get very sick, but had a bad year. I probably won’t have another like that in a very long time, so I try not to bug out about the cost possibilities, but when I boil it down I struggle with seeing the big bargain with what I have. I see law coming (like Massachusetts has) that if you don’t have insurance, independent or state/federal you get arrested and fines. Some choice. As it stands, I am in debt for close to $20,000.00 for my viral infection thing (they never did figure out why I was so sick for a month) that I am trying to get reduced (more countless hours of phone calls and form filling sessions to 8 different debtors), but now I have to pay the state $500 before their “benefits” kick in.
I dissed them with the bankruptcy and they think they have me in a strong testicular grip. My credit score is for fecal material for the next seven years, so I am figuring that not paying any of these bone and body heads a cent for all the crap they have made me go through for the past six months just to get the break that the “law” says they have to offer me as a self-paying patient (READ: Insured people pay more because the insurance companies need to make sure stock-holders make plenty of dough and physicians are usually big investors) is not going to effect me too much. The calls from collection agency people will be a bitch. They are so mean.
I couldn’t afford the premiums that the insurance companies were asking. I really can’t afford what the government is asking either. The stuff our president wants to push through into law is large, constantly changing, secretive and a bit frightening. If it is anything like Connecticut ’s program (a very costly program...ask the tax payers) we will all loose certain freedoms and will all pay plenty for it. It all worked so well when mom took us in to see the doctor she picked and paid for the visit out of her purse. Done. Those days are gone. Thank you doctors, insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers and especially you greedy attorneys that have screwed seeing a doctor up so much.
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CDTVTS party August 22ND, 2009
Candace Nichole Bowen August 2nd, 2009 5:01 pm MDTHosting a CDTVTS swingers party in Reidsville, NC on August 22nd. My Yahoo is also Candiconfised. Drop me a line over there and I will provide party details, provided you are willing to share a facial pic with me. No exceptions.
Kisses...
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July 09: Chicago GLBT, Vacation & Jackie's FFS
Karen Reeves July 26th, 2009 3:55 pm MDTMy friend Jackie and I went on summer holiday to northern New York State, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. We got out of New England just before the floods in Connecticut (7 inches of rain fell in just 4 hours!). I got water in the basement of my house for the first time since I have owned it. Thank God I had friends in the area to check up on the home (they had to wet vac the basement however). It was not much rainwater inside but even an inch can cause a huge problem when it sits around for a few weeks. My neighbors down the hill were not so lucky and had huge problems. There was massive flooding in the town where I live!
We went to Fort Stanwix in Rome, NY and then on to Seneca Falls. There was a lovely canal which Jackie and I spent some time sitting along and having a drink (2nd photo #1). It is ironic that we had picture perfect weather the whole time we were gone. There were sunny, cool days and cool nights.
We made it to Buffalo and Teddy Roosevelt Inaugural Nat. Historic Site (2nd photo #2). This is where Teddy became President after President McKinley was assassinated. President Karen Reeves (what a scary thought!!!) had her picture taken behind the President's desk (2nd photo #3). Notice how I take charge!
The two of us then headed into Ohio to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A National Park in Northern Ohio? It's not exactly Yellowstone or Yosemite for sure! Jackie took a pic of me (2nd photo #4) on the boardwalk by Brandywine Falls. It was very nice there.
We then headed west to the town of Put-In-Bay, which sits on an island in the middle of Lake Erie reachable only by ferry boat. It was a spectacular day. The boat trip out was nice and the views from the tower in Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial were breath taking (2nd photo #5). There were too many tourists and I almost took some out with my car. I'm not sure if it was accidental or not!
Nest stop was the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Jackie and I waded into the waters of Lake Michigan (2nd photo #6). The Great Lakes are like the Atlantic Ocean but without the salty smell or feel of saltwater on your bod. We wish we had more time to spend here but we had to make some miles on this day.
