Soooooooo, I got the "official" letter from the surgeon about my surgery being completed and such, way back in September/October. It was the letter to get my birth certificate changed and my driver's license and everything else. So, I mailed it off to my home state to get that changed. Well, evidently states are SOOOOOOOOO incredibly technical with exactly how the letters are written. So, I had to get a second letter done. That one got mailed a week ago to my home state. But, I have changed my driver's license and my car insurance (and the car insurance wants another $20, cause I'm now a girl?? wtf?). I'm changing my college transcript later today (cause I haven't done the name change there either). Pretty soon, I'll be completely finished. It's funny, cause I figured I'd be happy and excited at this point and ready to go out and celebrate. But, you know what? I'm not. Yeah, I'm happy. I'm also relieved and tremendously tired. I'm just ready for this to be over and get back to the important things in life, like fixing up the house and not having to work two jobs (though, it seems, I'll be doing the two jobs until I'm dead).
But it's a much more relaxed and relieved feeling than anything. It's nice cause I still have my baby to snuggle with and things are going great. I'm just ready for the rest of my life to really get going!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Billing
Okay, so technically, I did not actually get a bill. HOWEVER, I did get the Explaination of Benefits and found out how much my surgery COULD cost someone that does not have any insurance. So, everything from the hospital; room and board, anesthesia, drugs, and everything: $84,435.62. And that is without the plane ride, the hotel, the taxi, the food when I was at the hotel, this is JUST the hospital. Which makes me wonder how the douchebags in Washington DC are saying that getting healthcare for everyone is a bad thing, yet they have the best health insurance in this country. If you're complaining about insurance or having to have it, then suck my left nut. It's in a jar at a hospital somewhere in California, just so you can suck on it.
Alright, I'm going to try staying away from politics for the rest of this, cause another thing that occured was an issue with doing my recovery stuff at work. I have to say, I have the BEST doctor IN THE WORLD!!!!!! The first application was turned down. The thing is, is that if I do not do this procedure enough, then my surgery could actually collapse and that would be really really really bad. So, we attempted again and my doctor was just AWESOME with it. I had what I needed as soon as I went back to work. LOVE THAT MAN!!!!!!!
I do have to say that I really enjoy cooking with my girlfriend. We work really well together and we get A-MAZING food. What more could a girl ask for? LOVE YOU POUNCIE McPOUNCEPOUNCE!!!!!!
Alright, I'm going to try staying away from politics for the rest of this, cause another thing that occured was an issue with doing my recovery stuff at work. I have to say, I have the BEST doctor IN THE WORLD!!!!!! The first application was turned down. The thing is, is that if I do not do this procedure enough, then my surgery could actually collapse and that would be really really really bad. So, we attempted again and my doctor was just AWESOME with it. I had what I needed as soon as I went back to work. LOVE THAT MAN!!!!!!!
I do have to say that I really enjoy cooking with my girlfriend. We work really well together and we get A-MAZING food. What more could a girl ask for? LOVE YOU POUNCIE McPOUNCEPOUNCE!!!!!!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
One month later
Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo. . .it's been a month since my surgery (well, to the day, due to the time difference, and having very little memory of waking up, I'm not going to count it to the hour). I'm healing pretty well. It's still a little soar and I'm still having to deal with taking it easy, I have been able to do more and function pretty close to a healthy human. I go back to work in two days and it's kinda weird.
There's one side of me that is thinking about the concept of getting back to normal. I mean, I still have two jobs and will still be getting up EVERY morning to go to work. The jobs haven't changed, my duties haven't changed, my bosses haven't changed, my co-workers are the same. So it's pretty much getting back to life.
Then there's the other side. I feel like a whole new person. Granted just a small bit of my anatomy has changed and I can wear tight dresses and skirts. . .okay, tight skirts, my belly, while no longer a half keg, is still not close to a six pack. . .or even a two pack. But I'll start working on that soon. Anyway, things are different. I have accomplished something that truly started in kindergarten (yeah twenty eight years ago). Except for the legal stuff, I'm all done.
The thing is, for many of the older (I mean really older) girls who transition, once they transition, they kinda kick back and enjoy the rest of their lives. That's fine for them, they've earned it and they are more than entitled to it. But that's not who I am. Yeah, I worked long and hard to transition, but now it's about equality. Let's face it, this country has a GIGANTIC problem with equality. Every time I turn around, there are stories in the paper about it, and you can see it coming through in what you hear on the radio or see on TV. Yes, men and women are different, hetero people and homo people are different, and yes there are tons of "boxes" that the "powers that be" try to label us in. Yes, being different is a good thing, but what occurs here based on that is. . .well, the dumbest f-ing thing on this planet. Yeah, I said it. And you know it's true. Women couldn't vote until the last century. People of color, especially in the south, were discriminated against to vote, and those of us that are marginalized for whatever reason need to understand that most of this country is not happy with how this is all being done. But no one has figured out how to change it or what to change it to. I'm not saying that I have an answer. However, the bullying, whether it be on the play ground, in the class room, at a job site, in Congress, at the United Nations, or wherever needs to end. We can be equal without being the same. Equality is not about being the same little goober as the person next to us (I can't believe I used the word goober in my journal/blog).
So, anyway, my intentions are to be subtle about showing equality, but that's my goal. I'm looking to (once I'm used to being back in the swing of things), start volunteering and helping with charity things and show people that one small little woman has no problems helping out the world where it's needed. We'll see how well that works.
On a different note. Those that read the last entry might remember about me doing more show and tell for the medical community. I talked about it with my counselor a couple of weeks ago. And she gave me the contact person at the Medical College's contact info. Well, I've thought about it and I have to say, that I am not as comfortable with the concept as I had thought that I would be. My doctors I have no problems showing. Strangers (be they medical people or not), I'm not really that comfortable with. As much as the medical field needs to learn how to treat us, I am not comfortable being the woman that does it. I'll answer questions and share information, but I'm not willing to show my who-who to complete strangers.
That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
There's one side of me that is thinking about the concept of getting back to normal. I mean, I still have two jobs and will still be getting up EVERY morning to go to work. The jobs haven't changed, my duties haven't changed, my bosses haven't changed, my co-workers are the same. So it's pretty much getting back to life.
Then there's the other side. I feel like a whole new person. Granted just a small bit of my anatomy has changed and I can wear tight dresses and skirts. . .okay, tight skirts, my belly, while no longer a half keg, is still not close to a six pack. . .or even a two pack. But I'll start working on that soon. Anyway, things are different. I have accomplished something that truly started in kindergarten (yeah twenty eight years ago). Except for the legal stuff, I'm all done.
The thing is, for many of the older (I mean really older) girls who transition, once they transition, they kinda kick back and enjoy the rest of their lives. That's fine for them, they've earned it and they are more than entitled to it. But that's not who I am. Yeah, I worked long and hard to transition, but now it's about equality. Let's face it, this country has a GIGANTIC problem with equality. Every time I turn around, there are stories in the paper about it, and you can see it coming through in what you hear on the radio or see on TV. Yes, men and women are different, hetero people and homo people are different, and yes there are tons of "boxes" that the "powers that be" try to label us in. Yes, being different is a good thing, but what occurs here based on that is. . .well, the dumbest f-ing thing on this planet. Yeah, I said it. And you know it's true. Women couldn't vote until the last century. People of color, especially in the south, were discriminated against to vote, and those of us that are marginalized for whatever reason need to understand that most of this country is not happy with how this is all being done. But no one has figured out how to change it or what to change it to. I'm not saying that I have an answer. However, the bullying, whether it be on the play ground, in the class room, at a job site, in Congress, at the United Nations, or wherever needs to end. We can be equal without being the same. Equality is not about being the same little goober as the person next to us (I can't believe I used the word goober in my journal/blog).
So, anyway, my intentions are to be subtle about showing equality, but that's my goal. I'm looking to (once I'm used to being back in the swing of things), start volunteering and helping with charity things and show people that one small little woman has no problems helping out the world where it's needed. We'll see how well that works.
