Octavio Omar B.Z. June 23rd, 2008 5:25 pm MDTHola que tal bellas damas y amigas lindas, perdon por no postear, ya que estuve algo ocupado en el trabajo. y cambie de trabajo y me va mejor aqui.
Sigo soltero pero contento y me encanta hacer amigas y quizas encontrar una linda novia.
Besos y buena semana.
This is a test to see if I can input my journal entry. Fingers crossed!
Summer is almost here. I know that 90 degree weather and
95% humidity does not do much for makeup. The season does not always
lend itself to dressing up. The dressed go into the box and the boxes
go into the closest.
Why not slip into that swimsuit and
go on out and get a great tan in a nice secluded surrounding. Or be
more brave and go out in public with a cute, sleeveless top and min
shorts/skirt. Give the guys some "eye candy!"
From Ape to Babe – How Far Should a Cross-Dresser go with Digital Photo-Manipulation?
In the Beginning There Were Men Trying to Look like Women…
As soon as digital photography became available to the masses, I am sure that all of us, cross-dressers, saw and took advantage of an opportunity that was near the top of our wish list (second only to the temporary-transformation pill). At last, we would be able to take photos of ourselves without having to take the film for processing and the risks it involved.
Almost a decade has gone by and digital photography combined with the means for creating a female persona to interact with other people like us, has certainly been a dream come true for most of us. There is rarely a web-based community where TGirls in general and CDs in particular have not created a niche. MySpace, Yahoo 360, Hi5, Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, to name a few, allow us to have a circle of friends with whom to share this important aspect of our lives. There are also portals dedicated exclusively to the TG community and here I have to mention Urnotalone as a pioneer and the place where many of us made our debut. We use our profiles to share and exchange ideas, thoughts, feelings, and, of course, photos with those who understand us in every way because they have the same passion we have for transforming ourselves into women.
Digital photography is one of the means through which we can share with the world this other side of ourselves and, arguably, the most important (keep in mind that I am talking from a cross-dresser’s point of view). It is through photos that we show our friends how good and how far are we able to go in our transformation and give or ask for help in improving our image. We do this within a community of people who know what it is all about and accept us as men trying to look as female as possible. Having a physical or visual image that matches our pretended gender so that others can relate to this woman they are meeting and with whom they are developing a friendship is very important. How many times have we come across a profile that says that the owner will not add any faceless person as a friend? Yes, it is important to have a face and, even better to have a complete body, to make the woman we pretend to be, appear real to others. Now, unless we get an opportunity to, eventually, meet in person with all these friends, there is no way we can ever be completely sure that “she” is for real. Every day we see profiles of people pretending to be TGirls showing photos that are so obviously of genetic females or photos that are evidently photomontages. Rather than judging these people I’d like to think that in their need to give life to an image that, for various reasons, they are not able to produce themselves, they rely on photos that depict the appearance they honestly wished they had. After all, we live in societies that, sadly enough, favor beauty over intelligence, values or personality.
In the case of cross-dressers and maybe all other TGirls, beauty is even more appreciated than in the case of real women because we are not only contempt with being able to pass for a female but all the better if we can pass for a beautiful woman. It is no surprise then, that “beautiful” TGirls are often more popular, praised and admired than those who can totally pass for average looking females or those who are the intellectuals and activists of our community. There is a strive to look as pretty as possible; in some cases to satisfy our own needs, and I include myself here, and in other cases to gain the acceptance and admiration of the other “girls” in our circles of friends.
… Then, Along Came Photoshop and a Dilemma…
Another field that developed parallel to digital photography was digital photo editing and its power horse, Photoshop. Yes, we are talking magic here. All of us who have come across Photoshop and learned the basics have not been able to resist exploring all the possibilities that are limited only by our imagination and our skills using the program. The dilemma that we face now is: Is it valid to use Photoshop or any other photo editing program to touch up our photos? And if so, how much of that magic should we use without being deceitful or distorting reality? I am sure that there are diverse opinions and points of view in this regard and following I will try to give you my outlook on this topic and will illustrate with examples whenever possible.
… To Deceive or not to Deceive… That is the Question.
I started using Photoshop to eliminate red eye and to correct the color and exposure of my photos. Then, I used it to eliminate chest hair when I wore revealing tops, and leg hair when I did not wear double hose. I did not consider this practice deceitful since it was the equivalent to shaving my body. I do not have thick body hair but it sure is noticeable and disgusting and prevented me from wearing more revealing tops and/or skirts with bare legs and sandals. My wife is not comfortable with me being shaved all the time and since I am a male 99% of the time, neither am I. Consequently, Photoshop provides the best means for me to achieve, virtually, something I can do, in reality, only on rare occasions. Is this level of photo editing deceitful? I guess we could consider it a mild deception but don’t all the photos we see on printed advertisement and on beauty magazines have, in most cases, been heavily touched up? If you think that is not the case, just take a look at the following links and you tell me:
In the previous link you see the before and after photo of Faith Hill. Granted that Faith is already a gorgeous middle-aged woman, they manipulate her photo to make her look a lot younger and shapely. Notice how her face is made smoother and slimmer as well as her arm. Also notice how the little hump showing on her back is removed and the clavicle is made less prominent. I have not read the text of the article sent to me by my dear friend Laura Recinos just recently, but it explains in detail how it was done. The following link provides even more dramatic examples of how a professional touches up photos from famous people for magazines. Click on each thumbnail and then roll the mouse over the enlarged photo to see how it was before and then roll out to see the after again.
http://glennferon.com/portfolio1/index.html
As you can see, all wrinkles are gone, boobs are made larger and with more cleavage and every little imperfection is taken care of to present a perfect image. This is the perfect image we all seek and strive for but, as the Dove commercial, in the link below, clearly states, it is an unrealistic and unattainable beauty standard since it is produced electronically. Yes, every gorgeous girl with a perfect body, face and hair we see in all sorts of magazine adds is not as perfect as she seems to be. Having a good raw material to start with makes the task easier but the photos they show us are idealizations achieved through the manipulation of photos of beautiful subjects that are close but not quite there and, in some cases, not even close to perfection, on their own. Every woman, and I count here TGirls too, would like to have the figure of a Barbie Doll or Jessica Rabbit but we know that their extremely slim waists and exaggerated proportions can only be produced in plastic or drawing and lately, with Photoshop. Our ideal of beauty has become, thanks to photo editing, quite unrealistic. Take a look at the Dove commercial now:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hibyAJOSW8U
A Justification… or Not.
Where does reality end and deception begin? In the case of cross-dressers it is very hard to define since we are already being deceitful by presenting an image that is opposite to our real gender. Wigs, makeup, breast forms, hip padding, corsets, lashes, nails, etc. are the physical tools we use to create an illusion. What is the difference then, between that and getting similar results with digital photo-manipulation?
If gorgeous models, actresses and singers have their already outstanding beauty electronically enhanced why shouldn’t us, ugly men trying to look like beautiful women, do it too? After all, we need it a lot more than they do. Don’t you agree?
If you ask me, I think we are entitled to do it; but how far should we go with it? In my opinion, we should go as far as to reproduce what we are able to achieve in reality if we have the opportunity. What I mean by this is: if I know I can look better if I shave my body but can’t do it all the time then why not get a virtual shave? If I know, I can produce a decent cleavage with tape and padding when I get to shave my chest then why not simulate it with Photoshop? I used to just remove the chest and leg hair with Photoshop until one time, a little over a year ago, that I got to shave my whole body and produced a pretty decent cleavage with tape. I could not believe my eyes when I saw myself in the mirror and even now, when I see the photos from then (see links below).
It was after seeing how natural my tape-produced cleavage looked that I thought I was entitled to get Photoshop implants by either shading the flat chest or by superimposing and blending real boobs from real girls (it just occurred to me that maybe some of the boobies I have used for my photos might have already been touched up LOL). I will be the first to admit that I have gotten a bit carried away in the chest size and cleavage but if you are going to do it then do it right, don’t you agree? The links below show a few of the photos where I have incurred in what I like to call “Photoshop Implants”. Every time I post this type of photos I include a note stating that the breasts are not real. Please notice the difference with the “authentic tape-created cleavage” shown in the links above:
Up to this point I believe it is still justifiable, in my humble opinion, to use photo editing. Why? Because I have proven to myself (I do it first for me not for others) that I can achieve similar results in real life when I get a chance to shave. By the way, my wife has agreed to let me shave my chest the next time I dress which should be on the second week of June 2008, if all works out as planned. In order to further illustrate the two levels of photo improvement that I am comfortable posting I prepared an image showing the “hairy” Cristy (ape), the “No Cleavage” Cristy (not so babe) and the “Virtual Breast Augmentation” Cristy (arguably babe). I recommend you see the original size (if it fits in your screen). The link is:
How far should I go? I’d like you to tell me. Would you rather see, from left to right, Ape Cristy, Flat and hairless Cristy or Babe Cristy? In Yahoo 360 you will be able to cast your vote in the poll at the bottom but if you read this in MySpace or URNA, please leave a short note with your point of view in this “shallow” but interesting issue.
This writing should not be taken for a confession, because I have always made it clear that I am not smooth most of the time and have also included an explanatory note whenever I post photos showing enhanced breasts. The reason that gave me the idea to write about this topic is that, lately, I have gotten several messages asking me about my new implants and if I am happy with them, how do they feel, etc. I have also been asked about when am I having my SRS! It is evident that, as is often the case, we are so busy with other things that we just take a quick look at the photos and do not bother or have the time to read the captions below them. As a matter of fact I posted a before and after photo almost a year ago when I first started posting photos with “virtual implants” since it has never been my intention to mislead anyone. For those of you who have not seen it, here is the link (as with the other photos, I recommend you see it in large size):
I am not an expert with Photoshop and am far from achieving the kind of work shown in the before and after photos seen in the links at the top. However, I have always been good with computers and have an artistic background that has helped me find my way around the program. Therefore, I have experimented further and just for fun have explored other manipulations that make me appear to have a more feminine appearance by altering the body shape in my own photos or simply putting my face on top of gorgeous GG bodies (a technique I like to call “virtual body snatching”). I don’t know if any of those bodies I have used have, in turn, been touched up before but they serve the purpose of having some fun in “wonderland”. I have shared some of them with close friends but have never posted any before, as I think this is far from reality and something I could not achieve on my own. In other words, I find these images completely deceptive and would not like to have anyone thinking they are real. For the first time ever I will post some of them on Flickr but for that I have created a new account in which I make very clear that they are all photomontages or extreme manipulations of my own photos. Yes, it is fun and gives me great satisfaction but it is not real. Following is the link to the home page for this Flickr profile. From there you can go to the photo pages.
http://www.flickr.com/people/27290011@N07/
Also, here is a link to the one photo of this kind I will post in my regular Flickr account:
I am fully aware that after seeing these last photos you will be wondering how much of the photos I post in my profiles and my real Flickr account is really me. It is an acceptable conclusion once I have shown the magic that can be made with just one program and there is nothing I can do about it. However, as a very dear friend has told me a number of times, my videos are proof of how I really look like and for those of you who are doubtful, here is the link to my YouTube profile:
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=cristy98girl
So, After all the Rambling, is There Anything to Conclude?
In conclusion, I think that it is all a game of make believe and as long as we do not hurt anyone else we should be entitled to do whatever we feel appropriate. In my case, I prefer to be honest and make things clear from the start but can understand how other people go for deception in their attempt to give life to a much needed female persona that matches their ideals and standards. However, I prefer when they state from the beginning that the photos show how they wish they looked like and not when they try to mislead others into thinking it is really them in the photo(s). In the case of the latter, the first person they are fooling is themselves but as long as they enjoy it and do not harm anyone in the process, then so be it.
Some of you might agree or disagree with my opinion and you are entitled to it. I have expressed my very own point of view with regards to this topic and I do the “virtual shaving” and “Photoshoped Implants” first and foremost for my own satisfaction; knowing full well that I can achieve similar results if I get a chance to shave all my body. In such cases, I have always made it clear whenever I think it might be misleading.
From now on I might continue posting my “body and face alterations” and my “ virtual body snatching” photos exclusively in the new Fickr account, where I will not post any regular photos of me. I am still debating if I should post the original next to the manipulation in the case of those photos that are not my own since I have not used them with permission. I am also debating if I should open the profile to friend adds and the photos to comments but once you read this document, the decisions will have been made and maybe a Pandora Box will be opening. It seems that in this virtual world our appearance will be composed of our own raw material and our, or other people’s, skills to enhance it. We will eventually get to the point where it is not only about how good or bad we look but also how good can our photos be enhanced by ourselves or by others.
It seems that I just can’t keep a blog entry short but if you were able to stand the reading to this point, we have finally reached the end :-). Thank you for your interest and I will appreciate your feedback if you consider it appropriate.
Dee Gregory May 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm MDTI had posted images here showing my former spouse's earlier acceptance and involvement in this part of my life, mainly because this part of my life has recently been used by her as a weapon against me. I receivd an email from URNA stating: ------------------------------------------ Dee Gregory, Hi Dee, we are receiving threatening eMails from someone named C____ T_____. She's claiming that you've posted pics, some of which she is in, that she did not give permission for you to post. Could you please remove them, if you know who she is and know which one's to remove, as soon as you read this. Thank You. Thank you for your participation, and for helping to make URNotAlone a great resource. ------------------------------------------ I can only presume that these images destry her attempts to mis-respresent the truth. Peace, Love and Light ----------- Dee
Octavio Omar B.Z. May 2nd, 2008 5:36 pm MDTHay que aprovechar este puentecito para descansar un pocoy recargar las pilas para darle duro al trabajo y a la vida.
Felicidades a todas las chicas, ahora este 10 de mayo, por ser el Dia de las Madres, bueno yo diria que de las mamis, porque todas las chicas son guspisimas y ese dia se ven mas lindas, jijiji.
Y no solo ese dia se les debe de celebrar a las madre y las mamis (con todo respeto), debe de ser todo el año, con calidad, amor, respeto y cariño.
Desde aqui un saludo, abrazo y beso para todas las hermosas chicas y a su mamis; con todo el afecto y respeto de un servidor para con uds.
PD. Bonito fin de semana
Octavio Omar B.Z. April 25th, 2008 4:41 pm MDTHola atodas la bellas damas y señorita que me han aceptado como su amigo, como veran soy un joven mexicano jiji , ando en busca de amistades de todo el mundo, deseo conocer mas a las bellas y lindas travesti o transexuales.
No con esto quiere decir que solo quiera ligar con uds. o que solo busque vacilar, no yo busco conocer mas a cerca de uds., el como poder conocer mas a las chicas, el modo de acercame a ellas sion que piensen que les tiro la onda.