We then made it to our hotel in Glenview, Illinois. My friend Jackie T. got ready to have her FFS performed on her by Dr. Mark Zukowski. She was, of course, quite nervous, but she faced the situation with great calm and determination. That's Jackie! You go girl J !!!
On Sunday, June 28th , a couple of days before her surgery, Jackie and I participated in the Chicago GLBT Pride Parade (See the Main Photo). We were on a float sponsored by Dr. Z along with a live rock band. I thought the crowds would be a few thousand. They estimated that the crowds along the route might have reached a million people! As we waved and danced we saw people lined up 20, 30, even 40 deep along the route. There were even people hanging out of apartment windows and on balconies. It was a little overwhelming for a girl from the coast of Maine but it was great fun. What an adrenaline rush! Thanks Dr. Z for the invite and for dinner!
In the next photo (2nd photo #7) I am admiring some interesting sculpture.
The nicest part of this parade was that these huge throngs of diverse people, from every background that you can imagine, were all smiles, respectful, and having a fantastic time. Smiles were the order of the day.
Jackie came through the surgery with flying colors. The next few days did not allow for much sleep for her and for me.I was her care giver and I set a new record of staying awake in hours playing nurse & maid. (I hope she does not sue me for malpractice!!! YIKES!!!). I figure I was awake for two days straight.
Jackie was doing well enough after just four days that we went out to see the fireworks on July 4th in Glenview at the golf course. It was kind of weird to be allowed to sit on the greens with chairs and blankets when normally you would be chased away. The show was great.
The next day I went back to the golf course to take some day time photos of the gold course. Two guys offered to be "male models" for my pics. I didn't know that golfing made guys soooooo HORNY!!!!
We also were lucky enough to be able to visit Brenda Sue in her new condo on the north shore. Jackie was not up for doing much but a few hours out was good for her. Brenda's pad was beautiful. She lives in a nice area along Lake Michigan It is very rural. Hey Annette! This area that you are from is NICE!!!
My only complaint is that Brenda cooked us hamburgers that must have been two pounds each. They were delicious but after all this time I AM STILL FULL! Thanks Brenda, Anne, and Colin!
It was finally time to head back east. We spent an extra day in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania coming back since this return trip was hard on Jackie who was still recuperating from her surgery. By the way she is looking even more beautiful with every passing day! Drop her a line!
The last new pic of me on my page (2nd photo #8) was taken by Jackie at Pocono Downs NASCAR Raceway. This place is massive! We love NASCAR!
We arrived home safe and sound. It was time to crash!
*Kisses*
~Karen~
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Untitled Post
Candace Nichole Bowen July 21st, 2009 7:16 pm MDTEvening All,
I'll be at Freddies in the DC area Wednesday night the 22nd of July. Come enjoy some Candi.
Kisses...
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Waltham MA 7/25/09 - TCNE "HOT SHOT" Fund Raiser and Pre-RCC Makeup and Dance PARTY
Rebecca Aine July 17th, 2009 9:50 pm MDTTCNE "HOT SHOT" Fund Raiser and Pre-RCC Makeup and Dance PARTY
Saturday July 25th, 7PM-11PM, TCNE Waltham (30 minutes from RCC)
Tiffany Club of New England cordially invites the entire Transgender Community, Allies and Friends to the "HOT SHOT" TCNE Fund Raiser and Pre-RCC Makeup and Dance Party...Come start the night out at TCNE from 7PM-11PM then join the transgender community to party at RCC, the Boston Areas premiere lgbt welcoming dance club, till 2AM!
TCNE and Boston Radio Personality DJ Paula will be DJing and lighting up TCNE Waltham with hot dance hits from the 70's, 80's and 90's
All you can eat Pizza and Salad Bar & Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
What else is hot? How about over $3000 in prized raffled off!
- Raffle prizes - door prize - Gift certificate
- Gift Certificates to Esthetique, The Fantasy Girl and My Changing Room
- Three American Laser Center Gift Certificates for hair removal
- 50/50 raffle (1/2 the full pot goes to the winning ticket holder, the bigger the pot the bigger the win!)