On a different note. Those that read the last entry might remember about me doing more show and tell for the medical community. I talked about it with my counselor a couple of weeks ago. And she gave me the contact person at the Medical College's contact info. Well, I've thought about it and I have to say, that I am not as comfortable with the concept as I had thought that I would be. My doctors I have no problems showing. Strangers (be they medical people or not), I'm not really that comfortable with. As much as the medical field needs to learn how to treat us, I am not comfortable being the woman that does it. I'll answer questions and share information, but I'm not willing to show my who-who to complete strangers.
That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Show and Tell
So, it's been two weeks since my surgery. Two really cool things happened today:
First, I got an email from Vital Statistics in my birth state so that I know what I need to get my birth certificate fixed for myself!!! YAY!!!!!!!
Second, I went and saw my regular doctor, just to make sure that everything was going okay and when I could go to work and all that other fun stuff. He says that I'm doing okay and gave me time off until after Labor Day (as long as everything goes smooth). And then, we invited all the nurses, nursing students, medical assistants and medical assistant students who wanted to, to come view my va-jay-jay. They got a chance to see the surgery and ask any questions. It went pretty well, they seemed really into it and asked a few really good questions. I actually think that it is something that I will be willing to do education with for a while. I enjoyed the teaching part of it. However, I did learn that I will need to do a slight bit of preparation on what I want to say and all the info that I should give them before we do the show and tell part. But it was fun and I did enjoy it.
Course, now that I look back on it, I really wish that I could say it felt weird to have been almost a prop for show and tell, but I really weirded out by it and I was involved in the show and tell, so I'm fine with it. :-)
First, I got an email from Vital Statistics in my birth state so that I know what I need to get my birth certificate fixed for myself!!! YAY!!!!!!!
Second, I went and saw my regular doctor, just to make sure that everything was going okay and when I could go to work and all that other fun stuff. He says that I'm doing okay and gave me time off until after Labor Day (as long as everything goes smooth). And then, we invited all the nurses, nursing students, medical assistants and medical assistant students who wanted to, to come view my va-jay-jay. They got a chance to see the surgery and ask any questions. It went pretty well, they seemed really into it and asked a few really good questions. I actually think that it is something that I will be willing to do education with for a while. I enjoyed the teaching part of it. However, I did learn that I will need to do a slight bit of preparation on what I want to say and all the info that I should give them before we do the show and tell part. But it was fun and I did enjoy it.
Course, now that I look back on it, I really wish that I could say it felt weird to have been almost a prop for show and tell, but I really weirded out by it and I was involved in the show and tell, so I'm fine with it. :-)
Thursday, August 18, 2011
HOME
So, I have to say, that I am almost done with this journal/blog. I am back home safe and sound (thanks in a large part to Berry Bear! *giggle*) I have what I need to feel accurate and now I am just waiting on the court papers from Bowers office and then I can submit my paperwork to change my birth certificate and everything and be completely done with the transition. If you have been reading this whole journal, though, you will have realized that I probably have some interesting stories of that road as well.
Course, I'm hoping that all the legal stuff goes smoothly, so I won't have anything to actually write about. But, we'll see.
Course, I'm hoping that all the legal stuff goes smoothly, so I won't have anything to actually write about. But, we'll see.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
A Week Later
So, I spent time in the recovery ward. It was not the best in the world. Well, actually, that's because of the catheter, Let me TELL YOU, THOSE THINGS SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But, the nurses were awesome and they taught me how to roll as well as the fact that their mac and cheese ends up causing everyone to order out!
However, I did get to walk all over the place, including seeing the waterfall and attempting to make an escape!! (okay, not really, but we did go down by the entrance. One of the area's EMT's was complaining about taking it up the butt, as he was using the water fountain. He popped his head up and I asked him, "Did you at least get dinner? Cause if you're taking it up the butt, they should at least buy you dinner first." He started laughing at that, and I was glad to brighten his day!!
The surgeon finally came and take a look at us and we were allowed to go home. But, let me tell you, hotel with a catheter, or hospital with a catheter, they both SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!! We basicaly just stayed around the hotel, took a little bit of time to walk and relax and had breakfasts. Course, sitting was not really pleasant in the slightest.
FINALLY, it was Tuesday and I went to the surgeon's office. The girl there took the packing out and showed me how to use the dilators which are necessary to make sure that I don't end up collapsing, cause I really do have what I'm supposed to downstairs!!!!!!!! *giggle* (not that I'm excited *giggle*) The nice part was getting the catheter out. OH. MY. GODDESS, I really don't want to ever have one in my body ever again.
However, my friend that also went through the surgery, well, she didn't do too well. She stayed around waiting for the surgeon to take a look at her. We went to dinner (a really nice place called Mimi's Cafe). Beloved had beer battered fish. The beer of choice that they use for ALL their beer battered fish? Sam Adams. YUP! A Boston based micro-brew is the choice of beer in California!!!!!
We headed home after trying to get stuff at Target, but my body is still getting used to full mobility, so we popped in the taxi and headed home.
My friend at the surgeons (who we had heard the receptionist say that the surgeon was going to be there right after surgery) never got to see the surgeon cause she never showed up. They eventually came home and she was feeling better, but she had been bleeding and feeling sharp pains. Beloved actually went and took a look at her (at request of her mom), and got her feeling better. I really do pray that she is going to do fine. She's really super cool and a HUGE sweetheart. Both Beloved and I think that it is pretty suckey that the surgeon wouldn't show up and take a look at her. As well as it was a girl that was definitely not a nurse that undid the dressing/packing and showing us how to use the dilators. She was only a Medical Assistant who was working on the surgeon's patients WITHOUT the surgeon being there.
It gets pretty scary to find out that the aftercare has been pretty crappy. I mean, I'm pretty happy with the results on me, but, I really feel like after surgery, the surgeon has basically fled for the next set of girls coming in for surgery. We had originally thought that there was only one set of surgeries per month, however, Beloved found out that she averages 10 a month. As well as presentations and speeches and her kid who started high school.
But, like I said, Beloved checked on her and we ended up talking for a decent time and had a really good evening. Beloved and I are relaxing on the couch and actually watching TV (which is kinda different for us). I can say that as interesting as it is, I really don't want a life where I set it up around what is on a television.
The only bad thing, though, is that I finally have a VaJay-Jay AND I'm basically getting my first period at the same time!!!! Okay, that's not completely true! *GIGGLE* I am still bleeding slightly from the surgery, so Beloved and I joke that I am getting my first period since the care for the bleeding is to wear a pad. Other than that I really can't complain (since the catheter is out!!!!! *GIGGLE*)
However, I did get to walk all over the place, including seeing the waterfall and attempting to make an escape!! (okay, not really, but we did go down by the entrance. One of the area's EMT's was complaining about taking it up the butt, as he was using the water fountain. He popped his head up and I asked him, "Did you at least get dinner? Cause if you're taking it up the butt, they should at least buy you dinner first." He started laughing at that, and I was glad to brighten his day!!
The surgeon finally came and take a look at us and we were allowed to go home. But, let me tell you, hotel with a catheter, or hospital with a catheter, they both SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!! We basicaly just stayed around the hotel, took a little bit of time to walk and relax and had breakfasts. Course, sitting was not really pleasant in the slightest.
FINALLY, it was Tuesday and I went to the surgeon's office. The girl there took the packing out and showed me how to use the dilators which are necessary to make sure that I don't end up collapsing, cause I really do have what I'm supposed to downstairs!!!!!!!! *giggle* (not that I'm excited *giggle*) The nice part was getting the catheter out. OH. MY. GODDESS, I really don't want to ever have one in my body ever again.
However, my friend that also went through the surgery, well, she didn't do too well. She stayed around waiting for the surgeon to take a look at her. We went to dinner (a really nice place called Mimi's Cafe). Beloved had beer battered fish. The beer of choice that they use for ALL their beer battered fish? Sam Adams. YUP! A Boston based micro-brew is the choice of beer in California!!!!!
We headed home after trying to get stuff at Target, but my body is still getting used to full mobility, so we popped in the taxi and headed home.