Porque digo esto, porque tengo amigas travesti y transsexual, y quiero y deseo compartir mas nuestra amistad, establecer fuerte vinculos entre nosotros. Ademas el como dejar de apreciar a las lindas chicas , ya sean hetero, bisex, o cualquier orientacion, todas son bellisimas y merecen admiracion y respeto.
Queda de uds. un amigo, servidor y admirador de las bellas mujeres.
PD. Este texto lo tendre pronto en ingles (im sorry but english isn't my native language)
Dee Gregory April 11th, 2008 5:16 pm MDTFree
at last! Free at last! Thank God almighty, I am free at last! _
On Tuesday, March 4th, I was restored to the status of
single and unmarried. I am now an unmarried father of three lovely young ladies. Though
some might expect me to be singing the above words from the old Negro
spiritual, "Free at last!” . . . I don’t honestly feel that
way. Either way, my former spouse and I will be a
part of each other’s lives for many years to come as we co-parent in the
raising of three young ladies.
February 2nd is Ground Hog Day. I'm sure you all know the story. If the groundhog sees his shadow there is 6 more weeks of winter. If the groundhog does not see his shadow then spring is almost here.
I've often wondered, what type of IDIOT cam up with this concept? Have you ever seen spring start at the beginning of February? There may be global warning but spring at the start of February?
I regret to tell all of you that this year, 2008, the groundhog ended up with a different result. The groundhog came out of his burrow, saw my main picture in URNA this month and committed suicide. Funeral services will be conducted today, video at 11 P.M.
FIRST EVENT 2008
On Wednesday, 16 January I picked up my girlfriend Brenda Sue at the airport in Providence in the early evening and we proceeded to the Sheraton Hotel in Peabody. This was the new site for First Event. Brenda flew in from Chicago and this was her first First Event.
We were met at the hotel by our girlfriend, Jackie, who had come down earlier in the day. She helped us get into our rooms.
A bunch of us girls freshened up and went down to the restaurant for dinner. I was quite tired from a long day and was very hungry, but also wanted a drink!
Right off the bat I was impressed by the hotel staff's professionalism and courtesy. It was quite obvious that this year's hotel staff was given some corporate sensitivity training and the staff took the lessons to heart. Last year many of the staff at the previous hotel acted like the circus had come to town when they saw convention participants. They were rude.
The food at dinner was also very delicious. We ended up closing down the restaurant/bar.
On Thursday we welcomed many of our other friends. For me, these conventions are more of a social occasion now rather than an informational quest. I've attended many of these seminars in the past, plus I know everything anyways! HA HA HA, that's a joke everyone!
I was very fortunate in that Jackie's friend (and now mine) Bobbie was attending First Event. He is a professional hair stylist and so I was able to have my hair look its' best every evening. THANKS BOBBIE YOU ARE THE GREATEST BABES!
We then got prepared for the Dinner/Costume Ball. Since I did not get out on Halloween this was my chance to make up for it. My roommate, Jackie Thompson, went as the cutest cowgirl you have ever seen and I went as a cheerleader. YEA RA RA !
Even though the organizers did not say there would be a contest, I think many girls were under the impression there would be one. There was not. Had there been I think my girlfriend, Tiffany Starr, would have won it hands down. She went as a red, girl Dracula. YIKES!
One gentleman admirer was there and shared our dinner table.. He got up to perform after dinner and was a very talented impersonator. He was also quite charming and funny as well.
Later in the evening, while I was prancing around, I saw a sign board for the Leahy Clinic seminar of "Sleep Disorders" in the front lobby. You can see me sleeping with this sign:-)
Dinner was nice and we all got some dancing in.
The next day I woke up at 11 A.M. I've grown to like breakfast in bed at these events. Expensive? Perhaps. I like doing this since I normally do not do this when I travel. It also allows you more time to rest. My roommate Jackie T also liked it as well.
Sometime the early bird girlfriend or two pops in to chat. Annette Brunette came by and proceeded to take my pic in bed. OH NO ANNETTE! HOW COULD YOU?
She later photo shopped me into bed with the two life size plastic dolls at Dr. Z.'s party! Thanks Annette:-( I've never had such great sex in my life! *Giggles*
On Friday we wandered around the vendors' area and attended a couple of seminars. Since I do assist many others I decided that the workshop on coming out to children was a good workshop to go to It was nice to hear from others but I felt the presenter should have presented more of her own thoughts and ideas on the matter since she was a mental health care professional.
Friday evening many of my sorority sisters in Sorority Sisters of New England, and I, went out to dinner at the No Name Restaurant in Boston. Jackie picked out a great seafood restaurant.
I know that many girls only want to go out to "alternative" establishments. I grow tired of this self imposed segregation as a steady diet. If the transgendered community is looking for acceptance in the wider world then we need to "show the flag" and go out into the rest of the world. Our presence can educate the public into acceptance. I'm not going to hide in closets anymore. Besides they are too musty! Are we ashamed of ourselves? Our $$$ is just as green as anyone else's!
Our intrepid group included Jennifer Lane, Jackie Thompson, Brenda Sue Faulkner, Denise Armel, Jean Warren, Taylor Stephnz, Tiffany Starr, and myself. When we got to the restaurant two of the waitresses recognized Jackie and I from a previous visit last summer. Is that good or bad? Maybe it was the 5" stiletto heels, black fishnet stockings , and the micro min skirt. HUMMMM:-0
The waitresses were thrilled to wait on us 8 girls. They gave us the best seats in the house. We all had delicious seafood to eat. The other patrons did not even bat any eyelash at our crowd. Dress for the occasion is the rule. Later we went clubbing.
The night was topped off by a visit to Dr. Z's famous, or infamous, suite party. There is always enough free liquor to float a battleship!
At about 3 A.M. I was in a rather silly mood. I like convention pics, but not the usual, run of the mill, sitting at a table, or standing in a hallway photo parade. I suggested to Jackie that we go to the Exercise/Weigh Room and take some goofy photos. You can see them in my new gallery. It was a blast and no one was around. The pics are unique! You can also combine those with the previous evening's, "Girls On The Luggage Cart" pics
On Saturday we tore around the the site and had a nice time. For dinner all of us SSofNE girls sat at one table. There was Jennifer Lane, Jackie Thompson, Annette Brunette, Brenda Sue Faulkner, Denise Armel, Sherry Colah, and myself. The dinner was quite nice and later we danced the night away. They even ended up ripping up the temporary dance flooring from underneath us at the end of the evening!
The evening ended up back at another Dr Z suite party.
On Sunday I drove Brenda Sue back to the airport for her to catch her evening flight. We had dinner at a nice restaurant south of Worcester. I wanted to avoid I-95 since there was a big game for the Patriots being played down at Foxboro. She got off on time.
I want to thank everyone for a great time. My sorority sisters are the best and Jackie you are an awesome roommie !
Ok, it has been six weeks since my last and seventh visit tothe therapist and the next one will be this week on November 27 (actually,tomorrow).I thought about waitinguntil then and write about the two together but decided to keep them separateand shorter than usual, if I can.
I will begin by repeating something I explained since myfirst blog about my visits, regarding my motives to go to the therapist asCristy.It seems like many of youbelieve that I go there for therapeutic reasons when it is, actually, only anexcuse to have a safe and controlled environment where I can go from time totime without much of the risk that my wife tries to avoid when I go out as agirl.As many of you might recall,I started going to therapy as a male to get help with an anger management issuethat, after almost two years, I can proudly say is a think of the past.However, I continue to go every otherweek in boy mode because I find it refreshing and a good way to vent whateveris going on in my life at the moment.Since my first visit I was open to the doctor and told him about mybeing a cross-dresser and explained to him what it was all about since he hadno experience in the field.Several months later, it occurred to me that it would provide a safeenvironment for Cristy to be out and about given that we had discussed my needto go out with my wife and she was concerned about my safety. I asked my wife first and she agreed andthen asked the doctor and he said that he had no problem with it.I was clear with him that it would bejust an excuse and that we could talk about anything and not necessarily TGissues.He suggested that AnaCristina García would have to register as a new female patient and get her own record.I did just that and to this date onlythe doctor knows that Cristy is not a woman.I can’t assure that nobody suspects but so far I have notreceived any signs of that and neither has the doctor.
During all the years of useless therapy in my teens andearly twenties, I dreamt about going to therapy as Cristy but never got thenerve to ask and I am not sure if I would have dared.Now, here I am talking about a seventh appointment andgetting ready for the eight.Eachtime I go out there I try to go somewhere else but that is not always possible.Twice I had gone out with mysister-in-law but all the other times she has been either busy or out oftown.This seventh time she wasaway on business and guess what?She will also be away the day I go out for the eight appointment.I will try to talk my wife into lettingme go to the mall by myself but I can’t hope for much.Ok, but let’s get on with the story…
Since the previous time I had decided on what outfit to wearfor the next visit.It was time towear pants again so I choose a pair of blue pants with white stripes, a redwoven top and my 4 ½ red platform peep-toe heels.You have seen the previews on flickr and on the previousblog entry but here are the links to some other photos and a variation I triedwearing a scarf around my neck after returning from the therapist.
I got there 15 minutes early and as soon as I rang the bellthe secretary opened the door and greeted me with a big smile.We both seemed to be happy to see eachother.I had called the weekbefore to confirm the appointment and she was very happy to her from methen.She is a very sweet girl andwe seem to get along very well even when I go there as a guy.If only she knew. Or does she suspect?I don’t know but as far as I can tellshe does not show any signs of suspicion.Once I came in I noticed that this time there were no other people inthe waiting room.I sat down in myusual seat and started chatting with the secretary.I have always shown interest in her college studies andasked her about how she was doing.She replied that she had completed her curricula and was ready for thefinal arrangements for graduation.I already knew that because she had told my male self about it.Knowing what she would tell meI hadrehearsed my response and with my most feminine reaction and voice ofexcitement congratulated her.Wetalked about how proud she and her parents must have felt and I commended herfor her effort on working all day, going to college at night and then go backhome to do homework.It isadmirable, indeed, how so many women do that around the globe.And men still doubt that women are thebetter and strongest gender!Itmakes me feel proud about being, at least, a part time woman.
After that, she asked me if I had had a haircut.How is it that women always noticethose things?I must admit that asmuch as I like to emulate women, I never notice those things.Heck, I don’t even notice when my wifegets a haircut.Did the secretaryhave a reason for asking that?Yesshe had and I was prepared for it too.As a matter of fact I was wearing, for the first time, my brand newwig.It is exactly the same brand,model and color as the other but since this is new, it has more luster and abit less body making my hair look thinner and more straight.So, I replied that I did not had ahaircut but that I had my hair ironed.She said that it looked great and I felt very flattered.I don’t know if it was an honestopinion since women are always complimenting each other without necessarilymeaning it.For some reason womentry to make other women feel good about themselves and as women emulators, we,cross-dressers, do the same.It issort of a bond and pact of conduct that is totally foreign to men.Notice that I keep referring to womenas if I were not one.The fact isthat I am not one and we all know it.I only try to emulate one the best I can and for more on this you canread my previous blog entry entitled “A Prelude to the Seventh to the Shrink”.But I digress form the main topic solet me go on.After the shortexplanation I thanked her and asked her if she really thought I looked betterand she said that she thought so.I was on cloud nine.Here Iwas, a woman, talking to another woman (a real one) about hairstyles and havingmy hair done and typical girlie talk.This was a first ever for me with someone that is not really close tome.
The conversation continued for some more time.We talked about the weather since itwas a particularly cold day and she was wearing like two sweaters and was stillshivering.I have always lovedcold weather and I was only wearing my long-sleeve woven top. When I heardsomeone coming down the stairs I new it was about time to go up.A lady came down and greeted us.I greeted her back as she said goodbyeto the secretary.The phone rangand the secretary told me that the doctor was ready to see me.I got up and walked up the stairs tothe doctor’s office.
As I was finishing to climb the stairs, the doctor came outto greet me and we shook hands.Inoticed that he stared at me with a look of surprise and he said “wow,Cristina, you are particularly tall today!”I smiled and after saying hello got in his office.As I walked in I slipped and almostfell down.The doctor reacted andtried to hold me but I was able to keep myself from falling.He then mentioned that they had justpolished the floor.I showed himthe reason why I looked taller and we joked about how hard a fall would it hadbeen with those gargantuan heels.I mentioned that they are very high but very comfortable to wear andwalk on.As a matter of fact, Ilove how they feel on.
Once I sat down he also mentioned that my breast lookedlarger than usual and I told him that it was the second time I was wearing mybreast forms there and that maybe he perceived them larger because the top Iwas wearing this time was tighter.I then filled him in about the highlights of my conversation with thesecretary and he also mentioned that now that I had told him he was able to seethe difference in my hair(as I said,men do not notice these things).In his opinion I looked better with the older wig.He said that he liked women’s hair withmore volume.
We talked about this and that and were even able to exchangethoughts on what it meant to be a cross-dresser and for the first time I feltthat I was getting something out of my Cristy time at the therapist.It was never the intention but since itis unavoidable to talk about men dressed as women when I go as Cristy it wasonly natural.I have always knownthat it is all about the illusion and the clothes and makeup but I never had itso clear in my mind.I guess thatfrom now on there will be some more substance from future visits rather thanjust killing an hour of time.After philosophizing about cross-dressing, I asked him how would hedescribe Ana Cristina.I couldnotice by his expression that I was putting him on the spot but he proceeded togive an answer.He started givingadjectives that he thought applied to me.He said Cristy was tall, that she was cute and looked younger than herage (insert big smile here) that she smelled good, that she was a dresser andwas always elegant and showed class.He also said that she was very ladylike and that she had a veryappealing smile.Being my worstcritic I added:“and she has ahuge nose and has bubbles of air in her head”.He admitted that my nose was big but that it was not agiveaway.I will have to disagreewith him on that.If there is onething I would physically change in me it would be my nose. I can live with all the other malefeatures but am not too happy about my big fat nose :D
After that I asked him what he thought of my male self andhe described him pretty much as he is.He forgot to mention that he did not look too bad as a girl but I canforgive that LOL.When time was upI shook his hand and said goodbye.I walked down to the secretary’s desk, paid, talked for a couple ofminutes and we then kissed each other goodbye as I congratulated her on heracademic achievement again.
When I got in the car I called my wife to tell her that Iwould go to a specialty grocery store that sells Spanish goods.It is located about 100 meters down thestreet from the doctor’s office and I had mentioned her that I might venture inthere after my appointment.Shesaid that it was ok but that I should be careful.I got in the car and drove to the parking lot of thestore.As I got down I walked pasta lady that used to live next door to me when I was a kid.I used to play with her children andshe is still a good friend of my mother’s even thought they don’t see eachother often.Obviously she did notrecognize me and we smiled to each other as I got in the store.I say obviously because I am sure thatshe would have had a hard time recognizing me in my male mode after so manyyears.