- Even more prizes!
Members $12, Non-members $15 - admission includes one raffle ticket for a door prize (RCC party requires separate $5 cover)
Makeovers offered at a special event reduced rate of $50 that afternoon and evening - BOOK your slot now - girls, get your fabulous self ready for RCC.
Best of all? Our Air Conditioning is FIXED!
This is gonna be one long, hot night...do NOT miss it :)
For more info and directions email info@tcne.org
=============
Sponsors for July 25th Party @ TCNE and RCC
* Tiffany Club of New England
* Randolph Country Club
* My Changing Room
* Esthetique
* American Laser Centers
* The Fantasy Girl
* Friends of RCC
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I-S Magazine Interview
Nicole Singslave July 11th, 2009 6:12 pm MDTI-S Magazine Interview
11th July 2009
Singapore
I-S, Singapore's lifestyle magazine, wanted to find out if Singapore was a boring place to live in. They sent their reporter to checkout the local SM scene. We did promise I-S that their reporter will be tied up with his job. I think the I-S editor had no idea that we meant it literally. Master Alex (our Moderator from Sg) and Master Max (our Moderator from Jakarta) did most of the major bondage work. Nic did her impression of a local series called Red Thread using red ropes to tie three models together. In the end we're not quite certain what the I-S write and his photographer friend thought about the SM scene but I am sure we made their evening interesting.
To find more about the BDSM scene in Asia, please go to the following links.
SE Asia: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bdsmASIAnetwork
Singapore: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sgdomsubs
China: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bdsmCHINAnetwork
SDAM: http://www.sdam.sg
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IS THIS WHY WHO I AM
Patriciatess July 9th, 2009 7:19 am MDTHelp me fix this old house
Is this who who iam
I'm lived full time over 27 years . Post Op Dec 3 2002
This is a bit of me and my pass.
There still is happy days here. As I hold on .
Grandmother living with her on the land for
over 20 years I ended up here running away
from home my dad used to beat me all the time
he was a drinker and he hit and beat me a lot untill
I got hit the most out of five kids i was the
middle kid two boys then me and two girls
see from the age of five i started to dress as a
never had sex with a girl I told my sister at the
dress mom said one time that i was going to
the head doctors but never did it never got me help.
All i got was hit .so i ran away from home and left
I'm just a freak to them .
I ened up at my dads mothers home and lived in
a tent for some time in her back yard lost and
scare lost. Grandmother was a brinker also and my
Grams was a pain in the ass to deal with but i never
Gram did love me but she was lost with in her own
would kick the bath room door open on me as
I was trying to wash up taking a. It was bad from
I got the shit from gram and orthers in my pass
I then I started to building out in grams
back yard but it was about 180Ft back from her house
27 some years and bulding it biger as i could. But I
Grams would never let a freak live in her home she
she say that also doing many orther things to me.
she was mean today I'm hurting a lot, as I learn
I know really deep in side she loved me but know how
I had to place Grams in a home for the old at
the age of 92 she died ten months later. her
sister that lived next door she also got sick and I
So now I still live here still in ways living with
living here so sad, every one has died. in the pass
When grams died her son my dad was in Fl and
He never came up from Fla or my mom to help me, not
I had to get a home lone to fix up grams house it
I live in the her home and hate it.
I'm left to my self again and I do not know
what to do just holding on.
Many Years have pass me by. I cry many times as the
See no one in my framily has done any thing for me
Dad also was a big drinker and he beat me all
the time for i was dressing. Mom hated it
to and she had her hands full with dads
drinking. I know other people have bad times also.
pass years asking me do you need any thing
how are you. I am still alive but lost hurt. Just
me. been by my self most of my life.
{Lost In Time But Still in Step}
{A One Blue eye blonde}
Patriciatess.
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