My friend at the surgeons (who we had heard the receptionist say that the surgeon was going to be there right after surgery) never got to see the surgeon cause she never showed up. They eventually came home and she was feeling better, but she had been bleeding and feeling sharp pains. Beloved actually went and took a look at her (at request of her mom), and got her feeling better. I really do pray that she is going to do fine. She's really super cool and a HUGE sweetheart. Both Beloved and I think that it is pretty suckey that the surgeon wouldn't show up and take a look at her. As well as it was a girl that was definitely not a nurse that undid the dressing/packing and showing us how to use the dilators. She was only a Medical Assistant who was working on the surgeon's patients WITHOUT the surgeon being there.
It gets pretty scary to find out that the aftercare has been pretty crappy. I mean, I'm pretty happy with the results on me, but, I really feel like after surgery, the surgeon has basically fled for the next set of girls coming in for surgery. We had originally thought that there was only one set of surgeries per month, however, Beloved found out that she averages 10 a month. As well as presentations and speeches and her kid who started high school.
But, like I said, Beloved checked on her and we ended up talking for a decent time and had a really good evening. Beloved and I are relaxing on the couch and actually watching TV (which is kinda different for us). I can say that as interesting as it is, I really don't want a life where I set it up around what is on a television.
The only bad thing, though, is that I finally have a VaJay-Jay AND I'm basically getting my first period at the same time!!!! Okay, that's not completely true! *GIGGLE* I am still bleeding slightly from the surgery, so Beloved and I joke that I am getting my first period since the care for the bleeding is to wear a pad. Other than that I really can't complain (since the catheter is out!!!!! *GIGGLE*)
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Post Surgery
Well, it's official. I have the correct genital stuff now!!!!!!!! The day wasn't too bad at all. I met a bunch of nurses and had a really great experience. They let me keep Berry Bear with me the whole time. The nurses have all been incredibly awesome and I even have been my typical cheerful self and getting them laughing and hugging and everything. I am soooooo incredibly happy and chipper and really glad that this went so well. The only bad thing was that evidently, I did bleed a decent bit, but everyone was on top of what was going on, so it (evidently) wasn't too bad.
Beloved called everyone almost everyone we needed to, though, with the time difference, there are a few people we need to call tomorrow.
I'm going to keep this short cause it's pretty late and I really should be asleep already. All the other girls are doing well and I'm actually sharing a room with one of them, and the other two girls are in the room next door,
Beloved called everyone almost everyone we needed to, though, with the time difference, there are a few people we need to call tomorrow.
I'm going to keep this short cause it's pretty late and I really should be asleep already. All the other girls are doing well and I'm actually sharing a room with one of them, and the other two girls are in the room next door,
Monday, August 8, 2011
Pre-surgery Appointment
So, we went to see Bowers. Let me tell you, the woman knows her stuff (and was impressed that my Beloved knew her stuff just as well. She is a pretty funny and personable doctor and was VERY impressed with all my stuff. She was impressed with my "structure." Basically, the way I'm built is pretty perfect and easier for her to deal with.
But another cool part was who we met BEFORE the appointment. It seems that there are four of us having the surgery in the next two days. We met two of the girls in the waiting room. One of them has a wife that came with her. The others had their appointment and then we ended up all meeting at the pharmacy. Since we had the timing in sync pretty well, we all went to get our lab work done together. We actually had some really good conversations. One of the girls has been transitioning for 18 years. YES, eighteen years. She actually flew in from Sweden and is really a sweetheart. Beloved and I are actually going to accompany her to the hospital in the morning. Beloved is going to actually stay until she comes out of surgery (or maybe later), I'm going to go back to the hotel and starting the really fun bowel prep. (yeah, that was said with tons of sarcasm)
The other girl has her wife with her. They're from Boston and she is a truck driver. She's had a few surgeries and is finally having the final one. Plus her wife and my Beloved get to hang out (and have each other to talk to and consult with and whatever else) while the three of us enjoy time in recovery.
So, we got back to the hotel and looked at all the pills that we had and all the other stuff and realized that my bowel prep was still at the pharmacy. So we left again and went back to the pharmacy. After we were done, we realized that we were unsure about one of the scripts. Since it was across the street, we walked to Bowers office and were able to get an answer from the girl at the desk. She then suggested a sushi place and even made sure they had other foods that I would eat. She even called and made sure they were open. Since they were, and they were in the plaza across the street, we went. I got beef teriyaki, Beloved got some sushi. When it all came out, the sushi was HUGE. Beloved's eyes dropped to her stomach and she realized it was too much for her. I really enjoyed the beef AND, I even tried the sushi. I have tried sushi two times before it, it was ewwwwwwww. UNTIL TODAY!!!!!! (well, several days ago, when y'all read this! *giggle*) I actually really enjoyed it. We even told the guy that was our server (whom we both think was the owner). He seemed really delighted that I was enjoying it!! Beloved even told him that it was the best Miso soup she has ever had (and she's had quite a bit).
After that, we called it a day and went back and played three matches of Rummy 500. Beloved won two of the three, it was just nice to play cards again. Okay, I'm about to settle into her arms for the night. Tomorrow is the long day of the Throne. UGH.
But another cool part was who we met BEFORE the appointment. It seems that there are four of us having the surgery in the next two days. We met two of the girls in the waiting room. One of them has a wife that came with her. The others had their appointment and then we ended up all meeting at the pharmacy. Since we had the timing in sync pretty well, we all went to get our lab work done together. We actually had some really good conversations. One of the girls has been transitioning for 18 years. YES, eighteen years. She actually flew in from Sweden and is really a sweetheart. Beloved and I are actually going to accompany her to the hospital in the morning. Beloved is going to actually stay until she comes out of surgery (or maybe later), I'm going to go back to the hotel and starting the really fun bowel prep. (yeah, that was said with tons of sarcasm)
The other girl has her wife with her. They're from Boston and she is a truck driver. She's had a few surgeries and is finally having the final one. Plus her wife and my Beloved get to hang out (and have each other to talk to and consult with and whatever else) while the three of us enjoy time in recovery.
So, we got back to the hotel and looked at all the pills that we had and all the other stuff and realized that my bowel prep was still at the pharmacy. So we left again and went back to the pharmacy. After we were done, we realized that we were unsure about one of the scripts. Since it was across the street, we walked to Bowers office and were able to get an answer from the girl at the desk. She then suggested a sushi place and even made sure they had other foods that I would eat. She even called and made sure they were open. Since they were, and they were in the plaza across the street, we went. I got beef teriyaki, Beloved got some sushi. When it all came out, the sushi was HUGE. Beloved's eyes dropped to her stomach and she realized it was too much for her. I really enjoyed the beef AND, I even tried the sushi. I have tried sushi two times before it, it was ewwwwwwww. UNTIL TODAY!!!!!! (well, several days ago, when y'all read this! *giggle*) I actually really enjoyed it. We even told the guy that was our server (whom we both think was the owner). He seemed really delighted that I was enjoying it!! Beloved even told him that it was the best Miso soup she has ever had (and she's had quite a bit).
After that, we called it a day and went back and played three matches of Rummy 500. Beloved won two of the three, it was just nice to play cards again. Okay, I'm about to settle into her arms for the night. Tomorrow is the long day of the Throne. UGH.
About to see THE Surgeon
So, I am sitting in the hotel/studio and it is waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too early to be up. However, I have just slept for ten hours, so my body is kinda done. I'm a little nervous, but I am actually easily identifying it as just the general "I'm about to have surgery" nervous. Anyway, let me catch you all up on the trip in general:
I tried to flip my sleep schedule on Thursday because we were to be at the airport at 4AM on Saturday. So I got home early from work (after picking up my girlfriend's Christmas present and making a deposit so my checking account was in positive numbers before leaving). I finished a couple of things and then went to bed. I was up a little after four hours of sleep (I think). That makes it early evening (like 6 or 7 or 8 pm). I enjoyed dinner with my girlfriend and then she went to bed. I spent the night playing computer games and doing lots of frivilous stuff just to stay awake. She was up at about 5:30 am (which is typical on work days), and I went to bed shortly after. Unfortunately, I was up about four hours later and other than a small two hour nap, we were up until we got on the plane. The nice part is that we were able to clean together and played Legos Indiana Jones 2 together!! (we're doing pretty good, we're about half way done with the whole game!).