I got in the store and noticed people looking at me prettymuch in the same way as anyone else coming in the store.As I moved around nobody seemed to careabout me and when I went past some other costumers, mostly females, we wouldsmile at each other or just mind our own business.I noticed some looks but to my interpretation more in thelines of“that is one tall lady”.Believe me, here in Guatemala if anyonenotices a guy in a dress they will not be able to let the event go withoutgiving some noticeable signs.I amnot saying that I will fool everyone all of the time and am sure that manytimes people might give second thoughts but so far none has confronted me or givensigns of awareness.In any case,what matters is that I enjoy my time as Cristy and I try not to mind otherpeople or fidget around to detect any unusual reactions.Passing is totally secondary to havinga good experience and enjoying ourselves.
Once I found what I was looking for I grabbed a shoppingbasket and put the goodies in.Icontinued wondering around until I got to the seafood section.They had some deliciously looking stonecrab legs that I just could not resist so I asked a female clerk if she couldweight some of the packages for me.She helped me weighting several packages until we found one that had theright weight.She was friendly andvery polite and we interacted in a normal way.After that she tagged the package with the price and Iheaded for the checkout counter.The cashier there was less friendly but not rude either.I gave her the information she neededfor the invoice, paid in cash and headed out for the car.I got in the car feeling pretty goodabout the experience, called my wife once again and told her that I was on myway home but that I would stop by a MacDonald’s drive through to get somelunch.I got to the drive throughline, ordered on the speaker and felt great again when the people therereferred to me as a female (thank God that Spanish has a distinctive form formale and female adjectives and nouns).I drove back home and was so thrilled about the experience and thesensations and thoughts that I did not eat any of the junk food I had gotten.
Unlike other times when, after coming back to my parent’shome, I start changing into different outfits and taking lots of photos, Iwondered around and did regular things in the outfit I had worn out.I took some video and took severalphotos with that same outfit and a couple of hours later changed into a sundressand took some photos with it and that was it for me.Here are the links to the videos and the photos wearing thesundress:
I was contempt and feeling pretty good.I had been out once again and wasfeeling so good that I did not need to try many things to feel validated in thefemale role I was playing.Ienjoyed the feeling and focused on enjoying it rather than on trying all thenew dresses and shoes I had brought.There would be other opportunities for that.As I was starting to change my wife called and said that shewas on her way there to help me with taking pictures and I told her that I wasalready winding down and was about to take my makeup off and take a shower tohead for home.She was surprised thatafter almost four months of not dressing I was calling this session short andto be honest, I was surprised too.I realized that it is no longer so much about rehearsal time as it isabout taking the stage and play the role.It is no longer so much about taking photos and video as it is about enjoyingmyself out there in the real world.I’d rather wait 3 months for a good chance to go out than dress once aweek within the confines of my home or my parent’s home.
Tomorrow I will go to the shrink for the eight time and Ican’t assure that I will feel the same but I know that I will do my best toenjoy every second of my time out.I hope this time it does not take too long for me to write a blog aboutit.
Karen Reeves November 6th, 2007 7:13 pm MST ~Some Thoughts: November 2007~
NEW GALLERIES !
Check out my galleries here! I've added 7 new secondary pictures on my front page, rounded out my gallery on BeAll/SCC with 13 pictures, added 2 new pics in "Karen's Escapades", and started a new gallery with 5 pictures of my former front page pictures. That is 27 pictures in all. Enjoy!
Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
~SOME NOVEMBER THOUGHTS~
November is now here and all turkeys are getting nervous ! Can you say "Giblet?" Hey, the Red Sox won the World Series!!! YES!!! Now we can enjoy football since justice has been done in baseball.
In November we have two important holidays: Veterans' Day & Thanksgiving. Let us all take stock of all that is positive in our lives and how fortunate we are compared to many others in this world. Let us also pay tribute to the women and men veterans who have defended our freedoms and our nation. They are heroes 24/7.
SS of NE Outing ( 13 October 2007 )
A few of my friends in Sorority Sisters of New England came down to visit me (Denise Armel and Jackie T). We hung around during the day on Saturday and I showed them the area that I live in.
That evening we met up with Jennifer Lane and her friend Audrey Conrad. We went out for dinner at a lovely Thai Restaurant in New London, CT called Bangkok City. Needless to say we all ate too much but had a great time.
For me the seafood is the best overall. I think the waiter enjoyed the company of all of us girls. Giggles!
After dinner we went clubbing at O'Neil's Brass Rail. The music was great but it was too chilly to stay on the outside deck for an extended time. We danced inside. I played a little pool and split a couple of games with Jackie.
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture was taken on Thursday, 13 September 2007at the SCC Convention in Atlanta. I was sitting in the center hallway of the 3rd floor in my hotel where we stayed. I was afraid the glass top "counter" that I was sitting on would shatter from my heavy weight and impale my rear end:-)
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
Which convention do you prefer to attend Karen?
Mr. Eager Beaver Beaver Falls, OR
Dear Mr. Beaver,
That is a hard question. All conventions have many of the same attributes: seminars, banquets, dances, and clubbing. What sets the conventions apart from each other are the organization of the conventions and the different people who attend each convention.
I prefer SCC because: 1. It is Atlanta! 2. SCC is very well run. 3. It is the largest TG Convention in the U.S. so you get to see many girls and guys that you would not normally see at any other convention.
I urge anyone thinking of attending just one convention to make it SCC.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department a lot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !" 2. You can use my picture as a dartboard ! 3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone ! 4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR NOVEMBER 2007
I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my !
I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends"
But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised
So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August.
I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2.
Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-)
I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity.
My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me.
I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS".
This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards". So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me.
Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing *With Love & Respect* ~Karen~
JACKIE THOMPSON ( West Ossipee, NH ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/10132
DENISE ARMEL ( Boston, MA ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/103229
KEVIN ( Hudson, MA ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/83913
LARRY ( Honolulu, HI ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/61820
Some say that seven is a lucky number and when it comes to going out and having a good time pretending to be a girl any number can be thought of as lucky.In any case, my seventh time to the therapist as Cristy was a very special one not because of what I did or what I wore but for the feelings and realizations I experienced.These feelings, thoughts and realizations are not new but they have never been so clear to me.
It had been three and a half months since the last time I had dressed and gone out and I was really in need.However, I have noticed lately that I’d rather wait for a long time between dressings if that means I will get to go out as Cristy.It seems that the point is no longer taking photos and video while being within the confines of my or my parent’s home.Like most of us I believe that the ultimate thrill as a cross-dresser is being able to be out in the real world and do things that any regular person (i.e. a woman) would do.In this realm, passing is only a bonus.Some of us are lucky to be able to pass most of the time and some not but what really matters in the end is that we are pleased with ourselves and that we have a good time while dressed and acting as a woman.Please notice that I say “dressed and acting” and not “feeling or being” for which man can claim that he knows how it feels to be a woman?We could argue that there are some feelings and behaviors that are typically male or female but not necessarily exclusive to one or the other.As human beings males and females have more similarities than differences when it comes to thinking and feeling.Arguably, it is the psyche and/or the soul that we could think of having a particular gender.A male to female transsexual most likely has a female psyche and soul and therefore is able to feel and think like a woman but a heterosexual CD like me has a male psyche and soul and therefore can only speculate on what it is to feel or be a female.I will leave the philosophical ramblings for future blogs but I felt it was important to set the record straight in that I never think of myself as being a woman.I am basically a male who enjoys to, occasionally, play the role of a female with regards to appearance and mannerisms.
What is the thrill of dressing and going out all about then?In my case, and I would suggest that it is the same for most heterosexual CDs, it is about the clothes, makeup, accessories and mannerisms that make others perceive me more as a female than as a male.I am an actor playing a role and the more I am able to play it with success the more thrilling it is and the more satisfaction I derive from it.It is a role that I feel an urge to play and one that I specialize in.Staying home and taking photos and video could be thought of as the rehearsal and going out is being on stage performing in front of a real audience.If I play my role well it means that I am able to pass and fool most people around me and if I goof I will be booed or criticized.But it is not the audience approval what I mainly seek nor will criticism bring me down.What I seek is fulfilling this need to play the role within certain domains that deal mainly in the realms of appearance and mannerisms.I will not deny that passing is a wonderful reward and the ultimate proof of a job well done but the opportunity to play the part is rewarding enough.
I get a lot of satisfaction when I am taken for a woman but if the time came where someone confronted me I would gladly explain to him or her what it is all about and try to make him or her understand why there are people like me and why we need to do it.To me it is equally thrilling when someone who knows (i.e. my sister-in-law) tells me that I totally look the part than when I am able to sustain a conversation with a person who takes me for an actual female (i.e the doctor’s secretary) and does not show signs of doubts about it.
For what I have learnt from my own experience and fellow cross-dressers we all feel this ultimate need to go out dressed as a girl even in those cases when one knows that it is not likely that one will pass.The thrill of dressing in private gives us some satisfaction but it pales next to the thrill of being out in the real world.Depending on our individual skills and experience playing the role we will seek more or less public places yet the thrill of being out is just the same.I remember that my first times out in dark or lonely places with my limited skills were every bit as thrilling as my recent visits to the therapist or outings with my sister-in-law.Perhaps those early outings were even more thrilling and exciting because of their novelty.I no longer feel my heart heavily pounding like I used to in those early days.I guess that as I gain more confidence in playing the role with success the heavy pounding gives way to serenity and awareness of what I am about to do.I do not intend to be pretentious for it has taken me 30 years to be where I am today with regards to my cross-dressing.I have had my share of boos, criticism and odd looks over the years and it is only now that, thanks to feedback from my dear Internet friends, that I am able to play the role in a satisfying way.By that I mean that it is satisfying to me and my expectations and not that of those who interact with me and take me for a female.
Many times I wished that someone would notice something and confront me.Putting modesty aside I think I do a good job product of those 30 years of playing the role and it would be every bit as satisfying to receive a compliment for a good and fairly convincing transformation than passing flawlessly for a woman.I have been tempted to reveal myself a couple of times but I would not risk getting an unexpected reaction.Having said this, I go back to the point that it is all about the clothes, the makeup, the accessories and mannerisms that allow me to achieve the illusion of appearing to be a female.Therefore, I dare to say that the excitement a heterosexual CD gets from dressing is all about the “illusion”; about the “transformation”.The more we look like a woman the more excited we get and the same applies when we see other males transformed.Some mistake this “attraction for the illusion and the transformation for attraction to the person performing it.In my case, and again I would argue that it might be the same for most heterosexual CDs, I have it clear in my mind that the fact that I get some sort of arousal when I see a man that looks so much like a woman has nothing to do with the person and all to do with the illusion.When a male is able to blur the line and look convincingly as a female we, heterosexual CDs, feel a particular tingle in our senses that should not be confused for attraction for the person bending the gender lines (in terms of appearance).This is the same tingle that we experience when we feel and see ourselves all dressed up looking back in the mirror.We get aroused by the “illusion” whether it is performed by us or by others and it should not be confused for attraction towards the person performing it.As a matter of fact, when the illusion is performed close to perfection we keep looking for signs or hints that confirm that we are looking at a male and not a real female.This is why passing for a woman could be less thrilling than having someone say: “Wow, you are a guy and for a while you got me fooled thinking that you were a real girl”.This is also why we might be tempted to reveal our secret to a total stranger while out and about.What is the purpose of playing the role if there is no one to appreciate how well you play it when confronted with reality?
Ok, enough of this for now.I know that most of you were expecting me to talk about my outing and see photos and videos but I needed to get these thoughts out of the way before proceeding to the more frivolous stories about Cristy’s successes in the real world.I promise that the next entry will be about that seventh time to the shrink and will post photos and videos related to it.For now, I leave you with a link to a photo showing what I wore out.
Karen Reeves October 2nd, 2007 5:55 pm MDT ~Some Thoughts: October 2007~
Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
October is now here ! This is my favorite month of the year. Did you know that the WTNH TV8 (New Haven) Weatherman, Dr. Mel Goldstein, states that overall October is the least stormiest month of the year on average? HUMMM:-)
My favorite season is on tap ! The cooler, less humid days of autumn are a thrill for me. Warm days are followed by cool, crisp nights. The leaves on the trees of New England are adorned with bright fall colors. IT'S BOOT WEATHER GIRLS!!!!!
I hope this year to get some nice autumn pictures for this site. We shall see how well they come out!
Southern Comfort Conference ( 12 September - 16 September 2007 )
I attended my 4th SCC in Atlanta, Georgia this year. I arrived at the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport on Wednesday evening around 8:30 P.M. after an eventful flight.
I do have ONE MORE gripe with the airlines. Many of the airlines use smaller commuter jets now thus clogging up the airports with many more smaller planes and delaying flights. I also get irked with the virtually non existent luggage compartments on these flights. I went out and bought a much smaller piece of carry on luggage but since the overheads now can not store anything large than a loaf of bread I had to check all my belongings. Can you imagine going to a TG convention with no dresses????? At least I was allowed to carry my purse on board.
Once I got to the hotel I was politely "ambushed" by many friends. It was great hanging out in the lobby but after a day at work and a plane flight I was bushed. Fortunately my friend Alexis Rene bought me dinner so I did not starve. Thanks Alexis:-)
The hotel was new. I loved the decor of the hotel but heard rumblings that the service was not very good. I said they had better get their act together before the number of attendees to SCC tripled by Saturday night. Fortunately it did ! Disaster averted.
On Thursday I rolled out of bed to do a modeling session with Jamie Austin. I enjoyed it and got some great shots out in the garden with all the lovely flowers and the trees. I'm sitting on those pics for now. Sorry girls & guys !
In the afternoon one of my best friends, Lisa White of Massachusetts, arrived. She was my roommate and was attending SCC for the first time. When I greeted her up on the 3rd floor next to our room she looked so sweet and cute (of course she always does!!!!!). We chatted away in our room while I got her settled.
Dinner was at the Italian Restaurant in the lower level of the hotel. Lisa and I had Jenna Taylor, her roommate Lara, and Simone Lee as dinner partners. The food was great, the company even greater. I wish to thank Jenna for springing for the bill for me. Thanks sweetie:-):-):-) We were all feeling good after the wine.
That evening at dinner. I was wearing a hot blue, form fitting dress. I must admit that I was decked out to take no prisoners. None of the POWs seemed to mind surrendering to Lisa and I.
At any conventions there are room parties, visiting in the bars, and dancing. We did all three and hit the room around 4 A.M. BEDTIME !!!!! SNORE:-)
On Friday we slept to 11:30 A.M. and rolled out of bed to go to breakfast, errr lunch. The food was not notable. We did receive a pep talk on TG legislation winding its' way thru Congress. Hopefully discrimination against the TG community will be outlawed federally though I am not holding my breath on this.
