This week in Politics - 4/30

Life is Complex

Everyone have a nice weekend.  ESCAPE!

Mamma Mia! - The Farewell Tour

This is a continuation of Wednesday's Post.  My special day continued in Montreal and after leaving the Chagall “Couleur et Musique”, I took the metro subway "Société de transport de Montréal" back to the Place des Arts theater center.  

My hotel, The Hyatt Regency, is part of the Complexe Desjardins which is listed as Montreal's premier commercial office building and retail shopping mall complex.  Through a walkway under the street is the Place Des Arts theaters, Museums and restaurants. An entertainment city within itself.   

As I exited the metro station and entered the Place Des Arts, I saw in the main theater, "Mamma Mia", the play, was just about about to start.  A precious few good seats were still available for the afternoon matinee.  I love the music, I love the play, I had the time – so why not? A mad dash to our box seats, near the front.       

"Mamma Mia" is the jukebox musical adapted from Abba's songs. The Swedish pop group formed in Stockholm by Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad became one of the most commercially successful acts in the history of popular music. The play showcases their songs beautifully.  (source: Wikipedia)   

I had seen the play on Broadway at the Shubert Theater not long after it's NY opening in 2001 and had seen it again at the Broward Performing Art Center in 2010. Before it's closed in NY in 2015 it had played 5,773 performances on Broadway; A 14 year run. It is always a treat and utilizes Abbas's music to the full. The ending number is a min-concert within a play and the cast seems to be is having a much fun as the audience.  Everyone on their feet.   

If this is the "Farewell Tour", I am happy I saw it again.  But - Hopefully not for the last time.  

The Closing Song - Mamma Mia     and       View from the Complexe Desjardins

____________________________

--- to be continued - next Dinner and The Ballet ---

More That Unites Than Divides

In my post several day ago, I discussed why I came out to people that I had grown up with back in my small home town. People that likely could have done without the information. This is what I said then and why I did it. 

By definition prejudice is the preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. Based on the questions I received and answered to the best of my ability, many there have a better or different understanding than before. For many that evening, being transgender is no longer an abstract concept - Being transgender has a face, is a person and is someone they know. 

The video below is about helping others to know us and then understand the divide is not so great. The Heineken ad features people who disagree on issues like climate change, feminism, and transgender rights.

There's one important catch: The two people don't know they disagree with each other when they first sit down.  Watch it to the end. Well done Heineken. Thank you.     

Can two strangers with opposing views prove that there’s more that unites than divides us?

  

Worlds Apart

Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal

Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal
February 2017

While in Montreal last month I had a full day or glorious escapes.  The day started at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and a Chagall exhibition.  I was not prepared for the extensive show that included many rooms, showcasing Chagall's many artistic talents.  Not just paintings, but costumes, sculptures, ceramics, ceilings, and tapestries. Here is how the museum described the Chagall Couleur et Musique:

Chagall: Colour and Music is the biggest Canadian exhibition ever devoted to Marc Chagall (1887-1985). Featuring 340 works of art and a large selection of documentary works, including films, photographs and musical excerpts, this multidisciplinary exhibition is the first to focus on Chagall’s profound connection to music in his life and work.

Many rooms of incredible original works 

Three galleries are devoted to the ballets for which Chagall designed the sets and costumes: Aleko (1942, Mexico City), The Firebird (1945, New York) and Daphnis and Chloe (Brussels-Paris, 1958-1959)

The Red Circus
1956-1960 Oil on Canvas 

What a wonderful morning of art.  Thank you Ron for another amazing museum and cultural experience.  

--- to be continued - next Mamma Mia - ---

Why Be Out?

A Neighbor's Son
We grew up together in Virginia

I attend several social events a few weeks back in my childhood hometown.  I wrote about my high school reunion and how positive the response, but this time back in Virginia I extended my outing. I presented to “growing up” neighbors, childhood playmates, and former workmates. This particular area of Virginia, is conservative, Trump red, and rural. Why would I put myself into this situation?
  
My reasoning was simple. There was nothing to lose and much to gain.  Take a look at a point made in the article” Why Do So Many Folks Hate Transgender People?”.

Most studies say that only 8-11% of people personally know someone who is transgender, yet approximately 75% know someone who is lesbian or gay. Studies also show very strong correlations between knowing an LGBT person, and being supportive of LGBT issues. The transgender community lacks that vital component of acceptance.Transgender people need to be more out. The more people know us, the better it makes it for the rest of the community....