Anyway, her Mom picked us up and took us to the airport after my kitty (who is almost a year and a half old and had been cooped up in the house to prevent this is the first place), got out and wouldn't come back in the house. (and yes, my Beloved's sister, who is taking care of the house while we're away, got her to come back inside, later on Saturday). So we easily got on the plane (after my girlfriend was felt up. . .don't wear long flowy skirts to the airport).
We actually stopped in Chicago and TORE through the underground passage, but our flight had been delayed so we had plenty of time. We actually ended up in the waiting area with two mothers and kids that had left Albany airport with us, so we had a nice chat together. We also found out that the toilets in Chicago's O'Hare airport bathrooms have the plastic on them that is actually connected and you move your hand over the sensor and the plastic rings MOVE. It's kinda freaky weird and just makes me wonder if the plastic is actually collected or it's just one huge ring that keeps getting reused.
ANYWAY, we got into San Francisco airport and after a little figuring out, we got to the van. We only had a short ride down the highway, and we both agreed, California (scenery wise) is very similar to back east. There was a good sized mountain on one side and really just reminded us with our view of Troy (especially when you see is as you are riding down Route 7). The highway ride, itself, really just felt like I was traveling down the Jersey Turnpike just with a couple of Palm Trees thrown in.
HOWEVER, there were a few differences:A)The weather is soooooooooooooooooo nice. It's 105 degrees in Arizona right now. We're sitting in at 70, instead. I'm actually very glad that I brought my hoodie with me. The breeze is really nice!! It actually gets kinda sorta toasty in the sun, but it's nice and cool in the shade. and B)Everyone seems so friendly. The airport. . . okay, the airport was an airport and I wasn't impressed with them in there, but every where else, people have been really nice. and EXTREMELY HELPFUL.
After we checked into the hotel and unpacked in our suite (which is kinda big and has a kitchen and everything), we wrote up our shopping lists. One we turned in to the front desk (cause we weren't going to try to walk with milk and chicken and stuff like that), we walked over to Target. We realized we were hungry, so we went to a BBQ place that was part of the Target plaza. It was nice and they even sold the cookie cakes that I LOVE back home, but they were tiny!! I showed Amy how small the "Texas sized Cookie Cake" It's tiny. I got a laugh out of that, and the kid at the register thought it was cool that we were from NY. People out here aren't all that aware that NYC and upstate NY are NOT the same. OR that New Yorkers are actually pretty friendly ESPECIALLY when we are traveling. The weird part was that when you were done, you just left your dishes at the table and you get up and walk out. That's it!!
Then we walked back to Target and we did a little bit of grocery shopping and got GOOD snack foods. Okay, not really bad snack foods. We have microwave popcorn and single serve cereal and stuff like that. My Beloved got her coffee and we got stuff to make pasta. Yeah, the hotel actually has pots and pans in the kitchen and cooking utensils! IT IS AWESOME!! ANYWAY, we got back and realized that we didn't get a pack of playing cards, so we actually WATCHED TV. Yes, that may sound strange, but we don't have TV at home (at least no channels), so it was kinda nice to watch TV. So we relaxed and enjoyed not having to do stuff!! It was very nice.
I'm not really worried about the surgery yet (nor the appointment). I'm going to hop in the shower and then we are going to go up to breakfast (yeah, free breakfast at this place. And it is GOOD!!!!!!!!! course, I work 7 days a week, so I always do breakfast out of the microwave). Anyway, Time to get ready. . .
I tried to flip my sleep schedule on Thursday because we were to be at the airport at 4AM on Saturday. So I got home early from work (after picking up my girlfriend's Christmas present and making a deposit so my checking account was in positive numbers before leaving). I finished a couple of things and then went to bed. I was up a little after four hours of sleep (I think). That makes it early evening (like 6 or 7 or 8 pm). I enjoyed dinner with my girlfriend and then she went to bed. I spent the night playing computer games and doing lots of frivilous stuff just to stay awake. She was up at about 5:30 am (which is typical on work days), and I went to bed shortly after. Unfortunately, I was up about four hours later and other than a small two hour nap, we were up until we got on the plane. The nice part is that we were able to clean together and played Legos Indiana Jones 2 together!! (we're doing pretty good, we're about half way done with the whole game!).
Anyway, her Mom picked us up and took us to the airport after my kitty (who is almost a year and a half old and had been cooped up in the house to prevent this is the first place), got out and wouldn't come back in the house. (and yes, my Beloved's sister, who is taking care of the house while we're away, got her to come back inside, later on Saturday). So we easily got on the plane (after my girlfriend was felt up. . .don't wear long flowy skirts to the airport).
We actually stopped in Chicago and TORE through the underground passage, but our flight had been delayed so we had plenty of time. We actually ended up in the waiting area with two mothers and kids that had left Albany airport with us, so we had a nice chat together. We also found out that the toilets in Chicago's O'Hare airport bathrooms have the plastic on them that is actually connected and you move your hand over the sensor and the plastic rings MOVE. It's kinda freaky weird and just makes me wonder if the plastic is actually collected or it's just one huge ring that keeps getting reused.
ANYWAY, we got into San Francisco airport and after a little figuring out, we got to the van. We only had a short ride down the highway, and we both agreed, California (scenery wise) is very similar to back east. There was a good sized mountain on one side and really just reminded us with our view of Troy (especially when you see is as you are riding down Route 7). The highway ride, itself, really just felt like I was traveling down the Jersey Turnpike just with a couple of Palm Trees thrown in.
HOWEVER, there were a few differences:A)The weather is soooooooooooooooooo nice. It's 105 degrees in Arizona right now. We're sitting in at 70, instead. I'm actually very glad that I brought my hoodie with me. The breeze is really nice!! It actually gets kinda sorta toasty in the sun, but it's nice and cool in the shade. and B)Everyone seems so friendly. The airport. . . okay, the airport was an airport and I wasn't impressed with them in there, but every where else, people have been really nice. and EXTREMELY HELPFUL.
After we checked into the hotel and unpacked in our suite (which is kinda big and has a kitchen and everything), we wrote up our shopping lists. One we turned in to the front desk (cause we weren't going to try to walk with milk and chicken and stuff like that), we walked over to Target. We realized we were hungry, so we went to a BBQ place that was part of the Target plaza. It was nice and they even sold the cookie cakes that I LOVE back home, but they were tiny!! I showed Amy how small the "Texas sized Cookie Cake" It's tiny. I got a laugh out of that, and the kid at the register thought it was cool that we were from NY. People out here aren't all that aware that NYC and upstate NY are NOT the same. OR that New Yorkers are actually pretty friendly ESPECIALLY when we are traveling. The weird part was that when you were done, you just left your dishes at the table and you get up and walk out. That's it!!
Then we walked back to Target and we did a little bit of grocery shopping and got GOOD snack foods. Okay, not really bad snack foods. We have microwave popcorn and single serve cereal and stuff like that. My Beloved got her coffee and we got stuff to make pasta. Yeah, the hotel actually has pots and pans in the kitchen and cooking utensils! IT IS AWESOME!! ANYWAY, we got back and realized that we didn't get a pack of playing cards, so we actually WATCHED TV. Yes, that may sound strange, but we don't have TV at home (at least no channels), so it was kinda nice to watch TV. So we relaxed and enjoyed not having to do stuff!! It was very nice.
I'm not really worried about the surgery yet (nor the appointment). I'm going to hop in the shower and then we are going to go up to breakfast (yeah, free breakfast at this place. And it is GOOD!!!!!!!!! course, I work 7 days a week, so I always do breakfast out of the microwave). Anyway, Time to get ready. . .
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
End of June in Review
So, the last couple of weeks haven't been too exciting (*giggle*) First a really cool story. I was riding in the elevator the other day at work. It was just me and a random lady that works at the DMV with me. As we were riding, she turned to me and said "You look really good." "Thank you," I replied. I mean it felt a little strange cause I was not wearing any make-up at all (which is a really good sign of how good the laser treatment is going). She then continued, "I think it's great that you are getting to do what you need to do to be happy." I just smiled and said, "Thank you." It left me with a really warm feeling in my heart, which was nice, since I was asked if I was pregnant the last time a strange woman talked to me in an elevator. So, things are definitely getting better!!