In the evening we went out clubbing. Megan (who lives in Atlanta) drove us around in her Mercedes convertible. It was cool out but not bad. We hit this club and had a great time dancing, drinking, playing pool, drinking, chatting, and ahh drinking! Thanks for being a perfect tour guide Meagan. You are one live wire !
Lisa and I were in bed by 3:45 A.M. WOW earlier this night ! HA HA HA !
On Saturday we were dragging and since the lunches at the event were not to impress Lisa and I decided to curl up in bed and have room service. The Eggs Benedict breakfast (at noon time) was awesome. It was pricey but we deserved it!
In the afternoon I filmed a video for a television show. I'm not sure I did that well but the producer wanted to film Tgirls to portray our lives in a NON Jerry Springer type of atmosphere.
Funny thing is that I knew what I wanted to say UNTIL THE CAMERA STARTED ROLLING. I ad libbed it. If this show makes it to television look for it. With me in the show it maybe on the SciFi Channel !
The Saturday night banquet was great! The food was outstanding, the dancing and music was nice, and we each got a coffee mug as a keepsake. I got to bed "early" since I had to fly out the next morning at 9:30 A.M.
The flight home was not a problem. Thank goodness !
I want to give a huge thanks to my roommate Lisa White. She is one beautiful, classy, mature, and awesome friend. She was the best roommate by not snoring, hogging the bathroom, or fighting over make up.
We hung out a lot and went all over the place. I could not have asked for a more perfect roommate. In every way Lisa White is amazing. Girlfriend thanks for a nice time. You are definitely the best and girls a lot older than you should follow your example of class and dignity, mixed with plenty of sexiness! You have nothing to learn from them!!!!!
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture was taken in June at the Be All Convention in Chicago. I was standing in the center atrium. Why did I post a picture of the Be All right after SCC you may ask. Well everyone else posted pictures of SCC. I am giving the site a change of pace.
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
Why would anyone want to put you on television? I see no point in it. You have nothing to offer.
Miss I.M.A. _itch Downer's Ville, OK
Dear Miss _itch,
Ahh I know you so well. Maybe I will be the lead in for a new reality show. Friday the 13th, part 56! (Scream erupt all over!).
I agree with the sentiments of many here regarding, "You got a 10" being repeatedly written in guest books. It's okay to do it but it does "get old". I'm guilty too ! I only started to do this so folks would know that I awarded them a 10. When I write to ANYONE in a positive manner from now on then you AUTOMATICALLY have my 10 vote if your ratings are on. I also do not "cut & paste" the very same guest book comments, by the hundreds, each day to everyone. That "illusion" of individuality of comments to people when it, in reality, is not is just plain insincere.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department a lot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !" 2. You can use my picture as a dartboard ! 3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone ! 4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR OCTOBER 2007
I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my !
I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends"
But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised
So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August.
I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2.
Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-)
I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity.
My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me.
I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS".
This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards". So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me.
Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing *With Love & Respect* ~Karen~
BRENDA SUE ( Wheeling, IL ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/83995
DEAN M.L. ( Northampton, Sywell, UNITED KINGDOM ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/93507
JENN FOXX ( Northbridge, MA ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/17724
JESSICA MICHELLE PAULSEN ( Madison, WI ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/87212
KIMBERLY ANN VIRTUE ( San Diego, CA ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/35886
LAURA CARRILLO (Ft. Lauderdale, FL ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/SultryLaura
DANA ( Philadelphia, PA ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/54510
Karen Reeves August 31st, 2007 2:44 pm MDT~Some Thoughts: September 2007~
Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
September is now here ! My favorite season is on tap ! The cooler, less humid days of autumn are a thrill for me. Warm days are followed by cool, crisp nights. The leaves on the trees of New England are adorned with bright fall colors. IT'S BOOT WEATHER GIRLS!!!!!
I hope this year to get some nice autumn pictures for this site. We shall see how well they come out!
An Outing With Friends ( 3 August - 6 August 2007 )
A friend of mine, Syntha Walker of Minnesota, wanted to come east and visit. Having never met I said "Okay".
I met here at the airport on Friday evening in Providence. We headed up to Sutton, MA in a spectacular thunder storm. What an awesome light show! Once in Sutton my friend, Jackie Thompson of New Hampshire, met us.
On Saturday we all did some modeling with Jamie Austin and had some great pictures taken. We then all headed out to dinner.
Later we ventured to the Randolph Country Club. It was rather dead but we still had a great time. I think Syntha was impressed, especially since a guy hit on her ! HA HA HA !
On Sunday we hung out at the hotel and watched movies and then went out for dinner. Later, Jackie had to return home.
On Monday Syntha and I went shopping after which I took her back to the airport. Girl I hope you had a nice time here in the east:-)
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture was taken last September 2006 in front of the "Wet Bar" in Atlanta, Georgia at an SCC clubbing event on Friday night. I was dressed to the nines for the big city.
I've been sitting on this picture for a year. I thought bringing it out now was appropriate since SCC 2007 is here. I will be attending! Will you??? I hope so ! Come on down and party with all of us girls!!!!!!!!
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
My mascara always "clumps" on my eyelashes when I use it. How can I prevent this from happening?
Upset And Crying In Florida
Dear Upset,
First off, DON'T CRY ! The mascara will run and make you look like an extra from the "Rocky Horror Picture Show!"
When you pull the mascara coated plunger out of the tube it is loaded with thick mascara. Tap the pointed bottom tip onto a paper tissue or paper towel. This will get rid of the heavy clump of mascara and leave the right amount on the grooved wand itself for you to apply to your lovely lashes. Try it sweetie. It works:-)
I agree with the sentiments of many here regarding, "You got a 10" being repeatedly written in guest books. It's okay to do it but it does "get old". I'm guilty too ! I only started to do this so folks would know that I awarded them a 10. When I write to ANYONE in a positive manner from now on then you AUTOMATICALLY have my 10 vote if your ratings are on.
I also do not "cut & paste" the very same guest book comments, by the hundreds, each day to everyone. That "illusion" of individuality of comments to people when it, in reality, is not is just plain insincere.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department alot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !"
2. You can use my picture as a dartboard !
3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone !
4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR SEPTEMBER 2007
I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my !
I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends"
But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised
So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August.
I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2.
Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-)
I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity.
My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me.
I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS".
This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards".
So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me.
Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing
*With Love & Respect*
~Karen~
JACKIE LEE THOMPSON ( West Ossipee, NH )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/101302
SHERRY P ( New Paltz, NY )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/64437
DESTINY AND HARMONY ( Union City, TN )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/DestinyandHarmony
JAMIE DAILY (Danbury, CT )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/JamieInHeels
DEAN M. L. ( Northampton, UNITED KINGDOM )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/Dean
KERI RENAULT (Milwaukee, WI )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/KeriRenault
BRIAN WHITWORTH ( North Miami Beach, FL )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/BrianWhitworth
CEC SPARKS ( Phoenix, AZ )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/CSparks
Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
To The URNA COMMUNITY:
This is by far, the saddest, and most depressing journal entry that I have written here in URNA in 4 years. A noted supporter and friend of the trans community has suffered a terrible loss.
Dr. William A. Petit is a noted endocrinologist in Connecticut where I reside. He is on the board of the Gender Identity Clinic.I have been a patient of his for many years. He is a most remarkable man.
Besides assisting me with hormones he has helped me with a number of health related issues, including detecting a chemical deficiency in my body which could have potentially affected my heart. He saved my life from a hidden disease.
Most importantly, I consider him a friend.
It is sad for me to relate the following news.
On Monday, 23 July 2007 two men invaded Dr. Petit's home. They brutally assaulted Dr. Petit, tortured his wife and two daughters, raped two of the ladies, robbed his bank account, murdered his entire family, set fire to Dr. Petit's house, and stole his SUV to escape the crime scene. The police have caught two suspects.
Dr. Petit has been a strong supporter of the transgendered community. He has helped out so many people in a number of varied manners.
Understandably I am quite downcast and despondent. I have received more bad news today.
It is very difficult especially with friends visiting me here, to "carry on". The terrible news plays out, and will continue to play out, with a funeral, numerous memorial services, a police investigation, and years of court trials, appeals, and possibly executions of the offenders.
For Dr. Petit the horrors will last a lifetime. For everyone else the horrors will last for a decade or two.
If you wish to know more then please go to the Hartford Courant website. You can also make donations there if you wish.
If I seen rather torn and preoccupied over the next few weeks it will be from this tragedy. Life is not fair and this proves the point. I grieve for my friend and three lovely ladies who did not deserve this fate.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Petit family. I know many trans people in New England will be affected by this sad event.
I do not like to post such disturbing news here in URNA. I hope I do not offend any of you.
Sorority Sisters of New England event ( 26 July - 29 July 2007 )
The group named above (SSofNE) is a Yahoo Group. We held our first outing last week. A number of the girls meet at Jamie Austin's studio for makeovers. I played photographer. I love working behind the camera.
Brenda Sue of Illinois and Jackie T of New Hampshire really strutted their stuff in front of the lens. They enjoyed their time and they looked ~GORGEOUS~!!!!! Way to go girls:-)
We then journeyed to our hotel in Boston, freshened up, had some "liquid refreshment" and went out to the Randolph Country Club. Being a Thursday night we knew it would be dead and it sure was!
This gave us more time to talk outside on the patio and get acquainted more. Jackie and I had a great time on the dance floor. Jackie said I taught her alot of moves. I'll not elaborate on that but I think she had a great time dirty dancing with me ;-)
On Friday we all rolled out of bed at noon. Some girls rolled out of bed easier than others. I was the worst.
We went to an early dinner at the Olive Garden. We had drinks, salad, drinks, pasta dishes, drinks, dessert, and uhhhh DRINKS !!!!! Burp.
We were then met by the ultimate party girl of Boston and all around trouble maker, Annette Brunette. She came to the hotel with her photo album of photo shop doctored pics of me. I'm still not paying the extortion money Annette!
We then headed to everyone's "favorite" club, Jacques. We had a great time chatting with everyone, watching the floor show, and getting more than a few offers from very nice gentleman. I'm glad to see that they were interested in my brains and not my bod. At least that is what they told me folks ! But why would I have to go with them to their cars???
We then went to "Machine". This club is ear plug mandatory. I did not have mine.
All the girls had a great time tearing up the dance floor. I was a little bit dragging due to other news on my mind but still enjoyed the club. Quite a few guys enjoyed talking to us ladies :-) We got to bed around 4 A.M.
On Saturday I drove the ladies in a caravan down to Connecticut to my house. We hit a 20 mile traffic jam on I-95 due to a concert. We lost two hours there.
I took the ladies to an outside restaurant where we dined on the docks overlooking New London harbor. We had great seafood and watched the sun set. How romantic !
We later went to Ocean Beach Park. There was an outdoor rock concert with music you could dance to! Sherry and Brenda really rocked the boardwalk with their moves. Jackie and I did okay but the other ladies out did us for sure. Wait till next time girls ! Payback !
One by one the ladies left Sunday. I had to wait at the airport with Brenda Sue for 4 hours till they confirmed that her flight was leaving- 8 hours late ! I took her out to dinner to cut the boredom.
All in all a great weekend. Thanks ladies for keeping me preoccupied with better thoughts. You gals are angels. Annette, you are still a trouble maker !
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture is was taken in my hotel room in Boston on Friday night before we went out clubbing. It was ~HOT~!!!!! I mean the weather, not my outfit or me.
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
Do you drink alcohol?
Mr. T. Totaler Teapot Dome, Wyoming
Dear Mr. T,
You Don't you wear alot of jewelry and once had a television show? Well never mind.
To answer your question, Do birds fly? Nuff said ;-)
I agree with the sentiments of many here regarding, "You got a 10" being repeatedly written in guest books. It's okay to do it but it does "get old". I'm guilty too ! I only started to do this so folks would know that I awarded them a 10. When I write to ANYONE in a positive manner from now on then you AUTOMATICALLY have my 10 vote if your ratings are on.
I also do not "cut & paste" the very same guest book comments, by the hundreds, each day to everyone. That "illusion" of individuality of comments to people when it, in reality, is not is just plain insincere.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department alot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !" 2. You can use my picture as a dartboard ! 3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone ! 4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
Hi
Octavio Omar B.Z. June 23rd, 2008 5:25 pm MDTHola que tal bellas damas y amigas lindas, perdon por no postear, ya que estuve algo ocupado en el trabajo. y cambie de trabajo y me va mejor aqui. Sigo soltero pero contento y me encanta hacer amigas y quizas encontrar una linda novia. Besos y buena semana.[Comment on this post]
THIS IS ONLY A TEST! SOME JUNE THOUGHTS
Karen Reeves June 4th, 2008 7:13 pm MDTHi Everyone!
This is a test to see if I can input my journal entry. Fingers crossed!
Summer is almost here. I know that 90 degree weather and 95% humidity does not do much for makeup. The season does not always lend itself to dressing up. The dressed go into the box and the boxes go into the closest.
Why not slip into that swimsuit and go on out and get a great tan in a nice secluded surrounding. Or be more brave and go out in public with a cute, sleeveless top and min shorts/skirt. Give the guys some "eye candy!"
*Kisses*
~Karen~
[4 comments]
From Ape to Babe, Ramblings in Photo-Editing
Ana Cristina García June 4th, 2008 11:24 am MDTFrom Ape to Babe – How Far Should a Cross-Dresser go with Digital Photo-Manipulation?
In the Beginning There Were Men Trying to Look like Women…
As soon as digital photography became available to the masses, I am sure that all of us, cross-dressers, saw and took advantage of an opportunity that was near the top of our wish list (second only to the temporary-transformation pill). At last, we would be able to take photos of ourselves without having to take the film for processing and the risks it involved.
Almost a decade has gone by and digital photography combined with the means for creating a female persona to interact with other people like us, has certainly been a dream come true for most of us. There is rarely a web-based community where TGirls in general and CDs in particular have not created a niche. MySpace, Yahoo 360, Hi5, Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, to name a few, allow us to have a circle of friends with whom to share this important aspect of our lives. There are also portals dedicated exclusively to the TG community and here I have to mention Urnotalone as a pioneer and the place where many of us made our debut. We use our profiles to share and exchange ideas, thoughts, feelings, and, of course, photos with those who understand us in every way because they have the same passion we have for transforming ourselves into women.