To hate a concept is easy. You just go along with everyone else, and make assumptions that feel safe and intuitive. However hating a person require a conscious choice that involves disrespect and prejudice. 

By definition prejudice is the preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. Based on the questions I received and answered to the best of my ability, many there have a better or different understanding than before. For many that evening, being transgender is no longer an abstract concept - Being transgender has a face, is a person and is someone they know.

Dinner Out After my Museum Opening  

   

      

Kinky Boots - A Revisit

A  spring look.
Off-the-shoulder top and floral skirt

This past weekend I saw Kinky boots for now my third time. No matter how many times, I always laugh to my heart's content and cry. The story is touching, well done for our community and helps others to understand us better.  In a time when the transgender community is portrayed in so many negative ways, this play wins hearts.  


Yes, based on a true story is the part that makes it so enthralling. It is very British and here is the BBC's comment from 2103.

A BBC documentary about a struggling Northamptonshire shoe factory caught the attention of film-makers and in 2005 became the film Kinky Boots. Now in New York the stage version has won the Tony award for Best Musical. What has made the story travel with such success from Earls Barton to Broadway?

There is more in a North Hampton Chronicle article on the real story behind "those kinky boots".  As Steve Pateman describes it: "The niche market of erotic footwear in men's sizes suddenly opened up".  

I wrote about many of the play's detail back in March of 2016, so will not elaborate again. If you have not seen it, I encourage you see it.  In fact take a friend or family member that you might want to come out to, and share. There is no better or more positive presentation. The story line and music is beautiful.
 
This was a wonderful fun escape.  See it on Broadway or on tour.  Here is the upcoming tour schedule.  Never forget - The sex is in the heel.  

This Week in Politics - 4 -24

I have no trips coming up.

Everyone have a wonderful Sunday.

Come Alive

Source Alexandra Snowdon  

ESCAPE!

Friend's Friday - A Female's Observation

In case you did not see this comment on my "Treated Nice" post from Tuesday I have included it as today's Friend's Friday. A very interesting observation from a woman that was the recipient of "Treated Nice".  Thanks for the comment Connie. A great prospective view:     

The fact that I learned such basic mechanical things as changing a tire empowers me as a woman. Many men are empowered by coming to the aid of a "damsel in distress." That I allow a man to help me not only validates his masculinity, it further empowers me as a woman. A woman does not need to prove that she knows how to do it; just how to get it done.

A few years ago, on my way to a client meeting, I got caught driving in a torrential downpour, which, consequently, caused my windshield wiper to disintegrate (it rains a lot in the north west, but not usually with monsoon force). I squinted my way to an auto parts store nearby to get a new blade. Although I know perfectly well how to find the right replacement and install it, I allowed the guy behind the counter to make his recommendation without any input from me. I made the purchase and headed for the door, dreading the task ahead. To my surprise, though, the store manager appeared to open the door for me. To my further surprise, he told me to go ahead and get into my car where it was dry, and that he'd be happy to put the new blade on for me. As I sat there, watching this gentleman getting soaking wet, I was reminded that male privilege isn't always such a privilege at all - except for a woman, sometimes! 

Everyone, please comment and let me know what you think..... 

Fashion Blogs - How I Use Them

Stripe and Florals 

Yesterday I mentioned how much inspiration I get from fashion blogs. There are many that I frequent that provide good health, lifestyle and fashion advice. The ones I frequent most are Susan Street's "Susan after 60" and Deborah's "Fabulous after 40".  

Another one that I find very interesting and frequent is Haute Business.  Helen describes her site this way: 

Haute Business is a place for women to share both fashion and finance. 

I like that her choices have an edgy look - daring and sporty. I like her look and it works for me. The above outfit caught my attention and I purchased the off the shoulder top from Old Navy in both blue (shown) and gray (below). They both came in about a week ago and were on sale for $16.00.  (Who needs thrift shops.)  I love the way they fit and it looks both sporty and classy. The off-the-shoulder look is big this spring.

In the layout below, after getting the top, I had all of the pieces but the shoes that match Helen's photo shoot. I got the shoes on the Cole Haan site simply because they went on sale this week and Cole Haan seem to fit my feet very well.  The flats equally work.  