Speaking of better, I'm doing a computer course through the union/state partnership so that I can take a civil service test later on. The nice thing is, though, that I can also take the course at home, so if I don't finish it by the time my surgery comes, then I can use the recovery time to still take the course!!
Okay, I already mentioned the cool news about my super cool Mom (read the previous edition if you are wondering what in the world I'm talking about).
The electrolysis is going really well. I'm letting the medical expert apply the numbing agent, so it's being covered better and she even came with me and held my hand for the procedure last night. I was surprised that she still had feeling in her hand, but she actually apologized to me, because she, evidently, never realized how traumatic having your who-who electrocized can be (does that make sense? Um, if it didn't, well, consider yourself lucky {or email me if you REALLY REALLY want to know}). Anyway, I only have a few more sessions with it, so I will hopefully survive.
Okay, and there's the big BIG news. . .WE FINALLY HAVE MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN THE STATE OF NY!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, this is a big deal thing for us, since I am in a lesbian (well, technically, soon-to-be lesbian) relationship. The only bad news is that we now have friends asking when WE'RE getting married. I mean, it's great that everyone cares and is supportive of us, but, honestly, we'll do it once we're ready. This is a very changing time for the two of us, so it's still a ways off.
The bad part of that is that a particular friend and I have had to part ways. She state her opinion on her state (Ohio) versus the one I live in (NY, obviously). As the FB discussion continued, marriage equality was brought up, and she said "we have different views (or ideas, or something to that extent) on equality." I was not happy, and I realized that, since it's been 15 years since I had actually seen her, we have grown to be different people. If she' s not going to be supportive of something that was incredibly important to me, then it was no longer time to keep her included in my list of friends on FB.
So, PapaBear came over with his god sons. It was interesting, cause he doesn't do a great time of estimating arrival times, and kinda showed up at the house twenty minutes before I got home. Yeah, my Beloved didn't even allow him in the house (*giggle*). But we did go out for dinner, so that he could get some coffee and we talked for a little while. It was soooooooooooooooooooooooooooo nice to see him, especially since our original plans to go to visit him and MammaBear this weekend are not going to occur. But I am hoping to see them before the end of summer!
Anyway, I'm finishing up a couple of surgery requirements very shortly, so that, hopefully, things can move right along. We'll see.
Speaking of better, I'm doing a computer course through the union/state partnership so that I can take a civil service test later on. The nice thing is, though, that I can also take the course at home, so if I don't finish it by the time my surgery comes, then I can use the recovery time to still take the course!!
Okay, I already mentioned the cool news about my super cool Mom (read the previous edition if you are wondering what in the world I'm talking about).
The electrolysis is going really well. I'm letting the medical expert apply the numbing agent, so it's being covered better and she even came with me and held my hand for the procedure last night. I was surprised that she still had feeling in her hand, but she actually apologized to me, because she, evidently, never realized how traumatic having your who-who electrocized can be (does that make sense? Um, if it didn't, well, consider yourself lucky {or email me if you REALLY REALLY want to know}). Anyway, I only have a few more sessions with it, so I will hopefully survive.
Okay, and there's the big BIG news. . .WE FINALLY HAVE MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN THE STATE OF NY!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, this is a big deal thing for us, since I am in a lesbian (well, technically, soon-to-be lesbian) relationship. The only bad news is that we now have friends asking when WE'RE getting married. I mean, it's great that everyone cares and is supportive of us, but, honestly, we'll do it once we're ready. This is a very changing time for the two of us, so it's still a ways off.
The bad part of that is that a particular friend and I have had to part ways. She state her opinion on her state (Ohio) versus the one I live in (NY, obviously). As the FB discussion continued, marriage equality was brought up, and she said "we have different views (or ideas, or something to that extent) on equality." I was not happy, and I realized that, since it's been 15 years since I had actually seen her, we have grown to be different people. If she' s not going to be supportive of something that was incredibly important to me, then it was no longer time to keep her included in my list of friends on FB.
So, PapaBear came over with his god sons. It was interesting, cause he doesn't do a great time of estimating arrival times, and kinda showed up at the house twenty minutes before I got home. Yeah, my Beloved didn't even allow him in the house (*giggle*). But we did go out for dinner, so that he could get some coffee and we talked for a little while. It was soooooooooooooooooooooooooooo nice to see him, especially since our original plans to go to visit him and MammaBear this weekend are not going to occur. But I am hoping to see them before the end of summer!
Anyway, I'm finishing up a couple of surgery requirements very shortly, so that, hopefully, things can move right along. We'll see.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Really awesome supportive news
Okay, so, since I am just finishing up paperwork for the surgery as well as the necessary electrolysis, I have time to devote towards other important parts of life. One of them is that when/if I propose to my girlfriend, I would like for us to have the choice to get married in our state of New York. The cool part is that the Marriage Equality side is pretty sure it will pass in the senate (it already passed in the Assembly). So I have had a nice time calling twice a day for the last half week (and will start again on monday) calling Dean Skelos. He's the leader of the Senate who gets to decide what is ACTUALLY getting voted on each day. He's, unfortunately, not wanting to listen to the will of the people of New York (or he just enjoyed discriminating against they glbt community, cause, evidently, that's what Conservative-Religious-Republicans like to do these days), and not letting it get voted on. So I keep asking his secretary why it isn't and that he should allow the vote in the Senate.
Since that hasn't happened yet, I left a message on his machine on sunday, and I will go back to calling his office on Monday (if you would like the phone number, it is posted fifty billion times on my FaceBook page)
In other really awesome supportive news, my Mom has requested the paperwork of my surgery (aka the court order or what-have-you) so that she can get my birth certificate changed. Yeah, my mom ASKED for the paperwork for it. She's going to make sure that they will do it without me being there, but my Mom actually ASKED ME for the paperwork so she could do it!! She' really really cool!!
Hopefully, I will put up soon about the Marriage Equality vote occurring AND going to the signing of the bill as well.
Since that hasn't happened yet, I left a message on his machine on sunday, and I will go back to calling his office on Monday (if you would like the phone number, it is posted fifty billion times on my FaceBook page)
In other really awesome supportive news, my Mom has requested the paperwork of my surgery (aka the court order or what-have-you) so that she can get my birth certificate changed. Yeah, my mom ASKED for the paperwork for it. She's going to make sure that they will do it without me being there, but my Mom actually ASKED ME for the paperwork so she could do it!! She' really really cool!!
Hopefully, I will put up soon about the Marriage Equality vote occurring AND going to the signing of the bill as well.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Random thoughts
So, I am slightly nervous over a conversation that I am about to have a with a friend. I'm going to be explaining to her about the leather community. I'm not nervous about how she will take it, cause she knows that it has to do with BDSM But it is my practice run on explaining it to Vanilla people and those that will not necessarily be okay with the Dominance and submission that is part of the leather community. Now most people would suggest that I take the easy route and just work the gay centric charities. And for them, that is the answer. But what I am hoping/wanting/needing to do is to show the straight/hetero people that the gay and trans communities aren't really different and that we are all just people. So, I am going to be looking to do charity work that is not gay centric. This means getting used to explaining what the leather community is and why I am helping with their particular charity. My first dry run with that will be Thursday. Followed by the questions that I would not answer at work. *giggle*
In other ideas, the fantasy has come together and the only elements missing are the actual fight choreography as well as learning it with those involved in it. And the music that will be playing. Since I haven't really found a song that works well for this part of the Leather Girl competition, I have decided that (since I have two years until I'm competing), I'm going to write my own music for it! *giggle* This will be really fun!!!!!!
There also was a big family bru-ha-ha that I will not be chronicling here. But to put it short, they were fighting over me and I didn't even know about it. . .and the irony is, is that I really don't have extra time to take off anyway, so it doesn't really matter.
In other ideas, the fantasy has come together and the only elements missing are the actual fight choreography as well as learning it with those involved in it. And the music that will be playing. Since I haven't really found a song that works well for this part of the Leather Girl competition, I have decided that (since I have two years until I'm competing), I'm going to write my own music for it! *giggle* This will be really fun!!!!!!