Digital photography is one of the means through which we can share with the world this other side of ourselves and, arguably, the most important (keep in mind that I am talking from a cross-dresser’s point of view). It is through photos that we show our friends how good and how far are we able to go in our transformation and give or ask for help in improving our image. We do this within a community of people who know what it is all about and accept us as men trying to look as female as possible. Having a physical or visual image that matches our pretended gender so that others can relate to this woman they are meeting and with whom they are developing a friendship is very important. How many times have we come across a profile that says that the owner will not add any faceless person as a friend? Yes, it is important to have a face and, even better to have a complete body, to make the woman we pretend to be, appear real to others. Now, unless we get an opportunity to, eventually, meet in person with all these friends, there is no way we can ever be completely sure that “she” is for real. Every day we see profiles of people pretending to be TGirls showing photos that are so obviously of genetic females or photos that are evidently photomontages. Rather than judging these people I’d like to think that in their need to give life to an image that, for various reasons, they are not able to produce themselves, they rely on photos that depict the appearance they honestly wished they had. After all, we live in societies that, sadly enough, favor beauty over intelligence, values or personality.
In the case of cross-dressers and maybe all other TGirls, beauty is even more appreciated than in the case of real women because we are not only contempt with being able to pass for a female but all the better if we can pass for a beautiful woman. It is no surprise then, that “beautiful” TGirls are often more popular, praised and admired than those who can totally pass for average looking females or those who are the intellectuals and activists of our community. There is a strive to look as pretty as possible; in some cases to satisfy our own needs, and I include myself here, and in other cases to gain the acceptance and admiration of the other “girls” in our circles of friends.
… Then, Along Came Photoshop and a Dilemma…
Another field that developed parallel to digital photography was digital photo editing and its power horse, Photoshop. Yes, we are talking magic here. All of us who have come across Photoshop and learned the basics have not been able to resist exploring all the possibilities that are limited only by our imagination and our skills using the program. The dilemma that we face now is: Is it valid to use Photoshop or any other photo editing program to touch up our photos? And if so, how much of that magic should we use without being deceitful or distorting reality? I am sure that there are diverse opinions and points of view in this regard and following I will try to give you my outlook on this topic and will illustrate with examples whenever possible.
… To Deceive or not to Deceive… That is the Question.
I started using Photoshop to eliminate red eye and to correct the color and exposure of my photos. Then, I used it to eliminate chest hair when I wore revealing tops, and leg hair when I did not wear double hose. I did not consider this practice deceitful since it was the equivalent to shaving my body. I do not have thick body hair but it sure is noticeable and disgusting and prevented me from wearing more revealing tops and/or skirts with bare legs and sandals. My wife is not comfortable with me being shaved all the time and since I am a male 99% of the time, neither am I. Consequently, Photoshop provides the best means for me to achieve, virtually, something I can do, in reality, only on rare occasions. Is this level of photo editing deceitful? I guess we could consider it a mild deception but don’t all the photos we see on printed advertisement and on beauty magazines have, in most cases, been heavily touched up? If you think that is not the case, just take a look at the following links and you tell me:
http://blog.sessions.edu/graphic-design/photo-retouching-the-delicate-balance/
In the previous link you see the before and after photo of Faith Hill. Granted that Faith is already a gorgeous middle-aged woman, they manipulate her photo to make her look a lot younger and shapely. Notice how her face is made smoother and slimmer as well as her arm. Also notice how the little hump showing on her back is removed and the clavicle is made less prominent. I have not read the text of the article sent to me by my dear friend Laura Recinos just recently, but it explains in detail how it was done. The following link provides even more dramatic examples of how a professional touches up photos from famous people for magazines. Click on each thumbnail and then roll the mouse over the enlarged photo to see how it was before and then roll out to see the after again.
http://glennferon.com/portfolio1/index.html
As you can see, all wrinkles are gone, boobs are made larger and with more cleavage and every little imperfection is taken care of to present a perfect image. This is the perfect image we all seek and strive for but, as the Dove commercial, in the link below, clearly states, it is an unrealistic and unattainable beauty standard since it is produced electronically. Yes, every gorgeous girl with a perfect body, face and hair we see in all sorts of magazine adds is not as perfect as she seems to be. Having a good raw material to start with makes the task easier but the photos they show us are idealizations achieved through the manipulation of photos of beautiful subjects that are close but not quite there and, in some cases, not even close to perfection, on their own. Every woman, and I count here TGirls too, would like to have the figure of a Barbie Doll or Jessica Rabbit but we know that their extremely slim waists and exaggerated proportions can only be produced in plastic or drawing and lately, with Photoshop. Our ideal of beauty has become, thanks to photo editing, quite unrealistic. Take a look at the Dove commercial now:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hibyAJOSW8U
A Justification… or Not.
Where does reality end and deception begin? In the case of cross-dressers it is very hard to define since we are already being deceitful by presenting an image that is opposite to our real gender. Wigs, makeup, breast forms, hip padding, corsets, lashes, nails, etc. are the physical tools we use to create an illusion. What is the difference then, between that and getting similar results with digital photo-manipulation?
If gorgeous models, actresses and singers have their already outstanding beauty electronically enhanced why shouldn’t us, ugly men trying to look like beautiful women, do it too? After all, we need it a lot more than they do. Don’t you agree?
If you ask me, I think we are entitled to do it; but how far should we go with it? In my opinion, we should go as far as to reproduce what we are able to achieve in reality if we have the opportunity. What I mean by this is: if I know I can look better if I shave my body but can’t do it all the time then why not get a virtual shave? If I know, I can produce a decent cleavage with tape and padding when I get to shave my chest then why not simulate it with Photoshop? I used to just remove the chest and leg hair with Photoshop until one time, a little over a year ago, that I got to shave my whole body and produced a pretty decent cleavage with tape. I could not believe my eyes when I saw myself in the mirror and even now, when I see the photos from then (see links below).
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=64501063&albumID=1148889&imageID=11241782
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/489126232/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2420393557/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/999288280/
It was after seeing how natural my tape-produced cleavage looked that I thought I was entitled to get Photoshop implants by either shading the flat chest or by superimposing and blending real boobs from real girls (it just occurred to me that maybe some of the boobies I have used for my photos might have already been touched up LOL). I will be the first to admit that I have gotten a bit carried away in the chest size and cleavage but if you are going to do it then do it right, don’t you agree? The links below show a few of the photos where I have incurred in what I like to call “Photoshop Implants”. Every time I post this type of photos I include a note stating that the breasts are not real. Please notice the difference with the “authentic tape-created cleavage” shown in the links above:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2467940763/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2264700419/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365114/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/739261488/
Up to this point I believe it is still justifiable, in my humble opinion, to use photo editing. Why? Because I have proven to myself (I do it first for me not for others) that I can achieve similar results in real life when I get a chance to shave. By the way, my wife has agreed to let me shave my chest the next time I dress which should be on the second week of June 2008, if all works out as planned. In order to further illustrate the two levels of photo improvement that I am comfortable posting I prepared an image showing the “hairy” Cristy (ape), the “No Cleavage” Cristy (not so babe) and the “Virtual Breast Augmentation” Cristy (arguably babe). I recommend you see the original size (if it fits in your screen). The link is:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2549828866/
How far should I go? I’d like you to tell me. Would you rather see, from left to right, Ape Cristy, Flat and hairless Cristy or Babe Cristy? In Yahoo 360 you will be able to cast your vote in the poll at the bottom but if you read this in MySpace or URNA, please leave a short note with your point of view in this “shallow” but interesting issue.
This writing should not be taken for a confession, because I have always made it clear that I am not smooth most of the time and have also included an explanatory note whenever I post photos showing enhanced breasts. The reason that gave me the idea to write about this topic is that, lately, I have gotten several messages asking me about my new implants and if I am happy with them, how do they feel, etc. I have also been asked about when am I having my SRS! It is evident that, as is often the case, we are so busy with other things that we just take a quick look at the photos and do not bother or have the time to read the captions below them. As a matter of fact I posted a before and after photo almost a year ago when I first started posting photos with “virtual implants” since it has never been my intention to mislead anyone. For those of you who have not seen it, here is the link (as with the other photos, I recommend you see it in large size):
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/967913811/
I am not an expert with Photoshop and am far from achieving the kind of work shown in the before and after photos seen in the links at the top. However, I have always been good with computers and have an artistic background that has helped me find my way around the program. Therefore, I have experimented further and just for fun have explored other manipulations that make me appear to have a more feminine appearance by altering the body shape in my own photos or simply putting my face on top of gorgeous GG bodies (a technique I like to call “virtual body snatching”). I don’t know if any of those bodies I have used have, in turn, been touched up before but they serve the purpose of having some fun in “wonderland”. I have shared some of them with close friends but have never posted any before, as I think this is far from reality and something I could not achieve on my own. In other words, I find these images completely deceptive and would not like to have anyone thinking they are real. For the first time ever I will post some of them on Flickr but for that I have created a new account in which I make very clear that they are all photomontages or extreme manipulations of my own photos. Yes, it is fun and gives me great satisfaction but it is not real. Following is the link to the home page for this Flickr profile. From there you can go to the photo pages.
http://www.flickr.com/people/27290011@N07/
Also, here is a link to the one photo of this kind I will post in my regular Flickr account:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2549828858/
I am fully aware that after seeing these last photos you will be wondering how much of the photos I post in my profiles and my real Flickr account is really me. It is an acceptable conclusion once I have shown the magic that can be made with just one program and there is nothing I can do about it. However, as a very dear friend has told me a number of times, my videos are proof of how I really look like and for those of you who are doubtful, here is the link to my YouTube profile:
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=cristy98girl
So, After all the Rambling, is There Anything to Conclude?
In conclusion, I think that it is all a game of make believe and as long as we do not hurt anyone else we should be entitled to do whatever we feel appropriate. In my case, I prefer to be honest and make things clear from the start but can understand how other people go for deception in their attempt to give life to a much needed female persona that matches their ideals and standards. However, I prefer when they state from the beginning that the photos show how they wish they looked like and not when they try to mislead others into thinking it is really them in the photo(s). In the case of the latter, the first person they are fooling is themselves but as long as they enjoy it and do not harm anyone in the process, then so be it.
Some of you might agree or disagree with my opinion and you are entitled to it. I have expressed my very own point of view with regards to this topic and I do the “virtual shaving” and “Photoshoped Implants” first and foremost for my own satisfaction; knowing full well that I can achieve similar results if I get a chance to shave all my body. In such cases, I have always made it clear whenever I think it might be misleading.
From now on I might continue posting my “body and face alterations” and my “ virtual body snatching” photos exclusively in the new Fickr account, where I will not post any regular photos of me. I am still debating if I should post the original next to the manipulation in the case of those photos that are not my own since I have not used them with permission. I am also debating if I should open the profile to friend adds and the photos to comments but once you read this document, the decisions will have been made and maybe a Pandora Box will be opening. It seems that in this virtual world our appearance will be composed of our own raw material and our, or other people’s, skills to enhance it. We will eventually get to the point where it is not only about how good or bad we look but also how good can our photos be enhanced by ourselves or by others.
It seems that I just can’t keep a blog entry short but if you were able to stand the reading to this point, we have finally reached the end :-). Thank you for your interest and I will appreciate your feedback if you consider it appropriate.
Hugs and best regards to all,
Cristy.
[3 comments]
May 2008
Dee Gregory May 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm MDTI had posted images here showing my former spouse's earlier acceptance and involvement in this part of my life, mainly because this part of my life has recently been used by her as a weapon against me. I receivd an email from URNA stating: ------------------------------------------ Dee Gregory, Hi Dee, we are receiving threatening eMails from someone named C____ T_____. She's claiming that you've posted pics, some of which she is in, that she did not give permission for you to post. Could you please remove them, if you know who she is and know which one's to remove, as soon as you read this. Thank You. Thank you for your participation, and for helping to make URNotAlone a great resource. ------------------------------------------ I can only presume that these images destry her attempts to mis-respresent the truth. Peace, Love and Light ----------- Dee[2 comments]
Puente
Octavio Omar B.Z. May 2nd, 2008 5:36 pm MDTHay que aprovechar este puentecito para descansar un pocoy recargar las pilas para darle duro al trabajo y a la vida. Felicidades a todas las chicas, ahora este 10 de mayo, por ser el Dia de las Madres, bueno yo diria que de las mamis, porque todas las chicas son guspisimas y ese dia se ven mas lindas, jijiji. Y no solo ese dia se les debe de celebrar a las madre y las mamis (con todo respeto), debe de ser todo el año, con calidad, amor, respeto y cariño. Desde aqui un saludo, abrazo y beso para todas las hermosas chicas y a su mamis; con todo el afecto y respeto de un servidor para con uds. PD. Bonito fin de semana[1 comment]
Hola / Hello
Octavio Omar B.Z. April 25th, 2008 4:41 pm MDTHola atodas la bellas damas y señorita que me han aceptado como su amigo, como veran soy un joven mexicano jiji , ando en busca de amistades de todo el mundo, deseo conocer mas a las bellas y lindas travesti o transexuales. No con esto quiere decir que solo quiera ligar con uds. o que solo busque vacilar, no yo busco conocer mas a cerca de uds., el como poder conocer mas a las chicas, el modo de acercame a ellas sion que piensen que les tiro la onda. Porque digo esto, porque tengo amigas travesti y transsexual, y quiero y deseo compartir mas nuestra amistad, establecer fuerte vinculos entre nosotros. Ademas el como dejar de apreciar a las lindas chicas , ya sean hetero, bisex, o cualquier orientacion, todas son bellisimas y merecen admiracion y respeto. Queda de uds. un amigo, servidor y admirador de las bellas mujeres. PD. Este texto lo tendre pronto en ingles (im sorry but english isn't my native language)[Comment on this post]
March 2008 - DIVORCE!
Dee Gregory April 11th, 2008 5:16 pm MDTFree at last! Free at last! Thank God almighty, I am free at last! _ On Tuesday, March 4th, I was restored to the status of single and unmarried. I am now an unmarried father of three lovely young ladies. Though some might expect me to be singing the above words from the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last!” . . . I don’t honestly feel that way. Either way, my former spouse and I will be a part of each other’s lives for many years to come as we co-parent in the raising of three young ladies.[Comment on this post]
FIRST EVENT 2008: SOME FEBRUARY THOUGHTS
Karen Reeves February 6th, 2008 5:35 pm MSTFebruary 2nd is Ground Hog Day. I'm sure you all know the story. If the groundhog sees his shadow there is 6 more weeks of winter. If the groundhog does not see his shadow then spring is almost here.
I've often wondered, what type of IDIOT cam up with this concept? Have you ever seen spring start at the beginning of February? There may be global warning but spring at the start of February?
I regret to tell all of you that this year, 2008, the groundhog ended up with a different result. The groundhog came out of his burrow, saw my main picture in URNA this month and committed suicide. Funeral services will be conducted today, video at 11 P.M.
FIRST EVENT 2008
On Wednesday, 16 January I picked up my girlfriend Brenda Sue at the airport in Providence in the early evening and we proceeded to the Sheraton Hotel in Peabody. This was the new site for First Event. Brenda flew in from Chicago and this was her first First Event.
We were met at the hotel by our girlfriend, Jackie, who had come down earlier in the day. She helped us get into our rooms.