What I like best about this layout is that I am utilizing "investment" pieces. Pieces that I already have - Mixing and matching.  When you shop like this the overall cost is reasonable, functional and justifiable. The white jeans I have taken on several recent trips and worn to create many different looks. Dress up / Dress down depending on the top and shoes. 

Shop smart. And after you have the outfit - Escape.  Let the world see your great sense of fashion.    

        

Goodwill Hunting

Hayden Williams Illustrations 

I do not typically shop at my local Goodwill store or thrift stores. Before you label me snob, let me explain. First a little background on two events/conversations.  

While in Virginia, several of the women at my opening were discussing their outfits. Both very tastefully dressed in clothing that flattered.  Both mentioned they had purchased their items at a local Goodwill.  Good shopping and both were happy with the extremely reasonable price.  

Both of these ladies could well afford department store pieces however the town did not have an upscale department store. They both mentioned that a trip to a nearby city and upscale boutique had provided nothing they felt comfortable purchasing; high prices and selection being the problem. In their case Goodwill provided a reasonable and attractive alternative. 

An event later that same week provided me another view of thrift store clothing. This group also could well afford higher-end fashions, however readily admitted their outfits had come for thrift stores. Likely because they were self-conscious about going to the mall and shopping openly, they shopped Goodwill/thrift stores. It was obvious that no one had told them “do not buy” that out-of-style, awful color, or ill-fitting item. It is not about size it is about style. 

I am sorry to say, that many outfits I saw that evening did not look acceptable for being in public. I am not sure if it was self-image, self-awareness, or lack of planning.  

Where I shop, asking and receiving help is provided with the experience. I will typically ask; “How do you think this looks?” “Is this too short?” “What accessories will look good with this?” 

Looking attractive and paying a reasonable price, are not mutually exclusive. I shop sales, both on-line and in traditional stores. I browse catalogs and frequent blogs that feature fashion advice. I am intentional about my purchases when I purchase at department stores. I find exactly what I was looking for, or sometimes not what I was looking for, but is perfect. Plus, I can return items that do not match what I already have. And best of all, I am not purchasing too much, hoping for something that will work. 

Most of the time, based on price, quality, designer brand and careful consideration, the outfits come together. Quality clothes last longer for the money you spend, are more comfortable, and make you look and feel pretty while you wear them. 

I do share some of my interesting choices in this blog's fashion layouts.  

If you are going to shop thrift stores, shop wisely.  Many items are there for a reason.  Someone has decided that an item no longer works, thus donating it to a thrift store. My personal choice is to have a smaller number of quality items as opposed to many/any low value items. 

It matters how we look - represent yourself and our community well. Take pride in your appearance. Upgrade your wardrobe, self-esteem and public image with mindful shopping. Escape - Shop quality. Look your best. 

Feminine Differential – Treated Nice

I am ma’am more and more these days. This happens many times because I intentionally present that way and sometimes by happenstance. I am beyond correcting when I am mis-gendered. I just go with the flow.  

Based on someone’s perception, is how I am typically treated. Yes, the quintessential door being held open. An older gentleman smiling or looking a little too long. A wave to go ahead in line at the coffee shop. All of these make me feel that my presentation is worthy when out as Rhonda.

Several nights ago, I had a very pleasant occurrence that started with much trepidation. I had a flat tire en route to an event. Luckily, my dash “tire pressure monitors” gave warning. First, there was a low indication, and then quickly an ominous view that the pressure was going down. What to do?

The tire pressure was going down so rapidly I knew this was going to be something that I needed to deal with now, less damage the wheel. I remembered that I was about half a mile from a car dealership of my brand, although not where the car had been purchased. This was my best option and a workable spare was in the trunk.  

How was I dressed? – White pants, off-white knit sleeveless sweater, high heels, and I had just left my hairdresser. Could I change the tire myself? Of course – I have done it many times and even taught my family members to do it. However, changing the tire myself was going to make me late at best and would likely ruin the outfit.  

I pulled into the dealer service area, and was greeted. I explained that all I needed was to have my spare put on. The service adviser mentioned that the shop had already closed and likely, there was no one left to do it. I gave my best disappointed look and mentioned there was somewhere I really need to be. He smiled and said, give me the key and let me see what I can do. He told me to take a seat in the service waiting area. There we only about three people left behind the counter and seated.  