There also was a big family bru-ha-ha that I will not be chronicling here. But to put it short, they were fighting over me and I didn't even know about it. . .and the irony is, is that I really don't have extra time to take off anyway, so it doesn't really matter.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Is it a lie if it wasn't done on purpose
So, evidently, the waiting is NOT the hardest part!!! *giggle* Well, it sorta is. You see, I did get the approval earlier this week from the insurance company and they will be covering the surgery. My incredibly AWESOME girlfriend has agreed to cover the deposit (which I will pay her back when I get reimbursed via my insurance company). So, I called the next day to actually SCHEDULE the surgery. . .yeah, there's a year to two year wait for the surgery. . .BUT someone happened to have cancelled so there is an opening before the FALL!!!!! YEAH, a two year wait was shrunken down to just months!!!!!
I've been thinking about why that occured for me. I think it's a couple of things. I think a big thing is because my insurance will be covering it. But, I also think the fact that I was on top of my transition helped. Whenever something went to them, I called the next day to make sure it had gotten in. I stayed involved with my surgery stuff and active with what was going on.
So the scary part was letting my mom know. I was really nervous, despite that we had had a really nice conversation this last weekend over the phone. But I was letting her know that the surgery was going to be happening kinda really soon.
She was actually very supportive. I know it's not easy for her, but I am VERY appreciative in the support from my family and friends.
NOW, it's just the really fun part of electrolysis in the really sensitive parts . . . that is not turning out to be that much fun. But I have a mouth guard that I am chomping on when it's REALLY not fun! *giggle*
I've been thinking about why that occured for me. I think it's a couple of things. I think a big thing is because my insurance will be covering it. But, I also think the fact that I was on top of my transition helped. Whenever something went to them, I called the next day to make sure it had gotten in. I stayed involved with my surgery stuff and active with what was going on.
So the scary part was letting my mom know. I was really nervous, despite that we had had a really nice conversation this last weekend over the phone. But I was letting her know that the surgery was going to be happening kinda really soon.
She was actually very supportive. I know it's not easy for her, but I am VERY appreciative in the support from my family and friends.
NOW, it's just the really fun part of electrolysis in the really sensitive parts . . . that is not turning out to be that much fun. But I have a mouth guard that I am chomping on when it's REALLY not fun! *giggle*
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Waiting is the hardest part. . .
So, now that things are starting to be finished with the transition, I'm getting ready for the next big adventure. Meanwhile, my incredibly awesome girlfriend has finished her classes for her nursing!!!!! She had a lot of heartache finishing it and it honestly has me a little hesitant towards going back to school. However, she assures me that it is her program and not the entire school.
Anyway, I have been doing my research and I am pretty sure that I am going to be back in the leather community. From what I have been seeing, it looks like it's time. Granted this is AFTER I recover from surgery, so it's probably going to be six months to a year before I am back to active. It'll probably be two years before I compete. But I already have myself together to compete. . .*giggle* THOUGH, I am still going to see if my Beloved is into it as I am. We'll see.
I had a wonderful dinner with Shannon the other day. It was really good to see her and see how incredible she's doing. She looks great and seems sooooooooooooooo much happier than the last time I saw her (course, that's also cause the last time I saw her was at Daddy Sal's prayer service).
My Beloved got me a couple of awesome t-shirts that came in the mail today. They have the leather girl banner on the top and say "happily owned girl" on them. They are PERFECT for wearing to leather events. Now if I can just find my leather girl t-shirt, I can wear that to the non-leather events that I go to that are still charity work.
Course part of the reason that I am getting all into this is because I'm waiting to hear about my surgery date. It officially went into the insurance company a week ago tomorrow. They said I should hear back within 30 days. THEN I get to figure out my actual date. So, I'm hoping that by the beginning of June, I should know. . .I hope.
I think that's about it at the moment. It's just a big waiting game and trying to keep my mind off of it by thinking about the future and finally being free of hiding who I am! That's kind what the surgery is about, about no longer having to hide who I truly am, even though it didn't match what society was seeing, I am going to have that corrected and be able to be true about myself!!
Anyway, I have been doing my research and I am pretty sure that I am going to be back in the leather community. From what I have been seeing, it looks like it's time. Granted this is AFTER I recover from surgery, so it's probably going to be six months to a year before I am back to active. It'll probably be two years before I compete. But I already have myself together to compete. . .*giggle* THOUGH, I am still going to see if my Beloved is into it as I am. We'll see.
I had a wonderful dinner with Shannon the other day. It was really good to see her and see how incredible she's doing. She looks great and seems sooooooooooooooo much happier than the last time I saw her (course, that's also cause the last time I saw her was at Daddy Sal's prayer service).
My Beloved got me a couple of awesome t-shirts that came in the mail today. They have the leather girl banner on the top and say "happily owned girl" on them. They are PERFECT for wearing to leather events. Now if I can just find my leather girl t-shirt, I can wear that to the non-leather events that I go to that are still charity work.
Course part of the reason that I am getting all into this is because I'm waiting to hear about my surgery date. It officially went into the insurance company a week ago tomorrow. They said I should hear back within 30 days. THEN I get to figure out my actual date. So, I'm hoping that by the beginning of June, I should know. . .I hope.
I think that's about it at the moment. It's just a big waiting game and trying to keep my mind off of it by thinking about the future and finally being free of hiding who I am! That's kind what the surgery is about, about no longer having to hide who I truly am, even though it didn't match what society was seeing, I am going to have that corrected and be able to be true about myself!!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Equality and Justice Day 2011
Okay, so it's not really fun being a second class citizen in this country. For a nation build on equal rights for all, the GLBT community kinda doesn't really have that yet. So, the point of today was to talk to the legislature and tell them to get on that. It was hosted by Empire State Pride Agenda and I was one of the NUMEROUS volunteers. I helped greet the buses which, to me, is TONS of fun!!!! I like it cause I helps me to get really cheerful and just exude the cheerfulness to those that are getting to Albany from all across New York State. I really like the bus drivers are pleasantly surprised when I ask them if they know where to go and that I have directions for them!!!!!!
It's a pretty stop and go thing, cause you'll have three buses show up at one and EVERYONE of us will be on a bus, and then we wait for twenty minutes for another bus.
I met a several really cool peeps that I worked with on this. AND the woman in charge of the buses (and a lot of other stuff as well) gave me a really GREAT compliment about how I am always so cheerful and enthusiastic and well together and seem to be having a really good time. Other than being tired as well, it was all true. Honestly, I don't understand why, but it works and I enjoy it and I hope that those who came from all over really do have a great day.
Of course, I was hoping that that would be the big thing of the day and that the rest of it would just be quiet grunt work.
OH NO
During the bus arrivals there were two religious people of the Jewish faith that decided they needed to protest at the event. I actually spoke to one (after we came back from finishing with the buses) and I really don't understand where he's coming from and I really can't understand why their discrimination is okay. BUT he was very civil and polite and he did let me speak and respond to him, so I was okay with him being there. The other older, person, was just crazy and look for publicity or any kind of response he could get. When they moved from the entrance of where our event was in the Empire State Plaza to closer to the meeting rooms, I went to shake his hand. He pulled back and shook his head, and he could see that I was really hurt and offended. I was thinking, "You can talk to us and protest at us but you can't shake my hand??" But he saw the look on my face and quickly explained that it was because I was a different gender than he was and that he was not allowed to shake my hand cause I was a girl, gay or straight, it wouldn't matter. That calmed me down, AND gave me a HUGE VICTORY!!!!!!!!! As someone transitioning, those protesting what we are just VALIDATED who I was!!!!!!!!!! I figured nothing could ruin my day at that point.
(you would think this is where I contradict that statement, but I can't, nothing really could ruin it, HOWEVER, those two guys tried).
SO, after I visited all the tables that were there, ACLU (well NY's chapter), Kirsten Gilibrand's table, and both were very nice and I really liked talking to all of them, we noticed the guys trying to protest were instructed by the police (yes, the actual state troopers), on where they had to be. So I, along with a few other people kinda mosied on over in that direction and just kinda stood in front of the protesters and blocked them.