A bunch of us girls freshened up and went down to the restaurant for dinner. I was quite tired from a long day and was very hungry, but also wanted a drink!
Right off the bat I was impressed by the hotel staff's professionalism and courtesy. It was quite obvious that this year's hotel staff was given some corporate sensitivity training and the staff took the lessons to heart. Last year many of the staff at the previous hotel acted like the circus had come to town when they saw convention participants. They were rude.
The food at dinner was also very delicious. We ended up closing down the restaurant/bar.
On Thursday we welcomed many of our other friends. For me, these conventions are more of a social occasion now rather than an informational quest. I've attended many of these seminars in the past, plus I know everything anyways! HA HA HA, that's a joke everyone!
I was very fortunate in that Jackie's friend (and now mine) Bobbie was attending First Event. He is a professional hair stylist and so I was able to have my hair look its' best every evening. THANKS BOBBIE YOU ARE THE GREATEST BABES!
We then got prepared for the Dinner/Costume Ball. Since I did not get out on Halloween this was my chance to make up for it. My roommate, Jackie Thompson, went as the cutest cowgirl you have ever seen and I went as a cheerleader. YEA RA RA !
Even though the organizers did not say there would be a contest, I think many girls were under the impression there would be one. There was not. Had there been I think my girlfriend, Tiffany Starr, would have won it hands down. She went as a red, girl Dracula. YIKES!
One gentleman admirer was there and shared our dinner table.. He got up to perform after dinner and was a very talented impersonator. He was also quite charming and funny as well.
Later in the evening, while I was prancing around, I saw a sign board for the Leahy Clinic seminar of "Sleep Disorders" in the front lobby. You can see me sleeping with this sign:-)
Dinner was nice and we all got some dancing in.
The next day I woke up at 11 A.M. I've grown to like breakfast in bed at these events. Expensive? Perhaps. I like doing this since I normally do not do this when I travel. It also allows you more time to rest. My roommate Jackie T also liked it as well.
Sometime the early bird girlfriend or two pops in to chat. Annette Brunette came by and proceeded to take my pic in bed. OH NO ANNETTE! HOW COULD YOU?
She later photo shopped me into bed with the two life size plastic dolls at Dr. Z.'s party! Thanks Annette:-( I've never had such great sex in my life! *Giggles*
On Friday we wandered around the vendors' area and attended a couple of seminars. Since I do assist many others I decided that the workshop on coming out to children was a good workshop to go to It was nice to hear from others but I felt the presenter should have presented more of her own thoughts and ideas on the matter since she was a mental health care professional.
Friday evening many of my sorority sisters in Sorority Sisters of New England, and I, went out to dinner at the No Name Restaurant in Boston. Jackie picked out a great seafood restaurant.
I know that many girls only want to go out to "alternative" establishments. I grow tired of this self imposed segregation as a steady diet. If the transgendered community is looking for acceptance in the wider world then we need to "show the flag" and go out into the rest of the world. Our presence can educate the public into acceptance. I'm not going to hide in closets anymore. Besides they are too musty! Are we ashamed of ourselves? Our $$$ is just as green as anyone else's!
Our intrepid group included Jennifer Lane, Jackie Thompson, Brenda Sue Faulkner, Denise Armel, Jean Warren, Taylor Stephnz, Tiffany Starr, and myself. When we got to the restaurant two of the waitresses recognized Jackie and I from a previous visit last summer. Is that good or bad? Maybe it was the 5" stiletto heels, black fishnet stockings , and the micro min skirt. HUMMMM:-0
The waitresses were thrilled to wait on us 8 girls. They gave us the best seats in the house. We all had delicious seafood to eat. The other patrons did not even bat any eyelash at our crowd. Dress for the occasion is the rule. Later we went clubbing.
The night was topped off by a visit to Dr. Z's famous, or infamous, suite party. There is always enough free liquor to float a battleship!
At about 3 A.M. I was in a rather silly mood. I like convention pics, but not the usual, run of the mill, sitting at a table, or standing in a hallway photo parade. I suggested to Jackie that we go to the Exercise/Weigh Room and take some goofy photos. You can see them in my new gallery. It was a blast and no one was around. The pics are unique! You can also combine those with the previous evening's, "Girls On The Luggage Cart" pics
On Saturday we tore around the the site and had a nice time. For dinner all of us SSofNE girls sat at one table. There was Jennifer Lane, Jackie Thompson, Annette Brunette, Brenda Sue Faulkner, Denise Armel, Sherry Colah, and myself. The dinner was quite nice and later we danced the night away. They even ended up ripping up the temporary dance flooring from underneath us at the end of the evening!
The evening ended up back at another Dr Z suite party.
On Sunday I drove Brenda Sue back to the airport for her to catch her evening flight. We had dinner at a nice restaurant south of Worcester. I wanted to avoid I-95 since there was a big game for the Patriots being played down at Foxboro. She got off on time.
I want to thank everyone for a great time. My sorority sisters are the best and Jackie you are an awesome roommie
I'm already planning on 1st Event 2009!
[4 comments]
My Seventh visit to the Shrink
Ana Cristina García November 26th, 2007 6:11 pm MSTOk, it has been six weeks since my last and seventh visit tothe therapist and the next one will be this week on November 27 (actually,tomorrow). I thought about waitinguntil then and write about the two together but decided to keep them separateand shorter than usual, if I can.
I will begin by repeating something I explained since myfirst blog about my visits, regarding my motives to go to the therapist asCristy. It seems like many of youbelieve that I go there for therapeutic reasons when it is, actually, only anexcuse to have a safe and controlled environment where I can go from time totime without much of the risk that my wife tries to avoid when I go out as agirl. As many of you might recall,I started going to therapy as a male to get help with an anger management issuethat, after almost two years, I can proudly say is a think of the past. However, I continue to go every otherweek in boy mode because I find it refreshing and a good way to vent whateveris going on in my life at the moment. Since my first visit I was open to the doctor and told him about mybeing a cross-dresser and explained to him what it was all about since he hadno experience in the field. Several months later, it occurred to me that it would provide a safeenvironment for Cristy to be out and about given that we had discussed my needto go out with my wife and she was concerned about my safety. I asked my wife first and she agreed andthen asked the doctor and he said that he had no problem with it. I was clear with him that it would bejust an excuse and that we could talk about anything and not necessarily TGissues. He suggested that AnaCristina García would have to register as a new female patient and get her own record. I did just that and to this date onlythe doctor knows that Cristy is not a woman. I can’t assure that nobody suspects but so far I have notreceived any signs of that and neither has the doctor.
During all the years of useless therapy in my teens andearly twenties, I dreamt about going to therapy as Cristy but never got thenerve to ask and I am not sure if I would have dared. Now, here I am talking about a seventh appointment andgetting ready for the eight. Eachtime I go out there I try to go somewhere else but that is not always possible. Twice I had gone out with mysister-in-law but all the other times she has been either busy or out oftown. This seventh time she wasaway on business and guess what? She will also be away the day I go out for the eight appointment. I will try to talk my wife into lettingme go to the mall by myself but I can’t hope for much. Ok, but let’s get on with the story…
Since the previous time I had decided on what outfit to wearfor the next visit. It was time towear pants again so I choose a pair of blue pants with white stripes, a redwoven top and my 4 ½ red platform peep-toe heels. You have seen the previews on flickr and on the previousblog entry but here are the links to some other photos and a variation I triedwearing a scarf around my neck after returning from the therapist.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365182/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567371/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567645/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567579/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365746/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567937/
I got there 15 minutes early and as soon as I rang the bellthe secretary opened the door and greeted me with a big smile. We both seemed to be happy to see eachother. I had called the weekbefore to confirm the appointment and she was very happy to her from methen. She is a very sweet girl andwe seem to get along very well even when I go there as a guy. If only she knew. Or does she suspect? I don’t know but as far as I can tellshe does not show any signs of suspicion. Once I came in I noticed that this time there were no other people inthe waiting room. I sat down in myusual seat and started chatting with the secretary. I have always shown interest in her college studies andasked her about how she was doing. She replied that she had completed her curricula and was ready for thefinal arrangements for graduation. I already knew that because she had told my male self about it. Knowing what she would tell meI hadrehearsed my response and with my most feminine reaction and voice ofexcitement congratulated her. Wetalked about how proud she and her parents must have felt and I commended herfor her effort on working all day, going to college at night and then go backhome to do homework. It isadmirable, indeed, how so many women do that around the globe. And men still doubt that women are thebetter and strongest gender! Itmakes me feel proud about being, at least, a part time woman.
After that, she asked me if I had had a haircut. How is it that women always noticethose things? I must admit that asmuch as I like to emulate women, I never notice those things. Heck, I don’t even notice when my wifegets a haircut. Did the secretaryhave a reason for asking that? Yesshe had and I was prepared for it too. As a matter of fact I was wearing, for the first time, my brand newwig. It is exactly the same brand,model and color as the other but since this is new, it has more luster and abit less body making my hair look thinner and more straight. So, I replied that I did not had ahaircut but that I had my hair ironed. She said that it looked great and I felt very flattered. I don’t know if it was an honestopinion since women are always complimenting each other without necessarilymeaning it. For some reason womentry to make other women feel good about themselves and as women emulators, we,cross-dressers, do the same. It issort of a bond and pact of conduct that is totally foreign to men. Notice that I keep referring to womenas if I were not one. The fact isthat I am not one and we all know it. I only try to emulate one the best I can and for more on this you canread my previous blog entry entitled “A Prelude to the Seventh to the Shrink”. But I digress form the main topic solet me go on. After the shortexplanation I thanked her and asked her if she really thought I looked betterand she said that she thought so. I was on cloud nine. Here Iwas, a woman, talking to another woman (a real one) about hairstyles and havingmy hair done and typical girlie talk. This was a first ever for me with someone that is not really close tome.
The conversation continued for some more time. We talked about the weather since itwas a particularly cold day and she was wearing like two sweaters and was stillshivering. I have always lovedcold weather and I was only wearing my long-sleeve woven top. When I heardsomeone coming down the stairs I new it was about time to go up. A lady came down and greeted us. I greeted her back as she said goodbyeto the secretary. The phone rangand the secretary told me that the doctor was ready to see me. I got up and walked up the stairs tothe doctor’s office.
As I was finishing to climb the stairs, the doctor came outto greet me and we shook hands. Inoticed that he stared at me with a look of surprise and he said “wow,Cristina, you are particularly tall today!” I smiled and after saying hello got in his office. As I walked in I slipped and almostfell down. The doctor reacted andtried to hold me but I was able to keep myself from falling. He then mentioned that they had justpolished the floor. I showed himthe reason why I looked taller and we joked about how hard a fall would it hadbeen with those gargantuan heels. I mentioned that they are very high but very comfortable to wear andwalk on. As a matter of fact, Ilove how they feel on.
Once I sat down he also mentioned that my breast lookedlarger than usual and I told him that it was the second time I was wearing mybreast forms there and that maybe he perceived them larger because the top Iwas wearing this time was tighter. I then filled him in about the highlights of my conversation with thesecretary and he also mentioned that now that I had told him he was able to seethe difference in my hair (as I said,men do not notice these things). In his opinion I looked better with the older wig. He said that he liked women’s hair withmore volume.
We talked about this and that and were even able to exchangethoughts on what it meant to be a cross-dresser and for the first time I feltthat I was getting something out of my Cristy time at the therapist. It was never the intention but since itis unavoidable to talk about men dressed as women when I go as Cristy it wasonly natural. I have always knownthat it is all about the illusion and the clothes and makeup but I never had itso clear in my mind. I guess thatfrom now on there will be some more substance from future visits rather thanjust killing an hour of time. After philosophizing about cross-dressing, I asked him how would hedescribe Ana Cristina. I couldnotice by his expression that I was putting him on the spot but he proceeded togive an answer. He started givingadjectives that he thought applied to me. He said Cristy was tall, that she was cute and looked younger than herage (insert big smile here) that she smelled good, that she was a dresser andwas always elegant and showed class. He also said that she was very ladylike and that she had a veryappealing smile. Being my worstcritic I added: “and she has ahuge nose and has bubbles of air in her head”. He admitted that my nose was big but that it was not agiveaway. I will have to disagreewith him on that. If there is onething I would physically change in me it would be my nose. I can live with all the other malefeatures but am not too happy about my big fat nose :D
After that I asked him what he thought of my male self andhe described him pretty much as he is. He forgot to mention that he did not look too bad as a girl but I canforgive that LOL. When time was upI shook his hand and said goodbye. I walked down to the secretary’s desk, paid, talked for a couple ofminutes and we then kissed each other goodbye as I congratulated her on heracademic achievement again.
When I got in the car I called my wife to tell her that Iwould go to a specialty grocery store that sells Spanish goods. It is located about 100 meters down thestreet from the doctor’s office and I had mentioned her that I might venture inthere after my appointment. Shesaid that it was ok but that I should be careful. I got in the car and drove to the parking lot of thestore. As I got down I walked pasta lady that used to live next door to me when I was a kid. I used to play with her children andshe is still a good friend of my mother’s even thought they don’t see eachother often. Obviously she did notrecognize me and we smiled to each other as I got in the store. I say obviously because I am sure thatshe would have had a hard time recognizing me in my male mode after so manyyears.
I got in the store and noticed people looking at me prettymuch in the same way as anyone else coming in the store. As I moved around nobody seemed to careabout me and when I went past some other costumers, mostly females, we wouldsmile at each other or just mind our own business. I noticed some looks but to my interpretation more in thelines of “that is one tall lady”. Believe me, here in Guatemala if anyonenotices a guy in a dress they will not be able to let the event go withoutgiving some noticeable signs. I amnot saying that I will fool everyone all of the time and am sure that manytimes people might give second thoughts but so far none has confronted me or givensigns of awareness. In any case,what matters is that I enjoy my time as Cristy and I try not to mind otherpeople or fidget around to detect any unusual reactions. Passing is totally secondary to havinga good experience and enjoying ourselves.
Once I found what I was looking for I grabbed a shoppingbasket and put the goodies in. Icontinued wondering around until I got to the seafood section. They had some deliciously looking stonecrab legs that I just could not resist so I asked a female clerk if she couldweight some of the packages for me. She helped me weighting several packages until we found one that had theright weight. She was friendly andvery polite and we interacted in a normal way. After that she tagged the package with the price and Iheaded for the checkout counter. The cashier there was less friendly but not rude either. I gave her the information she neededfor the invoice, paid in cash and headed out for the car. I got in the car feeling pretty goodabout the experience, called my wife once again and told her that I was on myway home but that I would stop by a MacDonald’s drive through to get somelunch. I got to the drive throughline, ordered on the speaker and felt great again when the people therereferred to me as a female (thank God that Spanish has a distinctive form formale and female adjectives and nouns). I drove back home and was so thrilled about the experience and thesensations and thoughts that I did not eat any of the junk food I had gotten.