About five minutes later my car magically appear and I was handed my key.  I could see the spare was on.  He waved for me to go and told me to get to my event.  No Charge.  I thanked him profusely.

There are some aspects of the “Feminine Differential” that I could get used to. 

New Spring Dress

Mother's Easter Dress 1955

When I was growing up new clothes only came at prescribed times. I was taken to get new jeans and shoes to start the school year; I had grown out of the old. I would get winter clothes for Christmas and then new spring "church" pants, shirt and bow tie for Easter. 

I remember fondly seeing my mother and grandmother in their new Easter dresses.  This was their designated spring dress and always was so pretty.  I remember chiffon material and it always seem to flow over their body.  Thank you mom, for you beautiful fashion sense.  You always looked beautiful. 

Having new clothes for Easter had deep roots in European customs. Sacred times called for special forms of dress—material markers of holiness and celebration. (Source Wikipedia) So, where did the tradition of dressing up for Easter get started? Evidently, it’s roots go all the way back to Rome in 300 A.D.  according to "Why We Wear New Clothes on Easter - By Lily McCallister"

Although we associate wearing new clothes in spring with the Easter holiday, the tradition dates back to ancient times. Pagan worshipers celebrated the vernal equinox with a festival in honor of Ostera, the Germanic Goddess of Spring, and believed that wearing new clothes brought good luck. The Iranian new year, celebrated on the first day of Spring, has traditions rooted in the ancient pre-Islamic past.

These traditions include spring cleaning and wearing new clothes to signify renewal and optimism. Similarly, the Chinese have celebrated its spring festival, also known as Lunar New Year, by wearing new clothes. It symbolized not only new beginnings, but the idea that people have more than they possibly need.
Christian beginnings. In the early days of Christianity, newly baptized Christians wore white linen robes at Easter to symbolize rebirth and new life. But it was not until 300 A.D. that wearing new clothes became an official decree, as the Roman emperor Constantine declared that his court must wear the finest new clothing on Easter. Eventually, the tradition came to mark the end of Lent, when after wearing weeks of the same clothes, worshipers discarded the old frocks for new ones.

Easter 1955

It's interesting to see where the tradition of wearing new clothes on Easter began, and how it's evolved through the years. Even with changing times, however, the custom will surely continue in some form. After all, fashionistas love a reason to shop.

So are you going to reward yourself with a new spring dress?  Send photos.  

My Easter Fashions

Easter Parade

Be You

We’re All Immigrants

What is happening to America?  Actions are being taken by executive order that make me ashamed.

Virginia Roadside Historical Marker 

I feel the need to confess to the fact that my family too came to this land as an unauthorized immigrant. My family neither had the permission to enter, nor did it have proper authorization. My descendant, Mr. Thomas Lygon (Ligon) came in 1640's to the English/Virginia settlement known as Jamestown. My mother was a Ligon (Lygon).

In 2015 then President Obama declared this:

Our country is strong because of generation after generation of immigrants who embraced the ideals of America, and then fought for those ideals, and fought in wars to defend our country, and built companies that employed people, and helped to build the railroads, and the highways, and all the things that we take for granted in this country. Those were built by immigrants. We’re all immigrants. That’s who we are. Unless you’re one of the first Americans — Native Americans, and so we have to recognize that.

Tyranny is defined as “cruel and oppressive government or rule(s)”. We are quickly venturing down that path. Trump is attempting to get different opposition groups to cower before him. He in effect is telling the LGBTQ community, legal immigrants, and DREAMers to keep their heads down and their feet moving. He’s saying, “Don’t protest my government, because I can make things worse for you. Quickly.”

This is not leadership.  This is bullying.  Recognize it for what it is!  

Trump is a racist and has on his staff a man who has been known to be racist. That is go-ahead for the other bigots to come out, which we saw during the campaign. Trump has a majority in both the Senate and House and will soon likely have a Supreme Court majority to his liking. Together they have the chance to bend history to their liking. 

Just because Trump says "Believe me!" - that does not make it true. The press is the last vestige of a reasonable check and balance.  There has never been a more important time to stay informed.  Agree or disagree - listen and act as necessary to oppose tyranny.     

I hope America soon comes to it senses and we return to being a nation we can all be proud.  Don't be bullied - Stand tall - Your voice matters.  