Course, little tiny me (alright, I'm not as little as I used to be, but I'm still not that big), couldn't block much. So, I went over and asked about whether there was poster board around to make a sign. The woman brought me to an easel with newprint on it. I figured, if the protesters were going to use religion, so was I. So I wrote up my sign and made my way to stand in front of them, so now, the first thing people saw was not the protesters sign, but mine that said "Jesus Had 2 Dads" Those that saw it smiled and ALL of the clergy agreed with me!!! Some people I did have to explain it to (God the Father and Joseph), but that's okay. It was just very nice. And as the large initial meeting was getting out, there were a LOT of people that joined the few of us that were initially blocking them. I actually got my picture taken A LOT with my sign. It was a lot of fun.
The old protester called it a day after that, the younger guy decided to stick around and just kinda stand in the middle. So I may have decided to kinds sorta stay standing in front of him. Sorta no matter where he turned to. He kinda got frustrated with me, but I just kept dancing in front of him and blocking him. When he asked why I did it, I told him, we don't go protesting when he talks to the legislature. He said that we could if we wanted to we chose not to. (the actual truth is, I'm not a douche bag, so I won't protest at his things). I actually kinda got upset enough that we might have argued about discrimination and whether it was okay or not.
Personally, short of someone that has chosen to perform illegal acts, I thought we were all the same in this country. BUT, his religious beliefs are of the sort where men and women are not equal, so OBVIOUSLY, I'm going to have a problem. Well, he really didn't like that I did a pretty decent job of staying in front of him. He then decided to end up in the convention center. He sorta snuck in there after making it seem like he was leaving, so I wasn't right there at the moment. When I realized he was in there, I followed him and let him know that I was right there on top of him. You see the Convention Center is rented space and ESPA PAID FOR IT, so we could dictate who was in there or not. NOW, I am not more than a volunteer, so I just followed him to make sure he wasn't stealing things or planting a bomb or anything like that. The ones in charge of the day, they got the State Trooper and had him booted out. I actually followed him all the way out onto the center strip of the Concourse and then let him go. Evidently, I made a name for myself and got a really cool Marriage Equality hat for it!!!! (it was nice cause it was maybe 10-20 minutes later and I was talking to friends and the woman comes over and offers it to me, I was like "yeah, I would LOVE the hat" I didn't have any money on me and I didn't think that they took credit/debit cards, but she looked at me and said "honey you earned it from dealing with those guys earlier")
Okay, days done, right?? NOPE!!
I met with my friends (Meghan, and Keri) and we checked if they needed anyone or if we should grab lunch now so we were ready for the rally. They sent us to eat and we met up with Amanda (a really great friend from college) and sat and ate. Turns out, I was the only one eating that had never been vegan. *giggle*
They made an announcement that we had 20 minutes until the rally, so we grabbed the rest of our food and went over. When we got there, the rally people sorta needed people to hold banners so I negotiated with my friends and the rally people and got us prime spots in the sun (what? It was cold in the shade). . .holding the banners! *giggle* I was right next to stage and I got to take the microphone from Miss New York when she was done speaking. No, I didn't talk, I just handed it back to the guy cause he was off the stage on the other side.
SOOOOOOOOO, the only other really cool thing I did at the rally was get them to simplify the chant to one phrase. *giggle* (I kept forgetting what we were supposed to say!!)
When we were done with the rally, we went back and found out that it was pretty much all set. The participants were talking to their senators (which I wasn't going to do, cause I don't like what they are doing to the state workforce), so I asked someone if there was anything else to do. The funny thing was, is the person I asked was a girl I knew from the original roller derby league that I was a part of (if you read it in a previous posting, the league I walked out on with friends). We talked really quick and made it so that the derby stuff is behind us. We can talk civilly with each other and I will probably table at a bout or two of theirs once I get the leather girl. . . I MEAN IF I decide to go back to the Leather Girl stuff. It was just nice cause I wasn't always sure about her, but I was PRETTY sure she wasn't someone that was against me in that league.
And it was right then, that one of my other friends from the newer roller derby league met up with us. That was cool as well and I got to hear a few things about what is going on with the league. But it's not really my thing anymore. There's enough other things that I can do with my life that will be so much more meaningful to me.
Speaking of roller derby, when I got home the package of cool mymonsterhat.com stuff that Anne sent me for donating to her bike ride greeted me!! We have two head bands, so, yes, my Beloved gets one!!! AND, I actually have a monster hat for this coming winter!!!!!! I'm really excited about that!!!!!!!!!
In a few more hours, my Beloved will be home and I will go to sleep with my Beautiful.
It's a pretty stop and go thing, cause you'll have three buses show up at one and EVERYONE of us will be on a bus, and then we wait for twenty minutes for another bus.
I met a several really cool peeps that I worked with on this. AND the woman in charge of the buses (and a lot of other stuff as well) gave me a really GREAT compliment about how I am always so cheerful and enthusiastic and well together and seem to be having a really good time. Other than being tired as well, it was all true. Honestly, I don't understand why, but it works and I enjoy it and I hope that those who came from all over really do have a great day.
Of course, I was hoping that that would be the big thing of the day and that the rest of it would just be quiet grunt work.
OH NO
During the bus arrivals there were two religious people of the Jewish faith that decided they needed to protest at the event. I actually spoke to one (after we came back from finishing with the buses) and I really don't understand where he's coming from and I really can't understand why their discrimination is okay. BUT he was very civil and polite and he did let me speak and respond to him, so I was okay with him being there. The other older, person, was just crazy and look for publicity or any kind of response he could get. When they moved from the entrance of where our event was in the Empire State Plaza to closer to the meeting rooms, I went to shake his hand. He pulled back and shook his head, and he could see that I was really hurt and offended. I was thinking, "You can talk to us and protest at us but you can't shake my hand??" But he saw the look on my face and quickly explained that it was because I was a different gender than he was and that he was not allowed to shake my hand cause I was a girl, gay or straight, it wouldn't matter. That calmed me down, AND gave me a HUGE VICTORY!!!!!!!!! As someone transitioning, those protesting what we are just VALIDATED who I was!!!!!!!!!! I figured nothing could ruin my day at that point.
(you would think this is where I contradict that statement, but I can't, nothing really could ruin it, HOWEVER, those two guys tried).
SO, after I visited all the tables that were there, ACLU (well NY's chapter), Kirsten Gilibrand's table, and both were very nice and I really liked talking to all of them, we noticed the guys trying to protest were instructed by the police (yes, the actual state troopers), on where they had to be. So I, along with a few other people kinda mosied on over in that direction and just kinda stood in front of the protesters and blocked them.
Course, little tiny me (alright, I'm not as little as I used to be, but I'm still not that big), couldn't block much. So, I went over and asked about whether there was poster board around to make a sign. The woman brought me to an easel with newprint on it. I figured, if the protesters were going to use religion, so was I. So I wrote up my sign and made my way to stand in front of them, so now, the first thing people saw was not the protesters sign, but mine that said "Jesus Had 2 Dads" Those that saw it smiled and ALL of the clergy agreed with me!!! Some people I did have to explain it to (God the Father and Joseph), but that's okay. It was just very nice. And as the large initial meeting was getting out, there were a LOT of people that joined the few of us that were initially blocking them. I actually got my picture taken A LOT with my sign. It was a lot of fun.
The old protester called it a day after that, the younger guy decided to stick around and just kinda stand in the middle. So I may have decided to kinds sorta stay standing in front of him. Sorta no matter where he turned to. He kinda got frustrated with me, but I just kept dancing in front of him and blocking him. When he asked why I did it, I told him, we don't go protesting when he talks to the legislature. He said that we could if we wanted to we chose not to. (the actual truth is, I'm not a douche bag, so I won't protest at his things). I actually kinda got upset enough that we might have argued about discrimination and whether it was okay or not.