Unlike other times when, after coming back to my parent’shome, I start changing into different outfits and taking lots of photos, Iwondered around and did regular things in the outfit I had worn out. I took some video and took severalphotos with that same outfit and a couple of hours later changed into a sundressand took some photos with it and that was it for me. Here are the links to the videos and the photos wearing thesundress:
Videos:
English: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YN5zrH1xcpg
Spanish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UjHAAKbT28
Photos in the sundress:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365056/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365114/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567435/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365354/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2067365578/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/2066567841/
I was contempt and feeling pretty good. I had been out once again and wasfeeling so good that I did not need to try many things to feel validated in thefemale role I was playing. Ienjoyed the feeling and focused on enjoying it rather than on trying all thenew dresses and shoes I had brought. There would be other opportunities for that. As I was starting to change my wife called and said that shewas on her way there to help me with taking pictures and I told her that I wasalready winding down and was about to take my makeup off and take a shower tohead for home. She was surprised thatafter almost four months of not dressing I was calling this session short andto be honest, I was surprised too. I realized that it is no longer so much about rehearsal time as it isabout taking the stage and play the role. It is no longer so much about taking photos and video as it is about enjoyingmyself out there in the real world. I’d rather wait 3 months for a good chance to go out than dress once aweek within the confines of my home or my parent’s home.
Tomorrow I will go to the shrink for the eight time and Ican’t assure that I will feel the same but I know that I will do my best toenjoy every second of my time out. I hope this time it does not take too long for me to write a blog aboutit.
Hugs to all,
Cristy.
[3 comments]
~New Galleries & Some Thoughts: November 2007~
Karen Reeves November 6th, 2007 7:13 pm MST ~Some Thoughts: November 2007~NEW GALLERIES !
Check out my galleries here! I've added 7 new secondary pictures on my front page, rounded out my gallery on BeAll/SCC with 13 pictures, added 2 new pics in "Karen's Escapades", and started a new gallery with 5 pictures of my former front page pictures. That is 27 pictures in all. Enjoy!
Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
~SOME NOVEMBER THOUGHTS~
November is now here and all turkeys are getting nervous
In November we have two important holidays: Veterans' Day & Thanksgiving. Let us all take stock of all that is positive in our lives and how fortunate we are compared to many others in this world. Let us also pay tribute to the women and men veterans who have defended our freedoms and our nation. They are heroes 24/7.
SS of NE Outing ( 13 October 2007 )
A few of my friends in Sorority Sisters of New England came down to visit me (Denise Armel and Jackie T). We hung around during the day on Saturday and I showed them the area that I live in.
That evening we met up with Jennifer Lane and her friend Audrey Conrad. We went out for dinner at a lovely Thai Restaurant in New London, CT called Bangkok City. Needless to say we all ate too much but had a great time.
For me the seafood is the best overall. I think the waiter enjoyed the company of all of us girls. Giggles!
After dinner we went clubbing at O'Neil's Brass Rail. The music was great but it was too chilly to stay on the outside deck for an extended time. We danced inside. I played a little pool and split a couple of games with Jackie.
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture was taken on Thursday, 13 September 2007at the SCC Convention in Atlanta. I was sitting in the center hallway of the 3rd floor in my hotel where we stayed. I was afraid the glass top "counter" that I was sitting on would shatter from my heavy weight and impale my rear end:-)
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
Which convention do you prefer to attend Karen?
Mr. Eager Beaver
Beaver Falls, OR
Dear Mr. Beaver,
That is a hard question. All conventions have many of the same attributes: seminars, banquets, dances, and clubbing. What sets the conventions apart from each other are the organization of the conventions and the different people who attend each convention.
I prefer SCC because: 1. It is Atlanta! 2. SCC is very well run. 3. It is the largest TG Convention in the U.S. so you get to see many girls and guys that you would not normally see at any other convention.
I urge anyone thinking of attending just one convention to make it SCC.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department a lot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !"
2. You can use my picture as a dartboard !
3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone !
4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR NOVEMBER 2007
I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my !
I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends"
But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised
So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August.
I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2.
Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-)
I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity.
My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me.
I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS".
This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards".
So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me.
Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing
*With Love & Respect*
~Karen~
JACKIE THOMPSON ( West Ossipee, NH )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/10132
DENISE ARMEL ( Boston, MA )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/103229
KEVIN ( Hudson, MA )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/83913
LARRY ( Honolulu, HI )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/61820
VALERIE 2B GIRL ( Nantucket )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/
SCOTT BRADFORD ( Charlotte, NC )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/36793
GIGI MONET ( Grand Prairie, TX )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/57638
JENNA TAYLOR ( Baltimore, MD )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/25689
[Comment on this post]
A Prelude to the Seventh at the Shrink
Ana Cristina García October 25th, 2007 9:05 pm MDTSome say that seven is a lucky number and when it comes to going out and having a good time pretending to be a girl any number can be thought of as lucky. In any case, my seventh time to the therapist as Cristy was a very special one not because of what I did or what I wore but for the feelings and realizations I experienced. These feelings, thoughts and realizations are not new but they have never been so clear to me.
It had been three and a half months since the last time I had dressed and gone out and I was really in need. However, I have noticed lately that I’d rather wait for a long time between dressings if that means I will get to go out as Cristy. It seems that the point is no longer taking photos and video while being within the confines of my or my parent’s home. Like most of us I believe that the ultimate thrill as a cross-dresser is being able to be out in the real world and do things that any regular person (i.e. a woman) would do. In this realm, passing is only a bonus. Some of us are lucky to be able to pass most of the time and some not but what really matters in the end is that we are pleased with ourselves and that we have a good time while dressed and acting as a woman. Please notice that I say “dressed and acting” and not “feeling or being” for which man can claim that he knows how it feels to be a woman? We could argue that there are some feelings and behaviors that are typically male or female but not necessarily exclusive to one or the other. As human beings males and females have more similarities than differences when it comes to thinking and feeling. Arguably, it is the psyche and/or the soul that we could think of having a particular gender. A male to female transsexual most likely has a female psyche and soul and therefore is able to feel and think like a woman but a heterosexual CD like me has a male psyche and soul and therefore can only speculate on what it is to feel or be a female. I will leave the philosophical ramblings for future blogs but I felt it was important to set the record straight in that I never think of myself as being a woman. I am basically a male who enjoys to, occasionally, play the role of a female with regards to appearance and mannerisms.
What is the thrill of dressing and going out all about then? In my case, and I would suggest that it is the same for most heterosexual CDs, it is about the clothes, makeup, accessories and mannerisms that make others perceive me more as a female than as a male. I am an actor playing a role and the more I am able to play it with success the more thrilling it is and the more satisfaction I derive from it. It is a role that I feel an urge to play and one that I specialize in. Staying home and taking photos and video could be thought of as the rehearsal and going out is being on stage performing in front of a real audience. If I play my role well it means that I am able to pass and fool most people around me and if I goof I will be booed or criticized. But it is not the audience approval what I mainly seek nor will criticism bring me down. What I seek is fulfilling this need to play the role within certain domains that deal mainly in the realms of appearance and mannerisms. I will not deny that passing is a wonderful reward and the ultimate proof of a job well done but the opportunity to play the part is rewarding enough.
I get a lot of satisfaction when I am taken for a woman but if the time came where someone confronted me I would gladly explain to him or her what it is all about and try to make him or her understand why there are people like me and why we need to do it. To me it is equally thrilling when someone who knows (i.e. my sister-in-law) tells me that I totally look the part than when I am able to sustain a conversation with a person who takes me for an actual female (i.e the doctor’s secretary) and does not show signs of doubts about it.
For what I have learnt from my own experience and fellow cross-dressers we all feel this ultimate need to go out dressed as a girl even in those cases when one knows that it is not likely that one will pass. The thrill of dressing in private gives us some satisfaction but it pales next to the thrill of being out in the real world. Depending on our individual skills and experience playing the role we will seek more or less public places yet the thrill of being out is just the same. I remember that my first times out in dark or lonely places with my limited skills were every bit as thrilling as my recent visits to the therapist or outings with my sister-in-law. Perhaps those early outings were even more thrilling and exciting because of their novelty. I no longer feel my heart heavily pounding like I used to in those early days. I guess that as I gain more confidence in playing the role with success the heavy pounding gives way to serenity and awareness of what I am about to do. I do not intend to be pretentious for it has taken me 30 years to be where I am today with regards to my cross-dressing. I have had my share of boos, criticism and odd looks over the years and it is only now that, thanks to feedback from my dear Internet friends, that I am able to play the role in a satisfying way. By that I mean that it is satisfying to me and my expectations and not that of those who interact with me and take me for a female.
Many times I wished that someone would notice something and confront me. Putting modesty aside I think I do a good job product of those 30 years of playing the role and it would be every bit as satisfying to receive a compliment for a good and fairly convincing transformation than passing flawlessly for a woman. I have been tempted to reveal myself a couple of times but I would not risk getting an unexpected reaction. Having said this, I go back to the point that it is all about the clothes, the makeup, the accessories and mannerisms that allow me to achieve the illusion of appearing to be a female. Therefore, I dare to say that the excitement a heterosexual CD gets from dressing is all about the “illusion”; about the “transformation”. The more we look like a woman the more excited we get and the same applies when we see other males transformed. Some mistake this “attraction for the illusion and the transformation for attraction to the person performing it. In my case, and again I would argue that it might be the same for most heterosexual CDs, I have it clear in my mind that the fact that I get some sort of arousal when I see a man that looks so much like a woman has nothing to do with the person and all to do with the illusion. When a male is able to blur the line and look convincingly as a female we, heterosexual CDs, feel a particular tingle in our senses that should not be confused for attraction for the person bending the gender lines (in terms of appearance). This is the same tingle that we experience when we feel and see ourselves all dressed up looking back in the mirror. We get aroused by the “illusion” whether it is performed by us or by others and it should not be confused for attraction towards the person performing it. As a matter of fact, when the illusion is performed close to perfection we keep looking for signs or hints that confirm that we are looking at a male and not a real female. This is why passing for a woman could be less thrilling than having someone say: “Wow, you are a guy and for a while you got me fooled thinking that you were a real girl”. This is also why we might be tempted to reveal our secret to a total stranger while out and about. What is the purpose of playing the role if there is no one to appreciate how well you play it when confronted with reality?
Ok, enough of this for now. I know that most of you were expecting me to talk about my outing and see photos and videos but I needed to get these thoughts out of the way before proceeding to the more frivolous stories about Cristy’s successes in the real world. I promise that the next entry will be about that seventh time to the shrink and will post photos and videos related to it. For now, I leave you with a link to a photo showing what I wore out.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cristy98girl/1752303607/
I hope that you find this writing interesting and worth reading and that some of you are able to identify with my conclusions.
A big hug to each and every one of you.
Cristy
[8 comments]
SCC WAS FUNTASTIC~SOME OCTOBER THOUGHTS
Karen Reeves October 2nd, 2007 5:55 pm MDT ~Some Thoughts: October 2007~Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone !
"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
October is now here ! This is my favorite month of the year. Did you know that the WTNH TV8 (New Haven) Weatherman, Dr. Mel Goldstein, states that overall October is the least stormiest month of the year on average? HUMMM:-)
My favorite season is on tap ! The cooler, less humid days of autumn are a thrill for me. Warm days are followed by cool, crisp nights. The leaves on the trees of New England are adorned with bright fall colors. IT'S BOOT WEATHER GIRLS!!!!!
I hope this year to get some nice autumn pictures for this site. We shall see how well they come out!
Southern Comfort Conference ( 12 September - 16 September 2007 )
I attended my 4th SCC in Atlanta, Georgia this year. I arrived at the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport on Wednesday evening around 8:30 P.M. after an eventful flight.
I do have ONE MORE gripe with the airlines. Many of the airlines use smaller commuter jets now thus clogging up the airports with many more smaller planes and delaying flights. I also get irked with the virtually non existent luggage compartments on these flights. I went out and bought a much smaller piece of carry on luggage but since the overheads now can not store anything large than a loaf of bread I had to check all my belongings. Can you imagine going to a TG convention with no dresses????? At least I was allowed to carry my purse on board.
Once I got to the hotel I was politely "ambushed" by many friends. It was great hanging out in the lobby but after a day at work and a plane flight I was bushed. Fortunately my friend Alexis Rene bought me dinner so I did not starve. Thanks Alexis:-)
The hotel was new. I loved the decor of the hotel but heard rumblings that the service was not very good. I said they had better get their act together before the number of attendees to SCC tripled by Saturday night. Fortunately it did ! Disaster averted.
On Thursday I rolled out of bed to do a modeling session with Jamie Austin. I enjoyed it and got some great shots out in the garden with all the lovely flowers and the trees. I'm sitting on those pics for now. Sorry girls & guys !
In the afternoon one of my best friends, Lisa White of Massachusetts, arrived. She was my roommate and was attending SCC for the first time. When I greeted her up on the 3rd floor next to our room she looked so sweet and cute (of course she always does!!!!!). We chatted away in our room while I got her settled.
Dinner was at the Italian Restaurant in the lower level of the hotel. Lisa and I had Jenna Taylor, her roommate Lara, and Simone Lee as dinner partners. The food was great, the company even greater. I wish to thank Jenna for springing for the bill for me. Thanks sweetie:-):-):-) We were all feeling good after the wine.
That evening at dinner. I was wearing a hot blue, form fitting dress. I must admit that I was decked out to take no prisoners. None of the POWs seemed to mind surrendering to Lisa and I.
At any conventions there are room parties, visiting in the bars, and dancing. We did all three and hit the room around 4 A.M. BEDTIME !!!!! SNORE:-)
On Friday we slept to 11:30 A.M. and rolled out of bed to go to breakfast, errr lunch. The food was not notable. We did receive a pep talk on TG legislation winding its' way thru Congress. Hopefully discrimination against the TG community will be outlawed federally though I am not holding my breath on this.
In the evening we went out clubbing. Megan (who lives in Atlanta) drove us around in her Mercedes convertible. It was cool out but not bad. We hit this club and had a great time dancing, drinking, playing pool, drinking, chatting, and ahh drinking! Thanks for being a perfect tour guide Meagan. You are one live wire !
Lisa and I were in bed by 3:45 A.M. WOW earlier this night ! HA HA HA !
On Saturday we were dragging and since the lunches at the event were not to impress Lisa and I decided to curl up in bed and have room service. The Eggs Benedict breakfast (at noon time) was awesome. It was pricey but we deserved it!
In the afternoon I filmed a video for a television show. I'm not sure I did that well but the producer wanted to film Tgirls to portray our lives in a NON Jerry Springer type of atmosphere.