   

Heels and Red Lipstick

Dita Von Teese — American Dancer born on September 28, 1972,

Dita Von Teese is an American burlesque dancer, model, costume designer, entrepreneur and occasional actress. She is thought to have helped repopularize burlesque performance, and was formerly married to Marilyn Manson... (wikipedia)

My Purse Obsession and The Zombie Apocalypse

POLO - Small Sullivan Saddle Bag Purse

My love for purses has possibly moved into the obsession category.  There I have admitted it. Likely just ahead of a credit card intervention. Shopping a few months back I ventured into the Palm Beach Ralph Lauren Store.  

The Ralph Lauren POLO store is located on the famous Palm Beach, Worth Avenue. My absolute favorite shopping destination.  There are only a few named shopping destinations like Worth Avenue.  Others may be Rodeo Drive, 5th Avenue NY, Bond Street London, The Galleria Dallas TX and your choice. Here is the way Worth Avenue describes itself:

An enchanting resort destination in Palm Beach, Florida with European sophistication and inimitable style and grace, Worth Avenue is one of the most beautiful shopping venues in the country. The Avenue’s romantic vias and celebrated boutiques offer the best of both resort and designer fashion, accessories, gifts, art, antiques, fine and casual dining and home furnishings in a captivating atmosphere rich with old world charm and historical glamour.

I typically start my shopping on Worth Avenue with a stop at Starbucks. I know - does it get any more providential than that?  They know me by name and always have my drink ready without me ordering. Depending on the weather, I typically sit outside with the usual collection of regulars, which I have fallen into. I guess that is why I go.

Palm Beach Window Display 

Today I strolled down the avenue, visited my favorite sandal shop that had just reopened for season. Fabio was in and I got a nice hug.  Next, window shopped down the Avenue. Many of the windows are a work of art within themselves, and the art galleries always have great works on display. One never knows what cars will be parked on the street and today was no exception -  Red McLaren 650s with top off.


After that excitement I wondered into the Lauren POLO store and purchased the above all leather equestrian-inspired "Small Sullivan Saddle Bag" purse. The Italian leather is luxurious, heavy and beautifully made.  Today 30% off.

I now own all the purses I will ever need - Until next week. As I saw on one purse obsession blog, "There could be a zombie apocalypse. It’s important to have many, many purse backups. Just in case!"

That is my rational and I am sticking with it - You have a better reason?

Worth Avenue - Palm Beach 

The Mall of America

I have been a business traveler for many decades. I was a computer software installation specialist back in the mainframe days and then supported my own software packages. Today I still work because I enjoy it.  The overall rewards have been many. One of which has been meeting new people and seeing this beautiful country. With the exception of the Dakotas, I have visited all states.      

When traveling, I never found hotel lounges to be appalling and expense account binge meals only destroy your figure and health. I entertained myself by finding interesting places to shop. Oh I know, you are shocked!  

One could argue that this activity could destroy your bank account, however, travel baggage size does self-limit. There is no question I love fashion, so walking and visiting malls is a great way to exercise and have fun looking. I have seen the rise of the indoor mall and I am now seeing its decline.  Shopping trends are shifting to online.  During my recent visit to Minneapolis, I did get to visit the ultimate – The Mall of America. Here are some of the interesting details from their web site:  

The Mall of America is the nation's largest shopping and entertainment destination featuring over 530 stores, 50 restaurants, the largest indoor theme park (Nickelodeon Universe) The Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, The LEGO store, The American Girl Store, multiple movie theaters and Adventure Golf.

The Mall of America has a gross area of 4,870,000 sq ft or 96.4 acres with 2,500,000 sq. ft. available as retail space. Enough to fit seven Yankee Stadiums inside. The mall is nearly symmetric, with a roughly rectangular floor plan. The stores are arranged along three levels of pedestrian walkways on the sides of the rectangle, with a fourth level on the east side. Four anchor department stores are located at the corners. A full theme park is located in the center including rides and attractions. (Sources Wikipedia and the Mall of America site).


I visited and had lunch on a Sunday before having a snack with a friend and returned a few days later for dinner / shopping / browsing. It does live up the hype. Now celebrating its 25 anniversary, it is unique, large and likely does represent the pinnacle of indoor mall shopping. Malls may be in decline but The Mall of America has not gotten the e-mail yet. Enjoy the photos.  