Personally, short of someone that has chosen to perform illegal acts, I thought we were all the same in this country. BUT, his religious beliefs are of the sort where men and women are not equal, so OBVIOUSLY, I'm going to have a problem. Well, he really didn't like that I did a pretty decent job of staying in front of him. He then decided to end up in the convention center. He sorta snuck in there after making it seem like he was leaving, so I wasn't right there at the moment. When I realized he was in there, I followed him and let him know that I was right there on top of him. You see the Convention Center is rented space and ESPA PAID FOR IT, so we could dictate who was in there or not. NOW, I am not more than a volunteer, so I just followed him to make sure he wasn't stealing things or planting a bomb or anything like that. The ones in charge of the day, they got the State Trooper and had him booted out. I actually followed him all the way out onto the center strip of the Concourse and then let him go. Evidently, I made a name for myself and got a really cool Marriage Equality hat for it!!!! (it was nice cause it was maybe 10-20 minutes later and I was talking to friends and the woman comes over and offers it to me, I was like "yeah, I would LOVE the hat" I didn't have any money on me and I didn't think that they took credit/debit cards, but she looked at me and said "honey you earned it from dealing with those guys earlier")
Okay, days done, right?? NOPE!!
I met with my friends (Meghan, and Keri) and we checked if they needed anyone or if we should grab lunch now so we were ready for the rally. They sent us to eat and we met up with Amanda (a really great friend from college) and sat and ate. Turns out, I was the only one eating that had never been vegan. *giggle*
They made an announcement that we had 20 minutes until the rally, so we grabbed the rest of our food and went over. When we got there, the rally people sorta needed people to hold banners so I negotiated with my friends and the rally people and got us prime spots in the sun (what? It was cold in the shade). . .holding the banners! *giggle* I was right next to stage and I got to take the microphone from Miss New York when she was done speaking. No, I didn't talk, I just handed it back to the guy cause he was off the stage on the other side.
SOOOOOOOOO, the only other really cool thing I did at the rally was get them to simplify the chant to one phrase. *giggle* (I kept forgetting what we were supposed to say!!)
When we were done with the rally, we went back and found out that it was pretty much all set. The participants were talking to their senators (which I wasn't going to do, cause I don't like what they are doing to the state workforce), so I asked someone if there was anything else to do. The funny thing was, is the person I asked was a girl I knew from the original roller derby league that I was a part of (if you read it in a previous posting, the league I walked out on with friends). We talked really quick and made it so that the derby stuff is behind us. We can talk civilly with each other and I will probably table at a bout or two of theirs once I get the leather girl. . . I MEAN IF I decide to go back to the Leather Girl stuff. It was just nice cause I wasn't always sure about her, but I was PRETTY sure she wasn't someone that was against me in that league.
And it was right then, that one of my other friends from the newer roller derby league met up with us. That was cool as well and I got to hear a few things about what is going on with the league. But it's not really my thing anymore. There's enough other things that I can do with my life that will be so much more meaningful to me.
Speaking of roller derby, when I got home the package of cool mymonsterhat.com stuff that Anne sent me for donating to her bike ride greeted me!! We have two head bands, so, yes, my Beloved gets one!!! AND, I actually have a monster hat for this coming winter!!!!!! I'm really excited about that!!!!!!!!!
In a few more hours, my Beloved will be home and I will go to sleep with my Beautiful.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Reunions
So, I am about to reconnect with not one, but TWO friends!!!!! One I used to work with at CVS. She was the supervisor and we worked really well together cause we were both two "get sh*t done" kinda girls. When I moved on to not need two jobs, she ended up with her EMT certification and is currently with an ambulance service. She's a pretty cool chick and it'll be nice to do dinner with her.
The other friend is the person that brought me into the leather community. FOr a few years she was my best friend and my significant other. Things didn't work out and we drifted away and haven't really been in contact, mostly cause we both have crazy a$$ schedules. But, I didn't want to hurt her feelings and wanted to make sure that she would be okay with me going back into the leather scene, so I messaged her and made sure. She gave me her blessing and asked to get back in touch. We were really great friends and it would be nice to be back in contact with her.
This also reminded me, however, how lonely I feel at work. It's been rough since my deskmate, Mary, was moved to another office.
I want the world to be more understanding of the trans community and those transitioning, as well as other groups within the alternative lifestyles (aka the leather community, drag community, etc). WHat I am trying to do is live a normal HAPPY life involving the leather community and probably some of the drag community and be able to show "regular" people that we're not really that different. We all want to be loved and cared about and things like that. Being trans, or gay, or submissive, or whatever is no different than anything else when you look at a persons' basic needs.
In other news, I got a really really really really really really awesome confirmation from a friend of mine in California. She promised to visit me in the hospital after my surgery EVEN IF SHE HAS TO MISS THE INTERNATIONAL DEAF LEATHER COMPETITION!!!!!! She is FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!! the funny part is that I was threatening her about getting herself too sick or burnt out to come see me compete at ABW. But we sorted it out so that she knew that I didn't doubt her being there after surgery. I think that will be the warmest thing in the world is getting a hug after surgery from my Beloved AND my sister in leather!!!
The other friend is the person that brought me into the leather community. FOr a few years she was my best friend and my significant other. Things didn't work out and we drifted away and haven't really been in contact, mostly cause we both have crazy a$$ schedules. But, I didn't want to hurt her feelings and wanted to make sure that she would be okay with me going back into the leather scene, so I messaged her and made sure. She gave me her blessing and asked to get back in touch. We were really great friends and it would be nice to be back in contact with her.
This also reminded me, however, how lonely I feel at work. It's been rough since my deskmate, Mary, was moved to another office.
I want the world to be more understanding of the trans community and those transitioning, as well as other groups within the alternative lifestyles (aka the leather community, drag community, etc). WHat I am trying to do is live a normal HAPPY life involving the leather community and probably some of the drag community and be able to show "regular" people that we're not really that different. We all want to be loved and cared about and things like that. Being trans, or gay, or submissive, or whatever is no different than anything else when you look at a persons' basic needs.
In other news, I got a really really really really really really awesome confirmation from a friend of mine in California. She promised to visit me in the hospital after my surgery EVEN IF SHE HAS TO MISS THE INTERNATIONAL DEAF LEATHER COMPETITION!!!!!! She is FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!! the funny part is that I was threatening her about getting herself too sick or burnt out to come see me compete at ABW. But we sorted it out so that she knew that I didn't doubt her being there after surgery. I think that will be the warmest thing in the world is getting a hug after surgery from my Beloved AND my sister in leather!!!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Back in the Saddle Again
So, I am now at a completely different point in my life (well, sort of different, but I found a profile of mine where I had posted the link for my blog and realized that I should probably take a look at it and, yeah, it's been a couple of years.
Here's the quick summary. I'm still collared to Daddy and Momma Bear (not sure if I was collared to MommaBear when I last wrote an entry here). I am also dating someone new. My Beloved has also collared me and we do live 24/7. It's very interesting and enjoyed. I am no longer active with Roller Derby. I've just had enough of it because it revolved too much around drinking, and I'm beyond that. There were some other things that were occurring with it and I just really wasn't interested anymore. So I said my good byes to most of those that mattered and just strode off into the moonlight.
I am contemplating a return to The Leather Community. I left it when I started transitioning due, mostly to time, and now that my transition is nearing it's end, I have decided that it MIGHT be time to go back. Daddy and I are planning on taking MommaBear and Beloved to a couple of events so that Beloved knows what it will actually entail AND we can see if the Leather Community is ready for my return. I hope so, but we'll see.
Alright, that's it for the moment. I hope to write a LOT more, but we'll see.
Here's the quick summary. I'm still collared to Daddy and Momma Bear (not sure if I was collared to MommaBear when I last wrote an entry here). I am also dating someone new. My Beloved has also collared me and we do live 24/7. It's very interesting and enjoyed. I am no longer active with Roller Derby. I've just had enough of it because it revolved too much around drinking, and I'm beyond that. There were some other things that were occurring with it and I just really wasn't interested anymore. So I said my good byes to most of those that mattered and just strode off into the moonlight.
I am contemplating a return to The Leather Community. I left it when I started transitioning due, mostly to time, and now that my transition is nearing it's end, I have decided that it MIGHT be time to go back. Daddy and I are planning on taking MommaBear and Beloved to a couple of events so that Beloved knows what it will actually entail AND we can see if the Leather Community is ready for my return. I hope so, but we'll see.
Alright, that's it for the moment. I hope to write a LOT more, but we'll see.
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