Funny thing is that I knew what I wanted to say UNTIL THE CAMERA STARTED ROLLING. I ad libbed it. If this show makes it to television look for it. With me in the show it maybe on the SciFi Channel !
The Saturday night banquet was great! The food was outstanding, the dancing and music was nice, and we each got a coffee mug as a keepsake. I got to bed "early" since I had to fly out the next morning at 9:30 A.M.
The flight home was not a problem. Thank goodness !
I want to give a huge thanks to my roommate Lisa White. She is one beautiful, classy, mature, and awesome friend. She was the best roommate by not snoring, hogging the bathroom, or fighting over make up.
We hung out a lot and went all over the place. I could not have asked for a more perfect roommate. In every way Lisa White is amazing. Girlfriend thanks for a nice time. You are definitely the best and girls a lot older than you should follow your example of class and dignity, mixed with plenty of sexiness! You have nothing to learn from them!!!!!
THE MAIN PICTURE
This picture was taken in June at the Be All Convention in Chicago. I was standing in the center atrium. Why did I post a picture of the Be All right after SCC you may ask. Well everyone else posted pictures of SCC. I am giving the site a change of pace.
ASK KAREN
I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please!
Dear Karen,
Why would anyone want to put you on television? I see no point in it. You have nothing to offer.
Miss I.M.A. _itch
Downer's Ville, OK
Dear Miss _itch,
Ahh I know you so well. Maybe I will be the lead in for a new reality show. Friday the 13th, part 56! (Scream erupt all over!).
I agree with the sentiments of many here regarding, "You got a 10" being repeatedly written in guest books. It's okay to do it but it does "get old". I'm guilty too ! I only started to do this so folks would know that I awarded them a 10. When I write to ANYONE in a positive manner from now on then you AUTOMATICALLY have my 10 vote if your ratings are on.
I also do not "cut & paste" the very same guest book comments, by the hundreds, each day to everyone. That "illusion" of individuality of comments to people when it, in reality, is not is just plain insincere.
FOXYKAREN.NET
My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-)
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks!
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department a lot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !"
2. You can use my picture as a dartboard !
3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone !
4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR OCTOBER 2007
I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my !
I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends"
But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised
So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August.
I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2.
Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-)
I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity.
My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me.
I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS".
This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards".
So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me.
Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing
*With Love & Respect*
~Karen~
BRENDA SUE ( Wheeling, IL )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/83995
DEAN M.L. ( Northampton, Sywell, UNITED KINGDOM )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/93507
JENN FOXX ( Northbridge, MA )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/17724
JESSICA MICHELLE PAULSEN ( Madison, WI )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/87212
KIMBERLY ANN VIRTUE ( San Diego, CA )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/35886
LAURA CARRILLO (Ft. Lauderdale, FL )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/SultryLaura
DANA ( Philadelphia, PA )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/54510
SYNTHA WALKER (Rochester, MN )
http://profiles.urnotalone.com/SynthyaW
[2 comments]
~Some Thoughts: September 2007~
Karen Reeves August 31st, 2007 2:44 pm MDT~Some Thoughts: September 2007~Check Out My Revised & Updated Website: FoxyKaren.net
Hi Everyone ! "IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
September is now here ! My favorite season is on tap ! The cooler, less humid days of autumn are a thrill for me. Warm days are followed by cool, crisp nights. The leaves on the trees of New England are adorned with bright fall colors. IT'S BOOT WEATHER GIRLS!!!!! I hope this year to get some nice autumn pictures for this site. We shall see how well they come out!
An Outing With Friends ( 3 August - 6 August 2007 ) A friend of mine, Syntha Walker of Minnesota, wanted to come east and visit. Having never met I said "Okay". I met here at the airport on Friday evening in Providence. We headed up to Sutton, MA in a spectacular thunder storm. What an awesome light show! Once in Sutton my friend, Jackie Thompson of New Hampshire, met us. On Saturday we all did some modeling with Jamie Austin and had some great pictures taken. We then all headed out to dinner. Later we ventured to the Randolph Country Club. It was rather dead but we still had a great time. I think Syntha was impressed, especially since a guy hit on her ! HA HA HA ! On Sunday we hung out at the hotel and watched movies and then went out for dinner. Later, Jackie had to return home. On Monday Syntha and I went shopping after which I took her back to the airport. Girl I hope you had a nice time here in the east:-)
THE MAIN PICTURE This picture was taken last September 2006 in front of the "Wet Bar" in Atlanta, Georgia at an SCC clubbing event on Friday night. I was dressed to the nines for the big city. I've been sitting on this picture for a year. I thought bringing it out now was appropriate since SCC 2007 is here. I will be attending! Will you??? I hope so ! Come on down and party with all of us girls!!!!!!!!
ASK KAREN I hope you like this feature also. Just email me any questions you might have and if I select your question, I will answer it next month. PLEASE EMAIL ME YOUR QUESTION AND DO NOT WRITE IT IN MY GUEST BOOK. YOU WILL OVERWHELM IT! No obscene questions please! Dear Karen, My mascara always "clumps" on my eyelashes when I use it. How can I prevent this from happening? Upset And Crying In Florida Dear Upset, First off, DON'T CRY ! The mascara will run and make you look like an extra from the "Rocky Horror Picture Show!" When you pull the mascara coated plunger out of the tube it is loaded with thick mascara. Tap the pointed bottom tip onto a paper tissue or paper towel. This will get rid of the heavy clump of mascara and leave the right amount on the grooved wand itself for you to apply to your lovely lashes. Try it sweetie. It works:-)
I agree with the sentiments of many here regarding, "You got a 10" being repeatedly written in guest books. It's okay to do it but it does "get old". I'm guilty too ! I only started to do this so folks would know that I awarded them a 10. When I write to ANYONE in a positive manner from now on then you AUTOMATICALLY have my 10 vote if your ratings are on. I also do not "cut & paste" the very same guest book comments, by the hundreds, each day to everyone. That "illusion" of individuality of comments to people when it, in reality, is not is just plain insincere.
FOXYKAREN.NET My website has been totally revamped. It has three new galleries, for a total of 30 new pictures. The pictures are also in larger frame when you click upon them in the drop down bar. Now you don't need to wear glasses. You can reach right out and touch me:-) The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances. Click on the tab or banner above my profile here in URNA, check it out, and leave a guest book comment if you like! Thanks! I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large. I have said it before and I say it again, any accolades I receive are due to ALL OF YOU ! ! ! Thank you for supporting me in URNA! We ALL need love and friendship, anybody who believes differently does not understand human nurturing. Nobody can exist in a vacuum. I hope my website makes you proud of yourselves as well. I am honored to be your friend :-)
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department alot! I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care. I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ? 1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !" 2. You can use my picture as a dartboard ! 3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone ! 4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !
KAREN'S 8 FRONT PAGE FRIENDS FOR SEPTEMBER 2007 I noticed in March that the four friends on my front page were now boxed in yellow and they had four others joining them there as well. What was this, an outbreak of Yellow Fever? Oh my ! I then received an email from URNA explaining to me that they had instituted, for paid members, the ability to reconstitute your front friends page to list your top 8 "Best Friends" But what if you have more than 8 Best Friends? What if they list YOU and you can NOT list THEM? Oh no! Surprised So many of you wonderful girlfriends and boyfriends have reached out and touched my life that this presented a real problem to me. I had to find a solution. Here is mine starting in August. I shall select a new top 8 "Front Page Friends" each month. Those people who are Gold Members and place me in their #1 slot on their front page will be in the top row, slots #3 & #4. Sorority Sisters of New England will be in slots #1 & #2. Those Gold Members who have me on their front page in positions 2-8 will be in my second row, slots #7 & #8. Sorority Sisters of New England Gold Members will be in slot #5 and SSofNE Free Members will be in slot #6. Make any sense? Probably not:-) I do not mean to slight non paying members but it is the paying members who support this site and the non paying members ability to have profiles here. Jon, Vicky, and Dan can not run this place as a charity. My friends who care enough to list me on their front page at some point should receive some recognition. Saying "Everyone's my friend but ONLY THESE 8 will be on my front page forever!" seems a little too exclusive. I wish to thank these people for showing their friendship to me. I will notify those selected that they have been selected. This is a small way to pay tribute in my monthly journal posting "SOME (MONTH) THOUGHTS". This will be in lieu of my monthly "Karen's TGurl Awards". So many of you hold a special place in my heart. You have helped me so much. I hope this solution does not offend anyone. If so then please email me. Thank you for reading this and understanding! Laughing *With Love & Respect* ~Karen~ JACKIE LEE THOMPSON ( West Ossipee, NH ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/101302 SHERRY P ( New Paltz, NY ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/64437 DESTINY AND HARMONY ( Union City, TN ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/DestinyandHarmony JAMIE DAILY (Danbury, CT ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/JamieInHeels DEAN M. L. ( Northampton, UNITED KINGDOM ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/Dean KERI RENAULT (Milwaukee, WI ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/KeriRenault BRIAN WHITWORTH ( North Miami Beach, FL ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/BrianWhitworth CEC SPARKS ( Phoenix, AZ ) http://profiles.urnotalone.com/CSparks
[3 comments]
~A Family Murdered: Some Thoughts August 2007
Karen Reeves August 2nd, 2007 7:58 pm MDT"IF I CAN REACH FOR THE STARS IT IS ONLY BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTING HELP OF MY TGIRLFRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS WHOSE SHOULDERS I STAND UPON !"
This is by far, the saddest, and most depressing journal entry that I have written here in URNA in 4 years. A noted supporter and friend of the trans community has suffered a terrible loss.
Dr. William A. Petit is a noted endocrinologist in Connecticut where I
reside. He is on the board of the Gender Identity Clinic.I have been a patient of his for many years. He is a most remarkable man.
Besides assisting me with hormones he has helped me with a number of
health related issues, including detecting a chemical deficiency in my
body which could have potentially affected my heart. He saved my life from a hidden disease.
Most importantly, I consider him a friend.
It is sad for me to relate the following news.
On Monday, 23 July 2007 two men invaded Dr. Petit's home. They
brutally assaulted Dr. Petit, tortured his wife and two daughters,
raped two of the ladies, robbed his bank account, murdered his entire
family, set fire to Dr. Petit's house, and stole his SUV to escape the
crime scene. The police have caught two suspects.
Dr. Petit has been a strong supporter of the transgendered community.
He has helped out so many people in a number of varied manners.
Understandably I am quite downcast and despondent. I have received more bad news today.
It is very difficult especially with friends visiting me here, to "carry on". The terrible news plays out, and will continue to play out, with a funeral, numerous memorial services, a police investigation, and years of court trials, appeals, and possibly executions of the offenders.
For Dr. Petit the horrors will last a lifetime. For everyone else the horrors will last for a decade or two.
If you wish to know more then please go to the Hartford Courant website. You can also make donations there if you wish.
If I seen rather torn and preoccupied over the next few weeks it will be from this tragedy. Life is not fair and this proves the point. I grieve for my friend and three lovely ladies who did not deserve this fate.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Petit family. I know many trans people in New England will be affected by this sad event.
I do not like to post such disturbing news here in URNA. I hope I do not offend any of you.
The group named above (SSofNE) is a Yahoo Group. We held our first outing last week. A number of the girls meet at Jamie Austin's studio for makeovers. I played photographer. I love working behind the camera.
Brenda Sue of Illinois and Jackie T of New Hampshire really strutted their stuff in front of the lens. They enjoyed their time and they looked ~GORGEOUS~!!!!! Way to go girls:-)
We then journeyed to our hotel in Boston, freshened up, had some "liquid refreshment" and went out to the Randolph Country Club. Being a Thursday night we knew it would be dead and it sure was!
This gave us more time to talk outside on the patio and get acquainted more. Jackie and I had a great time on the dance floor. Jackie said I taught her alot of moves. I'll not elaborate on that but I think she had a great time dirty dancing with me ;-)
On Friday we all rolled out of bed at noon. Some girls rolled out of bed easier than others. I was the worst.
We went to an early dinner at the Olive Garden. We had drinks, salad, drinks, pasta dishes, drinks, dessert, and uhhhh DRINKS !!!!! Burp.
We were then met by the ultimate party girl of Boston and all around trouble maker, Annette Brunette. She came to the hotel with her photo album of photo shop doctored pics of me. I'm still not paying the extortion money Annette!
We then headed to everyone's "favorite" club, Jacques. We had a great time chatting with everyone, watching the floor show, and getting more than a few offers from very nice gentleman. I'm glad to see that they were interested in my brains and not my bod. At least that is what they told me folks ! But why would I have to go with them to their cars???
We then went to "Machine". This club is ear plug mandatory. I did not have mine.
All the girls had a great time tearing up the dance floor. I was a little bit dragging due to other news on my mind but still enjoyed the club. Quite a few guys enjoyed talking to us ladies :-) We got to bed around 4 A.M.
On Saturday I drove the ladies in a caravan down to Connecticut to my house. We hit a 20 mile traffic jam on I-95 due to a concert. We lost two hours there.
I took the ladies to an outside restaurant where we dined on the docks overlooking New London harbor. We had great seafood and watched the sun set. How romantic !
We later went to Ocean Beach Park. There was an outdoor rock concert with music you could dance to! Sherry and Brenda really rocked the boardwalk with their moves. Jackie and I did okay but the other ladies out did us for sure. Wait till next time girls ! Payback !
One by one the ladies left Sunday. I had to wait at the airport with Brenda Sue for 4 hours till they confirmed that her flight was leaving- 8 hours late ! I took her out to dinner to cut the boredom.
All in all a great weekend. Thanks ladies for keeping me preoccupied with better thoughts. You gals are angels. Annette, you are still a trouble maker !
Do you drink alcohol?
Mr. T. Totaler
Teapot Dome, Wyoming
You Don't you wear alot of jewelry and once had a television show? Well never mind.
To answer your question, Do birds fly? Nuff said ;-)
FOXYKAREN.NET
The site also now includes a News Links where you can find out my latest travels and event appearances.
I wanted to present myself to the world in a positive light and to tell the world about myself. I think I have done that. I also wanted to represent the TG community at large.
KAREN'S NEW YEAR RESOLUTION
I shall continue to work on this resolution in 2007. I still need to better myself in this department alot!
I am dedicating my life to helping all you Tgirls. I pledge to help all of you by offering my best advice, lending a hand, or just shutting up and listening to you. I am not a genius nor do I have all the answers here but I do care.
I know I am not supposed to reveal my resolution but if I state it publicly then you can all hold me to it ! May I suggest some punishments if I come up short ?
1. You naysayers can say to me, "I told you so !"
2. You can use my picture as a dartboard !
3. You can put me on a new site URA- You Are Alone !
4. You can force me to wear guy's clothes- NO NO NO ! ! !