Do ESCAPE to your local mall, before it becomes extinct.  

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Feminine Differential - Looking Out of Place.

Have you ever seen a woman that dressed inappropriately for the situation? Too casual for a dressy event. Overdressed for the neighborhood bbq. When we go out, we do not want to  “look out of place”. That is not blending in and not projection the best feminine image.  

Here are three feminine mistakes that natural females make and how we can avoid them as well:

Trying to disguise yourself (sound familiar). 

Too often we think that dressing well as we get older means covering all our ‘flaws’, to the point that many people end up wearing baggy, shapeless outfits that don’t flatter them at all. Masses of volume and fabric are not a great idea. Experts suggest that if there are parts of your body where you don't feel comfortable, then choose outfits that skim over or flatter rather than lots of floaty, voluminous fabric, which are aging and unflattering. 

Wearing the wrong foundation garments. 

The importance of wearing the right underwear cannot be underestimated. Getting a good framework on your body underneath your clothes will make all the difference.  Bigger breast forms or over padded bras are not better. Look in a mirror and make sure everything is in proportion. Exaggerating anything make you look like a cartoon character. Invest in a good bra and no-VPL panties/pants.  

Just like non-supportive underwear, poor posture can ruin even the most fabulous of outfits, so remember to stand up tall even if you are tall. Slouching looks sloppy.  


Not getting good fashion advice and ignoring the obvious.

There are many sites that have suggestions, fashion layouts and can help you know what is stylish. Two that if frequent are Susan Street's Susan After 60 and Deborah's Fabulous After 40. Check these out.  

Example: Just because something is trendy does not mean it will look good you. Skinny jeans are the rage. On some figures that they look nice, however they look awful on me. They emphasize my larger top (shoulders) and short legs. I look line a bird. Yuck.  

Likewise, if you consistently dress too sexy, flashy, skin-tight, sequins, low-cut tops, short skirt — you run the risk of looking out of place. Worst yet, like you’re trying too hard to be young (or something you are not). This automatically translates to not young, not sexy, not feminine. 

Love your body and want to show it off? Do it in a manner that reflects your good taste, your sense of style, age and best feminine image.  Do not look out of place.  

I have Nothing to Wear

Does anyone else have that problem?

________________

I am in Atlanta April 9-12

No tips planned after that.

Enjoy Life

Statement T-Shirt - Femme Forever

Statement T-Shirt


That is quite a statement - I will wear it proudly!

Nordstrom - Femme Forever T 

Opening Night - Photo

Yesterday I had my photo exhibition opening. It was a lovely evening with about 25 in attendance for the opening. Also about 15 at the after dinner that I hosted at a local restaurant. The opening was 4:00 to 6:00 and we manage to laugh and talk for over 3 hours at the dinner.  Wow what fun. 

In attendance were old neighborhood friends, class mates and invited guest. About the expected turnout.

There are times I have pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming.  From my first escapes to last evening, I enjoy every moment. 

I will write more next week but wanted to share this photo from the evening.  Enjoy.

Opening Night

My photography gallery opening is this evening. I am proud. Maybe it is the fact that it is my hometown or just a small recognition of something I have considered my art. My mother kept a beautiful scrapbook that has meant so much to me over the years. Recently I put together a bound photo book for my family and it documented many memories. Never underestimate their value. 

It has not been that long ago that photography became art. The museum that I worked at in Palm Beach actually had a photography curator and a worthwhile gallery of just photography. Whenever I visit a museum I will make an effort to see the photography gallery.    

Documenting my trips is something I make an effort to do and will take the opportunity to take myself to interesting places. However many of my best photographs have come about through sheer luck; being in the right place at the right time. As photographers say “f8 and be there.” 

I mentioned my first good camera was a Polaroid (Automatic 100). Maybe partly so I could take photos of myself and not have to send out the film to be processed and printed. Selfies. For the obvious reasons, it has always been noted that when a group photo was needed, likely the only person in the room that knew how to work the camera’s self-timer was the person that cross dressed.  A proficiency we learned early. 

After getting a good 35mm camera, I learned the value of having a dark room, processing your own film and making my own prints.     

So wish me well for tonight’s opening.  Again, if anyone is interested I have a catalog of the show available. Just e-mail me through the comment box and I will send along the PDF. I hope to have opening night photos available next week.  

Red Sky in the Morning